8th October 2015 by Nigerian Tribune

NIGERIA’S MOST INFORMATIVE NEWSPAPER NO 16,344

THURSDAY, 8 OCTOBER, 2015

Senate honours HID, observes one minute silence —P8

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From left, Ambassador (Dr) Olatokunbo Awolowo Dosumu, former Speaker, House of Representatives, Honourable Dimeji Bankole and Reverend (Mrs) Tola Oyediran, at the Ikenne residence of the Awolowos, on Thursday. PHOTO: AYODEJI OLONIMOYO.

1,100MW drops to zero as Egbin power —P10 plant shuts operation

Bloodbath in Yobe, Borno

•Military kills over 100 invading Boko Haram fighters in Yobe •17 dead as multiple blasts rock Buhari Housing Estate •Scores of worshippers feared killed as explosions hit 2 Borno mosques —P4 •Shekau missing again as Boko Haram releases new video

Charles Okah still alive

—Prison Service —P3

Again, Fulani herdsmen invade, destroy Falae's farm —P13

I have quit party politics

—Edwin Clark Tanker accident at Ilasamaja, on Apapa-Oshodi Expressway, Lagos, on Wednesday.

N53bn Rivers fund got missing under Amaechi's watch —Judicial commission •As senators submit petition against him amid rowdy session —P3,5 •No fund is missing —Amaechi

—P3

Ministerial list: Buhari meets Saraki, Dogara in —P3 Aso Rock

Thursday, 8 October, 2015

CHIEF (MRS) HID AWOLOWO (1915-2015)

PHOTOS: TOMMY ADEGBITE

9 1. From left, Vice President, Wesley College Old Students Association (WESCOSA), Professor Lasun Farinu; National Secretary, WESCOSA, Dr Fred Odutola, Ambassador (Dr) Olatokunbo Awolowo Dosumu and Reverend (Mrs) Tola Oyediran. 2. From left, Chief (Mrs) Agnes Ojehomon, Oba Adeyinka Onakade, the Alakene of Ikenne, Ambassador (Dr) Awolowo Dosumu, Reverend (Mrs) Oyediran, Alhaja Sarat Adesina, Olori Onakade and Alhaja Abiola Owolabi. 3. Chief Abimbola Ashiru, former Commissioner for Commerce and Industries, Ogun State, signing the condolence register. 4. Chief Executive Officer, Grace and Mercy Media, Pastor Tunde Kajogbola signing the condolence register at Tribune House, Ibadan, on Wednesday.

5. From left, Controller of Immigration, Sea Port, Lagos, Mrs Olayemi Taiwo, Ambassador (Dr) Awolowo Dosumu, Reverend (Mrs) Oyediran, Mrs Peju Nwuga, Mrs Ranti Olurin, Mrs Oshindele Kehinde and Mrs Bunmi Busari. 6. A cross section of the members of Peace Fellowship, Olutunda, Ikenne. 7. A cross section of St Peters Anglican Church, Ilara-Remo members with Reverend (Mrs) Oyediran and Ambassador (Dr) Awolowo Dosumu. 8. A cross section of legislators from Apapa Local Government with Reverend (Mrs) Oyediran and Ambassador (Dr) Awolowo Dosumu. 9. A cross section of students of Muslim College, Ikenne. 10. A cross section of the International Council of Community Churches (USA) Nigeria chapter with Reverend (Mrs) Oyediran and Ambassador (Dr) Awolowo Dosumu.

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Thursday, 8 October, 2015

I’m no more in PDP —Edwin Clark

Ondo State governor, Dr Olusegun Mimiko, inaugurating the new St Francis Mega Primary School, in Owo Local Government Area, on Wednesday. With him is the deputy governor, Alhaji Lasisi Oluboyo (third left); Commissioner for Education, Jide Adejuyigbe (second left); Chairman, State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Rotimi Olasogba (right); the Olowo of Owo, Oba Folagbade Olateru-Olagbegi (second right) and Senator Femi Okunrounmu.

