THE NIGERIAN
The Nigerian
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PUBLISHED SINCE MAY 29, 1968
DISCOURSE
cmyk
Pg 15
Impunity On Our Roads
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2013
• Vol . 38 NO.316• MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 20 13 • N 100.00
Kidnapping, cultism, Boko Haram
ANEEJ seeks non-violent approach BENIN CITY Executive Director of Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice,
Reverend David Ugolor has appealed to Nigerians especially those involved in the act of Kidnapping, Boko
Haram insurgency, Cultism amongst other social vices in the country to use nonviolent approach to
press home their demands. The ANEEJ Boss stated this weekend, Continues on page 2
Alleged use of patented ballot boxes
Jonathan, 9 others
ARCHIVAL MATTERS Pg 21
Is Nigeria A Big Workshop
charged for contempt
ABUJA - A Federal High Court in Abuja will next Monday (September 30) hear an application seeking to join President Goodluck Jonathan, nine other key members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the party in a contempt suit pending before the court. Holdings Limited (BHL), The information is are accused of alleged contained in the hearing unlawful use of patented notices served on them ballot boxes for the last week by court’s party’s last special officials, a copy of which convention, without the was sighted in Abuja. consent of BHL, which is President Jonathan the patent owner. and others, cited as The application earlier alleged contemnors in a filed on September 9 joinder application filed was refilled last week to by a firm, Bedding
include other major actors in the PDP’s special convention held in Abuja on August 31 this year. The application
specifically seeks an order joining President Jonathan and 10 others in “the contempt proceedings already commenced by plaintiff/
applicant.” Those sought to be joined include the Vice President, Namadi Sambo, Senate President, David Mark,
Speaker, House of Representatives, Aminu Tambuwal, the PDP and its Chairman, Bamanga Continues on page 2
ASUU insists on Maternal mortality implementation drops by 50% - IPAS of agreement UYO - The immediatepast Country Director of IPAS Nigeria, Dr Ejike Orji, said yesterday, that the country’s maternal mortality rate has reduced by 50 per cent in the last five years. Orji told newsmen in Uyo that though the country’s maternal mortality rate was still high, it was however clear it was gradually going down. “I was part of the conceptualisation of the Medical Service Scheme (MSS) which has played a major role in reducing maternal mortality. “I am sure that if we are able to reach every hospital or every rural area in Nigeria, we will be able to attain the target of the Millenium Development Goals
(MDGs),” he said. The former country director said, however, that infant mortality rate in the country was higher than the maternal mortality rate. Orji said if children immunisation was rightly done in all parts of the country, the country would attain the goal of reducing infant mortality in 2015. “The major causes of infant mortality are diseases like polio, diphtheria, tetanus and others. In some parts of the country, poor personal hygiene and sanitation also endanger children’s lives. “The emergency responses to children diseases are not as it should be because of their feeble nature,” he explained.
Orji who listed malaria as another infant killer said proper prevention measures should be taken, through the use of insecticides and mosquito nets as approved by the Roll Back Malaria Initiative. Continues on page 2
GRADUATION CEREMONY: L-R: Chief of Staff and Representative of Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Yemi Adaramodu; Governor Rochas Okorocha of Imo and Founder, Rochas Foundation Inc; Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State and Deputy Governor of Osun, Mrs. Titi Laoye-Tomori at the graduation ceremony of Students of Rochas Foundation College and Governor Okorocha’s 51st birthday celebration in Ibadan weekend.
EDSG evacuates 24 lunatics for rehabiliation By FUNMI BABATOPE BENIN CITY – In line with its weekly exercise of evacuating lunatics from Benin City metropolis, the Edo
State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, at the weekend evacuated 24 lunatics to two government approved rehabilitation centres in
the state. The two rehabilitation centres were Dr. Amuda
Herbal Healing Home in Agugwa, Etsako West Local Government Area
Factional PDP warns against plot to change Assembly.” By ANDY EGBON NASS leadership The move to sack the ABUJA – The Alhaji Abubakar Kawu Baraye - led faction of the Peoples Democratic
Party (PDP) has said that any attempt to unseat the leadership of the National Assembly
will be resisted, saying “we now have the majority in the
National Assembly leadership, according to Continues on page 2
and Chief (Dr.) Omosun Ojanealo in Ewu, Esan Central Local Government Area of the state. Speaking during the exercise, State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Blessing Maigida, stated that, the exercise was aimed at aligning and sustaining the Continues on page 2
THE NIGERIAN
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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2013
News
ANEEJ seeks non-violent approach
Continued from page 1
while delivering a lecture entitled “Transformation Exploit In An Ever Changing Society: My Life Experience” at the 20th Anniversary of the Royal Ambassadors of Nigeria, Edo State Chapter and inauguration of AntiSocial Vices Club at Zion Baptist Church in Benin City. Reverend David Ugolor who was represented at the event by his Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Osazuwa Akonedo said Kidnapping, Boko Haram insurgency, cultism among other social vices are compounding the nation’s problem as some of the vices now aid corruption. David Ugolor defined socials vices as anything or act, habit, practice, that is immoral, wicked and unrighteous that is connected to the society or its organizations such as corruption, militancy, kidnapping, Boko Haram insurgency, extra judicial killing, false accusation, cultism, prostitution, human trafficking, drug trafficking, baby factory, armed robbery, rape, pipe line vandalism, yahoo-yahoo or internet fraud, thuggery, examination malpractice, election rigging, certificate forgery, blackmail, impunity amongst other scores of vices he said that are currently witnessed in Nigeria like never before. He added that social vices are hindering the transformation of Nigeria from a third world country to a peacefully developed nation. He described corruption as the root cause of other forms of such vices in the country. He stated that the war against corruption can be won in Nigeria if only kidnappers, Boko Harams, cultists, amongst others drop their arms and choose a nonviolent approach to fight corruption in governments. Ugolor while citing authorities illustrated how perceived corruption in
Maternal mortality
Continued from page 1 He advised parents to get their children immunised when due, and also improve on their medical care efforts. Orji further said a major hindrance to infant healthcare was the fact that some parents were so poor to cater for the high number of children they had. “Therefore, until couples reduce the number of children they have in their families, the problem will still persist. “A family earning less than two dollars a day with seven children has a problem of malnourishment of children, thereby increasing the risk of infection arising from low immunity,” he added.
government led to the formation of the first cult group in Nigeria and how perceived corruption in the first cult group led to the formation of several other cult groups in the country and how cult activities gave a boost to 1964/65 first indigenously conducted elections in Nigeria that snowballed into the
Nigeria civil war in which millions of lives and properties were lost. Ugolor lamented that despite the civil war, Nigerians have still not learnt the lesson of using nonviolent approach to press home their demands. He emphasized that one cannot use wrong means to correct
wrong act, or use an immoral or wicked practice to change an immoral or wicked habit rather non-violent approach is the only way to bring an end to corruption in Nigeria, owing to the facts that the nation forefathers never use gun or arms to demand freedom from the colonial masters.
PDP Special National Convention Sub-Committee on Security) and the party. Others are Professor Jerry Gana (who acted as the Chairman, PDP’ special convention committee) and Ken Nnamani (who was the Chairman, PDP’s electoral committee). The application was filed for BHL by its lawyer, John Okoriko of the firm of Karina Tunyan (SAN) and Co, following the earlier issuance of a Form 48 on the alleged contemnors. The applicant said the application was informed by its realisation that the 11 alleged contemnors were “necessary and desirable parties” to the contempt proceedings. BHL stated that the ground for its application was that Jonathan and others “are serial contemnors, who contemptuously connived with sixth and seventh defendants/respondents (the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC
and its Chairman, Professor Attahiru Jega)” to use the applicant’s transparent ballot boxes for the PDP’s convention in violation of a subsisting judgment of the court delivered on June 5, 2012 by Justice Adamu Bello. It argued that except Jonathan and others were joined in the case, in view of “the pivotal role” they played in the disobedience of a valid and subsisting court judgement, the contempt proceeding would not be “effectively and effectually determined.” BHL’s Group Executive Chairman, Chief Sylvester Odigie stated, in a supporting affidavit, that his company had initiated the contempt proceedings against INEC and Jega on July 18, 2012 via a motion on notice, seeking an order committing the two to prison, for their alleged contemptuous use of the ballot boxes for all the elections they have conducted since the June 5, 2012 judgment.
Jonathan, 9 others charged
Continued from page 1 Tukur. Also to be joined include the Chairman, PDP’s Board of Trustees, Anthony Anenih, Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State (who acted as Chairman, PDP Essential Electoral Materials Committee) and Chairman, Police Service Commission, Mike Okiro (who served as Chairman,
PDP Warns
Continued from page 1
the party was occasioned by the visit on Tuesday last week of the ‘Progressive Governors’ and the National Working Committee of the party to the National Assembly. The party warned against the dire consequences of unseating the leadership, saying it, “is politics taken too fair and illustrates the extent some could go in their determination to plunge the nation into chaos” While cautioning those behind the move to retrace their steps, the party in a release signed by the National Publicity Secretary, Eze Chukwuemeka Eze noted that “such misadventure is capable of plunging the nation into a crisis of monumental proportions.” “Those undemocratic elements should stop overheating the polity just because of their selfish ambitions. Those who feel that politics is better practiced by way of threats and unseating of those who do not share their unprogressive thoughts should know that there is a limit to how far they can push us.” “Both President David Mark and Speaker Aminu Tambuwal have brought in a unique style of leadership which has resulted to the sanity, brotherhood, unity being witnessed in the National Assembly since they came on board.”
Commissioner seeks collective fight against corruption By THOMPSON ERHOMONSELE/ INNOCENT OMOAKA
BENIN CITY – Edo State Commissioner for Special Duties, Oil and Gas, Ambassador Orobosa OmoOjo has called for collective fight against corruption in every strata of the society. He also warned against sending the wrong signal to youths through the display of affluence, pointing out that when these vices are surmounted, “we begin to love Nigeria, the state and institution.” The commissioner made these remarks when declaring open the first Yell Advocacy Peace Submit Youth Empowerment Seminar in Benin City.
EDSG evacuates Continued from page 1 beautification agenda of the state government. She spoke through the director of Rehabilitation Services in the ministry, Dr. Olorunfemi Oikeh, and explained that streets in Benin City and its environs and all the Local Government Areas in the state will be cleared of lunatics as a way of complementing the beautification and urban renewal efforts of Governor Adams Oshiomhole’s – led administration in the state. She remarked that as part of
efforts to rid the state of lunatics and ensure that it is kept clean at all times, her ministry carries out routine weekly exercise of evacuating lunatics from the Benin City metropolis. Mrs. Maigida disclosed further that, her ministry is partnering with 14 traditional lunatics healers across the state, that are receiving monthly subvention from the state government, with a view to ensuring that these mentally-ill persons are properly cured and rehabilitated to become useful to themselves and society at large.
The event was in commemoration of the International Day of Peace tagged, “Advancing Measures towards the Attainment of Lasting Development” as well as the unveiling of the first edition of Yell Advocacy Magazine and award ceremony. According to him, “we should value peace as catalyst for development and make our contribution to sustain peace.” On the new entrant into the Print Media, Ambassador Omo-Ojo said, “I unveil the Yell Advocacy Magazine for public consumption for the pursuance of peace based on equality and freedom for development.” He commended the publisher, Mrs. Ijeoma Umeh, for her resilience to delve into publishing. Speaking at the event, Dr. Nosa Aladeshiru lamented the exclusion of women in the discussion of peace for sustainable development in the society. According to her, women would continue to suffer much in a society where there is no peace and therefore need to be initiated into the process of finding lasting peace. Publisher of the Magazine, Mrs. Ijeoma Umeh said the aim of the Magazine is to provide a platform for fighting social justice for the women in the society.
NSCDC tasks private guards
Intelligence gathering: BENIN - The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) weekend, appealed to private security organisations to raise their level of intelligence gathering in the fight against crime. Dr. Ade Abolurin, the Commandant General of NSCDC, made the appeal at a workshop for private guard companies in Benin organised by NSCDC in collaboration with Steward Resources Ltd. Abolurin said the workshop became necessary in view of the current security challenges in the country. He said that the role of private guards was not only critical, but fundamentally necessary for effective and efficient protection of lives and properties. “Security, as we all know today, is no longer the business of the police alone, but it is now the business of everybody. “All hands must be on deck to arrest the situation. “The private guard is one
veritable tool that government can also use to combat crimes by way of intelligence gathering. “As a private guard, the onus is on you to provide first hand information to other security agencies because you are closer to the people,” Abolurin said. According to him, there is urgent need for synergy among the private guard firms to boost community policing. Abolurin, who was represented by Mr. Nnamdi Nwinyi, Assistant Commandant General and Head of Private Guard Companies, decried the mode of dressing by some participants. Abolurin said that the guards should have tagged their names on their uniform for proper identification. He urged them to be vigilant at all times and appealed to prospective private guard companies to ensure that they were licenced.
Commissioner canvasses modern techniques in agric devt By DOROTHY EGBOBAMWONYI
BENIN CITY – Edo State Commissioner for Agriculture and National Resources, Hon. Abdul Oroh, has described agriculture as the spring board to sustainable economic development if modern techniques and process are adopted by formers. Hon. Abdul Oroh made this assertion recently while playing host to the chairman and members of the Edo State Chapter of Federation of Young Farmers Club who paid him courtesy visit in his office. While commending them for their innovation and breeding of young farmers who he described as the future of the nation, Oroh stressed that to sustain the agricultural transformation of Mr. President, new generation of farmers must emerge to take over from old ones. Highlighting the success as recorded so far in the agricultural sector of the state, Oroh enumerated quality of Crop Production, researches to forestall post harvest causes and access to market as the processes that need to be developed to enable farmers earn more income and create prosperity for them as well as become business men. While charging the young farmers to be focused and studious to become great people in future, he appealed to school authorities to inculcate the study of agriculture into the school curriculum right from the primary level. Responding to the
request made by the chairman of the club, the commissioner assured them of the resuscitation of their monthly stipend from ADP but urged them to come up with a formal proposal of their requests to be channelled to the appropriate quarters for consideration. Earlier, the chairman, Edo State Chapter of Federation of Young Farmers Club, Mr. Matthew Idemudia said the club which has demonstration farms in Aihuobabekun in Ovia-North East and Obayantor in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area where they practice arable, mixed and cash cropping is a voluntary youth organization established to rekindle the interest of the young one’s towards mechanized agricultural development in Nigeria. Mr. Idemudia said the club had been working assiduously in the mobilization of students and community youths to key into the National Agricultural Transformation and food security programme. While appreciating the ministry for the long time parental support, it had been giving them for the upliftment of the club, he appealed to the commissioner in the area of resuscitation of their stopped monthly stipend via the state ADP the sponsorship of some members and representatives of the ministry in the forthcoming international training as well as use his good office to coopt the organization in committee workshops and seminars organized within and outside the ministry.
THE NIGERIAN
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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2013
News NUPENG To Begin Strike In A/Ibom Today
Edo State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Chief Lucky James (3rd right) cuts the tape to commission the block of six classrooms reconstructed by the Chairman of Owan East Local Government Council, Hon. (Barr) Jimoh Ijegbai (2nd right), at Evbiamen Grammar School, Ogute-Emai.
LAGOS - Oil and gas workers in Akwa Ibom have given notice to begin an indefinite strike today over plans by Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited to sack them. The workers, under the aegis of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) gave the notice in a statement issued on Saturday in Lagos. The statement was signed by NUPENG General Secretary, Mr Isaac Aberare. “We warn against the alleged plan to disengage 80 percent of the labour contract workers and replace them with service employees by the end of September. “We find this plan unacceptable and unfair after our members have helped to contribute their quota to the
Electricity Coy Requires N8bn For Pre-Paid Metres KANO - The Kano Electricity Distribution Company (KNEDC), said it requires more than N8 billion to provide pre-paid metres to its customers in Jigawa, Kano and Katsina states. Its Managing Director, Alhaji Mohammad Balogun said this in Kano at the launch of the Credit Advance Payment Metering Implementation (CAPMI) and Pre-Paid Metre Scratch Card (PPM). He said that the CAPMI would give customers the opportunity to pay for metres in advance and get it within 45 days. “The scheme is designed as
a rapid response to customers not willing to wait for distribution companies to supply the metres. “The refund due to the customer shall be with 12 per cent interest, and will be done through a reduction of a 100 per cent of the monthly fixed charge component of the customers’s electricity bill within three years.” Balogun, who was represented by Alhaji Adamu Salihu, noted that the metres were supposed to be given free, but said “lots of constraints and encumbrances will not fast tract the process of metre
acquisition’’. A representative of the company handling the sale of the recharge cards, Mr Ife Oguntoyinbo, told newsmen that the cards would be available in the three states. “Already, we have started
test running over a month ago; we have five centres now accredited to sell the cards across major places within the metropolis. The cards are reliable and fool proof.’’ He said that with the use of
- Official
mobile phones, customers can recharge their metres from anywhere, adding that the sale of the cards would be on daily, including weekends and public holidays.
growth of the company. We will resist it,’’ the statement said. The workers, in the statement, said that some contract staff in Mobil had been sacked and replaced with new ones on new contracts terms that negate the collective bargaining agreement signed with NUPENG. “The union cannot watch and see its members being sacked indiscriminately. It will lead to bad precedence in the oil and gas industry,’’ it said. The statement said that the new employees use tools, equipment, machinery and vehicles that belong to Mobil to perform their jobs but they were denied the benefits stipulated in the agreement. It said that Mobil had also refused to give mandate to labour contractors to hold the quarterly Joint Consultative Council (JCC) meeting. The statement said that NUPENG had written several letters to Mobil management on the issues but all entreaties for dialogue were ignored by the oil company.
C/River Council Polls Witness Voter Apathy CALABAR-The Local Government Councils Elections on Saturday in Calabar was characterised by voter apathy, it was gathered. Our correspondent, who monitored the elections, reports that in Calabar, most polling centres did not record a large turnout of voters. It was also observed that only the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) had agents in all the polling centres visited. The three other parties that contested the elections; the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), National Conscience Party (NCP), and Progressive People’s Alliance (PPA) – did not have agents at the centres visited. An official of the Cross River Independent Electoral Commission (CROSIEC), Mrs. Theresa Offiong told newsmen that out of over 2000 registered voters in Polling Unit 7, Ikot Ishie, only 200 were accredited. Offiong said that so far over 100 had voted and added that apart from the low turnout of voters all relevant materials
were available. “Apart from low turnout of voters, we have no administrative challenges; all the materials are available and as people come, we accredit them and they vote accordingly,’’ she said. Also, a PDP agent at the centre, Mr Bassey Asuquo, decried the low turnout of voters. “Although the turnout is poor but the situation has been peaceful,’’ he said. Asuquo noted that the poor response of the electorates might not be unconnected with the lack of restriction of movement. Mr Ekpenyong Akpanika, a party chieftain in Calabar, told newsmen that the low turnout might be due to the earlier rumour of the postponement of the election because of a suit by APC against CROSIEC. “I think the court case affected so many people. A lot of people thought the election had been postponed, so they decided to stay back,’’ he said.
Edo State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Chief Lucky James addressing studetns of Evbiamen Grammar School, Ogute at the commissioning of sets of chairs with desks procured for the school by the chairman of Owan East Local Government Council, Hon. (Barr) Jimoh Ijegbai.
For Governor Commends on her part said “project Project Charilove Charilove has never failed in
Care For Less Privileged: By DAVID ONIMISI LAWANI BENIN CITY – A former Governor of Edo State, Chief John Odigie Oyegun has commended the Project Charilove for its efforts in giving hope to the less privilege in the society. Oyegun gave the hint during the launch of a building for the project Charilove, a NonGovernmental Organisation in Benin City. He said, “God will continue to bless the
coordinators of the centre for their tremendous work in caring for the less privileged members of the society”. Also, Edo State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Blessing Maigida said that, “the Government of Comrade Adams Aliu Oshiomhole is a child-friendly one and has special passion for the welfare of the vulnerable children, especially
physically and mentally challenged and others with various deformities”. The commissioner who was represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry Mr. Augustine Akhumeokai said, “orphans and vulnerable Children are entitled to access to the basic needs of life just like other children”. General Manager, Edo Broadcasting Service (EBS), Mrs. Sidi Lawal-Igoh who
its responsibilities”. According to her, “it has continued to raise the bar on the quality of humanitarian services to the less privileged children in the society. Co-ordinator of project Charilove, Chris O. Omusi, said, “orphans and children with special needs especially those the society has unconscionably rejected will start to live and to enjoy life as Prince and Princesses, as the children of the Most High God”.
THE NIGERIAN
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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2013
World Peace Day: First Lady ABUJA- The First Lady, Mrs. Patience Jonathan, at the weekend called on troubled regions across the world to embrace ceasefire in celebration of the World Peace Day. Jonathan made the appeal in Abuja at an event organised by the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) to mark the 2013 World Peace Day. “The International Day of Peace should be an international day for ceasefire, the killings around the globe should stop,’’ she said. Represented by Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Olajumoke Akinjide, Jonathan appealed to Nigerians to shun violence and embrace the peace. She pledged commitment to promote peace initiatives within the country and beyond, noting that peace remained the best way to “break the vicious circle of violence’’. On the theme of the celebration: “Education for peace as a tool for peace building’’, the wife of the President stressed the need to inculcate good moral and
News
Calls For Peace
ethical values in young persons. Jonathan decried cult practices in primary and post primary schools, describing the development as unacceptable in the nation’s quest for peace. She said that young people had become tools for perpetrating heinous crimes and political violence. The First Lady advised that education should be given priority to ensure economic growth, peace and stability in the country. Mr. Ade Abolurin, the
Commandant-General of the Civil Defence Corps, in his remark at the occasion, said peace was necessary towards nation building. He said that that every citizen had a role to play in peace building and once it was done, everyone would be identified as a stakeholder. He called for a synergy among the security agencies. Dr. Joseph Golwa, the Director-General of IPCR, said peace was essential to humanity, adding that peace was necessary to refocus troubled nations.