Rivers senators submit petition against Amaechi amid rowdy session Taiwo Adisa and Ayodele Adesanmi -Abuja

HERE was mild drama, on Wednesday, at the plenary in the Senate between members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and those of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from Rivers State, when one of the Rivers PDP senators was about submitting a written petition against the nomination of the former Rivers State governor, Rotimi Amaechi, as minister. As Senator George Sekibo, representing Rivers East senatorial district, raised a point of order for him to have the opportunity to submit the petition, senators who are APC members almost shouted him down. Despite the opposition from the APC members at the Senate, the Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki, allowed Sekibo to submit the petition, which was later referred to the Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions. Senator Sekibo later in-

formed newsmen at the National Assembly that “there is the group that is called the Integrity Group and they believe in transparency and fighting against corruption. They believe in good governance and effective utilisation of every fund that is allocated to any state government. “They are based in Port Harcourt. They went into a research and discovered that over N70 billion were transferred from hard currency account to places outside the country.” The petition, he stated, had been written to Mr President, adding that “if President Muhammadu Buhari has read it, he may not hurriedly nominate Amaechi to be a minister. “Amaechi is qualified to be a minister, but when issues of corruption and fraud are openly x-rayed by people, it is necessary for Mr President to take a critical look and examine the allegations, whether they are true or not. Mr President is preaching about corruption, we applaud him for that. “If you are fighting

against corruption, then there must not be no sacred cow. No matter how close such a person is to you, if there are allegations about him, you must spend time to critically look at them. “I am informed that this petition was forwarded to the EFCC a month or two ago and I am also informed that the EFCC is also commencing its investigation. “We are not stopping Mr President from appointing a Rivers man to be a minister; we will welcome it. There are many APC members who were not indicted or accused of such similar issues. “Maybe the letters that were sent to the Presidency

Ministerial list: Buhari meets Saraki, Dogara in Aso Rock PRESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari, on Wednesday night, met with Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki and the Speaker, House of Representatives, Honourable Yakubu Dogara, alongside selected lawmakers at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. A source at the presidency, who confirmed this

We’ll meet December deadline to crush Boko Haram —CDS Dapo Falade -Port Harcourt EVEN as members of the Boko Haram group continue with their deadly act in some parts of the North, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Gabriel Olonisakin, has assured that the military will meet the December deadline to crush terrorism in the North-East. He gave the assurance

while speaking with newsmen at the 97 Special Operations Group, Airforce Base, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Wednesday. The army chief, however, commiserated with the families of those who lost their lives in the explosion that killed 18 people in Damaturu, the Yobe State capital, on Wednesday morning. He said the Nigerian military was already re-

were not delivered. We are sure that through this process, he would be able to hear some of the allegations in the petition and, perhaps, have a re-think, The Rivers people will be very happy. We are not victimising anybody. We will not kick against any other nominee from Rivers State apart from Amaechi, who had been so indicted.” Sekibo said the petition was submitted on behalf of senators from Rivers State, adding that the one sent to the president was a documentary of how proceeds from Rivers State government-owned account were disbursed from one source to another.

strategising on how to consolidate military might over the dreaded terrorist group, a reason, he said, he was in Port Harcourt. The CDS later headed for a close door meeting with security personnel at the Air Force Base, assuring that there was no need for Nigerians to panic as the military was on top of the security situation in the North-East.

to TheCable, refused to disclose the agenda of the meeting. The forthcoming ministerial screening is likely to be one of the key issues to be discussed. There have been reports that the cold relationship between the president and Saraki could have effect on the exercise and Buhari, who has been criticised for not having a cabinet after four months in power, would do all within his powers to make the process smooth. On Tuesday, Ita Enang, Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters, disclosed that he had started reaching out to senators “in the interest of Nigerians." The ongoing trial of Saraki at the Code of Conduct Tribunal could also be another agenda of the meeting.

AN elder statesman and Ijaw leader, Chief Edwin Clark, has said he had ceased to be a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), but quickly averred that he is not joining any other political party. Clark, a former Minister of Information, made the declaration while receiving members of the Think Nigeria First Initiative (TNFI), in Abuja. The Ijaw leader used the occasion to declare his decision to finally cease further partisan political activities, but to rather stand up against any individual or group that tried to take Nigeria for a ride. “I no longer belong to any political party. I am no more in PDP and won’t move to All Progressives Congress (APC). As I almost clock 90, I will rather continue to advocate for better, peaceful and prosperous Nigeria and die gracefully on Nigerian soil,” he said. Clark also used the occasion to condemn the activities of the insurgent group, saying that “Boko Haram is a problem for all of us Nigerians and we must all fight it together.”

He, therefore, declared his support for the double war against corruption and terror by President Muhammadu Buhari. On corruption, Clark said “the government has the right to investigate, prosecute and jail corrupt people, whether they are Ijaw, Hausa, Fulani or Igbos. Corruption is a monster that must be fought. “Politicians are mostly the most corrupt people in Nigeria. That is why every governor wants to become a senator so that he will continue to enjoy immunity from probe and prosecution for corrupt practices.” He also implored the president to implement the good programmes initiated by the past administration, adding that “it is not everything done by your opponent that is bad. Select the good ones and implement them and ignore the bad ones.” While thanking the Think Nigeria First Initiative for their courtesy visit, Clark declared his support and encouraged the initiative to keep thinking Nigeria first, ahead of any personal, ethnic or political sentiment.

Okah is alive —Nigerian Prisons Service Sunday Ejike and Chris Agbambu – Abuja AGAINST the rumoured death of the mastermind of the October 1, 2010 bombing in Abuja, Mr Charles Okah, authorities of the Nigerian Prisons Service (NPS) have debunked the rumour, saying Okah is alive and healthy. Okah, who had been in custody at the Kuje Prison in Abuja for about five years, on Tuesday, attempted to end his life before Justice Gabriel Kolawole of the Federal High Court, Abuja, where he was being tried alongside Obi Nwabueze over terrorism charges. A statement issued by the Service's spokesperson, DCP Enobore Francis, on Wednesday, in Abuja, said Okah was alive in the prison. The short statement debunking the rumours of Okah's death read: “I wish to react to the numerous calls from media correspondents seeking clarifications on the rumoured death of Mr Charles Okah in prison custody and state that the information is not true. “Okah is hail and hearty and going about his normal

daily routine in safe custody. The rumour has no iota of truth and therefore, should be disregarded.”

Adeyemi seeks nullification of Melaye’s victory Taiwo Adisa -Abuja COUNSEL for former chairman of the Senate Committee on the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Senator Smart Adeyemi, have told the National Assembly election petition tribunal sitting in Lokoja, Kogi State, to nullify the election of Senator Dino Melaye. The counsel, in a final written address to the tribunal, presented by Chief Wole Olanipekun, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, Dr Kayode Olatoke, A.O. Otitoju and T.O. Adeboye, said Adeyemi scored majority of the lawful votes cast during the election on March 28, 2015. They also submitted that Adeyemi scored 36,100 compared to Melaye’s 33,146 votes.

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Thursday, 8 October, 2015

Military kills over 100 invading Boko Haram fighters in Yobe 7 soldiers dead, 9 injured Chris Agbambu -Abuja

VER 100 Boko Haram members were, in the early hours of Wednesday, killed by the military after a futile attempt on 120 Task Force Battalion troops located at Goniri, Yobe State. The troops successfully

repelled the attack and inflicted heavy casualty on the invading terrorists, as all of them were said to have been killed. Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman, acting Director of Army Public Relations, confirmed this in a statement, adding that the attack on the battalion was carried out by fleeing

terrorists who, he said, showed a great sign of desperation and attempted to create an impression that they remained relevant. “On the last, count, over 100 terrorists bodies were seen. Unfortunately, however, seven of our gallant soldiers paid the supreme price while defending our fatherland, while an officer

Scores of worshippers feared killed as explosions hit 2 Borno mosques James Bwala -Maiduguri SUSPECTED members of Boko Haram, on Tuesday night, attacked two mosques in Gubio town of Gubio Local Government Area of Borno State with improvised explosive devices (IEDs), leaving scores dead. Reports reaching Maiduguri, the state capital,

revealed that the attackers came before the evening prayers and planted some IEDs which exploded and killed worshipers at the two mosques. Leader of the Youth Vigilante group in the area, Musa Mohammed, told newsmen in Maiduguri that they suspected the insurgents planted the explosive, although they did

not arrest anyone. According to Mohammed, details of the casualty figures could not be ascertained, as some of them only came to Maiduguri to report the incident. “When we go back, we would count the number of corpses and victims and we would give it to the medical workers for your reports,” he said.

17 dead as explosions hit Buhari Housing Estate TWO female suicide bombers killed 17 people, including themselves, at a mosque located at the quarters of Ministry of Housing and at another location within Buhari Housing Estate in Damaturu, Yobe State capital, on Wednesday. According to AP, the incidents occurred around

6.00 a.m. when people were observing early morning prayers. “One of the suicide bombers gained entry into the mosque and detonated explosives and the other bomber was sighted roaming around the compound and (when) asked questions, she too detonated explosives,” Ibrahim

Musa, a resident said. Musa Idi, executive secretary, State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), also confirmed the attacks to reporters, but did not give details of the casualties. The injured are currently being treated at the Sani Abacha Specialist Hospital, still in Damaturu, according to Channels Television.

Shekau missing again as Boko Haram releases new video THE Boko Haram sect has released yet another video without Abubakar Shekau, its long time leader. The group, in the latest footage, re-affirmed its allegiance to the Islamic State (IS) and its leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi. The speaker, who did not identify himself, denied recent claims that some members of his group had surrendered to the army. The whereabouts of Shekau is not known, but the military is trying to be careful with categorical statements as a result of previous embarrassment suffered on the issue of Shekau’s death. Responding to the last audio clip where Shekau purportedly refuted his death, the military said the sect leader was nobody. “The military viewed as irrelevant and fruitless effort, the motive behind the recent audio clip presumably released by Shekau, the acclaimed leader of Boko Haram sect,” read a statement issued by the defence headquarters.