Vice President Namadi Sambo (right), presenting share certificates of the sovereign wealth fund to Governor Ramalan Yero of Kaduna State during a presentation of share certificate to State and Local Govt at the presidential villa in Abuja recently. With them is Chairman, Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority, Alhaji Rasheed Mayeh.
Imoke Expresses Satisfaction With Council Polls ITIGIDI (CROSS RIVER) - Governor Liyel Imoke of Cross River on Saturday lauded the peaceful conduct of the September 21 Local Government elections in the state. He gave the commendation in an interview with newsmen in Itigidi, Abi Local Government Area, shortly after casting his vote at the
Government Primary School. “I feel very good that the elections are generally peaceful. “Reports that we are getting across the state is that the turnout is good and the processes are very orderly and compliant to the rules and regulations.
“We are very excited that we can have very peaceful local government elections in Cross River State; this is something that we have always insisted on through the years. “We have conducted elections as and when due. We have never had caretaker or appointed chairmen. “We only had elected chairmen in Cross River State since I became governor and even before that, so we are very excited that the process is well received and that people are responding. “We expect that our party, the PDP, will produce competent candidates who will get elected by the people
and who will be well placed to continue from where their predecessors stopped by embarking on people-oriented programmes. On litigations and insinuations that the election may be cancelled because the APC is statute barred from contesting, he said there was no basis for such litigations. “I do not know the basis for the litigation, but the Electoral Act is very clear with regards to registration of parties. “The Cross River State Independent Electoral Commission (CROSIEC) started the process before the merger of the parties. “In fact if I were in the political parties, I would have reconsidered the merger knowing very well that the law is very specific about the 90 days and about the
elections being also 90 days; so there are two 90-day issues. “Elections must be conducted at least 90 days prior to the end of the tenure. And the tenure of the current local government administration is in December,’’ he said. The wife of the Governor, Mrs. Obioma Liyel Imoke, who also voted at the Government Primary School, Itigidi, said : “I feel good, I feel fulfilled because everything is going well and people are doing the right thing. “My message to the women is, if you feel you have something to offer to your people, come out and we are here to support you,’’ she said.
Coy Increases Cargo Scanning P&CHS can receive and LAGOS- The Ports & position up to 400 TEUs Capacity Cargo Handling Services Vice President Namadi Sambo (right), presenting share certificates of the sovereign wealth fund to Governor Idris Wada of Kogi State during a presentation of share certificate to State and Local Govt at the presidential villa in Abuja recently. With them is Chairman, Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority, Alhaji Rasheed Mayeh.
Sokoto Warns Contractors Against any person who gives money Bribery to any person to get a contract
SOKOTO- The Sokoto State Government at the weekend warned contractors against giving money to unknown persons to secure contracts for the proposed Illela International Border Market. In a statement in Sokoto, Alhaji Garba Sarkin-Kudu, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Commerce, Industries and Tourism, said that such persons could be fraudulent persons. The state government advised contractors who
were interested in the market to meet the Commissioner of Commerce, Industries and Tourism, Alhaji Aliyu Achida, for enquiries. “Note that this ministry and other stakeholders in this important project are not party to such illegal act. “The public will be properly notified as soon as the process of awarding contracts on the construction of the border market begins,” it added. According to the statement,
will have himself to blame. The N33 billion border market is being built under a public-private partnership arrangement. Illela, the headquarters of Illela Local Government, is about 100 kilometres from Sokoto, the state capital. Illela shares a border with Birnin Konni in the neighbouring Niger Republic. The border towns are about four kilometres apart.
Limited. (P&CHS), said it had increased its scanning capacity to handle more cargos at the various sea ports in Lagos. A statement signed by Mr. Oliver Omajuwa, the Corporate Affairs Manager of the company, said it was deploying one of its 10 brand new Rubber Tyred Gantries (RTGs), to the scanning area. RTGs are equipment used in handling containers at the ports. According to the company, the move will ensure effective service delivery to clients. The clearing of cargoes has recently been faced with challenges with backlogs recorded at the ports because of difficulties in speeding up scanning services. The statement noted that
P&CHS, a member of Sifax Group, would henceforth be in a position to accommodate 400 TEUs daily, position and ready for scanning alone. It added that 400 Twenty Equivalent Units (TEUs) of containers being positioned for scanning would be effective, alongside the 250 TEUs being handled at the physical examination bay. “This is a remarkable improvement from the 150 TEUs that was being positioned daily for scanning before this new achievement,” the statement said. The company said the terminal had extended operational working hours to 22.00hrs daily to enable it to serve its clients better. “With the stationing of this RTG at the scanning area,
containers daily and ready to go for scanning first thing the following morning. “Customers will be saved the problem of lining up their trucks in preparation for the scanning process. “ P&CHS now provides the trucks at no extra costs to customers, thereby reducing to the barest minimum, vehicular and human traffic in the scanning areas of the terminal,” the statement said. The company said that the latest developments led to better improvements that would avoid congestion at the terminal, thereby saving the customers huge transportation costs. “Our customers will be saved the burden of excess demurrage as a result of the new, fast and effective operational strategy,” the statement said.
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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2013
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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2013
Alleged Theft, Murder
South-West
Oyo Bans Islamic Sect
Police Arraign 7
ADO-EKITI - The Police in Ado-Ekiti have arraigned seven men in an Ado-Ekiti Magistrates’ court on a three count charge of alleged murder, theft and assault. The police prosecutor, Mr. David Erinma, told the court that the accused committed the offence on August 13 at Oke Ayedun-Ekiti. He gave the names of the accused persons as Ojo Kolawole, Owolabi Ojo, Onipede Taiwo, Ogunlusi Yemisi, Abayomi Abiodun, Kupoluyi Sola and Femi Ajiboye. Erinma alleged that the accused attempted to murder one Mrs. Grace Audu by inflicting grievous injuries on her body in a manner likely to endanger her life. He also said that the accused broke into the shop and house of their victim and stole provisions, beer, and household items valued at more than N2 million.
The prosecutor also told the court that the accused assaulted the woman by forcibly striping her naked. He said the charges contravened sections 360, 390, 414 of the Criminal Code, Cap C 16, Laws of Ekiti State of Nigeria, 2012. The accused pleaded not guilty to the charges. The accused counsel, Mr. Akinwale Adeyeye, prayed the court to grant his client bail, promising that they would not jump bail. The chief magistrate, Simeon Ojo, granted the accused bail in the sum of N200, 000 each and one surety each in like sum. He adjourned the case to October 25 for further hearing.
L-R: Commander, 337 Base Services, Air Commodore Jacob Gbanwan; Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Alex Badeh and Commander, 305 Flying Training School, Air Commodore Paul Dimfwina at the inauguration of Blocks of flat for air men and officers in Enugu recently.
4 Suspected Robbers Docked OSOGBO - The police in osogbo have arraigned four suspected armed robbers in an osogbo chief magistrates’ court for allegedly being in possession of firearms. The Police Prosecutor, Sgt. Joshua Oladoye, gave the names of the accused persons as Adejuwon Ismail, 32, Adebiyi Tunde, 23, Abayomi Adekande, 22 and Onoh Johnson, 25 He told the court that the accused were caught with firearms on August 8, at about 12:40 p.m. at Ilesha Breweries area in the Ilesha West Local Government Area of Osun. Oladoye said the accused were caught in possession of a pistol and two rounds of live ammunition in a car during a police stop and search. He said the offence contravened section 516 of the Criminal Code Cap 34 Vol.11 and section 27(1) A of the Firearms Act F28 Laws of Osun State, 2003. The accused pleaded not guilty to the charges, while their Counsel, Ms Modupe Olanrewaju, applied for their bail. The Chief Magistrate, Mr. Olusola Aluko, granted the accused persons bail in the sum of N100,000 with two sureties each in like sum. Aluko said the sureties must be resident within the court’s jurisdiction. The magistrate said the sureties must also swear to affidavit and provide tax clearance certificates and two passport photographs to the court. He adjourned the case to October 23 for mention.
L-R: Director General, Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR), Dr. Joseph Golwa, releases a white pigeon to mark the 2013 World Peace Day Celebration in Abuja weekend. With him are: FCT Minister of State, Oloye Olajumoke Akinjide; retired Director of IPCR, Dr. Dayo Oluyemi-Kusa; Commissioner of Police at Force Headquarters, Mr. John Abakasanga and a musician, Tuface Idibia.
IBADAN - The Oyo State Government has proscribed the Arsuna Islamic Sect over its alleged involvement in nefarious activities ranging from rape to murder. The Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mr. Taiwo Otegbeye, announced the decision in Ibadan on Friday at a news conference. “The State Executive Council has approved the proscription of Arsuna Islamic Sect over allegations of rape, murder and slavery,” he said. Otegbeye said that some members of the sect, under the leadership of Yunus Adefobi, were being tried in court for various offences. He said that government took the decision based on complaints from the Islamic Community in Iseyin. “Oyo State Government took the decision to forestall the emergence of Boko Haram in this part of the country,’’ the commissioner said. Otegbeye said the meeting, held on September 19, also gave approval for the development of 45 units of luxury apartments and installation of solar-powered traffic lights at Agodi Parliament Junction. He said that the construction of the luxury apartments would cost N1.667 billion while the traffic light would cost N350 million.
I Will Continue To Promote PDP’s Interest
ILESHA (OSUN) - Mrs. Olusola Obada, a former Minister of State for Defence, held a thanksgiving service and vowed to continue working for the success of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Speaking with newsmen in Ilesa, Obada described her tenure as cabinet minister in charge of Defence as “successful and a rare opportunity to serve Nigeria’’. Reports indicate that the service was held at the Methodist Cathedral, Otapete in Ilesa. Obada said she was grateful to have had the chance to contribute her quota to the development of the country as a minister. “It was the PDP that gave me the opportunity to serve and I will continue to serve the party in Osun and at the national level as a member of the Board of Trustees (BOT). “I will continue to be loyal to the government of Nigeria
and I will remain a loyal member of the Peoples Democratic Party,’’ she added Asked if she would seek an elective position in the nearest future, Obada said: “My future lies in the hands of God. But, I am a politician and I will remain an active one.’’ She said she was humbled
- Ex-Defence Minister
by the reception she had received from those in her constituency and her associates. “I am humbled by this heroic welcome, after serving as a minister. I will continue to serve the interest of the
Healthcare Delivery:
SANGO-OTA -The Chief Medical Director of the Ogun State Hospital in Ota, Dr Babatunde Banuso, has advised the State Government to set up a task force to monitor healthcare delivery to citizens. Banuso gave the advice in Ota last Saturday in an interview with newsmen. He said that proper monitoring of Primary Health Centres (PHC) would enable people at the grassroots to access quality
health care. The chief medical director said the absence of effective monitoring had been contributing to the spill-over of patients from PHCs to Secondary Health Centres (SHCs). Banuso said that government needed to invest in monitoring of SHCs to ensure that workers did not abandoned their duty posts. ‘’There should be deliberate efforts by the government to monitor staff in PHCs so that they are
people at the grassroots,’’ the former minister said. Obada who was a one-time Deputy Governor in Osun stated that the Ministry of Defence was in a better shape than she met it. “This is as a result of
exposure to trainings and skills in modern means of combating internal and external aggression,’’ she said. It will be recalled that Obada was one of the nine ministers who were recently relieved of their positions by President Goodluck Jonathan.
doing the right thing.’’ Banuso said that the machinery for proper monitoring must be large and functional because the PHCs were spread across the state. ‘’We have people coming for immunisation, to check their blood pressure and some with minor wounds at the SHCs that should have been treated in their Local Governments.’’ The chief medical director expressed regrets that the inflow of patients from the
PHCs to SHCs had put a lot of stress on workers in the state’s hospitals. He said there was need for re-orientation of PHCs staff, so that an improved quality health service could be delivered to people at the grassroots. Banuso, who praised the government for renovating dilapidated buildings in the PHCs, called for proper monitoring of the renovation project to ensure proper execution of projects.
CMD Advises Govt
THE NIGERIAN
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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2013
Lagos
Speaker Seeks UK Assistance
Endorsement Of National Conference
Politicians Laud Senate President
BY RAHEEM IBRAHIM LAGOS - The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Adeyemi Ikuforiji has appealed to the United Kingdom to urgently come to the assistance of Nigeria so that the fragile democracy being practised in the country could be sustained. The Speaker, who spoke with the British Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, Peter Carter, when the latter paid a courtesy visit to the Assembly, specifically decried the police barricade of the entrance to the Rivers State Government House recently thereby stopping the state governor, Rotimi Amaechi from gaining entrance to his office. According to Ikuforiji, such acts by the police portend a great danger to the country’s democracy just as it has renewed the agitation for the establishment of state police to safeguard Nigeria’s democracy. He said, “I want to solicit for the continued support of the United Kingdom for the entrenchment of democracy in Nigeria. The world must have noticed some of the infringement of our constitution and that of human rights especially by the government at the centre, particularly the denial of access to residence of the Rivers State governor by the police. “The government should be called to order. The Federal Government needs to accord due support to our constitution. The situation in Rivers has reaffirmed the need for state police,” Ikuforiji noted. The Speaker, who later led the delegation from the Deputy High Commission round the Assembly complex including the chamber and new office complex for lawmakers, reminded Britain of its cordial relationship with Nigeria calling it a second home to Nigerians. Ikuforiji also explained to the delegation that the House spent huge sums of human capital development because it wants to remain the best in the country. He noted that the lawmakers and staff often travel abroad for such trainings and thanked the commission for its continued support. He said: “there is nowhere to turn to for study as parliamentarians other than the United States and United Kingdom and that was responsible for our recent study visit; last week, we were in the UK for study and just yesterday some of my colleagues and I just arrived from the US.” Reacting, the Deputy High Commissioner urged the House to continue to embark on such study tour so that the members could remain on top of their responsibilities as lawmakers. He also encouraged the lawmakers to consider a study tour of Scotland, Whales and Northern Ireland rather than limiting themselves to London, saying, “I’m very glad for you to study in the US because I have a strong relationship with US; my wife is an American”.
NEMA officials distributing relief materials to internally displaced persons in Nasarawa taking refuge at the palace of the osana of Keana in Nasarawa State recedntly.
LAGOS- Some politicians in Lagos have reacted to Senate President David Mark’s endorsement of the convocation of a national conference, describing it as “long overdue“. The politicians, who spoke with newsmen also commended Mark for supporting the conference. Welcoming senators from their seven-week recess on Tuesday, Mark said that the country could not continue to shy away from discussing national issues in view of the “present global realities.” Mark, who had earlier ruled out the convocation of such a conference, stressed that every matter about the union of ethnic groups that made up the country would be made open for discussion. He attributed what he called
L-R: Chairman, APC primaries Committee, Dr. Ben Nwoye; Secretary, Mr. Chukwu Basil and Commissioner, Enugu State Independent Electoral Commission, Mr. Chuks Egbo during APC Enugu State Chapter primaries in Enugu recently.
discontent in the polity to calls for national conference by certain sections of the country. The Public Relations Officer of KOWA Party, Prof. Oluremi Sonaiya, told newsmen that it was essential for the people to discuss and proffer solutions to the nation’s problems. “It is a good development that the leaders are beginning to acknowledge the seriousness of our situation. “It is necessary for us to discuss whether at a sovereign national conference or national conference; when we get there and begin the discussions, the issues bothering us will be clearly defined,“ she said. Also speaking, Alhaji Yahaya Ndu, the Initiator, Peoples Movement for a New Nigeria (PMNN), expressed satisfaction that at last an average Nigerian would have an opportunity to be heard. “The issue of a national conference is an idea whose time has come; the fact that David Mark has realised that shows that nobody can stop any idea whose time has come. “So, whether they make it sovereign or not, what is important is that it is fundamental that the average Nigerian has an opportunity to be heard before a new constitution is drafted, “ Ndu said. He advised lawmakers to ensure the conference was made participatory by all, adding “if it is not mass participatory it cannot be sustainable“. In the same vein, the National Chairman, Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Dr Yunusa Tanko, expressed joy that government had seen the need for a national discourse. “It is long over-due. We met in Uyo and all the registered political parties supported the call for a people’s assembly to discuss important issues concerning Nigeria.”
Lagos Gives N95m Bursary Awards To Students LAGOS- The Lagos State Government has disbursed about N95 million as bursary awards to 1, 245 indigent students of Lagos State University (LASU), the Nigerian Law School and the Maritime Academy of Nigeria. The State Deputy Governor, Mrs Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, made the presentation of bursary ATM Verve cards to the recipients at Government Secondary School, Iyana-Ipaja. The reports state that OrelopeAdefulire was represented on the occasion by Dr Wale Ahmed, the Commissioner for Special Duties. Of the 1,245 recipients, 1,084 were students of LASU, while 21 were in the Maritime Academy and 140 in the Law School. Reports say that the bursary awards for each of the LASU students (2011/2012 set) was between N50,000 and N80,000. She said that Governor Babatunde Fashola also approved N200,000 bursary for each of the Law School and Maritime Academy students. “As a government, we have recognised education as an effective panacea to rid our society of ignorance, backwardness and underdevelopment. “We see education as the basis
upon which our policies can be accomplished.; it is critical to the attainment of the central policy thrust of our administration, which is wealth creation and sustainable economic growth. “Our government is committed to the improvement in the quality of education and reduction of students’ financial burden to the barest minimum,’’ she said. According to the deputy governor, the state has also introduced N200,000 as merit
awards scholarship to indigenes in tertiary institutions with Cumulative Grade Point Aggregate of 2.1 and above. She added:”We will give local scholarship award of N200,000 to undergraduates, N300,000 for Master’s degree and N400,000 for Doctorate, who are indigenes in all the tertiary institutions across the country. “Today’s event is to show our youths that we love them and that we want them to succeed because they own our future.’’
Orelope-Adefulire said that the state would continue to invest heavily in education at all levels in order to develop and sustain the capacity to cope with its onerous mega-city challenges. “In our highly competitive contemporary world, no society can afford to treat education with levity. “We have sustained regular and timely payment of bursary and scholarship awards to indigenes of the state.
police officer, under the pretence of procuring him a Hajj visa. Ingobu told the court that the accused allegedly failed to provide the visa as promised, and also refused to refund the money he collected for the purpose. The prosecutor who stated that the accused allegedly converted the money to his personal use, without the consent of the complainant also claimed that the accused presented himself as a travel agent, a representation he knew to be false. Ingobu who submitted that the charge contravened Section 285,
312 and 409 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011, however applied for adjournment with the claim that investigations into the matter was still ongoing. The accused pleaded not guilty to the charges, which may earn him 15 years imprisonment, if convicted and was granted bail in the sum of N150, 000 on each of the charges, with two sureties each in like sum. The Magistrate, Mrs. I. O. Omotosho, adjourned the case to 11 November for trial.
Arabic Teacher Arraigned For By RAHEEM IBRAHIM Faking Hajj Visa LAGOS - A 39-year-old Arabic teacher, Yusuf Kamaldeen has appeared before an Igbosere Magistrates’ Court in Lagos for faking Hajj visa and charged with conspiracy, theft and fraud. The police prosecutor, Sgt. Emby Ingobu, told the court that the accused residing at 2 Dare Adelowe Close, Idiya, Agbado, Lagos, committed the offences sometime in July 2012, around Ikoyi area of Lagos. According to him, the accused collected N690, 000 from one Mr. Sarafadeen Abdulraheem, a
“Without qualitative and affordable education for our youths, we can neither achieve the Millennium Development Goals nor our target of ranking among the top 20 economies in the world by 2020.’’ Otuba Fatai Olukoga, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Education, announced that the result of the 2013 local scholarship examination was out and that 390 candidates, made up of undergraduate and post graduate students, would be given awards. Olukoga urged candidates who sat for the examination to check their names at the State Scholarship Board. Some of the beneficiaries, who spoke to newsmen, thanked the state government for the gesture and urged them to review the amount upward. Miss Rafiat Akinpelu, a 200 level Insurance student at LASU, said the bursary would assist them to take care of some of their expenses. “I am grateful for the bursary, it came at a time when I was not expecting it, I will use the N60,000 bursary to pay for my hostel accommodation,’’ she said. Mr Afolabi Euba, a Law School student, described the bursary was a generous assistance by the government to help indigent students.
THE NIGERIAN
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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2013
Across The Nation Defilement
Pastor Remanded JOS - An Upper Area Court in Jos has remanded a 35-yearold Pastor, Yakubu Izang, in prison for allegedly defiling two under age girls. The accused, who resides at Yan-trailer area of Jos, was arraigned for allegedly defiling the minors, who were entrusted to his care for special prayers. He had told the girls’ elder brother, Victor Dabang, that the girls had demons in them and needed special prayers to cast out them. According to the police First Information Report (FIR), the accused committed the offence on June 12. The report said that on September 17 at about 1.30 p.m. Victor Dabang of Gwafang village near Jos, reported the matter at the Nasarawa Gwom Police Station. It said the accused convinced the complainant to hand over his sisters to him for special prayers. “The pastor told the complainant that there is oil he will rob on the girls’ bodies and the demons will be cast out. “Luck, however, ran out on
the accused when the elder sister of the minors visited them in the house of the pastor to see how they were faring. “The pastor made love advances to the elder of the sisters, who turned him down and reported the matter to her elder brother,” the report said. It stated that when the elder brother became suspicious of the activities of the pastor, he quizzed the minors, who confessed that he had been making love to them. The report said the offence contravened the provisions of Section 275 of the Penal Code, but the accused pleaded not guilty to the charges and applied for bail. The police prosecutor, Mr Gokwat Ibrahim, objected to the bail application on the grounds that the matter was still under investigation. Ibrahim said that if granted bail, the accused would tamper with police investigation. The presiding officer, Malam Mustapha Hassan, ordered the accused to be remanded in prison custody, and adjourned the case to October 4 for hearing.