“Our candid advice to Shekau or his ghost; cohorts or impersonators is to follow the line of their fellow comrades and surrender now, as there is no more hidden place for him or his criminal gang to operate freely any longer.”

In the new video, Boko Haram also denied that the military had rescued a number of women and children from its custody, saying the security forces were resorting to a media campaign after failing on the battle front.

Boko Haram's days are numbered —Gaidam YOBE State governor, Ibrahim Gaidam, has expressed hope that the Boko Haram insurgency would soon come to an end, in spite of the barbaric and unjustified suicide attacks. The governor made the remark in Damaturu, on Wednesday, in a statement issued by Alhaji Abdullahi Bego, his Special Assistant on Media. “In view of the all-handson-deck approach adopted by the Federal Government, insurgency will soon come to an end,” he said. Gaidam condemned Wednesday’s suicide attack in Damaturu, in which 18 persons died and eight

others were injured. He described the attack as “barbaric and cowardly.” The governor, while commending the security agencies for their efforts to improve security in the state, urged them to step up surveillance to prevent insurgents and criminals from further attacks. He condoled with the families of the deceased and ordered immediate and free medical treatment for those who sustained injuries in the attacks. Gaidam urged Yobe residents not to relent in their support and cooperation with security agents.

and eight soldiers were wounded in action,” he said. According to Usman, the troops recovered a sizeable arms, ammunition and other equipment from the terrorists. The recovered weapons included a general purpose machine gun, two rocket propelled grenades, nine AK-47 rifles and belted rounds of 7.62 (NATO) ammunitions. Others were various wires used for improvised explosive devices (IEDs), seven primed IEDs, different types of spanners and a

torchlight. “The troops have consolidated on the encounter and are more determined to defend their location and continued to serve as blocking force to any fleeing terrorists from the Nigerian Air Force aerial bombardments and other troops artillery fire. “In a related development, troops of 21 Brigade on fighting patrol from Bama to Ngurosoye have destroyed Boko Haram terrorists camps along that axis. “While on patrol, the brave soldiers came across

some of the terrorists hideouts that also served as fabricating area for IEDs and the terrorists’ training area. “Another patrol along Bama-Kawuri axis discovered and exhumed IEDs and wires for detonation. “It is important to reiterate that the Nigerian Army, along with the support of the Nigerian Air Force and other security agencies, would not relent in its determined effort of defeating Boko Haram terrorists,” the statement added.

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Thursday, 8 October, 2015

N53bn Rivers fund got missing under Amaechi’s watch —JCI •Wike vows to implement report •You will hear from us soon —Amaechi Dapo Falade - Port Harcourt

HE Justice George Omereji-led Judicial Commission of Inquiry (JCI) set up by Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State, to look into the alleged illegal sales of assets of the state, on Wednesday, submitted its report, indicting the immediate past governor, Mr Rotimi Amaechi. Chairman of the panel, while speaking with newsmen after submitting the report and its recommendation to the governor, said N53 billion disappeared from the state reserve fund between 2014 and May, 2015. He also expressed dissatisfaction with the various projects executed by the former governor, especially the controversial Justice Adolphous Karibe-Whyte Hospital and the Olympiad Hotel, saying they were conduit pipes used to siphon the state funds. It will be recalled that Governor Wike set up the commission with the mandate of investigating the sale of the Omoku 150 MW gas turbine, Afam 360 MW gas turbine, Trans-Amadi 136 MW gas turbine and the Eleme 75 MW gas turbine. The panel also investigated the sale of Olympia Hotel, the execution of the Mono-rail project, non-execution of the Justice Adolphus Karibi-Whyte Specialist Hospital, after the alleged payment of $39.2 million to the contractor that handled the project. The commission was also mandated to investigate the disbursement and use of the state N2 billion agriculture credit guarantee scheme fund and the alleged withdrawal of N96 billion from the State Reserve Funds. Justice Omereji, while

speaking with newsmen, said the assignment was tasking, but added that he and the other members of the commission were not deterred or intimidated in any way. He specifically said there was N55 billion in the Rivers State Reserve Fund up

till last year, adding “but between 2014 and May, 2015, they were able to remove N53 billion. “We found out that the money was not used for the projects in the state; it went to some individuals. This finding was from their

own paper submitted to us. We also discovered that the money was given to people they like. “We went to some of the projects’ sites. Like at the Justice Adolphous KaribeWhyte Specialist Hospital, we did not see anything

at all when we went there. When I even told the project contractor that we should go to the basement, he was afraid, saying snakes would bite us. “But I insisted, as I told him that even if we see the snake, we would march on

Rivers State governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike (right) receiving the report of the Rivers State Commission of Inquiry on the sale of valued asets from the chairman, Justice George Omereji, at the Government House, Port Harcourt, on Wednesday.