Burglary: Man, 55, Docked
LAGOS - A 55-year-old man, Abdulahi Otuyo, who allegedly burgled the home of a businessman and stole N370,000 was last Friday charged before an Apapa Chief Magistrates’ Court in Lagos. Otuyo, a resident of Odofin area in Olodi Apapa, is facing a-two count charge of stealing, house breaking and unlawful entry. The prosecutor, Insp. Soji Ojaokomo, told the court that the accused committed the offences on Aug. 20 at No. 2, Odofin St., Olodi-Apapa. He said the accused stole N370, 000 from Mr Mohammadu Abdul, after gaining entry into his bedroom. “The accused broke into the bedroom of Abdul and ransacked it and stole his money.
“He was apprehended by Abdul’s neighbours and handed over to the Police,’’ he said. Ojaokomo noted that the offences contravened Sections 278 (1) (a), 305 (a) and 306 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011, which stipulates three and seven years in jail terms, respectively, if the accused was guilty. The accused, however, denied the charges preferred against him. The Chief Magistrate, Mrs Oluyemisi Adelaja, granted a N100,000 bail to the accused, with one surety in like sum. She ordered that the surety must show evidence of tax payment to the Lagos State Government, as part of the bail conditions. Further hearing in the case has been fixed for October 2.
School Children scramble to board free bus in Yenagoa as schools resume.
Niger Gets New Varsity
MINNA – Governor Babangida Aliyu of Niger has said the establishment of the new University of Education, Minna, would tackle the dearth of qualified teachers in public schools. Aliyu made the remark after signing the bill on the State University of Education into law that establishes the new university at the Government House, Minna. He said the new university would take off from the site of the College of Education, Minna and would produce the needed teachers in the state. The university, he added, would also run other specialist programmes in education for the benefit of the northern part of the country. The governor noted that the state government was prompted to have such a specialised university because of the dearth of qualified teachers, quoting an earlier official report as indicating that less than 50 per cent of teachers in the North possess professional qualification. He said the state government would set a deadline for its teachers with some deficiencies to obtain professional certificates.
He reiterated the state government’s commitment to provide quality education to students. Aliyu also signed two other bills into law, namely the Vision 3:2020 Bill and the Pilgrims’ Welfare Commission Bill.
In his remarks, the Speaker, Niger State House of Assembly, Alhaji Adamu Usman, said the assembly passed 30 bills from 2007 to date. Usman said the law on the specialised university empowered the government to
set aside at least two per cent of its budget for the funding of the university. He insisted that the establishment of the new university would not affect the running of the Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University at Lapai.
Court Reserves Sept 30 For Nwoye, Others
Anambra PDP Crisis: ABUJA - The Federal High Court in Abuja has reserved September 30, for counsel to Chief Tony Nwoye, acclaimed PDP Anambra governorship candidate, INEC and PDP to address it. Justice Elvis Chukwu ordered counsel to the parties to address the court on the effects of Justice Suleiman Aliyu of the Port Harcourt Federal High Court’s judgment which disqualified the candidacy of Nwoye. Nwoye approached the court praying it to bar INEC from recognising any other person apart from him as the party’s candidate in the Nov. 16, governorship polls. His counsel, Mr Yusuf Ali (SAN), said the suit was necessitated by attempts by some identified members of the party to hijack his candidature. On September 17, hearing in the suit was derailed when Nicholas Ukachukwu, an
interested party through his counsel Mr Orji Orizu applied to be joined as a respondent. Orizu further announced to the court of an ongoing judgment in the Port Hacourt jurisdiction of the court over similar matter. He told the court that his client had approached the court seeking to be upheld as the governorship candidate of the party. Drama however, ensued when a moment later Orizu, told the court that Justice Aliyu had finally dismissed the candidacy of the plaintiff (Nwoye). At that point, the judge adjourned the matter for Orizu to avail the court with a certified-true-copy of the judgment for the judge’s verification. At the resumed sitting today, proceedings began with Orizu announcing the service of the judgment to the court and to counsel to parties. The reports state that the
judgment which was delivered based on suit number FHC/PH/ C5/296/2013 has Ukachukwu as the plaintiff. The respondents were the PDP, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, Office of the National Chairman of PDP, the National Executive Committee and National Working Committee of the party. However, Mr Alex Akuja, who held the brief of Mr Yusuf Ali (SAN), counsel to Nwoye, interjected by seeking an adjournment to allow his principal to appear in person. Akuja further said that the seven-page judgment was only served on them in the court on a day meant to address the court. He said it would not be in the interest of justice to compel him to address the court on the effect of the decision on the subsisting suit. The application was not opposed and hence the matter was adjourned.
Flood: Kaduna Approves N21m For Relief Materials
Founder, Kazit children foundation (an NGO), Mrs Aramide Togun (2nd Right), presenting school bags loaded with school kits to children of divine heritage orphanage and Christ foundation orphanage in Abuja weekend
KADUNA - The Kaduna State Government has approved the release of N21 million to procure relief materials for people displaced by flood across the 23 local government areas of the state. Alhaji Abubakar Zakari, the Public Relations Officer of the state Emergency Management Agency said this in an interview with newsmen in Kaduna. He said already the Agency was working in partnership with similar organisations to provide temporary shelter to
affected victims in the state. According to him, the assessment of the victims have been completed and their resettlement will begin next week. The SEMA spokesperson urged people living in flood prone areas to relocate in their own interest as more rains were expected. It will be recalled that NEMA had this week donated relief materials to some of the victims of flooding in the state.
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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2013
Abuja Kidnapper Who Killed 5-Yr-old Victim Arrested
L-R: ASUU National President, Malam Nasir Fagge; Minister of State for Education, Mr Nyesom Wike; Vice-President Namadi Sambo and Vice Chancellor, Bayero University Kano, Prof. Abubakar Rasheed, after a closed door meeting at the state house in Abuja recently.
ABUJA - FCT Command of the State Security Service (SSS) has arrested a 43-year-old man, Saturday Dewakei, said to have abducted and killed a five-yearold boy. Mr Ibrahim Halilu, the assistant director in charge of the command’s operations, told newsmen in Abuja that the suspect was arrested on August 25 at Aso C, Gbagalape, a settlement in Nyanya, FCT. Halilu said that Dewakei, a native of Azegbane village of Ekeremor Local Government in Bayelsa and father of 10, kidnapped the boy and demanded a N5 million ransom from the father. He said the victim was the son of the suspect’s neighbour, one Adamu Isa. “On April 19 at about 12.45 p.m, Dewakei sneakily entered
Isa’s house through the ceiling and kidnapped the victim while he was asleep. “Thereafter, Dewakei demanded a N5 million ransom from the father for the release of the kidnapped boy. “Investigation revealed that Dewakei killed the child in an uncompleted building and dumped the body in a septic tank when the ransom was not paid,’’ he said. He said that a locally made revolver pistol with one round of live ammunition was recovered from the the suspect’s house. Halilu said that the suspect took operatives of the service to the scene of the crime, where the remains of the boy were
NAICOM Boss Wants Education Sector Salvaged
ABUJA - Malam Ibrahim Hassan, Deputy Commissioner (Technical), National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), has called for the provision of emergency aid to salvage the country’s education sector. Hassan made the call at the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding for a grant to the Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) and Imo State University in Abuja. The NAICOM grant covers ICT infrastructure, textbooks, scholarship for Masters, PhD and Doctorate degree programmes He said that most tertiary institutions in the country were in serious need of assistance to help provide adequate infrastructure. The commissioner observed that government-owned tertiary institutions were a far cry from what they used to be when they were created and calling on stakeholders to restore their former glory. “What is happening in the education system today is very pitiable and a thing of regret. I only hope those of you in the academic would put your heads together and be able to, one day, find a lasting solution to the
problem.’’ He advised that the private sector be made to invest more in the education sector. “Even if they cannot provide scholarships, they can provide endowment that will go a long way in building the pitiable infrastructure we see in our universities today. “These are things we must do to save the lives and future of our upcoming generation,’’ he said. The Commissioner for Insurance, Mr Fola Daniel, said the intervention was part of the commission’s commitment to promoting insurance competence. “There has always been a section in the insurance act that states that a portion of our income should be devoted to capacity building. “And that capacity building has been mainly to chartered the Institute of Insurance and West African Insurance College in Liberia. “But personally, I think we should be doing more to help the local institutes or universities in the country because I believe that if we are not reaching out to institutions within our communities, then we are not
fulfilling our mandates. “So we think we can use the university community as a means to develop insurance manpower and also to entrench insurance culture,’’ he said. Responding, the ViceChancellor, Ahmadu Bello University, Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, thanked the
commission for providing the grant to the institution to strengthen its insurance department. He said the key areas covered by the MoU were fundamental in the growth of the education sector. “I must congratulate the commission for this foresight because the advanced degrees are the basic ingredients for national development,’’ he said.
The Vice-Chancellor, Imo State University, Prof. Aloysius Awuzie, who was represented by Prof. Ginikanwa Agulana, promised to ensure judicious use of the grant. “I pledged that we will stick to the agreement in the MoU to help build the manpower and professionals that will further promote the growth of the insurance sector,’’ he said.
Expedite Passage Of PIB, APC Chieftain ABUJA - Mr Umar Duhu, the He said that democracy Interim National Vice- Urges NASS would only thrive in Nigeria if Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC), has appealed to the National Assembly to ensure the passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB). Duhu made the appeal in an interview with newsmen. According to him, the PIB will create an enabling environment for the sector. He also stressed the need for the Federal Government to have a deliberate policy on accelerated development of the oil bearing communities. “I believe we should think beyond Petroleum Industry Bill
itself and start tackling the environmental challenges from oil spillage.’’ He further urged the NASS to ensure true federalism in the 1999 Constitution as a genuine attempt at promoting the spirit of democracy. “If we are to look at true federalism, it is such that the resources in terms of taxes and levies will be in the custody of the states that generate the resources,” he said. On the measures to tackle corruption, Duhu stated that Nigerian leaders ought to lead by example.
Suleja Emirate Council District heads at a public lecture to mark the 20th anniversary of the Emir of Suleja in Suleja Weekend.
corruption would be eradicated in all its ramifications. He assured the electorate that APC would offer the leadership necessary to return the nation to the path of sanity, growth and development given the calibre of its members. “The leaders of APC had been tried, tested and we believe in their visions to provide better governance to Nigerians in 2015.
recovered. He said the suspect would be arraigned and prosecuted upon completion of investigation. The reports state that the service displayed some skeletons said to be part of the remains of the boy before newsmen. Speaking with newsmen, the suspect confessed to kidnapping the victim, identified as Sadiq Abubakar, in order to extort money from his family. “I did not kill him personally but unfortunately, the boy died on the day I went to collect the N100,000 ransom which the father (Isa) arranged to give me,’’ he said. Dewakei claimed that the boy fell into the septic tank as he attempted to escape. “He did not die instantly; I looked at him and saw he was unconscious. So I was looking for ladder to rescue him but there was no ladder. “The soak-away was so deep, I cannot jump inside. If I jump inside, I will not come out,’’ he said. He said that when he eventually got a ladder to rescue the boy, “he died in my hand.’’ “I did not kill him intentionally; I did not have the mind to kill him. The mind I have, because of frustration, was to kidnap him and make money,’’ he said. He said he collected the N100,000 and demanded for another N300,000, adding that he was about to collect the N300,000 when he was arrested. The suspect, who claimed to be an electrician, however denied ever kidnapping anybody before the incident or belonging to a kidnapping syndicate. He said that the gun recovered from him was given to him while he was vice chairman of his community and member of its vigilante to protect it against sea pirates.
Oando To Publish Shareholders’ Names LAGOS - The Group Chief Executive, Oando Plc, Mr Wale Tinubu, said the company would publish names of shareholders on its web site to ensure sustainable corporate governance. Tinubu said this in Lagos at a meeting with the stockbrokers at the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) to explain its stance on former Governor James Ibori’s alleged ownership of 30 per cent in the company. According to him, the publication of shareholders’ names is meant to stop people with ‘hot money’ from investing in the energy conglomerate. Reports say that the company’s innovation was against the backdrop of the British prosecutor’s recent accusation that the convicted former governor used Oando to launder money.
He said that Ibori owned only 443 shares in Oando Plc and not 30 per cent as alleged by UK Southwark Crown Court on September 16. “Investors with stolen funds should not think of investing in Oando Plc because they will be exposed,’’ Tinubu said. He said that the company had introduced stringent Know Your Client (KYC) process and would remain at the forefront of good corporate governance. Tinubu said that payment of impressive dividends was the company’s major priority, adding that the media reports would not affect its fortune. Mr Sam Ndata, a Doyen of the Capital Market, urged Oando to carry the stockbrokers along in all its activities to avoid misinterpretation of information by investors.
THE NIGERIAN
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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2013
Business + Economy
Power Reforms, Boost For Employment Opportunities LAGOS - Mr Mustapha Shehu, National President, Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), has said that the power sector reforms would create employment opportunities for Nigerian Engineers. Shehu told newsmen in Lagos that the ongoing privatisation of the power sector had started opening up a vista of
opportunities for Nigerian Engineers. According to him, the ongoing power sector reforms will affect Nigerian engineers positively, “because there is a dearth of engineers in the country”. “Many Nigerians who are qualified engineers will have better opportunities to practise during the post-privatisation
era,” he said. Shehu said that qualified engineers would be engaged by new investors in the various power plants and the distribution companies. “The power sector reform is potentially a huge creator of jobs. If Nigeria is growing at seven per cent without power, with steady power, the growth will double;
more businesses will be established and they will employ people. “Unbundling means that with private sector investment, there will be more businesses in the upstream and downstream, and this will result in more job creation,” the NSE president said. Shehu said that the association has affirmed its commitment to
L-R: Deputy EU Head of Delegation, Mr. Kazimierz R o m a n s k i ; A d a m a w a Commissioner for Health, Mrs. Lilian Stephen and her Women Affairs counterpart, Hajiya Halima M o h a m m e d , briefing newsmen at the launch of EUMINCH Health project in Yola recently.
total eradication of quackery in the engineering profession and practise. He said that the enforcement of the engineering regulation act and the enlightenment campaign would eliminate quackery in the system. “It is not only in engineering that we have quacks operating; they are everywhere, in journalism, in the judiciary and all other professions. So it will take the collective efforts of all of us to stop them from operating.
“The people should be sensitised on the disadvantages of using quacks, under any guise, and that is why the Nigerian Society of Engineers is seeking partnership with media houses, for this purpose,” he said. Shehu disclosed that the society had set up the Engineering Monitoring Regulation (ERM) committee, to assess engineering works, determining their owners, contractors, consultants, as well as their qualifications and suitability.
LAGOS - Clearing agents at Tin-Can Island Port in Lagos have given the management of the container terminal a week ultimatum to reverse policies impeding clearance of goods or face a strike action. The ultimatum took effect from September 19. The agents, under the aegis of Association of Nigerian Licenced Customs Agents (ANLCA), announced the ultimatum in a statement released in Lagos. The statement signed by the General Secretary, ANLCA TinCan Chapter, Mr kanikwu Chuks, said that some of the policies were inimical to
effective business operations and against international best practices. The agents said that the management of the terminal should change the rule on block stacking at the ship side. They said they were opposed to presentation of Delivery Order (DO) before examination, but rather it should be examination before DO. The agents also said that the time used to clear a container should be less than three weeks. “We want the management to reduce the time it takes to stamp the Single Goods Declaration (SGD) form after it has been released by the Customs’’. The statement said that scanners used by service providers should be made to work effectively to avoid delays. Reacting to the allegations, Mr Richard Akinbosotun, General Manager, Tin-Can Island Container Terminal, said the terminal usually prepared the containers ready for the Customs and other groups for examination. Akinbosotun said the containers were sometimes delayed because the importers did not declare all the goods in the container. However, Mr Usman Buhari, Assistant Customs Comptroller, Terminal B1, said that customs would not be able to examine the containers except the terminal operators positioned them. Buhari, however, gave assurance that customs would work together with terminal operators to ensure prompt service delivery at the port.
Clearing Agents Give Port Terminal Operator Ultimatum
Make Indigenous Technologies Available At Grassroots, Govt Urged
ABUJA - An Agriculturist and researcher, Mr Oladele Solomon, has called on the Federal and other tiers of government to examine ways of making indigenous technologies, especially those relevant to farming available to people at the grassroots. Solomon, an Agriculture technologist, who made the call in an interview with newsmen in Abuja, said making such technologies available to rural farmers could be the starting point of commercialising local research technology. He urged the government to take the lead in the
commercialisation of indigenous technologies and research results. Solomon said some of the inventors or manufacturers of the indigenous technologies could be empowered to produce in large quantities their inventions and to take them to rural areas for farmers to use. “It is not encouraging to see our research results and inventions abandoned on the shelves of research institutes when they are useful to us. “Do we need to wait till
Customs Generates N4.6bn Revenue
KADUNA - The Zone B of the Nigeria Customs Service has generated over N4.6 billion between January and June, the Acting Zonal Controller, Alhaji Abdulkarim Hussaini, has said. Hussaini said in an interview with newsmen in Kaduna that the money generated was however below the target set for the zone. “With the upsurge in local rice production in Nigeria, the revenue customs often generated from the importation of the commodity has dropped to about 50 per cent. “This has consequently affected the revenue of the zone.” Reports say that the zone comprises of the FCT, Kaduna/ Katsina, Kano/Jigawa, Niger/ Kwara/Kogi and Sokoto/Kebbi/ Zamfara commands. The acting controller also said a total of 507 seizures valued at more than N670.1 million were made during the period. Hussaini disclosed that 15
suspected smugglers were arrested during the period, while 280 smuggled cars were intercepted. The controller said the zonal command was working closely with other agencies like the army, police, NDLEA and EFCC to ensure that no contraband was allowed into the country. He disclosed that 150 customs officers from the zone were undergoing provost course at the Nigeria Army School of Military Police, Basawa-Zaria, Kaduna State. Hussaini added that more officers had been selected from Niger/Kogi/Kwara command to undergo training on proper weapons handling. He commended the Controller General of Customs, Alhaji Dikko Inde for the provision of logistics to the various commands and improvement in staff welfare, saying that the gesture had helped to enhance productivity.
eternity for some of these inventions to be commercialised? No. the governments at all levels on their own can start doing something about it. “There are some of these inventions or products that can be used for farming, why can’t government empower the inventors, or the researchers by way of grants or subsidies to mass produce them and make them available to farmers at the grassroots at low cost. “This call is not limited to the federal, state and local governments it can also make enquiry on some of these locally manufactured machines and make them available to their farmers. “If they do not know where to get any machine of their interest, they can contact the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP), the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMARDC) or any research institute close to them to guide them,’’ he said. Solomon said that it is not good for the country to just talk about the crude nature of the machine, We should be asking the most important question which is “how effective are they?”. The researcher said that manufactures of products could improve on quality through continuous production, “but how can they do when you stop at prototype. “I believe for the farmers or women in the rural areas who may want to use a cassava peeling machine, it is not the finishing that matters to them but
the effectiveness. “If these machines can work for them, the manufacture will make every effort to produce better machines in his next batch, or models. “We see that the technologies from other industries as subsequent products are better,’’ he said. He also stressed the need for industries in the country to look inward in supporting researchers in ways that would improve their final output. Solomon expressed the optimism that with such support from the government and industries, researchers and innovators in the country would
- NSE
be motivated to put in their best. It would be recalled that NOTAP last week organised an “Inventors and Innovators Techmart and Techno-Expo’’ where some of the indigenous technologies were exhibited. The agency, also organised an exhibition of fabricated items from some selected secondary schools in FCT to commemorate the 2013 African Day for Technology and Intellectual Property Rights. Some of the exhibited indigenous technologies displayed during the exhibitions include multi-purpose threshing machine, peeling and milling machines for melon, groundnut and beans, as well as compressed laterite brick-moulding machine and stove.
Free readers debating issues reported in newspapers dispalyed at a vendor stand at Alwell bus stop on Umuwaya road in Umuahia recently.