THE Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Honourable Yakubu Dogara, on Wednesday, decried poor involvement of young people in active politics in the country. Speaking on Wednesday, in Abuja, at the inauguration of the Nigerian chapter of Inter-Parliamentary

continues pg8

Banned poultry products: Reps summon Customs, CPC •Order raid of distribution points Jacob Segun Olatunji and Kolawole Daniel - Abuja THE House of Representatives, on Wednesday, summoned the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) and the Consumer Protection Council (CPC) to appear before it and explain why the banned poultry products still find their ways into Nigerian markets, despite regulations in place. It also directed the officials of the two agencies to carry out their mandates of raiding warehouses, markets, stores and other

points of the distribution and sales of imported/ smuggled banned poultry products for confiscation, destruction and prosecution of those caught with the prohibited items. The resolution followed a motion entitled: “Call for enforcement of the ban on importation, smuggling, trading and consumption of foreign poultry products in Nigeria” moved by Honourable Abubakar AmudaKannike to that effect. In addition, the House tasked relevant government agencies, such as the National Orientation Agency

(NOA), National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the Ministry of Information to lead campaigns that would expose the dangers of consuming imported poultry products. While moving the motion at the plenary, Honourable Amuda-Kannike observed that the poultry products constituted serious health hazards, such as renal and liver diseases, saying high levels of formalin and heavy metals which were toxic to vital organs of the body were being used in the preservation of the poultry products.

According to him, “the economic impact to the local poultry industry is enormous, given that Nigerians lose about one million jobs and about N399.4 billion annually to importation and smuggling of frozen birds, the loss is estimated to be in the region of over N600 billion annually. “While there is a proclaimed Federal Government ban on frozen poultry products, the nation’s porous borders still create avenues for smuggling of these hazardous products into the country,” he said. The lawmaker argued

Saraki, Dogara lament inadequate representation of youth in politics Jacob Segun Olatunji, Ayodele Adesanmi and Kolawole Daniel - Abuja

it and it would die. Behold, when we went inside, nothing. The whole billions of naira given to the man were all in vain. There was nothing to show for the money. “On the Olympia Hotel, I was disappointed because of the nature of the agreement they said they reached, but we have recommended something to the state government on what should be done.” The chairman of the JCI, however, refused to disclose the recommendations in the report as submitted to Governor Wike, noting it was left for the government to look into it and work on it. “I don’t want to start talking about the contents of the report we have just submitted. The government will look at; the one they want to accept, they will accept. It is not good for me to reveal the content of the recommendation now, because it has just been submitted. “We recommended that those found culpable should refund the money. If you are found culpable, we even

Union (IPU)-Forum of Young Parliamentarians (FYP), headed by Honourable Raphael Nnanna Igbokwe, the duo lamented that the ugly trend had led to a situation, where roles meant for the youth were being taken over by older politicians. They also lamented the inadequate representation of youths in leadership positions at various levels of government in the country. In his remarks, Senator Saraki, who expressed sup-

port for the course of the youth, promised that he would ensure full participation of young people in the administration of the National Assembly. He pointed out that in order to build the next generation of leaders, there was the need to involve young people in all the sectors in the nation’s interest. According to him, “in order to build the next generation of leaders, we must build in young people in the process. We, in the Nation-

al Assembly, will give support and ensure the participation of young people in governance. The future of this country lies with young people. For members of IPU, a great challenge await you.” Also speaking, the Speaker, Honourable Dogara, declared “the cliche that young people are the leaders of tomorrow is no longer enough or tenable. Young people should be given the opportunity to serve in leadership posi-

tions. “The young people and women are the excluded majority and this imbalance must be corrected. As we celebrate our 55th independence, we should use the occasion for some introspection,” he added. He appealed to the youth to shun all social devices that could hinder development of the country, but rather to get themselves in only things that would bring honour, unity and the progress to this nation.

that the Nigerian poultry industry lacked the capacity to satisfy local consumption demand, which he said was slightly above two million metric tonnes annually. In his contribution to the motion, Honourable Segun Ajibola, said the prohibition of poultry imports in the country would enhance job creation, adding that poultry products were the reasons for prevalent ailments found in the Nigerian society. Also speaking on the motion, Majority Leader of the House, Honourable Femi Gbajabiamila, stated that the importation of poultry was a disservice to the nation’s quest to diversify its economy. According to him, “for the efficacy of any action to be seen or felt, we must enforce our laws. First and foremost, why do we still have this trend of importation? That is the question we need to ask. The answer to me is how we can get our farmers to harness the resources we have and also be given incentives, either by way of tax holiday, to be able to bridge the deficit gap that had continued to exist.” continues pg6

news Govt ejects illegal occupants of flood victim’s estate 6

Yinka Oladoyinbo-Lokoja

OLLOWING the agitation by the victims of the 2012 flood disaster in Kogi State, the state government on Wednesday ejected the people illegally occupying the 272 postflood estate built by government to solve the accommodation problem of the people. Apart from evicting the illegal occupants, government also sealed off the premises for proper allocation of the estate. The State deputy governor, Mr Yomi Awoniyi, said government ejected the illegal occupants who were not supposed to benefit from the scheme because they were denying the original occupants the opportunity of occupying their houses. Awoniyi, however, urged the people who have genuine allocation to re-present

Thursday, 8 October, 2015

their papers to the ministry of land and housing in order to be re-validated and occupy the flood estate built and given out as ‘Owners Occupier’ to 2012 flood victims. He said, “This morning (Wednesday) we heard that illegal people who have already occupied the housing estate were demonstrating over their eviction. We want to make it clear that our government is one who will do the right thing at all time. “On September 12, 2015; government placed advertorial for flood victims to come and bid for the housing estate. The process was free, but out of the 1,740 unit of dwellings affected by the flood in 2012, only 241 signified interest in the flood estate. “The government after validation of those who indicated interest allocated

241 out of the 272 housing unto them. The remaining 31 housing unit were assigned to the disabled and widows on humanitarian ground. “But it was disheartening that some illegal oc-

A group, Adesina Michael Adeyemo Ambassadors (AMA), has described report in some section of the media that Olumuyiwa Akinyode was forced to withdraw a suit he instituted against the Speaker of Oyo State House of Assembly, Honourable Michael Adeyemo as false and was aimed to malign the person of the Speaker. Akinyode, an aspirant for the Oyo State House of Assembly on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ibarapa East State Constituency, had instituted a suit against the emergence of Honourable Adeyemo as APC standard bearer in the April, 11, 2015 State House of Assembly elections following the party primaries held in Eruwa, on December 2, 2014. According to a statement signed by the coordinator of AMA Ambassadors, Alhaji Fatai Ajadi, the group noted that Akinyode voluntarily withdrew the suit and that no party leader, either at the state or local level put pressure on him. Rather, the party and the Speaker raised an objection against the institution of the suit. The statement further held that Akinyode withdrew the suit when it was clear to him that allegations in the suit were frivolous and could not be defended by virtue of objections raised. The court subsequently

awarded the sum of N20, 000 in favour of Honourable Adeyemo and same to the party, APC. The group pointed out that Adeyemo, who is a le-

Bola Badmus-Lagos

A cross section of Lagos residents on Wednesday stormed the State House of Assembly demanding the confirmation of Dr Femi Onanuga, one of the comissioner-nominees by the state governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode. Ambode had forwarded a list of 37 would-be cabinet members to the House, including Onanuga, for confirmation. The House through its 15-man ad-hoc committee headed by the Deputy Speaker of the House,

gal practitioner, is a strong believer in the rule of law and due process and would not subscribe to anything that would infringe on the rights of anyone.

Reps summon Customs, CPC continued from pg5

When the debate for and against the motion became hot, Honourable Osai Nicolas tried to puncture Honourable Gbajabiamila’s argument by speaking against the motion, saying “clapping for the submission of the Majority Leader of this House shows we have a big problem.” According to him, “we have a situation, where the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) which placed this ban has made liquidity that the farmers could have used to access incentives to cover up the deficit very inaccessible to them via commercial banks.” Minority Leader, Honourable Loe Ogor, moved a point

CHANGE OF NAME I, formerly Bello Risikat now ABDULRASAQ RISIKAT. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public take note.

the screening and were allocated the rooms were the ones who were overzealous and found their way into the estate; but now that the truth have been discovered government after series of dia-

logue, warning and persuasion have no option but to eject the illegal occupants and seal off the estate pending when those who are the real occupants conduct the revalidation exercise.”

Residents storm Lagos assembly, rally support for commissioner-nominee

Suit against Oyo Speaker: Nobody forced Akinyode to withdraw —Group By Nurudeen Alimi

cupants forcefully found their way into the estate and turned themselves into landlords and started collecting rent. “At beginning, the government thought those who have passed through

of order in that regards and advised Honourable Osai to halt his line of argument, saying “the ban on poultry products was imposed by the Federal Government and for any member of the House to be speaking in favour of people who break the laws of the land will not help anybody.” The Speaker then referred the resolution of the House Committee on Customs and Excise, as well House Committee on Commerce for further legislation.