THE NIGERIAN
11
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2013
NSE DAILY ACTIVITY SUMMARY (EQUITIES) AS AT FRIDAY(20/09/13) Stocks
Open
Close
Change
Deals
Units
Value
MBENEFIT
0.5
0.5
0
3
135,000
67,500.00
7UP
72
72
0
18
43,439
2,816,439.45
MOBIL
114.5
110
-4.5
9
46,986
5,170,595.85
ABCTRANS
0.84
0.76
-0.08
14
1,011,770
783,984.00
MULTIVERSE
0.5
0.5
0
2
1,000
500
ACADEMY
1.74
1.7
-0.04
6
208,100
359,740.00
NAHCO
5.99
6.38
0.39
51
610,116
3,733,575.02
ACCESS
10.15
10.19
0.04
139
9,772,736
99,191,009.71
NASCON
11.23
11.25
0.02
27
550,250
6,223,471.50
AFRIPRUD
2.03
2
-0.03
31
162,426
318,216.73
NB
161.99
165
3.01
110
883,366
143,373,379.17
AGLEVENT
1.55
1.55
0
12
70,509
101,123.97
NEIMETH
1.15
1.15
0
9
73,308
83,154.90
AIICO
0.79
0.8
0.01
33
1,644,242
1,301,833.48
NEM
0.67
0.7
0.03
17
796,699
557,349.30
AIRSERVICE
3.86
3.86
0
4
4,052
14,195.96
NESTLE
940.02
940.02
0
94
55,816
52,679,539.15
ASHAKACEM
19.99
19.99
0
42
265,440
5,313,082.97
NIGERINS
0.5
0.5
0
1
9,440
4,720.00
AVONCROWN
1.71
1.71
0
2
659
1,014.86
NPFMCRFBK
0.78
0.78
0
1
2,000
1,660.00
BERGER
8.7
8.7
0
4
14,845
127,891.00
OANDO
10
11
1
490
15,963,106
162,301,821.61
CADBURY
45.41
46
0.59
83
506,411
23,304,132.42
OASISINS
0.5
0.5
0
2
300
150
CAP
43.4
43.4
0
14
62,645
2,623,449.50
OKOMUOIL
45.53
45.53
0
27
143,551
6,335,688.97
CCNN
8.54
9.09
0.55
19
117,144
1,067,182.56
PORTPAINT
5.23
5.23
0
3
4,027,000
21,061,210.00
CILEASING
0.5
0.5
0
1
30,000
15,000.00
PRESCO
37
37
0
29
177,160
6,024,827.49
CONOIL
28.8
28.8
0
14
9,968
260,443.56
PRESTIGE
0.6
0.6
0
1
1,000
600
CONTINSURE
1.11
1.12
0.01
3
156,100
174,578.47
PZ
35
37
2
78
665,426
24,425,956.19
CORNERST
0.51
0.5
-0.01
4
174,000
87,160.00
REDSTAREX
4.1
4.12
0.02
30
1,345,800
5,480,520.00
COSTAIN
1.2
1.1
-0.1
15
389,250
436,404.50
REGALINS
0.5
0.5
0
1
200
100
CUSTODYINS
1.45
1.41
-0.04
17
647,678
926,816.20
RESORTSAL
0.5
0.5
0
2
79,998,200
39,999,100.00
CUTIX
1.97
1.98
0.01
15
250,569
495,536.63
ROYALEX
0.55
0.51
-0.04
7
208,633
107,929.82
DANGCEM
189
190
1
35
225,263
42,664,390.04
RTBRISCOE
1.3
1.3
0
31
858,245
1,112,855.28
DANGFLOUR
9.04
9.05
0.01
69
1,099,319
9,991,666.65
SKYEBANK
4.05
4.19
0.14
88
1,752,712
7,334,560.54
DANGSUGAR
10.47
10.5
0.03
51
573,694
6,028,357.63
SOVRENINS
0.5
0.5
0
3
4,300,000
2,150,000.00
DIAMONDBNK
6.15
6.19
0.04
46
1,037,924
6,404,694.73
STANBIC
18.5
18.7
0.2
17
323,520
6,050,636.15
DNMEYER
1.9
1.9
0
1
100
171
STERLNBANK
2.38
2.38
0
32
1,127,095
2,666,773.63
DUNLOP
0.5
0.5
0
1
302
151
TANTALIZER
0.5
0.5
0
1
200
100
ETERNA
2.82
2.68
-0.14
19
300,970
817,124.20
THOMASWY
0.88
0.96
0.08
12
202,376
191,873.46
ETI
13.49
13.36
-0.13
81
1,100,077
14,664,301.62
TOTAL
157
151.35
-5.65
25
113,799
17,278,050.50
EVANSMED
3.29
3.29
0
10
219,850
662,222.20
TRANSCORP
1.5
1.5
0
224
68,048,294
101,615,921.49
FBNH
15.5
15.9
0.4
568
15,932,231
252,502,698.31
TRANSEXPR
1.39
1.3
-0.09
3
250,000
325,018.00
FCMB
3.88
3.66
-0.22
72
1,509,528
5,673,425.55
UAC-PROP
15.2
15.2
0
9
45,637
696,357.81
FIDELITYBK
2.51
2.51
0
159
19,442,611
48,452,973.28
UACN
56.1
60.8
4.7
119
4,431,177
262,310,957.55
FIDSON
1.9
1.9
0
26
278,423
528,915.70
UBA
7.3
7.7
0.4
195
7,848,143
58,550,414.87
FLOURMILL
83
83
0
33
52,686
4,070,571.49
UBCAP
1.3
1.32
0.02
63
2,820,639
3,668,634.76
FO
35.7
35.7
0
40
171,794
6,304,002.85
UBN
10.22
10.2
-0.02
58
669,643
6,829,510.86
GLAXOSMITH
64
64
0
6
14,445
926,023.60
UNILEVER
59
59
0
49
196,204
11,614,115.29
GUARANTY
24.89
25
0.11
317
9,699,917
242,030,027.11
UNITYBNK
0.6
0.66
0.06
50
9,764,576
6,444,620.16
GUINNESS
248
248
0
37
49,096
12,234,791.80
UNITYKAP
0.5
0.5
0
1
5,000
2,500.00
HMARKINS
0.5
0.5
0
1
1,000,000
500,000.00
UPDCREIT
10.5
10.5
0
1
7,000
66,150.00
HONYFLOUR
2.74
2.79
0.05
46
739,386
2,038,251.54
UPL
3.6
3.61
0.01
11
259,100
944,669.76
IHS
2.81
2.81
0
1
20,000
56,400.00
UTC
0.65
0.66
0.01
10
106,935
67,460.70
IKEJAHOTEL
0.8
0.8
0
10
386,800
309,440.00
VITAFOAM
3.9
3.81
-0.09
12
214,404
819,649.20
INTBREW
19.75
19.75
0
35
365,140
6,940,393.91
VONO
1.64
1.64
0
11
166,898
272,017.72
INTENEGINS
0.66
0.72
0.06
38
3,922,105
2,821,465.60
WAPCO
92
92
0
33
53,711
4,910,140.84
IPWA
0.75
0.82
0.07
8
226,961
180,558.02
WAPIC
0.78
0.8
0.02
33
1,801,690
1,428,085.09
JAPAULOIL
0.5
0.5
0
19
986,601
493,300.50
WEMABANK
0.93
0.98
0.05
29
1,790,576
1,686,316.38
JBERGER
76.95
76.95
0
24
99,950
7,525,792.68
ZENITHBANK
19.9
19.9
0
179
7,663,823
152,288,757.50
JOHNHOLT
1.27
1.27
0
6
13,543
17,396.72
JOSBREW
7.4
6.66
-0.74
42
1,845,104
13,324,348.34
Stock
Close
Gain
Stock
Close
Loss
LASACO
0.5
0.5
0
4
845,000
422,500.00
LEARNAFRCA
1.95
1.95
0
14
1,001,000
1,902,370.00
LIVESTOCK
3.73
3.8
0.07
37
576,023
2,223,327.67
MANSARD
2.11
2.11
0
2
11,001
23,322.28
MAYBAKER
2.04
2.04
0
17
205,100
411,328.00
UACN NB PZ DANGCEM OANDO CADBURY CCNN FBNH UBA NAHCO
60.8 165 37 190 11 46 9.09 15.9 7.7 6.38
4.7 3.01 2 1 1 0.59 0.55 0.4 0.4 0.39
TOTAL MOBIL JOSBREW FCMB ETERNA ETI COSTAIN TRANSEXPR VITAFOAM ABCTRANS
151.35 110 6.66 3.66 2.68 13.36 1.1 1.3 3.81 0.76
-5.65 -4.5 -0.74 -0.22 -0.14 -0.13 -0.1 -0.09 -0.09 -0.08
TOP 10 GAINERS
TOP TOP 10 10 LOSERS GAINERS
THE NIGERIAN
12 RECENTLY, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, the ruling political party at the Federal level fell apart as it broke into two factions. One led by Bamanga Tukur held their convention at the venue of the special National convention widely announced and a splinter group led by Alhaji Abubakar Baraje emerged. ONLY last week Tuesday, lawmakers at the House of Representatives exchanged blows in disagreements along the line of the two factions in a very shameful manner that brings opprobrium to the country. LIKE many Nigerians, we were not too surprised when the Party broke up given the manner the party had carried on over the years with hordes of unresolved issues that had dogged the party. The consequence is now face-to-face with not only card carrying members of the party, but Nigerians at large as the crisis will, undoubtedly be taking its toll on development efforts of the Federal government and governors of the PDPcontrolled states. At the last count, 7 governors, 22 senators, 57 members of the House of Representatives, some current national party executives, former National party leaders, have moved to form a new faction of the new PDP. From the happenings, it does appear that the peace efforts by the Chairman, Board of Trustees, Chief Tony Anenih, former President, Olusegun Obasanjo to assuage the aggrieved governors and President Goodluck Jonathan is not achieving desired results as the polity is daily being overheated by the dramatis personae. THERE are several lessons to learn from PDP fragmentation. We believe that for democracy and rule of law to flourish in any country, there must be strong, well functioning political parties. The parties must be seen to be working, even with different agendas, but all geared towards national cohesion and development. Political parties ought to be rallying points for all citizens, as a source of unity, that would fulfil the aspirations of all and sundry. It doesn’t have to be an association that would be continually bogged down by people who don’t even understand what party politics is all about. SECONDLY, Leaders of a party in power ought to have listening ears from the generality of its
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2013 THE NIGERIAN
Lessons From PDP Crisis
members, this seems to be missing from most political parties in Nigeria, the PDP inclusive as confirmed by the splinter group arrow head and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who noted in his inaugural speech that “ I have tried to draw the attention of leaders of our party and leaders in government that this democratic dispensation is supposed to make things better for the people of this country.” Thirdly, Nigerian political firmament is full of charlatans, praise singers, human worshipers, bootlickers, and persons who live rental lifestyles and hence perpetrate a situation where leaders are just being recycled. They becloud the reasoning environment of political office holders and always make them hear only what they like to hear and not what is going wrong in the system. This is unfortunately transferred from the political parties into government. This explains why the country is today full of frustration, anger, and widespread disappointment. Another lesson is that any political party that allows its constitution to be trampled upon and violated with brazen impudence will certainly not stand. The breakaway PDP group accused the mainstream PDP of constant violation of its constitution. The Chairman of the breakaway faction told Nigerians that “In gross violation of the PDP constitution, which stipulates that the NEC meeting must hold at least once in a quarter, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur and a few people have been running the party like a personal fiefdom without recourse to that important decision-making organ of the party.” Another copious example adduced by
the new PDP that runs afoul of the party’s constitution is the removal of a national officer by a state chapter. The breakaways say “Despite that, the PDP constitution is very clear that the state chapter of the party cannot discipline a national officer. Some renegades, who have hijacked the Rivers State chapter of our party with the connivance of the Bamanga Tukur leadership, have reportedly dismissed the Deputy National Chairman, Mr. Sam Jaja.” CLOSELY following the issue of constitution violation is that of insubordination and lack of respect for party decisions. Very often, most politicians put their selfish interest over and above that of the party. The Tukur-led group has always accused the former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, Sokoto state governor, Magatakarda Wamako and Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi of not towing party lines or decisions. If this is true, it is capable of tearing any party apart. There is need for party discipline, obedience of party’s lawful decisions so as to foster consistency and unity. AGAIN, the abuse of official positions by Leaders of political parties can undermine the unity of the party. The Baraje-led faction accused Minister of State for Education, Nyesom Wike of hiding on the back of the President to unleash mayhem in Rivers State. The aggrieved PDP members put forward the issues of “the nomination of Dr. Andy Uba as the candidate of the PDP in the November governorship election in Anambra State; the alleged dismissal of Sam Sam Jaja and suspension of Governor Amaechi from the PDP; and the dissolution of the Adamawa State chapter of the party.” The Tukur-led faction could have justification for their actions on the trio, but the consequence is the huge calamity being experienced today. LASTLY, All political parties in Nigeria need to establish and strengthen internal conflict resolution mechanisms to avoid the pitfall of implosion as being currently witnessed in the PDP. Existing parties should revive the culture of robust debate of all contending issues while providing a level-playing field for all its members. These are the ideals that would endear any political party that worth its sort to Nigerians both at home and in Diaspora.
THE NIGERIAN
13
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2013
Success World
Seeds Of Greatness ARISTOTLE in his Nicomachaen ethics concluded that, “The ultimate end or purpose of all human life is the achievement of personal happiness” How exciting would it he if we all find personal fulfillment and true happiness in what we do. A believe the Creator does not play favourites and has imbedded in every man a seed of greatness. The discovery of this innate ability within causes one to unleash the potential he possesses. The challenge we all face is to find what seed is placed in us and how to cultivate it to bear fruits of great deeds. I remember a story by Myles Munroe in his hook Understanding Your Potential. He recounts: On his way borne in the village of the Caribbean country, the village sculptor passed by the great white mansion of the plantation owner, who wit/i his field workers was felling one of the age-old trees that for generations has provided protection from the scorching sun. The old sculptor suddenly stopped and
with a twinkle in his eyes called over the wall with a note of interest, “What will you do with those discarded stumps of wood?” The owner replied, “These are good for nothing but firewood. I have no use for this junk. The old sculptor begged for a piece of the “junk” wood and with care lifted the knotted tree trunk to his shoulders. With a smile of gratitude, he staggered into the distance carrying his burdensome treasure. After entering his cottage, the old man placed the piece of tree in the center of the floor. Then, in a seemingly mysterious and ceremonious manner, he walked around what the plantation owner had called “useless junk.” As the old man picked up his hammer and chisel, a strange smile pierced his leathered face. Attacking the wood, he worked as though under a mandate to set something free from the gnarled, weathered trunk. The following morning, the sun found the sculptor asleep on the floor of
his cottage, clutching a beautifully sculptured bird. He had freed the bird from the bondage of the junk wood. Later he placed the bird on the railing of his front porch and forgot it. Weeks later the plantation owner came by a visit When he saw
to hi breast with great pride the newly acquired treasure. The sculptor, sitting on the steps of his simple cottage, counted his money and thought, “Junk is in the eyes of the beholder. Some look, but others see.” Like that wood, greatness is in every man. Alibaba,
the bird, he asked to buy it - offering whatever price the sculptor might name. Satisfied that he had made an excellent bargain, the gentleman walked away, hugging
Nigeria’s foremost comedian told me in an interview how he slept in a shack n Bar beach at a point in his life when he had no accommodation. Today he lives in his
“Greatness is preceded by immensely greater depth of discovery, preparation and action. While some people only require simple fine tuning for discovery and impact, others need lots of coaching to perfect skills and competencies.”
With
Ado Erhirhi 08167600251
own mansion in a high brow area of Lagos. Larry Izamoje, the owner of BRILA FM hawked plantains on the streets of Warri. Dr. Sunny ObazuOjeaghase who sits presently at the helm of Success Attitude Development Center (SADC) had stints as a mechanic, a printer, and opted out of the Army as a corporal. Abraham Lincoln and
discover what greatness lie within you and determine to go through whatever process is necessary to bring forth your greatness. It will be worth it at the end. Don’t let your seed of greatness die, don’t leave it dormant. You may not be all that you are capable of becoming right now, and you still fail at getting some things
James Garfield were both horn in log cabins o poor parents, but became presidents of the United States. Greatness is preceded by immensely greater depth of discovery, preparation and action. While some people only require simple fine tuning for discovery and impact, others need lots of coaching to perfect skills and competencies. Make choice to
right, but don’t be discouraged, you have greatness inside and you can still make it happen for you. Get the knowledge you need, seek the help you can, and act to the best of your ability. Surety as you keep trying to become better, you will access the combination that unlocks the unlimited greatness that lies inside you with tremendous impact on family, friends and others.
THE NIGERIAN
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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2013
View Point
Baraje Moves On Weathering Pressure
POLITICAL observers might have thought that the Aihaji Abubakar Kawu Baraje - led Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) could not survive the political mantle given to him by eight governors and, former VicePpresident, Atiku Ahubakar, when they walked out - of the party’s convention ground in Abuja on 31st August, 2013, and held a minuscule convention at the Shehu Yar’Adua centre and announced officers of PDP. The impregnable Baraje, who is from Kwara state, emerged the new chairman of the party and has since, been calling the shots in the midst of intimidation and controversy; he has been weathering the political projections against his party, by those his election Hon ousted as leaders of the party. The National secretariat, where the Alhaji Baraje PDP operated, was cordoned by security operatives. But that did not deter him in the endorsement of the election of his party’s national officers, which was in tandem with members of its National working committee, at a meeting in Abuja. As a man or iranquility, Baraje’s PDP does not want to engage the security agents in confrontation, when they were marshaled out to seal the national secretariat in Maitama District, unfalteringly. His party, however, warns that the security
agencies should protect lives and - property of the people and eschew being involved in political matters. It has since geared in its democratic efforts to commencing the receiving of people and holding its briefs at the Adamawa State Governors Lodge situated at No.2, Gurara Street, Maitama, Abuja. Baraje and his party has vowed not to relent in their pursuit for a party that is built on true and tested democratic ideals, justice, fair play and respect for the rule of law, which have been the yearnings of many Nigerians, who only read the true meaning of the dividends of democracy in the news. Alhaji Baraje has maintained that he is a social democrat, by remaining unprovoked and undaunted in his chase for a transparent and peopleoriented PDP, by respecting the rule of law and the supporters’ acclamation. Even though that the party’s attempt in getting its national secretariat reopened was turned down by a Lagos High court in Ikeja, Baraje is not dislodging his taxonomy in carrying the party and his teeming supporters along. Some of Baraje’s men have accused the alienated Tukur of using the power of the presidency to hound Baraje and his party with the police, especially as was seen in the seal of the secretariat, The belief is that the police should not be allowed to be usurped by any one; it should
By ODIMEGWU ONWUMERE
remain as a constitutional organisation, and not a personal organisation. It is assumed that since this is democracy, the
usurped by anybody or group, ought to have unsealed Baraje-led PDP National Secretariat in Abuja.
give the party a new lease of leadership devoid of archaic, high-handed of power, which were said to have characterized Tukur’s leadership. And, we can see why Baraje is applauded by majority is because of his leadership vision in commanding the ideals of the founding fathers and mothers of the party in ingraining democratic
• Alhaji Abubakar Baraje
• Alhaji Bamanga Tukur
Inspector General of Police, if he was not
Much as accounts have proved, Baraje wants to
“Even though that the party’s attempt in getting its national secretariat re-opened was turned down by a Lagos High court in Ikeja, Baraje is not dislodging his taxonomy in carrying the party and his teeming supporters along.”
principles, and not to a select of sect in the party. While Baraje has remained loyal to the party, there are speculations that there are interest groups in and around the party, who are feeding fat from the crisis in their selfish determination that Baraje does not restore the party to normalcy – in reputation and in decision. But Baraje continues to
burgeon on to rebuild and sustain the party in order to rec1aim its self-enjoyed glory as the greatest party in Africa. Political pundits are of the opinion that the problem in the party is not in the hands of Baraje, but in the hands of those who want Baraje to bite the dust. BAREJE PDP In-spite-of-this, Baraje has given-his—words to resolve the crisis, if those fanning the embers arm avoided by those who think that they are gaining and enjoying such people’s support. Nigerians have keenly waited for a change in the PDP, which Baraje today is the representation. It has become obvious that without Baraje in the leadership of the party, PDP would have finished. The party’s name is just being heard because a man like Baraje holds the leadership of the party today. This is not noise making Baraje should make sure that all the ethnic peoples of the country are duly represented in the leadership of the party for the avoidance of any person’s political grave. He should never feel any iota of frustration that some persons want him to experience. Baraje deserves the support of all irrespective of party affiliations. Time that the police have haunted him should be over. It is time that Nigerians stopped enjoying irritations of Tukur’s archaic leadership and embrace Baraje. Alhaji Abuhakar Kawu Baraje is not one of those who are bent to saying that opposition political parties in Nigeria are no threat to PDP, but one man who believes that opposition makes democracy stronger and should be encouraged. Odumegwu Onwumere, a Poet/writer, writes from Rivers State. Tel +2348032552855. Email: apoeLis@yahoo.com
THE NIGERIAN
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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2013
Discourse
Impunity On Our Roads VENGEANCE is mine, so says the Lord. But, when a child of God declares in anger that vengeance is his or hers as in this case, then, you should beware because man’s vengeance is swift and blind especially if he feels terribly victimized, cheated outwitted. He incubates a burning anger in him and until this pent up rage is released, his conscience will not be asuaged. In unleashing his anger, it is the innocent that sometimes suffers if his anger is directed at a wide interest group, ethnicity, state, nationality or race. This is not a religious treatise but a social erudition that one is compelled not to ignore because of its implication on our collective well being as indigenes of Edo State. I travelled to Abraka few weeks ago to get information for a research. I was directed to see a lady whose office will handle my request. I had experienced some unexpected delay on the way and arrived in Abraka late in the afternoon. It was past three p.m. when I met her. Because it was getting to closing time, I pleaded with her to expedite action on my request as I had come from Benin City and would be returning that day. On hearing this, she snapped at me and said that she has sworn that whenever any person from Edo State comes across her way in any capacity, she will she deal with him to the letter. I was outstanded by her outrage and asked what happened to make her speak that way. She calmly related her woe to me. On 12 August this year, she drove her husband to the Specialist hospital in Benin City to see an orthopedic consultant over an excruciating pain on his leg. After seeing the consultant, they were referred to go to St. Bridget’s diagnostic centre for an xray. She said that they drove off and at the ring road as they were about to negotiate the bend towards Mission road, suddenly a group of men wearing maroon coloured uniform and members of Edo State Transport Management Service swooped on them from both sides of the car forcing them to stop abruptly. One of them
opened the door on her side and shoved her roughly inside as she starred in amazement. He punched her on the wrist as she resisted his intrusion. They eventually forced the car out of the road and reeled out a litany of accusations to her for contravening of some traffic rules. This was finally rammed home with a fine of N70,000.00. On hearing the amount of the fine, she lost her cool and screamed at them; what offence did I commit? How on earth, as a civil servant would I find the money as a civil servant to pay a fine such a huge she exclaimed. She looked at the condition of her painridding husband and pleaded with them to calm down and explain to her what exactly she did wrong. She presented the referral letter from the hospital to them and explained that her husband was ill and they were on their way for treatment, but they were adamant. We came from Delta State for treatment. Please, let us go, we have done nothing wrong, she pleaded. At that point, she said she saw a towing van suddenly appeared in front of her car and they started applying the clamps to it. In anger, she stepped out to stop them from hooking up the car but one of them shoved her roughly out of the way. Angered, she held on to him and started to scream. This attracted passers bye that took compassion on her and the condition of her husband and began to plead with these government agents in uniform for leniency. They eventually heeded the random pleas from members of the crowd and let them go, but not before the sum of ten thousand naira had exchanged hands. This fate is common to motorists in Benin City these days. The woman believes that these traffic agents preyed on them because their car had a non Edo State registration number. I did not agree with her, but there is the possibility that she might be correct as this incident reminds me of one that I witnessed last year at the Agbor road Benin-bye pass bridge. I was turning into the main highway towards Oluku from Abudu when I spotted some women involved in an argument with
By DAN OMORUAN
a group of men that intercepted their car at the bend. My trouble shooting instinct prompted me to stop to ask what was amiss. Encouraged by the intervention of a stranger, the women explained that they were travelling from the Enugu to Lagos when they were forced to stop by the men who introduced themselves as Local Government Contractors and asked them to present their radio transmission receipt. That sounded strange to me here in Edo
Similarly, I was driving along Iyaro road in Benin City last month when the engine of my car suddenly stalled just beside Yoruba street. I quickly veered the car to a parking space nearby, stepped out, and opened the burnet to look at the fuse box as I suspected an electrical malfunctioning. Suddenly, I was surrounded by a number of toll collectors who told me that it was an offence to open the burnet of the car beside the road. I wondered how the opening of a car’s burnet beside the
State but I remembered that many years ago, I was stopped at the foot of the Niger Bridge at Onitsha with similar request. The reason was that they saw that my car number plate was from another State and to them I was a good candidate to prey upon as a stranger. I did not know the rationale for asking me to pay a radio transmission fee and I stood my ground, and eventually they let me go because the friend I was driving with spoke to them in Igbo. The women pleaded that they had a lot of journey ahead of them and do not have enough cash to pay for the ticket. The people tried to make fun out of the situation and told them that how could a group of four heavy ladies be travelling to Lagos and the only cash on them was their fuel money. It sounded reasonable to me but I pleaded althesame on their behalf but the toll collectors were adamant. I got into my car and drove off angrily as the women began searching inside their purses frantically in for money to settle them.
road would constitute an offence. However, I was equally appreciative of their civility as they explained to me that I must obtain a ticket from them that would permit me to leave the car beside the road for a maximum of twenty-four hours or the car will be towed away. Reluctantly, I asked what it would cost. I was with relieved and even excited when I was told that the ticket was one hundred Naira. They were amazed at my reaction. I explained to them that all I had on me was three hundred Naira and I could not imagine being asked to pay a fine of maybe two, three or even ten thousand Naira as that would have resulted in some shouting bouts, imbroglio and name-calling. I then thanked our government for been so humane and understanding in fixing such a pocket friendly fine. This is how fines ought to be administered. Fines ought to be corrective and not punitive especially if they are to be paid on the spot. More than eighty percent of the cars on the road today
are driven by people who barely able to cope with the high cost of living in the society today. People who struggle from hand to mouth use cars and it is by sheer courage and the necessity of having a car in today’s society in the face of competing requirements for the small cash available to them that they keep their cars on the road. Some of them may not be deliberate offenders like the ubiquitous bus or ” tuke tuke” drivers who disobey traffic regulations willingly, yet go free most times. It is important therefore that in
punishing offenders, the harsh condition of the economy should be considered because some of them may not be deliberate offenders. Those vested with the responsibility of apprehending road offenders or suspected offenders should be civil in the process of carrying out their duties. What we see in display today is barbarism, high handedness and impunity. These are negative index and have no place in a civilized society that we are struggling to build. If you look at the stance of these traffic managers on the road, they appear scary and apprehensive like that of calculating beasts waiting to pounce on their preys. There are ways we can watch out for traffic offenders without necessarily being overzealous. The questions that arise from these are- Is it a crime for someone’s car to develop a sudden fault on the road? Should civil
offences attract neckbreaking fines? Should cars with non-localized numbers be targets of road managers? Must we be uncivilized in the discharge of our duties, and must impunity reign? These acts tend to compromise the image and identity that our State government is working tirelessly to build. A few years ago, the Nigerian and International media was agog with various slogans tending towards the rebranding of Nigeria. It is honorable and manageable to brand than to rebrand. I will like to end this article by recalling a tragic incident that took place about ten years ago in Benin City. Before then, I will like to apologize to the members of an illustrious family in this State that this allusion refers to and the feeling of loss and pain long forgotten it might inspire. I am part of the extended family and there is no doubt that I have also experienced my moment of trepidation in recalling this incident. In 2004, an affable senior citizen of this state who was managing a condition of high blood pressure drove his house help to the ring road in his car to get some items needed at home. He stopped beside Urokpota Hall for the house help to alight from the car. Suddenly, a number of ring road administrators swooped on him and forced his car open in an attempt to apprehend him for stopping at what they designate unlawful place. This sudden confrontation triggered a shock in this beloved brother, his blood pressure shot upwards instantly and he collapsed inside his car. Noticing this, his assailants entered his car and drove him to the hospital, but the man died on the way. Realizing that the man has died the “good Samaritan” quietly parked the car somewhere as the now hysterical house help ran inside for help and quietly walked away. In the turbulent and polluted environment that we live in today, there is no doubt that the health condition of many people are on a thin line and as such it takes a little jolt such as the kind experienced by motorists in the hands of our road managers everyday to cause fatality.
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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2013
Focus A warning sign is seen on the boundary wall of a house in the Ikoyi district in Nigeria’s commercial capital Lagos ON one of the most exclusive streets in Nigeria’s capital sits a crumbling mansion with an unwelcoming message painted at its entrance: “BEWARE! THIS HOUSE IS NOT FOR SALE”. The warning refers to a popular property scam. In the most elaborate version, robbers break into your house while you are away, change the locks, and then produce multiple copies of fake title deeds. Posing as estate agents, they show buyers around your house and sell as many copies of the deeds as possible. When you get back, your house belongs to six people. This sort of deception epitomizes the tricky nature of Nigeria’s real estate business, but despite the risks, there are huge returns to be had in a market where around 16 million homes are needed just to meet current demand. Navigating through opaque land laws, corruption, a lack of development expertise and financing, a dearth of mortgages and high building costs will take courage and influential local partners. “There are sizeable challenges to overcome but in many ways Nigeria represents the perfect storm for real estate investment; huge population, rapid
urbanization and a growing middle-class,” said Michael Chu’di Ejekam, Director of Nigerian Real Estate at Actis, a London-based private equity firm. Actis has $5.2 billion under management, including two subSaharan Africa real estate equity funds totaling $434 million, which it says are attracting U.S. and European investors. Nigeria’s population of nearly 170 million is bigger than Russia’s and its economy is growing at 6 percent, a combination which is producing a new wave of property buyers from bankers and airline staff to mobile phone and fast food shop owners. “I see demand from the middle-class higher than ever before,” said Deolu Dara, Associate Vice President at Nigeriabased Avante Property Asset Management, which manages several multi-million dollar residential projects in Lagos. A successful real estate investment in Nigeria can earn an returns as high as 30-35 percent, while rental income yields in cities such as Lagos and Abuja can easily reach 10 percent, developers and estate agents say. MIDDLE CLASS Property in Lagos, a heaving metropolis of around 20 million people, can be among the most expensive in the world with twobedroom flats costing more than $1 million in upmarket areas.
Nigeria’s Property Boom: However, the top-end range is dominated by well established players and developers should target middle-income workers in major cities, such Lagos, Abuja and the oil-hub Port Harcourt. The most popular units fall in a price bracket of 20-35 million naira ($123,000$214,100), developers and estate agents say. Nigeria’s middle class make up around 23 percent of the population and earn around 80,000100,000 naira ($490$610) per month, according to report by investment bank Renaissance Capital. In smaller cities and rural areas, a lack of information about land and regulation is offputting, while a violent Islamist insurgency has made the north of Nigeria unattractive, despite huge unmet demand in cities such as Kano and Kaduna. The majority of Nigerians live in poverty in shanty towns or in basic concrete block and iron-roofed houses they have built themselves, but building mass housing for the poor is not a popular investment. “If you know the market, the people, focus on middle class and cherry pick your deals, you can clean out,” added Dara, who said Africa’s biggest oil and gas industry is also driving demand. One foreign oil major bought
300 flats recently. Nigeria’s construction and real estate sectors are growing at more than 10 and 12 percent respectively, a boom for foreign and Nigerian construction firms, including UPDC, Cappa D’Alberto and Julius
flats costs three times as much in Nigeria than in South Africa, builders say, and many developments are abandoned when projects run out of money or become slums because they are poorly built.
former Lagos state governor Bola Tinubu, who still wields influence there. London-based Actis has given directorships to Nigerian energy firm Seven Energy and local conglomerate UAC. Once the supply challenges have been overcome, there remains a problem with that huge
Berger. Yet, there is still not enough quality affordable housing because business is frustrated by widespread corruption, poor state infrastructure and a lack of expertise and financing. Constructing a block of
London-based estate agent Jones Lang LaSalle ranks Nigeria 96th out of 97 on its transparency index, just in front of Sudan but behind six other African countries. Having support from powerful politicians or business magnates will help to avoid terminal financial pitfalls. LOCAL PARTNERS “It’s a business that requires local partners and local knowledge or you’ll run into problems,” Dara at Avante says. Avante’s chairman is Wale Tinubu, the head of oil and gas firm Oando and a close relative of
latent demand. No mortgages. Unless you are willing to pay a 25 percent interest rate. The mortgage debt-toGDP ratio in Nigeria is under 0.5 percent, compared with 72 percent in the U.S. and over 30 percent in Malaysia and South Africa, government figures show. “In places like America you seem to be able to buy property without a stress but it just isn’t like that here,” said Ike Ejekam, 31, who is about to buy a newlybuilt two-bedroom apartment for 20 million naira in a gated community in the
By JOE BROCK
“The majority of Nigerians live in poverty in shanty towns or in basic concrete block and iron-roofed houses they have built themselves, but building mass housing for the poor is not a popular investment.”
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THE NIGERIAN
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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2013
Focus
Only For The Brave
pular Lekki district on Lagos peninsula. jekam represents the w breed of buyers who pect well-built using with all the odern conveniences. works at a branch of ocal bank and is using life savings and funds rrowed from family embers to buy his operty outright.
I don’t like to think out mortgages cause it scares me en I see how difficult s for my friends to get oan.” igerian banks don’t e giving out rtgages because iable information out buyers and land is rce, while there is no condary market to set the risks. M O RT G A G E NIED he government says it trying to fix this by uring a $300 million n from the World nk to establish a rtgage refinancing mpany, which should e up some bank
lending. A Federal Mortgage Bank was also launched this year, which government hopes will help build 500,000 new homes. The bank plans to float a 200 billion naira mortgage bond, the proceeds from which can be handed over to home buyers with the state guaranteeing against
default for five years. The government is also discussing passing legislation to create a secondary mortgage market and to improve land laws. “With this sense of urgency we could have a significant improvement in the mortgage market by 2015,” United Bank for
Africa CEO Phillips Oduoza told Reuters. This optimism is also being felt by developers as dozens of wellfinanced projects are underway, including the Eko Atlantic City - a multi-billion dollar project built from 9 square kilometers of land being reclaimed from the sea in Lagos.
The billionaire Chagoury brothers, who are of Lebanese descent, are leading the megaproject, which will feature parks, swimming pools and skyscrapers with floor-to-ceiling glass. Banks, including France’s BNP Paribas, Belgium’s KBC and several Nigerian lenders are on board. In Abuja, UPDC has started its 228-unit ‘Metro City’, which
consists of welldesigned blocks with balconies built in palmfringed private compounds. Privately owned Churchgate Group is building its ambitious $1 billion World Trade Centre, a series of skyscrapers housing offices, flats and upscale shops. “Nigeria is a huge real estate opportunity,” said Ejekam at Actis. “The story is getting out, slowly.”
Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi: A
Model Tertiary Institution?
EXPERTS hold the view that no meaningful national development can be achieved by any nation without sound and qualitative technical education. Perhaps this idea informed the Federal Government’s policy to establish polytechnics across the country in the 1970s and 1980s to meet the middlelevel manpower needs for Nigeria’s industrial and technological advancement. Prof. Uba Nwuba, a former rector of Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra, had once noted that Nigeria’s technical emancipation depended on the provision of sound polytechnic education. In line with government’s industrialisation programme, the Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi, was established in 1979 to produce middle-level manpower, especially technicians and technologists for national development. Thirty-four years down the line, observers in the education sector opine that the institution had proved itself as one of the best polytechnics in the country. Available records indicate that the institution had graduated more than 30,000 students from its various departments since its inception. It also sustained harmonious industrial relationship between staff
By LAWAL ADO
and students, thus providing the enabling environment for teaching and learning. The Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi, has been administered by five rectors since its inception, and currently has 200 employees, out of who 60 are academic staff. Expressing satisfaction with its achievements, the incumbent rector, Dr Shu’aibu Musa, notes that the polytechnic has a well equipped library with Internet facilities. “We promote research activities, organise and sponsor lectures and conferences, and conduct in-house workshops and exhibitions. “We have links with several local and international institutions, including Bayero University, Kano; Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria; and University of Agriculture, Makurdi. “Others are the Federal University of Technology, Minna; Kenyatta University, Kenya; and University of Agriculture, Krakow, Poland.
The institution has in recent times taken giant steps to rehabilitate most of its structures and facilities. It is currently constructing a central administrative block, a School of Environmental Technology, and departments of agriculture and mass communication. “Others are a 510-capacity lecture hall, a 750 twin lecture theatre with capacity for 1,500 seats, an office complex and a lodge for National Youth Corps members,’’ Musa said. A lecturer, Mrs Esther Adebitan, describes academic programmes at the polytechnic as most outstanding, adding that lecturers receive grant requests to attend conferences in and outside the country. Abubakar Abdullah, a student, says that the recruitment of competent lecturers had ensured that students of the various departments received quality education. However, the polytechnic is not without some challenges; one of which is
inappropriate funding. “In 2013, the institution was allocated N250 million; but as at the end of August only N50 million was released. “We generate revenue internally for some of our major projects like road construction and sponsorship of academic staff abroad. “The polytechnic generates more than N200 million annually from its guest houses and farms, among others. “In spite of the inadequate funding, the polytechnic established a new School of Agricultural Technology with three departments for Agricultural Technology, Forestry, and Animals Health and Production,’’ Musa said. He said that the polytechnic also established an Intellectual Property and Technology Transfer Centre in collaboration with the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion. The idea, Musa says, is for the publication of research developments cataloguing several products by the academic staff and students.
According to him, such publications are in public domain as can be found on the institution’s Website: www.fptb.edu.ng It is the view of Musa that the institution could achieve greater strides if the Federal Government would provide adequate funding for polytechnics. He says that funding of polytechnics should be commensurate with its needs as is applicable with the universities. Most stakeholders agree with him as they believe that government should bridge the funding gap between universities and polytechnics. They insist that adequate funding should be made available to polytechnics to enhance their capacity in the area of research. They call on the government to consider setting up a national polytechnic commission for effective monitoring and supervision, while the institutions should be encouraged to run postgraduate diplomas and Masters Degree programmes.
“The polytechnic generates more than N200 million annually from its guest houses and farms, among others.”
THE NIGERIAN
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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2013
Leadership
A Leader Of Integrity WEBSTER’S New Collegiate Dictionary defines integrity as firm adherence to a code of values or the quality or state of being complete or undivided. Integrity is a concept of consistence of actions, values, methods, measures, principles, expectations and outcome. In ethics, integrity is regarded as the honesty and truthfulness or accuracy of one’s actions. Integrity can be regarded as the opposite of hypocrisy, in that integrity regards internal consistency as a virtue, and suggests that the parties holding apparently conflicting values should account for the discrepancy or alter their beliefs. The word integrity had its root from Latin adjective integer meaning whole, complete. In this context integrity is the inner sense of wholeness deriving from qualities such as honesty and consistency of character. As such, one may judge that others ‘‘have integrity’’ to the extent that they act according to the value, beliefs and principles they claim to hold. Integrity is about more than just doing the right thing; it’s about building the kinds of character that can survive a crisis inter. This is same way a building that has integrity can survive a storm, a life that has integrity can do the same. A leader with integrity In a word self-awareness, you must know what you want out of life; what you feel, who you are, what your positive characteristics are and your negative qualities. You can’t be true to yourself as a leader if you don’t have a clear sense of who you are as a person. To be a leader
By PRAISE EGHWRUDJE
of integrity; First, there is a consistency of words and deeds, in other words, leaders of integrity “walks the talk.” Their actions concord with what they say. A simple example from a m a n u f a c t u r i n g environment: if a leader adopts, “Safety is number one,” then one should be able to count on his or her actions to be consistent with this. If there is any question about a machine or a part of the process being unsafe, one can predict that that leader will stop an operation if necessary, even at a cost to production schedule. Likewise, nothing more erodes trust than the example of a leader who talks safety, but then, particularly under pressure, pushes production or makes decisions that compromise safety. Secondly, not only is what the leader does consistent with what they say, but what they do is consistent with clearly stated visions and values. These leaders express their visions and values through their actions. They demonstrate ethics and values that are important to them through very observable actions. In other words, these leaders act predictably according to clearly stated values and goals. People know where the leader stands not only for long term goals, but also day-to-day issues, problems, and decisions. In fact, keeping your commitments is so essential to building trust that you should be careful in the commitments you make. Leaders with integrity go out of their way to keep the commitments they make.
Leaders are judged on what they say and what they do. Phil Harkins, in his book Powerful Conversations, says that leaders are also judged by what they DON’T say and DON’T do. How To Build Your Integrity Put yourself first when it comes to personal growth: some people may be shocked at this point “putting yourself first”. This does not imply being greedy and selfish. It means
when personal development programs or talks come up, see yourself as someone who needs it. It’s important to see yourself as a person who needs self development for growth at all times. Cancel some appointment; build for yourself a solid spiritual, emotional and relational foundation.
Before you preach to others, preach to yourself (before you lead others lead yourself). Create time to groom yourself in preparation for the outside world. Be ruthlessly honest with yourself: of all the lies we can tell, the ones we tell ourselves are the most deadly. Question your motives, stop justifying what you know to be wrong. Stop excusing yourself. Some people can be so defensive about everything they do, even
when in their inner minds, they are not sure if what they are defending is true. They go to the extent of making the other person who is questioning them look like a blatant liar. Seek wise counsel: we all have blind spots. It is one thing to be honest with yourself but sometimes, you and I are just blind to
“Be ruthlessly honest with yourself: of all the lies we can tell, the ones we tell ourselves are the most deadly. Question your motives, stop justifying what you know to be wrong.”
faults others can see. Find three or four people who believe in you and ask them for feedback on your life. It is also important to be able to accept feedback about your behaviours and actions. You can learn a lot about how you are perceived in the world by listening to their feedback whether it is positive or negative. Most people are afraid of hearing negative feedbacks so they might not want to consider this but this is the path to integrity. Decide to Honour God, not please people: doing the right thing is almost never the easy thing, and sometimes it’s not the
someone will think less of you, living transparently and not pretending to be someone you are not actually makes people think more of you. In order to be truly effective, there are five critical qualities that a leader must have: A leader must be Visionary, a leader must be a person of Integrity and Honesty and have Values, a leader must know how to properly motivate others, a leader must be able to lead change and a leader must be able to lead a culture of change. It is very important to take into cognizance the fact that, there is no such thing
popular thing. Honouring God is not the same as believing you are always right and everyone else is always wrong, it simply means you are going to live with a long view of what to do; inform by scripture. It means enduring the short term pain, for the long time gain. Be appropriately transparent; we had all like to be something we are not. Admit your short comings. You don’t have to tell everyone what you are struggling with, but you need to tell someone. Part of being honest with yourself is being honest with others. And as much as you might be afraid that
as a “small” integrity breach; any integrity breach is a breach of trust. Arriving late at a meeting may not seem to be a big deal, but if the message has been promptness and productivity, this breach of integrity can have a huge negative impact. As leaders, we may not feel it fair that we are under a microscope, but that is the price that comes with the privilege of leading. . Lastly, by behaving consistently with your values, you will reinforce their importance and impact with yourself. This way you do not lose sight of what is really important to you.
THE NIGERIAN
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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2013
Issues
Winning The War Against Boko Haram Insurgency THE constructive engagement option adopted by the Federal Government to tackle the Boko Haram insurgency seems to have generated a lot of controversy. While some citizens welcome the option, others consider it incongruous to dialogue with a group that hitherto seemed
By OBIKE UKOH
faceless. However, some analysts say that the dialogue option is not a “surrender or capitulation but a bold step in conflict resolution.’’ The 26-member Presidential Committee on Dialogue and Peaceful Resolution of
Security Challenges in the northern part of the country, to constructively engage key members of the Boko Haram sect in a dialogue, was inaugurated by President Goodluck Jonathan, April 24. However, two members of the
committee headed by Minister of Special Duties, Alhaji Kabiru Turaki, Messrs Shehu Sani and Datti Ahmed, turned down their appointments on the grounds that they were not consulted. The members were picked based on merit as Datti Ahmed is the President of the
“However, some analysts say that the dialogue option is not a “surrender or capitulation but a bold step in conflict resolution.’’