Wasiu Sanni-Eshinlokun is currently screening the governor’s nominees before clearance. A concerned resident of the state, Oladele Benson, who is a member of Ikoyi Club 1938, had petitioned the House, accusing Onanuga of alleged misappropriation of funds, which he said led to alleged expulsion of Onanuga from the club, following recommendation of a disciplinary panel. As a follow up to the petition, a group identified as Lagos Good Governance Coalition (LAGCO) also petitioned the House, asking that Onanuga should not be confirmed for reason of his alleged indictment by the Ikoyi Club 1938. The residents, who stormed the Lagos Assembly complex on Wednes-

day, urged the lawmakers in the state to ignore the opposition against Onanuga’s confirmation, insisting that the allegations against Onanuga were unfounded and baseless. According to them, the writer of the petition against Onanuga (Benson), was only doing so for selfish reasons, and that the House should go ahead to confirm the governor’s nominee as a cabinet member. Responding to the concerns of the residents, a member of the ad-hoc committee of the House and member representing Epe Constituency II, Segun Olulade, said the House would act on the request of the residents, assuring them that Onanuga would be given fair hearing on the allegations against him.

Speaking earlier, the chairman of 15-man adhoc committee, Eshinlokun had disclosed that the House, as a responsive and responsible institution, would not automatically disqualify the governor’s nominees based on petitions against any of them. He equally assured that nominees would be allowed to respond to petitions against them, adding that, “Any petition against any of the nominees will not amount to automatic disqualification; we will confront them with such petitions and allow them to respond.” “What I’m principally saying is that we will give the nominees fair hearing and then the House will come up with an appropriate decision,” Eshinlokun stated.

news

Thursday, 8 October, 2015

CCT trial: Why Saraki visited Akume, Lawan Taiwo Adisa - Abuja

T emerged on Wednesday, that the peace moves mounted earlier in the week by Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki, which took him to the homes of the former Senate Minority Leader, George Akume and that of the leader of the Senate Unity Forum (SUF), Senator Ahmad Lawan, was part of the renewed efforts at ensuring the success of the political solution being worked on by some leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC). In a bid to stave off danger against the Senate President, some leaders of the APC and members of the House of Representatives had proposed a political solution to the ongoing trial of Saraki at the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT). While some leaders are reaching out to the like of a former president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and a former governor of Lagos State, Senator Bola Tinubu, Saraki had, last weekend, visited the homes of Senators Akume and Lawan. It was, however, learnt that the visit to the two top leaders of SUF was not only to ensure the success of the touted political solution, but also to sound them out on the composition of Senate standing committees. Senate committee positions appear the next battle line for Saraki, as a number of his loyalists were said to be angling for key committees. It was gathered that Saraki had, however, decided to make peace with some critical segments of the chamber, by directly reaching out to the leaders to sound

them out on the composition of the committees. “The Senate President is aware that a potential

source of division in the Senate is the composition of standing committees and he is aware of the pres-

sure brought upon him by members of his immediate caucus, the Like Minds Senators, who are angling

for one top committee or the other, irrespective of ranking. “He believes that the wise

Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki, flanked by the leader of the Advisory Council Majlis al-Shura of Saudi Arabia, Prince (Dr) Khalid Bin Abdullah al-Saud (right) and the Saudi Arabian Ambassador to Nigeria, Fahad Sefyan, during the visit of the Saudi delegation to the Senate President, in Abuja, on Wednesday.

2019: PDP NWC accepts post-election review committee’s report Jacob Segun Olatunji - Abuja THE National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), on Wednesday, considered accepted, the report of its Post-Election Review Committee, headed by the Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, aimed at rebuilding and repositioning the party ahead 2019 general election. This was contained in a statement made available to newsmen in Abuja, on

Wednesday, by its national publicity secretary, Chief Olisa Metuh, shortly after the weekly meeting of the NWC of the party. According to the statement, “the NWC accepts the report of the Post-Election Review Committee in good faith, including the noted mistakes and lapses of successive leadership organs of the party therein. “The NWC resolves that the report and recommendations of the PDP PostElection Review Committee will first be tabled before the National Caucus of the party on Tuesday, October

13, to kick-start onward consideration thereof. “The NWC commends the Senator Ike Ekweremadu-led PDP Post-Election Review Committee for the successful review of the performance of the party in the 2015 general election and the recommendations for effective rebuilding of the party to regain its pre-eminent position in national politics.” The NWC also announced the postponement of the rescheduled state congresses in Edo State, with a promise that new date would be announced in due course.