Supreme Council for Sharia in Nigeria, while Shehu Sani is the President, Civil Rights Congress of Nigeria. Sani is also the leader, Civil Society Coalition in the North, known to be “ close to members of the sect.’’ President Jonathan, who spoke at the inauguration, told the members that: “Nigerians are expecting this committee to perform magic, and we pray that Allah should give you the wisdom to do so. This is because without peace, we cannot develop no matter how committed we are,’’ he said. The president charged the committee to establish a link with members of the Boko
Haram sect, while developing a framework through which disarmament would take place. Jonathan also enjoined the committee to evolve ways to grant amnesty to members of the sect, while developing a comprehensive victims’ support programme. While the rejection of the offer to serve in the committee by the duo of Sani and Ahmed did not prevent the committee from carrying out its assignment, many stakeholders decried the rejection of the offer, especially by Sani. They noted that Sani is very “close’’ to the leadership of the sect Continued on page 20
THE NIGERIAN
20
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2013
Issues
Continued from page 19
and was in a position to assist the federal government to end the insurgency. That Sani is very close to the leadership of the Boko Haran sect was clearly stated in his rejection of the offer. “My friends called me this afternoon to inform me that they saw my name in the list of the Presidential Committee on Amnesty. “This is to thank our president for giving me such an honour and consideration. “However, I humbly and respectably wish to decline to serve as a member. My advice remains: reach out to the persons I mentioned their names in my interviews in the dailies to discreetly consult WITHOUT doubts, the Nigerian security apparatchik is recording tremendous success in its efforts to root out insurgency in different parts of the country, especially the north east. True to its promise, the Joint Military Taskforce (JTF) has continued to launch offensive against criminal elements and terrorism in the country. Recently the Nigerian Army announced the killing of over 150 Boko Haram insurgents at Kafiya Forest of Borno State. The Director of Army Public Relations (DAPR), Brig-Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru who made the disclosure added that a key commander and a high value target of the insurgents, one Abba Goroma was also killed. The Chief insurgent commander had a N10million bounty placed on his head. Within the same week members of the youth vigilante group otherwise known as civilian JTF
with the group to get their input on the idea,’’ he said. In a recent interview with newsmen Sani further defended his refusal to be part of the amnesty committee, claiming that he did so out of patriotism. “Some people think my rejection is unpatriotic, but to me it is the highest form of patriotism. “If I am not patriotic I couldn’t have risked my life and that of my family to go and sit with members of the Boko Haram. “I couldn’t have been communicating with the Boko Haram members in order to bring about peace at the beginning,’’ he said. Sani had told newspapers that:
...War Against Boko Haram Insurgency
“There are two ways of tackling this insurgency; the use of force and the use of dialogue’’. He also said that “no matter the high-level committee set up, as long as that committee cannot reach out to the leaders of the Boko Haram sect, it is technically and virtually impossible to pin down on these insurgents’’. And not quite long ago, the newspapers were awash with comments by Sani when the Joint Task Force (JTF) said in a statement that the Boko Haram leader, Sheikh Abubakar Shekau, might have been killed
in a cross-fire. Sani still remains doubtful that Shakau was indeed killed by the JTF, leaving most Nigerians to be suspicious of him and his true intention for members of the sect. Stakeholders want Sani to support the peace initiatives of the federal government to end the insurgency, as by his utterances he is very close to them. They also want him to borrow a leaf from other activists, like Mr. Olisa Agbakoba, a former President of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), who said it was in the interest of the
citizenry to make the country safe, by supporting the amnesty programme. According to Agbakoba: “Some say why should the government go through all this trouble in view of Boko Haram’s record. But I disagree. “It is in our enlightened interest to make Nigeria stable. You sometimes stoop to gain,” he stated. It is on record that Sani in September 2011 led former President Olusegun Obasanjo to the Boko Haram’s centre in Maiduguri. Stakeholders want the
... Inches Away To Total Victory captured over 50 suspected members of the Boko Haram sect in some parts of Borno and Adamawa States. The arrest of suspects came after days of massive hunt of the fleeing insurgents. A lot of strategies is seemed to be put in place in this war on terror. The Director General of the State Security Service (SSS), Ita Ekpeyong, at the official passing out parade and commissioning of 385 new officers of the service declared that the service and other security forces were gradually wiping out the Boko Haram insurgents in the country. Ekpeyong said: “We can confidently say that we have decimated the terrorists’ top and middle level leadership, its foot soldiers, thereby dislodging its centre of gravity.” Though there were a
By OLA LOOKMAN number of casualty on the side of the Nigerian security personnel and the civilian volunteers, nevertheless the positive development reinforce our belief in the ability of the response agencies working tediously in protecting us. We were all living witnesses when the dreaded Boko Haram terror groups operated almost freely in some North-Eastern states before State of Emergency was declared in the troubled states of Adamawa, Borno and Yobe. Their freedom have been curtailed. Hardly a day passes that the news media is not awash with stories of the JTF clamping down on members of fleeing Boko Haram terror group. These faceless and bloodthirsty elements have
long fled areas they once operated like the Lord of the Manor where they unleashed terror on helpless and innocent Nigerians. The story has since changed. It is now the other way round. These elements have since been chased away. The recent creation of an army division is another ambitious step taken towards ridding the north east of insecurity. The government should leave no stone unturned in its resolve to make Nigeria a safe and secure nation. Despite the hydra headed nature of the insecurity conundrum, the government should leave nothing to chance getting to the root of the matter. Creating a division of the Nigerian Army specifically to fight insurgency in the north
“While it will be considered rather too early and ill-time to sing victory song in the war against terror, it is not out of place all together to say we are close to achieving complete hundred percent successes.”
eastern part of the country is a commendable initiative. It is an indication that the government is very much attaches much premium to the safety of life and property of its citizens. While it will be considered rather too early and ill-time to sing victory song in the war against terror, it is not out of place all together to say we are close to achieving complete hundred percent successes. We are inches away from completely cleansing terror from our land. Credit must be given to our devoted and committed officers and men of the Nigerian army and other security establishments who have sacrificed their comfort, pleasure and time to guarantee peace in the land. The amount of stability we have so far witnessed in areas once branded flashpoints is an indication of the fact that the military is not relenting in its avowed determination to root out terrorism in the country. The unprecedented inroads recorded by the JTF are not without the matchless support and unwavering commitment of the Federal Government.
likes of Sani to lend their support to the Presidential Committee on Dialogue and Peaceful Resolution of Security Challenges in the North in order to end insecurity in that part of the country. Peace is gradually returning to the troubled states of Adamawa, Borno and Yobe, after the declaration of a state of emergency in the northeast area. Cooperation of activists and those ‘close’ to the leadership of the Boko Haram sect would ensure the return of normalcy in the states facing security challenges. President Goodluck Jonathan has never minced words in his avowed determination make Nigeria inhabitable for trouble makers and enemies of Nigeria with provision of adequate resources to our security. The JTF, with support from their civilian counterparts is truly on top of the insecurity situation in areas once dominated by members of the Boko Haram Islamist sect. While we must acknowledge and commend security and volunteers in this war against terrorism, we must rise to fight terrorism by words of encourage while we are also security conscious at all times. Aside creating the 7th Division of Nigerian Army in Borno State, the government should equally provide the army with necessary support for full take off. We cannot continue to watch almost helplessly how bloodthirsty individuals visit terror on Nigerians. It is our responsibility to make Nigeria safe for Nigerians and foreigners alike. Nigerians are peace loving people. Let us offer our individual supports to security agencies to enable them succeed.
THE NIGERIAN
21
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2013
Archival Matters
Is Nigeria A Big Workshop?
EVERY writer has a licence to break literary traditions and invent words creatively to suit him. For this reason, please permit me to do so, today. And, so, hey abracadabra!! Enter the word ‘workchop’. Yes, workchop. Certainly not workshop. In the past, Nigeria was a workshop because most of its patriotic citizens had their hands to the plough working untiringly to develop the country. Today, the contrary is the case. Nigeria is now a big workchop. A lot of us invariably, deploy the nation as a platform for achieving our selfish individual, ethnic, religious or political agenda. For instance, take OMPADEC people. They didn’t see the institution as a tool for fulfilling government mandate to develop the Niger Delta region. Rather they configured the body as an opportunity to enrich themselves. The OMPADEC people reasoned: “Na where dem tie goat him day chop.” The rest is now history. Niger Delta became poorer for it with the establishment of OMPADEC. De day dem fry gari na him hunger enter house!! With time, OMPADEC gave way to Petroleum Trust Fund (PTF). Still, no development came to the Niger Delta region but the pockets of PTF people got swollen beyond geometric proportions. Indeed, the OMPADEC chameleon only changed colour to PTF. It never changed its skin. Today, continuing our phoney institutional progressing, we now have NDDC. Anything different? Is it different from a workshop for enriching government officials? Anyone who wants a sure answer should pay an
inspection visit to Boundary Road in Benin City between Freedom Way and Adesuwa Road. This section of the road was rehabilitated by NDDC recently. But the road is worse off today. Yet millions of naira were spent on it. Hold it. After visiting Boundary Road, also go to Erediauwa Road linking Sapele to Sakponba Roads – an NDDC project. That road is equally in total disrepair today. Similarly, Alohan Road in Benin City would have been vandalised by the NDDC workchoppers. But wise citizens protested aloud when NDDC moved in to rehabilitate the road by undoing it. The protest forced NDDC sponsors to flee from the site. Isn’t enough more than enough? In the educational sector, also, you hardly find true workshops where academically – sound products are turned out. It is to protest this ugly trend that ASUU has been on strike for over two months now after the Federal Government refused to honour the 2009 MOU reached with ASUU is demanding N387 billion to jump-start the transformation of our educational workchops into authentic Ivory tower workshops. But the Federal Government is offering a meager N130 billion. Stalemate! And, so, the strike continue ad infinitum. University workchops remain. Meanwhile, Edo State Government on September 11, 2013 closed down 167 private schools across its eighteen Local Government Areas. Reason? They are operating illegally without government’s approval. Briefly, what the government is saying is that, it won’t stand idly while
proprietors of these school continue to chop their clients money illegally. Earlier on in May 2013, the National University Commission, armed with officials of the EFCC, similarly closed down 41 illegal universities dispensing fake certificates to students in Nigeria. Alas, the NUC nailed the coffin of
By MICHAEL ODIGBE
other religions. See you equally find 419 ATR priests selling olokun indulgences to unsuspecting victims. In Islam, fundamentalist militants like Boko Haram have turned Nigeria into a killing field all because of Al Qaedda dollars. Not the holy
Before, NGO work is serious humanitarian business for empowering society. But this isn’t so anymore because most people now use NGO for money making. Again, the truism of this new development has been
Nigerians were caught in Britain trying to launder 20 million pounds traced to the Abacha loot. Also, 18 Nigerian soldiers were recently put on trial for their links with Boko Haram, the insurgent group of Islamic fundamentalists waging a bloody war against Nigeria.
• Godsday Orubube, Minister of Niger-Delta Affairs
the shambolic, workchopping universities in our midst. This isn’t all. Because of workchopping, some Nigerians have crimminalised everything to the displeasure of God. Imagine, The Nation newspaper reported on September 12, 2013 how a pastor exploited clerical innocence to hoodwink and rape a 12 years-old girl in Abagana, Anambra State. Things are not different in
name of Allah who abhors shedding innocent blood. The workchop culture in Nigeria of criminalizing lifes rules has been exported abroad. Hence, a lot of our countrymen and women are languishing in jail around the world. In China, for instance, 400 Nigerians are in prison while 80% of Africans in jail are Nigerians. China has zero tolerance for workchoppers unlike Nigeria where anything goes for broke.
“The workchop culture in Nigeria of criminalizing lifes rules has been exported abroad. Hence, a lot of our countrymen and women are languishing in jail around the world. In China, for instance, 400 Nigerians are in prison while 80% of Africans in jail are Nigerians.”
proved. For instance The Nation newspaper reported that an NGO called Cross Foundation International in Aba, Abia State was a baby factory!! Sixteen pregnant women aged between 17 and 37 embedded in the building of the NGO were rescued by SSS officials from it in June 2013. The appaling irony in the eerie story is that one Dr. Hyacinth Orikara, a medical doctor who subscribed to the Hippocratic Oath of service to humanity, is allegedly the proprietor of this NGO selling babies. So, do you need to be told, therefore, that his NGO is nothing more than a workchop? Still, consider these sad experiences. Abacha, our late Military Head of State, stole 3 billion dollars while in office. Recently two
Trust, these soldiers were on the workchop pay roll of these evil agents. Period! I asked a friend why most Nigerians have turned my dear country into a big workchop. In response, he went on a theoretical expose of Maslow Hierarchy of Needs. Hear him, in part: “you don’t talk of sublime values of patriotism, love and humanitarianism when the stomach is empty. Na condition make okporoko bend. Even then, is there anything wrong in imitating politicians who are pillaging the nation? Tell me!!. I couldn’t answer his question try as much as I did. Only one phrase however popped out of my mouth. It was Law of existentialism. Is this law now holding us captive? Question question question.
THE NIGERIAN
22
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2013
Science
With Oyakhilome Clementina
Location:- They occur singly in roots, stems veins of leaves, fruits etc and I rings around the vascular bundle. Function:- They are responsible for mechanical support of the plant and high tensile strength to resist breaking and strains. They act as conducting element for absorbed water and mineral salts up the stem. Man extract them to make sac, linen paper and rope. Xylem C wood They are dead cells with lignified walls. They are made up of four elements which are tracheids, vessels, wood fibres and wood parenchyma. Functions: It is hard and rigid and gives support, shape and strength to plants. Functions of fibres (1) It gives plant support and strength (2) It enable plants to carry on plant weight (3) It enables plants stretch (4) It makes plants flexible or resilient (5) They protect the softer parts of the plants body Functions of supporting tissues in plants (1) For strength (2) Rigidity (3) Flexibility (4) Resistance against the forces of wind and water.
Different Types Of Supporting Tissues In Plants COLLENCHYMA, turgid parenchyma, sclerenchyma and xylem (wood) are all supporting tissues Collenchyma Structure: Collenchyma has thickened corners because of the deposition of cellulose and protopection, it has living cells, it is flexible and elastic in nature. Location: It is not found in roots and stem of some monocot plants. It is usually found beneath the epidermis in the cortex of young stems and along leaf vein. Either they are arranged in discontinuous strips in angled stems or in continuous ring as in safflower helianthus annus. Functions:- They are able to withstand bending of the plant, turning and twisting due to wind and water. They contain chlorophyll That portable in their synthesis for food. Turgid parenchyma Structure:- It has thin walled cells with loose pack it has been found that some parent chymatous cells become specialised into sieve tubes which is responsible for the transportation of food synthesized in the leaves in solution form to other parts of the plants cells of the plants are thin wall and contain chloroplast. Location:- They form part of the cortex pith, mesophyll layers of leaves, the fleshy parts of fruits and as packing cells within and between vascular bundles. Function:- (1) Water and food and stored in the
turgid parenchyma (2) It makes the stem of plants to be firm and rigid in herbaceous plants, petioles and also bleeds of leaves (3) They are able to change into another type of cell depending on what the plant need at that plant or they secrete fluid (4) They allow air to diffuse among the cells (5) Photosynthesis takes place in them, because their cell contain chlorophyII Sclerenchyma Here the walls are uniform, thick and often lignified, they normally occur in plants of commercial importance e.g. flax, jute, coconut and India hemp. We have two types of sclerenchymatous cells, they are the (1) Stone cells and (2) Fibres. Stone Cells Structure:- They are usually Isodiametric, which occur either singly or in small units that comprise just a few cells each. Location:- They are surrounded by parenchymatous cells in the fleshy part of unripe fruits, nuts and hard seed coats and also found on the cortex and phloem of slems and leaves. Functions:- They are mainly for support, and are responsible for the gritty nature of the pear fruit and the hard texture of nuts and seed coats. Fibre Structure:- They are similar to stone cells, just that they are much more longer cells than that of stone cells. They are pointed at both ends, the fibres are extremely hard, elastic, and have over lapping cells.
Functions Of Skeleton In Animals (1) Protection It protects the soft tissues of the brain and spinal cord. The brain is covered by the cranium while the spinal cord is covered by the vertebral column. (2) Body shape It forms the frame work on which the entire body is built, hence all humans have the same shape. (3) Support It provides surfaces on which muscles and other body parts are attached. (4) Movement The body is made up of many muscles which act as levers for others. The total actions bring about movement of the body parts like the hands and legs. Manufacture of blood cell The while and red blood cell defend the body is produced in the long bone Marrow of man. Breathing The thoracic bones help in breathing they issue with the longs, so that breathing can take place. Skeleton and supporting systems in animals Skeleton is the frame work of the body that supports, protects and aids in the movement of the animal. The arthropods have cuticle, molluscs have calaceous shells and some other invertebrates, we have cartilage bone in jawless fish, sharks, skates and ray fish, while cartilage and bones are found in higher vertebrates like the bony fishes and mammals. Some arthropods have chitin.
THE NIGERIAN
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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2013
Health
When Overweight Is Problem
LOTS of people think that being overweight is an appearance issue, however is actually a medical concern because it can seriously affect a person’s health. The health problems that stem from being overweight go way beyond the ones we usually hear about, like diabetes and heart disease. According to kids health. Org, being Overweight can also affect a person’s joints, breathing, leep, mood, and energy levels. So being overweight can impact a person’s entire quality of life.
Defining Overweight When people eat more calories than they burn off, their bodies store the extra calories as fat. A couple of pounds of extra body fat are not a healthy risk for most people. But when people keep up a pattern of eating more calories than they burn, more and more fat builds up in their bodies. Eventually, the body gets to a point where the amount of body fat can have a negative effect on a person’s health. Doctors use the terms “overweight” or “Obese” to describe when someone is at greatest risk of developing weight related health problems. As you’ve probably heard, more people are overweight today than ever before. Experts are calling this an “Obesity epidemic.” This health problem affects young people as well as adults – one third of all kids between the ages of 2 and 19 are overweight or
obese. So younger people are now developing health problems that used to affect only adults, like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and type 2 diabetes. Why Do People Become Overweight? Obesity tends to run in families. Some people have a genetic tendency to gain weight more easily than others because they burn calories more slowly. During times when food was scarce, this was a real advantage. But now that food is available 24/ 7 in most industrialized countries an efficient metabolism that once ensured our survival now works to our disadvantage. Although genes strongly influence body type and size, the environment also plays a role. People today may be gaining weight because of unhealthy food choices (like fast food) and family habits (like eating in front of the television instead of around a table). High – calorie, low – nutrient snacks and beverages, bigger portions of food, and less – active lifestyles are all contributing to the obesity epidemic.
By ISEMHENBITA FAITH
Sometime people turn to food for emotional reasons, such as when they feel upset, anxious, sad, stressed out, or even bored. When this happens they often eat more than they need. Measuring Weight Figuring out if a teen is overweight can be more complicated than
it is for adults. That is because teens are still growing and developing. Doctors and other health care professionals often use a measurement called Body Mass Index (BMI) to determine if someone is overweight. After calculating BMI, a doctor will plot the
result on a BMI growth chart. A BMI at or above the “95th Percentile” line on the chart is considered in the Obese range. A BMI number that is equal to or greater than
the 85th percentile line but less than the 95th is considered overweight. Health Problems Of Being Overweight Obesity is bad news for both body and mind. Not only can it make someone feel tired and uncomfortable, carrying extra weight puts added stress on the
“Although genes strongly influence body type and size, the environment also plays a role. People today may be gaining weight because of unhealthy food choices (like fast food) and family habits (like eating in front of the television instead of around a table).”
body, especially the bones and joints of the legs. As they get older, kids and teens who are overweight are more likely to develop diabetes and heart disease. The health problems that affect overweight teens include: Blount Disease: Excess weight on growing bones can lead to this bone deformity of the lower legs. Arthritis: Wear and tear on the joints from carrying extra weight can cause this painful joint problem at a young age. Slipped capital femoral Epiphyses (SCFE): Obese children and teens are at greater risk for this painful hip problem. SCFE requires immediate attention and surgery to prevent further damage to the joint. Asthma: Obesity is associated with breathing problems that can make it harder to keep up with friends, play sports, or just walk from class to class. Sleep Apnea: This condition (where a person temporarily stops breathing during deep) is a serious problem for many overweight kids and adults. Not only does it interrupt sleep, sleep apnea can leave people feeling tired and affect their ability to concentrate and learn. It also may lead to heart problems. High Blood Pressure: When blood pressure is high, the heart must pump harder and the arteries must carry blood that’s moving under greater pressure. If the problem continues for a long time, the heart and arteries may no longer work as well as they Continued on page 27
THE NIGERIAN
24
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2013
International Gunfire Erupts At Kenyan Mall, 59 Dead In Islamist Attack
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NAIROBI - Gunfire erupted yesterday at an upmarket shopping mall in Kenya’s capital Nairobi, where at least 59 people were killed and several more held hostage by gunmen from a Somali Islamist group that has declared allegiance to al Qaeda. The shooting, lasting about 30 seconds, came after a period of tense quiet in the standoff, a Reuters witness said, speaking from close to the shopping centre that has several Israeliowned outlets and which is frequented by Westerners and Kenyans. Foreigners, including a Canadian diplomat, were killed in Saturday’s attack at Westgate mall, claimed by the Islamist group al Shabaab. Shortly after the shots were fired, troops in camouflage ran crouching below a restaurant terrace along the front of the building that had been buzzing with customers when assailants charged in. One witness said they first told Muslims to leave. For hours after the brazen attack, the dead were strewn around tables of unfinished meals. At one food outlet, a man
and woman lay in a final embrace after they had been killed, before their bodies were later removed. In the darkness yesterday morning, music still played. Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta, facing his first major security challenge since his election in March, said his close family members were among the dead.
The assault was the biggest single attack in Kenya since al Qaeda’s East Africa cell bombed the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi in 1998, killing more than 200 people. In 2002, the same militant cell attacked an Israeli-owned hotel on the coast and tried to shoot down an Israeli jet in a coordinated attack.
Highways Reopening After Colorado Flood Repairs
DENVER - After days of cleanup and repairs, transportation officials have reopened several state highways in the aftermath of powerful floods that ripped bridges and roads in northern Colorado, severely restricting travel in populated areas. With more roads open, the number of people needing emergency shelters is decreasing and state officials hope there will be less congestion. “Priority number one is opening up these roads right now, but doing it safely,” state Department of Transportation
spokeswoman Amy Ford said Saturday. “We have been working super hard to make that happen.” CDOT opened six state highways in northern Colorado on Saturday. Another two were opened Friday. “I think for a lot of people it’s not returning to normal, per se, but it’s starting to get there with some of these roads being reopened,” Ford said. Officials also planned to select emergency contractors soon to begin immediate work on mountain corridors where passage is now limited.
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THE NIGERIAN
25
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2013
International Features Kidnapped Lawmaker: Taliban Abduction THE Taliban kidnappers moved her to at least 13 homes, made her sleep on the ground, and kept asking where she’d been, what she’d done and whom she knew. Every few days, she would be given a chance to call her family. Still, the militants would push her only so far — they knew they needed to keep their bargaining chip in good shape. Fariba Ahmadi Kakar’s four-week ordeal ended this month after the Afghan government gave in to her captors’ demands to free some prisoners. In an interview with The Associated Press, the 39year-old Afghan lawmaker gave a rare account of what it’s like for a woman to be held captive by the Islamist insurgents. “I wasn’t tortured. I wasn’t under constant stress. But I wasn’t free,” Kakar said. She’s also lucky to be alive. Since July, several prominent women have been attacked in Afghanistan. Among them: two police officers who were killed in the south, an Indian author living in eastern Afghanistan who was killed years after her memoir about 1990s life under Taliban rule became a Bollywood film; and a senator who was wounded in an ambush. These and other attacks on female leaders in recent years have generally been blamed on the Taliban, though the Afghan militant group, mindful of cultural sensitivities, usually does not admit to targeting women. The assaults have added to growing fears that what few gains Afghan women have made since the U.S. toppled the Taliban government in 2001 could be erased once American-led foreign troops finish withdrawing next year. Being a woman in the public eye is a special challenge in Afghanistan, where tribal and conservative Islamic mores have long subjected women across the social spectrum to violence and discrimination. The spotlight can be a shield, making men think twice about mistreating a woman and perhaps even guaranteeing that she’ll be assigned a bodyguard. At the same time, it can make a woman a more attractive target for insurgents hoping to spread fear and weaken
Left Her ‘Even Braver’
confidence in the Afghan government. Kakar is one of 69 female lawmakers in the 249-seat lower house of parliament, and she’s never been naive
her call her family. Within a couple of days her children were released to her mother and brother. Kakar, though, was shifted from place to place and kept separate from her driver and bodyguard.
details. At times she looked faint, but then she’d break into a sudden grin. When asked what she did all day in the various homes in which she was held captive, she
commanders were dealing with the details of her case. Now and then, Kakar would be interrogated by the militants — usually three or four of them, and they didn’t
Afghan lawmaker Fariba Ahmadi Kakar speaks during an interview with the Associated Press in Kabul, Afghanistan. about the danger she and other prominent Afghan women face. Still, her initial encounter with her kidnappers was so swift and shocking it’s still something of a blur today. Kakar, her four children, her bodyguard and her driver were traveling from southern Kandahar province to Kabul, the Afghan capital, when a handful of armed militants on motorbikes appeared ahead of them on the outskirts of Ghazni city. The gunmen made the driver turn off the highway onto a bumpy, dirt road that led to a small village. The militants put the group in the home of an Afghan Taliban family, separating the men from the women and saying little. Kakar, though, quickly began pleading with the captors to free her three daughters and son, ages 2 to 20. She tried to calm her children but did not downplay what was happening. “I told them, ‘This is the situation in this country. I will try to make sure you are safe,’” she said. The Taliban fighters let
Just days before the kidnapping, a fellow female legislator was wounded in an ambush by suspected Taliban gunmen not far from where Kakar was seized. Sen. Rouh Gul Khairzad’s young daughter was killed, as was a bodyguard, while other family members also were wounded. The militants who kidnapped Kakar had a different goal: They wanted the government to release some prisoners, and Kakar was their leverage. In recounting her ordeal, Kakar wavered from calm to anger to wariness, and wouldn’t always delve into
smirked and said, “Nothing!” She had only a vague idea of what was happening between her captors and authorities seeking to free her. Kakar had a couple of female minders, whom she called “the doctor’s mother” and “Zolaikha,” but she wouldn’t go into specifics about them. She said, however, that most of the women she encountered would tell her, “We have no power or authority to talk to you.” The men, like many Taliban, were hard-line Muslims who tried to avoid interacting with women outside their families. They would tell her their
hide their faces. They’d ask her questions about her travels, her political activities and if she had met President Hamid Karzai. Nonetheless, they always treated her with “full respect,” she said, even cutting short the questioning if they saw she was getting tired. Kakar leads a privileged life compared to most Afghans, and she was deeply troubled by the poverty and ignorance around her. There were no beds to sleep on, the food was often “inedible,” and there was no sense of any government presence. When she needed medicine, she’d give the militants some of her own money so they could buy
“Kakar leads a privileged life compared to most Afghans, and she was deeply troubled by the poverty and ignorance around her. There were no beds to sleep on, the food was often “inedible,” and there was no sense of any government presence. When she needed medicine, she’d give the militants some of her own money so they could buy it for her.”
it for her. “The people in these villages don’t even know what vaccines are,” said Kakar, a former development worker whose constituency is in Kandahar city. In early September, the captors told Kakar it would be just days before she’d be free. That same week, militants dragged Indian author Sushmita Banerjee out of the home she shared with her Afghan husband in eastern Afghanistan and fatally shot her. Banerjee’s 1990s tale of life under the Taliban was the basis for the 2003 movie “Escape from Taliban.” Kakar was freed September 7. Her bodyguard and driver were released separately. But there are conflicting accounts about whom the government freed in exchange. Zholina Faizi, secretary of the Ghazni provincial council and one of the few in the government willing to discuss the matter, told the AP that seven male insurgents and one woman were released. But the Taliban, in a statement announcing Kakar’s release, said the prisoners were “four innocent women and two children.” The militants also emphasized they had treated Kakar “in a very Islamic and humane way.” Kakar said government officials told her four women and 10 children from Taliban families were let go, including babies born in prison. She said she was told the women’s husbands made them transport explosive materials, but that the women were unaware what it was they were carrying and were taken into custody. The ordeal has left Kakar even more determined to pursue her political activism, especially in light of next year’s presidential election, which she says will be a “lie” when so many Afghans lack access to government services or basic information. “I am even braver than before,” she said. “I will defend Afghanistan, especially the women, until the last drop of my blood.” As Kakar spoke, the news was rapidly spreading that suspected Taliban gunmen in southern Helmand province had shot and killed one of Afghanistan’s top policewomen, some two months after a fellow female officer was slain. Courtesy AP
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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2013
International
In Somali Capita, Today’s Boom Is Real Estate MOHAMED Nor ’s phone rings constantly, kept busy by the property hunters who want to own a piece of Mogadishu. Other clients sit on a chaise longue inside his airy office in the battlescarred Somali capital, waiting patiently for the real estate agent’s attention. “Yes, we have any sort of property,” Nor tells one caller. “Come to me today so I can show you some.” This seaside city’s real estate market has seen an upsurge in demand over the last two years, thanks in large part to security gains made following the ouster of the al-Qaidalinked insurgents of alShabab. Although Mogadishu and other parts of Somalia are still a long way from firm stability and suffer the occasional militant attack, property brokers such as Nor now answer the many calls of ordinary Somalis who want to invest their money at home. The real estate boom started with the arrival of aid agencies that assisted thousands of famine-hit Somalis in 2011. Those foreign aid workers who briefly moved into Mogadishu paid higher rents. More and more houses are now available for sale or rent, in part because landlords appear eager to tap into the influx of new arrivals from the diaspora. On a recent morning, as
Nor sipped strong coffee in his office, two portly men arrived and asked to be shown around. He stepped out with the potential buyers, pointing here and there at newly built houses for sale. When the men settled on a gritty stone house located near the presidential lodge, negotiations with the owner quickly commenced and a deal was sealed within hours: $900,000. That figure was unthinkable two years ago, Nor said, estimating that such a house would not have fetched more than $80,000 at a time when the city was largely covered in rubble amid fierce fighting between African Union-backed government troops and alShabab fighters. The $900,000 deal illustrated dramatic changes in the property sector of a country where many still live on less than $1 a day. The appearance of growing security may be encouraging speculation, piling pressure on poor Somali families who cannot afford higher rents. Many have been evicted after failing to pay rising monthly rents. “We were sadly left at the mercy of merciless landlords,” said Sahra Hashi, a mother of six who was forced to move out of her long-time residence after her landlord increased the rent. “Life is getting tougher for us.”
The monthly rent was raised from $450 to $1,500 ó a figure that she believes could only be afforded by expatriates such as the one who has since occupied the house. Sensing the possibility
to landlords who raise the rent on short notice. One real estate agent, Liban Hashi, said it is simply “good business” that property prices have more than quadrupled in a couple of years in this
ernment, where security is believed to be tighter, brokers said. Some residential houses have been sold for as much as $3 million, according to Nor. The brokers owe their success in part to the aura of chaos that still pervades Mogadishu, where it is hard to collect taxes and the economy depends on
buyers meet brokers and consider possible deals. The informal nature of the property market encourages scams and land disputes, producing dozens of land claimants with title deeds who attend court in Mogadishu each week to settle land disputes. Halimo Sheikh Ahmed,
A four storey building under construction in the Somali capital, Mogadishu.
of higher returns, some landlords are subdividing their properties into smaller units to accommodate more tenants. Yusuf Abdiqadir, a father of two who pays $500 for a one-bedroom apartment in Mogadishu, said a lack of many housing options leaves some tenants especially vulnerable
hardscrabble city. Both Nor and Liban said they can make up to $10,000 in commissions weekly, about as much as they used to earn yearly when Mogadishu was still in the grip of al-Shabab. The most desirable, and expensive, houses tend be located closer to the sea or the seat of Somalia’s gov-
a thriving informal sector. Properties are not advertised in the media, and real estate agents, who are often middle-aged Somali men, get their information by walking the streets of Mogadishu and seeking out potential sellers. In open restaurants and spots within the sprawling Bakara market, potential
a Somali-American woman who says she is locked in a dispute with a man who claims ownership of her father’s land, described Mogadishu’s property market as “complicated.” “They get fake documents and claim your land,” she said. “There’s no way out, except to fight for your rights.”
“The real estate boom started with the arrival of aid agencies that assisted thousands of famine-hit Somalis in 2011. Those foreign aid workers who briefly moved into Mogadishu paid higher rents. More and more houses are now available for sale or rent, in part because landlords appear eager to tap into the influx of new arrivals from the diaspora.”
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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2013
Health
Continued from page 23
should. Although rare in most teens, high blood pressure, or hypertension is more common in overweight or obese teens. High Cholesterol: Long before getting sick, obese teens may have abnormal blood lipid levels, including high cholesterol, low HDC (“good”) cholesterol, and high triglyceride levels. These increase the risk of heart attack and stroke when a person gets older. Gallstones: An accumulation of bile that hardens in the gallbladder forms gallstones. These may be painful and require surgery.
Fatty Liver: When fat accumulates in the liver, it can cause inflammation, scarring, and permanent liver damage. Pseudotumor cerebri: This is a rare cause of severe headaches in obese teens and adults. There is no tumor, but pressure builds in the brain. In addition to headaches, symptoms may include vomiting, unsteady walking, and vision problems that might become permanent if not treated. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Girls who are overweight may miss periods or not get their periods at all and might have elevated
...Overweight Is Problem
• Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu, Minister for Health
testosterone (the male hormone) levels in the blood. Although it’s
normal for girls to have some testosterone in their blood, too much
can interfere with normal ovulation and can cause excess hair growth, worsening acne, and male-type baldness. PCOS is associated with insulin resistance, a pressursor to developing type 2 diabetes. Overweight women also might have fertility problems. Insulin Resistance and Diabetes: When there is excess body fat, insulin is less effective at getting glucose, the body’s main source of energy, into cells. More insulin becomes needed to maintain a normal blood sugar. For some overweight teens,
insulin resistance may progress to diabetes (high blood sugar). Depression: People who are obese are more likely to be depressed and have lower selfesteem. Luckily, it’s never too late to make changes that can effectively control weight and the health problems it causes. Those changes don’t have to be big. For a start, make a plan to cut back on sugary beverages, pass up on seconds, and get more exercise, even if it’s just 5-10 minutes a day. Build your way up to big changes by making a series of small ones.
Opinion Returning Nigerian Federation Cup To Its Glory Days UNDOUBTEDLY, since the British Colonial Masters introduced the game of football, Nigerians have caught the bug of this most followed game globally. In the archives of football in Nigeria, one cannot skip the “most glorious soccer competition” in the world; the Federation Cup. According to Shina Oludare of Goal.com, “The Federation Cup no doubt used to be one of the biggest football tournaments in Nigeria. This competition was so big that Nigerians never hid their admiration for the excitement it brought as they would troop to the stadium to watch clubs like BCC Lions of Gboko, IICC shooting Stars of Ibadan, Iwuanyanwu Nationale of Owerri, Julius Berger of Lagos, Rangers of Enugu, and the likes as they battled for supremacy. “On match days, it was certain that hours before the kick off, streets would be empty; shops would close down as attention shifted to the oldest and most prestigious football tournament in Nigeria. Corporate sponsors would pull and push to associate their brands with it. Even football scouts from top European Club sides were not left out as they never stopped parading match venues to pencil down great talents.” Good and alluring as the picture painted above is, the Federation Cup, formerly, called names as War Memorial Challenge Cup, Governor’s Cup, Challenge Cup and FA Cup and with its first
over the years. Last year, winners of the competition, Heartland of Owerri, got the sum of N500,000, which is not even up to half of the weekly pay for most playes in European leagues. Furthermore, the foreign leagues as Barclays Premier League, Spanish La Liga, German By EMMANUEL EGOBIAMBU Bundesliga, to mention a little, have diverted the edition of 1945, the competition has lost its bit and attention of soccer lovers. It is no longer news to see a football aficionado, paying to watch any of flavour over the years. Most football enthusiasts will ever be juttled these leagues in poorly – ventilated and “sardinewhen told that there is a Nigerian version of FA packed viewing centers than watching the Cup. What has happened to this competition? Why Federation Cup. Empty seats in stadia across the nation, grace have sponsor visibly overlooked it? Most football pundits, have said that the the Nigerian Federation Cup yearly. Even when Federation Cup has lost its vibe due to a multiplicity the matches are shown/broadcast on television, many would either change the channel or walk of problems. Former Super Eagles Captain and Federation away, for what they tag “not interesting” or “local Cup Legend, Christian Chukwu, explained that lack league.” Like the premier league, the Federation Cup of quality players, is a bone of the competition – Chukwu noted that in the years before now, has also had its fair share of hooliganism and Nigerian football was dotted by quality players. perceived match fixing/bad officiating. Most Who attracted huge crowds whenever they are football fans are scared of watching the matches in stadia due to this. Sponsors are similarly not playing. The “Chairman” regretted a situation where convinced about putting a chunk of money into players have developed a penchant for moving to what they see as unprofitable because of “smaller countries” and advising clubs in Nigeria hooliganism and match fixing among team/fans. Therefore, if the Federation Cup must return to hold on to their crowd-puller players instead of to its glory days, the Nigerian Football Federation selling them off. Similarly, the issue of sponsorship has been and other stakeholders must work round the clock. bedeviling the challenge cup. The Federation Cup, As Christian Chukwu said, “… Our administrators no longer holds the same drive it had before. need to re-address and bring it back to what it used Sponsorship from corporate bodies have virtually to be. I am very much concerned and I wish it could be revived” as the most prestigious football become a dream rather than reality. This has affected the prize money for winners competition.
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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2013
Lambert Up Beat On Benteke Injury
Rodgers Rules Absence Of Luis Suarez BRENDAN Rodgers believes Liverpool missed the banned Luis Suarez, as Southampton condemned them to a first defeat of the season. Dejan Lovren scored the second-half winner as Liverpool lost for the first time in six months. With Suarez having completed his 10-match suspension for biting Chelsea’s Branislav Ivanovic last season, Rodgers admitted the Reds did not threaten the visitors’ goal enough. “Sometimes players like him who are magical can make the difference in games like this,” Rodgers said. “The big positive from today is the fact he is back and the ban is finished.” Suarez can make his return in Wednesday’s Capital One Cup tie against Manchester United at Old Trafford, and Rodgers believes Suarez is in the right shape to excel. “He is in good condition. He has been playing games behind closed doors and doing specific work with the conditioning team,” Rodgers said. “He’s a worker and a fighter, and he just needs to get games to bring him up to full speed.” Rodgers said he was unhappy with his side’s performance and the result against Southampton. “Both were very disappointing. We never got going from the off. It was a bit lethargic,” he said. “Technically, we were short, and we looked flat and slow in our game.” The Liverpool boss picked a defence with four specialist centre-backs and still conceded from a corner, with Lovren heading in his first Saints goal. “We gave away a really poor goal,” Rodgers said. “To lose a goal like that was criminal.” Southampton manager Mauricio Pochettino, though, was full of praise for his team and in particular goalkeeper Artur Boruc. “He was great,” Pochettino said. “Our performance was outstanding.”
ARSENE Wenger is running out of time to bring trophies back to Arsenal, according to Stoke boss Mark Hughes. The Gunners have enjoyed a promising start to the season, while new +50 million signing Mesut Ozil appears to have hit the ground running in the Premier League. And Hughes now believes Wenger has no excuse but to end the club’s eight-year trophy drought or consider his long-term future at the Emirates Stadium. “It would be a big wrench, he has a big emotional attachment to the club and rightly so. “He has led them in changing grounds and building different teams for
different periods, so I can understand his reluctance to walk out on that. “He is an honest man and he might think it is time to give someone else the opportunity to bring the trophies he hasn’t been able to recently.” Hughes clashed with Wenger when he refused to shake the Frenchman’s hand while at Manchester City, and he admits the pair are yet to reconcile after the incident. “We’ve not made up,” he admitted. “To be honest I’d forgotten about the handshake. I do have the utmost respect for him. On occasions I get a little bit emotional and try to protect my team. “We get a bit silly. “Usually you then park it and go on to the next game.
Mikel Scores against Fulham on Saturday.
Mourinho Slams Gullit In Mata Row JOSE Mourinho has hit out at critics including former Chelsea boss Ruud Gullit over his treatment of Juan Mata. stance, taking shots at the TV The Spaniard has been duo. dropped from the first-team “I am not trying to squad entirely and watched change Mata’s position,” from the stands – along with Mourinho said. “People have David Luiz – as Chelsea beat an opinion, but I am manager Fulham 2-0 to go top of the not Jamie Redknapp. I want Premier League recently. him to be more persistent and Mourinho was involved be intelligent with the ball. in a terse on-air exchange “We have had a with Sky pundits Gullit and philosophy that has won Jamie Redknapp who have titles. I have been in the game questioned his freezing out of a long time. I don’t want to fans’ favourite Mata, who change that too much but you was the Chelsea’s Player of have to because time moves the Year last season. on. The owner knows this. He later defended his “England is full of good pundits, commentators, no problem with me. I respect opinions and I try to do my job. It’s more difficult to be a manager than a commentator.” He singled Stamford Bridge legend Gullit out for special treatment, adding: “Ruud Gullit is a different pundit because he was also a Juan Mata manager. I think he shouldn’t
be a very proud manager for what he did in the last three years.” Mourinho made it clear Oscar was his first-choice midfield orchestrator. He said: “I hope he (Mata) tells me on the pitch, ‘You are wrong, I am the best and I have to play every game’. “I would love that. That is to be professional. My idea is that he is a top kid and a very good professional and I’m waiting for a professional reaction. “History doesn’t play. The past is the past and you have to be judged on what you do now,” added Mourinho after Chelsea ended a dismal run of three consecutive defeats in three different competitions. Asked how the Spaniard reacted to his exclusion, Mourinho replied: “He took it the way I want. He trained this morning and my assistant told me he trained very, very
Cardiff. “Why not win the title?” Ginola told Goal. “The season in England is long but they can do it. The crucial moments are in the spring in March and April - and Spurs for some reason have sometimes found it hard at this time. “But they have a better squad to deal with that this year. They are playing as a team rather than relying on Gareth Bale so much. Last year, you knew Bale would produce some magic but AVB wants to focus more on the group now. “Now other players are
the most important of the club’s signings. “Eriksen took no time to step in and start playing at high quality,” Ginola added. “He seems already appreciated by the fans and players and he is very young. “That is very important to me. They have spent the money wisely, bought young talents and have a bright future. “They are thinking about this season, yes, but also the next three or four. There is a core of young players now who will grow up in the club and become part of the club.”
Tottenham Can Win League Title, Says Ginola
TOTTENHAM legend David Ginola says Andre Villas-Boas’ side can win the Premier League title this season and feels the club’s summer spending has created a vastly improved squad. Spurs spent more than +118 million on seven summer signings to compensate for the loss of star man Gareth Bale to Real Madrid in a world record +100m deal. And the Londoners have started the campaign in impressive form having picked up nine points from their first four league fixtures ahead of Sunday’s trip to
hard so at the start the answer is very good. “I gave Juan the chance to play from the beginning against Aston Villa and against Everton and I also gave him 35 minutes (as a substitute) against Basel - it’s not the same as say Michael Essien. “I have not played Essien for one single minute and I left him off our Champions League squad list. The point is that I have my options but the thing I most love in football is when my players prove me wrong. “If Juan proves that I am wrong then I will be the happy one,” Mourinho added with a smile, “because I want him to be fantastic.”
ASTON Villa manager Paul Lambert played down the gravity of an injury that forced key striker Christian Benteke off during his side’s 1-0 win at Norwich City recently. Benteke hobbled off in the 28th minute after appearing to injure his hip, with new Czech signing Libor Kozak scoring the game’s only goal within two minutes of coming on to take the Belgian’s place. Villa’s top scorer last season with 19 league goals, Benteke collapsed as he attempted to come back onto the pitch after the initial injury, but he was smiling when he re-appeared in the dug-out during the second half. “I think he’s not too bad,” Lambert told BT Sport after the game. “I think he’s actually slipped. I think that was the initial injury, but we’ll see how he is. “I was delighted for Kozak to come on and score his first goal and that’s why we brought Libor here — we needed some back-up just in case Christian got injured.” Benteke later posted a picture of his crutches on photo-sharing website Instagram, accompanied by the caption: “I will be back stronger.” It was Villa’s first win since their 3-1 success at Arsenal on the Premier League season’s opening day and ended a run of three consecutive defeats.
more likely to take responsibility and [Gylfi] Sigurdsson is a good example of that because he scored two goals in the win against Norwich. “The squad is very balanced and that is the best way. You saw with Bayern Munich they won everything last season by playing as a team, being balanced and having quality in all areas.” Playmaker Christian Eriksen caught the eye on his Spurs debut in last weekend’s 2-0 home win over Norwich and Ginola says the +13.6m signing from Ajax could be
Wenger Has No Excuse To Fail - Hughes
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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2013
Messi Has The Edge On Ronaldo Says Cannavaro
Fabregas Kicks Against Martino’s Rotation Policy THE Spain international admits he wants to play every single week but understands the decision of his coach to make full use of the squad at his disposal Cesc Fabregas says the Barcelona squad do not like Gerardo Martino’s rotation policy but acknowledges they will reap the rewards of playing less games in the second half of the season. The midfielder scored Barca’s fourth in a 4-0 win over Rayo Vallecano on Saturday, in which Pedro was the hero with a hattrick after being handed a start, and the 26-year-old admits he may have to get used to his new coach’s approach to selection. “It looks like he’s doing it with everyone, even the important players,” Fabregas told reporters after the game. “We don’t like it, those of us who want to play every game, but it’s an intelligent approach and we’ll thank him at the end of the season.” And despite the Catalans enjoying less possession than their opponents for the first time in 317 games, stemming back to 2008, Fabregas believes that tactically there were positives that came out of the win. “We’re really happy, these matches are really tough. They are afraid of nothing, they pressure you high up the pitch and they play well,” he added.
THE Italy icon claims Diego Maradona had the biggest influence on him as a player, but believes the current Real Madrid star’s Brazilian namesake is the game’s greatest Fabio Cannavaro feels Lionel Messi is currently the best player on the planet, just ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo. Both the Barcelona ace and Real Madrid star have started the season in superb form, with each player netting a hat-trick in the Champions League in midweek, and former Madrid defender Cannavaro feels the Argentine has the edge on the Portugal captain - though he considers the 28year-old’s Brazilian namesake to be the game’s
• Perez
Winning La Decima Is Madrid’s Priority - Perez
LOS Blancos president opens the club’s 2013 General Assembly with a speech that reiterated the importance of winning titles and the Champions League in particular. Florentino Perez has told representative members that winning a 10th European crown remains Real Madrid’s top priority.
Los Merengues are the most successful team in European club football as nine-time European champions, but have not lifted the Champions
Diego Alves Eyes Barcelona Move
THE keeper has admitted his interest in moving to Camp Nou as the Catalans look to replace Victor Valdes ahead of his decision to leave the club next summer Valencia goalkeeper Diego Alves has revealed he would be interested in a move to Barcelona. Victor Valdes’ decision to leave Camp Nou when his contract expires next summer means the current Liga champions are on the look out for a replacement.
• Diego Alves
And the Brazil international admitted he is happy to have been linked with the club but says no approach has been made as yet. “Who wouldn’t like to play for Barca?” Alves told Placar. “Still, it [moving to Barcelona] isn’t just down to me. There is always speculation about me, but nothing official. “I’ll keep doing my job for Valencia, where I have a contract until 2015. However, I’m sorry that Valdes is leaving.
He’s a great loss to them. I think he’s the most in-form keeper around.” Valdes proved instrumental in Barcelona’s 4-0 win at Rayo on Saturday as he saved a second penalty inside a week, and those efforts won the applause of Blaugrana boss Gerardo Martino. “I don’t think it’s for me to say [if Valdes is the best keeper in Spain]. He’s in exceptional form, he’s among the top three Spanish keepers, and all I can do is enjoy it,” Martino said. “He made three or four key saves, but there’s no chance of him renewing his contract.” The Spain international had already confirmed as much last Saturday, stating: “Always I am a professional. I have spoken with the club without problems but my choice has not changed. “I am happy for this season and after, I leave. I do not need to add more quotes.” The 31-year-old Barcelona youth product has made over 350 appearances since being promoted to the first team in 2002, en route to winning six Primera Liga and three Champions League titles.
League since overcoming Bayer Leverkusen 2-1 in the 2002 final. In the opening speech of Madrid’s General Assembly, Perez underlined the club’s ambitions and set high expectations in terms of the team’s future success. “Winning titles, the Decima and putting on a good show are the challenges,” the 66-year-old told assembled members. “We have the hunger, the skill, the talent and the commitment. Now is the time for us to give it our all. You know that my
obsession is continual improvement. “Ultimately, to be the strongest in every aspect in order to face our athletic challenges, win titles and preserve the essence and identity of our club.” Perez is currently serving his fourth term at the Madrid helm after being elected president unopposed in June, and sought to rally those present behind his vision for the club, which he claimed followed on from the traditions of success the club has enjoyed.
greatest ever. “In my career, Diego Maradona had the biggest influence on me,” the 40year-old told 21CN. “But I think there is another player who might be even greater. That’s the Brazilian Ronaldo. “However, both Messi and Ronaldo are great players in terms of scoring. At this very moment, Messi is a little bit better. “I like Thiago Silva very much too,” he added when asked about defenders. “He has great skills and physicality, one of the best centre-backs these days.” Cannavaro, who hung up his boots in 2011, is currently assistant coach at Al-Ahli in Dubai but admits he would be “honoured” to be considered for a role in the Italian national team setup. “I’m very honored and delighted that my name is on their list but right now I can’t say anything because it is not up to me to decide,” the Italian added. “But I would definitely be very honored if I were chosen someday. I haven’t been a coach for very long, I’m still learning.” The retired centre-back enjoyed an illustrious career, representing Juventus, Madrid and Inter, as well as winning 107 caps for Italy. He captained the Azzurri to World Cup glory in 2006 before claiming the Ballon d’Or later that year.
Pedro Fires Barcelona To Rout
PEDRO scored a hat-trick and and Victor Valdes saved another penalty in Barcelona’s 4-0 win at Rayo Vallecano on Saturday, keeping the defending La Liga champions with a 100 per cent record after five matches. Pedro scored from a pass by Lionel Messi in the 33rd minute before Valdes saved his second penalty in four days, following his stop in Wednesday’s 4-0 over Ajax in the Champions League. The Spain forward added two more goals in the 47th and 72nd minutes to complete his treble. He has five goals this season, making him the league’s second-leading scorer behind Messi with six. Cesc Fabregas capped the rout in the 80th minute with Rayo bravely searching for a consolation goal. The entertaining victory gave Barcelona an overnight five-
point advantage over Real Madrid before they host Getafe on Sunday. A ball stolen by Alex Song led to Barcelona’s opener. Messi took the ball, drew in the hosts’ defence, and laid off for Pedro arriving down the right side to drive a low shot into the net. Rayo were poised to level the scores in the 35th when Barcelona defender Adriano fouled midfielder Roberto Trashorras in the area, but Valdes stood firm and had little trouble parrying Trashorras’ spot-kick. Pedro scored his second goal when he raced in to stab Fabregas’ cross home after the former Arsenal midfielder forced Rayo into losing the ball deep in their own half.
Barcelona’s Neymar provided a constant danger throughout the match and came close to his first goal in league play with a shot off the post in the 66th. Neymar started and extended a flowing move by squaring for Pedro to tap in his third goal before Fabregas claimed the fourth. Atletico Madrid remain second behind Barcelona on goal difference after they kept their 100% record intact with a 2-0 victory over Real Valladolid. Atletico remain undefeated in all competitions this season but were forced to wait until the second-half before securing their fifth straight domestic win. The visitors took the lead through Raul Garcia in the 56th minute before Diego Costa scored the second in the 72nd minute, with young midfielder Koke providing both assists.
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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2013
Inter Go Top With Easy Away Win INTERNAZIONALE surged to the top of Serie A early on Sunday afternoon with a crushing 7-0 victory away to bottom-of-the-log Sassuolo. The Nerazzurri may be displaced at the head of the table with results from later league games, but will still be very satisfied with an emphatic win at the Stadio
Citta del Tricolore. The visitors found themselves 3-0 up at half time, with Rodrigo Palacio, Algerian Saphir Taider and an own goal from Rafaelle Pucino effectively killing off the game within the first 30 minutes. Inter dialled up the pressure in the second half and racked up a big score with further goals from Ricardo Alvarez, Esteban
Cambiasso and a brace by substitute Diego Milito. The Milan side are top of the log with 10 points from four matches, one point ahead of Napoli and Roma, who later today play Milan and Lazio respectively.
Boxing: Chisora Beats Gerber To Reclaim DERECK Chisora’s disciplined performance against Edmund Gerber saw him claim the WBO European heavyweight title with a fifth round stoppage. A lightweight Chisora – weighing in at under 17st after
Euro Title
admitting that he’d cut out eating packets of biscuits – showed real discipline as he limited German Gerber to very few shots throughout the bout. Taking each of the opening
Marseille Struggle To Goaless Draw
MARSEILLE’S poor run of form continued in a gritty 0-0 draw at Bastia in Ligue 1 on Saturday. Without a win in four matches, Marseille were looking to bounce back from Wednesday’s 2-1 home defeat to Arsenal in the Champions League but struggled to create chances. Centre-half Lucas Mendes tested Bastia goalkeeper Mickael Landreau with a header from a corner midway through the second half, and the visitors were unlucky not to be awarded a late penalty when substitute Saber Khalifa was tripped by defender Francois-Joseph Modesto. The draw means Marseille remain in fourth place and trail leaders Monaco by two points and third-place Paris Saint-Germain by one. Fifth-place Rennes beat Ajaccio 2-0 thanks to a brace from midfielder Foued Kadir. Nolan Roux scored twice for Lille in a 2-0 win at bottom-side Sochaux. Evian came back from two down to salvage a 2-2 draw with Montpellier thanks to
goals from right-back Daniel Wass and forward Moudu Sougu. Efforts from striker Victor Hugo Montano and winger Remy Cabella either side of half-time had put Montpellier in control. Newly promoted Guingamp held Reims to a 1-1 draw. An Anthony Weber own goal gave Guingamp the lead only for Nicolas de Roussel de Preville to level just before the hour.
• Dereck Chisora
Barcelona Lose Possession Battle For First Time In 317 Matches
BARCELONA sauntered to what appeared to be a regulation 4-0 win over Rayo Vallecano on Saturday night, but below the surface, something remarkable was occurring. For the first time in 317 ball like the best kid in the competitive games - 317! - school playground. This remarkable spell Barcelona finished the game having had less possession included the entire reigns of than their opponents. Yes, former coaches Pep Guardiola - who did so much to refine that’s 317. Ever since a 4-1 defeat to Barcelona’s possession-based Real Madrid at the Santiago strategy - and Tito Vilanova, Bernabeu in May 2008, the as the Madrid defeat over five master practitioners of tiki- years ago came under taka had greedily hogged the Dutchman Frank Rijkaard.
Schalke Rout ‘Best Performance’
BAYERN Munich coach Pep Guardiola described his side’s 4-0 rout of Schalke as their best “Bundesliga performance of the season”. Defending champions joined rival Borussia Dortmund at the top of standings, claiming second spot on goal difference thanks to goals from Bastian Schweinsteiger, Mario Mandzukic, Franck Ribery and Claudio Pizarro. And following the emphatic victory, a ‘proud’ Guardiola told reporters it was the first time his new
four rounds, Del Boy showcased his array of effective punches and was able to vary his pace – something the one-dimensional, one-paced Gerber was unable to do. The only minor blip in what was a consummate performance came when the Brit backed off and allowed his opponent to get on the front foot during the third round. Attempting to keep Gerber at bay with his jab, Chisora was caught with a big right jab that had him wobbling. Playing up to the crowd and wanting to show Gerber that the punch wasn’t as successful as it looked, Chisora opted to dance around the ring with his arms aloft – though the more astute boxing fan could tell that the home-favourite was retreating in order to regain his composure. In fairness, Del Boy never really looked in any danger and completed the victory with less than 30 seconds left in round five. A hefty left hook to the side of Gerber’s head had the German on the ropes and that was when Chisora went in for the kill. A flurry of body shots that failed to yield a response was enough for the referee to jump between the two and end the bout.
- Pep
side had dominated for the entire match. “That was our best Bundesliga performance of the season so far,” the 42year-old Spaniard said. “I’m satisfied and proud of this performance and my players. “In other games we only played well for 30 or 45 minutes, but this time we did very well over 90 minutes. We totally dominated one of the strongest teams in Germany.” Schweinsteiger, who
returned to the Bayern starting line-up, echoed his coach, believing he and his team-mates maintained the right ‘mentality’ throughout the match. “We took it very seriously from the start, our mentality was right. We were determined to take all three points,” the German international said. “It’s not easy to come here and win, so we’re doubly delighted about doing just that. We were definitely very good at times.”
In the intervening games they had come up against quality opposition at home and abroad but, until last night, had never seen their possession stat dip below 50%. Remarkably, it was a small club from a working-class Madrid barrio who ended one of sport’s great all-time streaks as Rayo notched up 54% possession against a strong Barca line-up which included Lionel Messi, Xavi, Cesc Fabregas and Neymar. While the locals at Vallecas might have been distracted by the heavy beating dished out to their side - with Pedro claiming a hat-trick - at least this morning they can console themselves with the knowledge that they witnessed a little bit of history being made. And how to explain this aberration? Who knows. Barcelona coach Gerardo Martino was full of praise of Rayo, even after beating them comfortably, and said after the match: “Rayo’s approach was very bold. Aggressive. They had an excellent approach.” However, Pitchside Europe
suspects the fact that Barcelona were missing the brilliant midfield holder Sergio Busquets, and had the rather erratic Alex Song to
replace him, explains why the Catalans were unable to exercise their usual control over the game.
BORUSSIA Dortmund coach Jurgen Klopp believes his side should have been able to beat Nurnberg on Saturday, even if he made sweeping changes to his first-choice XI. Dortmund came away with only a point as the match ended 1-1, allowing Bayern Munich to draw level at the top of the Bundesliga, but Klopp said his side only had themselves to blame. “There was more in it for us,” he said. “Even this team which I fielded can play better than we did, particularly in the phase just after the break when we were too deep — that was unnecessary. “We then regrouped and were the better team, but if Alex Esswein puts that chance in at the end, then Nurnberg would have won and we would have had to accept it, so a point’s okay in the end.” Klopp was back on the bench
following his sending off against Napoli in midweek for a confrontation with the fourth official, but he said his reputation as an aggressive coach is unwarranted. “It’s not the case that I attack the fourth official after every action, even if that is the impression,” he told Sky. “I don’t need to be tied up, everything’s fine.” After winning their first five games of the season, Wednesday’s defeat to Napoli and Saturday’s draw have interrupted Dortmund’s flying start to the season, but goalkeeper Roman Weidenfeller says his side can have no complaints. “We can be very happy with a point here,’’ he said. “We had one or two chances that we could have done better with, and then we could have won it, but we didn’t play the glorious pass to our strikers to get the goal.”
Klopp Rues End Of Winning Streak
THE NIGERIAN
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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2013
CMYK
THE NIGERIAN
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The Ides Of A Stowaway
THE stowaway saga involving Daniel Oikhena has since evolved into a melodrama. Not surprising, armchair analysts are falling over themselves to help justify an actiin which the protagonist himself has regretably admitted he took without being mindful of its implication. In doing so, they have, perhaps consciously, elavated him to a position of a near cult hero. For many of them, the teenager ’s daredevil endeavour is a defining reflection of how far Edo state has failed its people in addressing the general poverty smacking the people. Some of them even pushed the boundary a little further by positing that the state has not done anything to provide food for the hungry. To that extent, they are convinced Daniel is right and deserves sainthood, so to speak, in taking his destiny, disasterously so, in his hands. As if to justify that the point, a non governmental organization thoughtlessly announced that it was offering the lad a comprehensive scholarship, ostensibly to salute him. It mattered less if in openly celebrating him, it was giving the impetus to others of like mind, as was demonstrated by another individual that equally wanted to replicate the action barely two weeks later, that it is right, rewarding and legitimate to break rules in order to achieve set goals. In the main, the argumenet that government failed to set in motion necessary mechanisms for alleviating the hunger and general poverty in the land seems germane and or logical, particularly as it became, for obviours reasons, a handy instrument for opposition elements to vent their frustration. With a decidedly biased mindset and unparalleled passion, they attempted to push their jaundiced position as the real issue on both the mainstream media and
social networks. Thus when the state government, in whose custody he now is, announced that it had decided to enroll him in Edo College, one of the best public schools in the state with quality academic and extra curricular facilities that can match any of its kind anywhere else, in order for him to be well mentored and monitored, they remained adamant, convinced that only a school abroad, where they are certain children of government officials receive academic tutelage is good enough for him. Patently immaterial to them is the fact that his real problem derives mostly from failure of whoever it was that had parental responsibility over him before the bizzare incident. Beyond the fact that most of the narrow minded stowaway supporters failed to situate the real issue at stake, they also failed, albeit deliberately too, to take cognizance of the fact that the primary role of government does not include the idea of providing food for families, not those Daniel’s who comes from one that is nowhere near bankruptcy. In the main, this is world-wide, the role of government is to create enabling environment for the people to thrive and realize their potentials and by extension be able to feed themselves, so to speak. In doing so, it takes into account the need of the diiferent segment of the society, from the young to the old, by designing policies to meet their specific needs. No sane analyst, observer, no matterhow cursory his commitment is, can argue that the present government in the state has not done what it ought to do for young people like Daniel. That would amount to pushing hatred of the man in charge to a rabid level. If the truth must be told repeatedly, it is that the Oshiomhole administration is celebrated today, here and everywhere, for reasons of the visble and evident
development it has succesffully put in place in the education sector just as it is the case in others. In particular, the administration’s strides in the education sector, sign posted by the new school buildings in every nook and
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2013
By ERNEST OMOARELOJIE
of the state to the development is that enrolment in public schools, which nose dived before the coming of the administration rose up by nearly 90 per cent. If that is not a testimony that the state government has demonstrated
made the point that quality and beautiful school buildings without an equal dose of quality in the character and qualification of those employed to mentor and educate school children amount to sheer waste of resources and whatever effort put into
responsible commitment to the course of young people, I wonder what will. It is on note that the state government did not just stop at creating building and other physical infrastructure in the education sector. It
creating them. Thus it took on the onerous responsibility of conducting teacher’s audit with a view to identifying those that are qualified to offer the right education. The audit was also conducted with a view
Daniel Oikhena
cranny of the state are self evident. The beauty of it is that the buildings come complete with other relevant facilities sine qua non to quality education. The immediate reaction by the largely appreciative people
to offering advancement opportunities to those not so qualified. A recent encounter between the state governor and a teacher who could neither read nor write, which became a social media hit, is a product of that audit. All these policy decisions, including that which made education free from primary to senior secondary school, were designed as part of a deliberate policy to return education in the state to its glorious days when children from the state were always counted among the best the country can present any time in term of quality. Let us face it. The problem with Daniel is certainly not the inability of the government to take care of its people. Rather, it is a failure of parental responsibility. That some of us would find it convenient and appropriate to celebrate him consciously or otherwise tends to indicate the level of deprevation we have deteriorated. Certainly, there is no wrong way of doing good. Daniel could have died in the process. Worse still, his action could possibly have become tragic for the tens of those who travelled legitimately aboard the aircraft on the fateful day. Would the possibilty of such a scenario present us with any reason to celebrate? Certainly not. The only option therefore is for us to be concerted in our condemnation of everything that is wrong like what Daniel did or indeed, what those celebrating him are doing. It is time for us to take a serious look at our priorities if we are desirous of changing for the better.
“Let us face it. The problem with Daniel is certainly not the inability of the government to take care of its people. Rather, it is a failure of parental responsibility. That some of us would find it convenient and appropriate to celebrate him consciously or otherwise tends to indicate the level of deprevation we have deteriorated.”
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