It affirmed that “the rebuilding process, which began with the inauguration of the Ekweremadu-led committee, is very much on course and urges all party members to remain committed to the course of returning the party to power at the centre in 2019.” The committee had, among other things, recommended the restoration of zoning formula policy in the party and that its presidential candidate for the 2019 election should be picked from the Northern part of the country for fairness and equity.

Reps set to probe AMCON over N5 trillion debts profile Jacob Segun Olatunji and Kolawole Daniel - Abuja THE House of Representatives, on Wednesday, resolved to investigate the Assets Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) over the accumulated debts profile of N5 trillion (about $25 billion) and alleged fraudulent sale of public assets, including commercial banks, to the cronies of the corporation’s handlers through back doors. The resolution was made, following the adoption of a motion sponsored by Honourable Gabriel Onyenweife, to that effect, on

Wednesday, at the pelnary. It was resolved that an ad hoc committee be set to carry out the investigation, with a view to determining whether the acquisition and sale of assets, banks, shares and landed properties by the corporation was consistent with due process and extant laws, devoid of fraudulent activities. When constituted, the leadership of the House would also determine the losses, if any, suffered by Nigeria as a result of the alleged sharp practices in the corporation. The committee has six weeks to turn in its report to the House for further legis-

lation. In the motion, Hon Onyenweife accused AMCON of allegedly exceeding its debt profile ceiling of N800 billion by N4.2 trillion, with the current debt profile of N5 trillion and that the corporation’s balance sheet had a shortfall of N3.8 trillion (about $19 billion). He added that the geometric accumulation of debts by AMCON would, no doubt, endanger the dwindling national reserves currently put at $30 billion, since the Federal Government was the guarantor of the corporation’s bonds. The lawmaker lamented that it was worrisome that

the accumulated debts of AMCON in five years were more than those owed by the Federal Government of Nigeria to the Paris Club of Creditors in 50 years. According to him, “over N2 trillion was lost in the not too transparent process adopted in the sale of some banks, including Oceanic Bank, Intercontinental Bank, Enterprise Bank and the Mainstreet Bank. “The continued abuse of due process in the management of the affairs of AMCON could return the Nigerian banking industry to the pre2010 global economic crises, which AMCON was established to cure,” he lamented.

He pointed out that the disposal of assets, such as shares, landed properties, plants and equipment acquired by the corporation were shrouded in secrecy. He stated the motion became necessary, in order to prevent AMCON from destroying the objectives and core needs which propelled its establishment some years back. Several other members, including Honourable Oghene Egoh and Philip Shauibu spoke in support of the motion, which was unanimously adopted through voice votes, when the Speaker, Yakubu Dogara, put a question to that effect.

thing to do was to kill two birds with one stone, by consulting the leaders of SUF, while also widening the horizon for peace,” a source in the Senate said. It was not clear what was concluded with the duo of Akume and Lawan, but a source close to the Senate President said Saraki was upbeat at the prospects of his meetings with the duo. Another source in the Senate, however, said the fate of the peace moves remained uncertain until the direction of the external forces behind his travails became clear enough. The Senate has 54 standing committees created during the tenure of Senate President David Mark in the sixth and seventh Senate. That number ensured that every senator was either a chairman or vice chairman of a standing committee. Three of the committees had so far been constituted, including Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, Rules and Business and Public Accounts.

Nigeria, Saudi Arabia to cooperate on tackling terrorism Ayodele Adesanmi - Abuja SENATE President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, on Wednesday, said since Nigeria and Saudi Arabia shared similar challenges, especially terrorism and economic problems, there should be co-operation between the two countries at the highest level. Speaking when he received the Advisory Council of the Saudi Arabia Royal Kingdom, led by Prince Khalid Abdullahi Al Saud in his office, Senator Saraki said both countries should exchange ideas, intelligence and technical expertise directed at solving the identified problems. According to him, “we are both at this moment going through the unfortunate issue of terrorism as it is affecting us. I believe it is time we must work closely together. We can do more with collaboration. I believe in what we are doing now. We need to work together to fight terrorists that have besieged our countries. It is my view that terrorism in one part of the world is terrorism in every part of the world.” On the peace mission of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Syria, Palestine and other parts of the world, the Senate President commended the efforts made so far.

news

Thursday, 8 October, 2015

Senate pays tribute to Mama HID Awolowo

•Saraki to lead delegation to family •Senators observe one minute silence in her honour From Taiwo Adisa, Ayodele Adesanmi, Olayinka Olukoya, Tunde Ogunesan, Saheed Salawu and Victor Ogunyinka

HE Senate, on Wednesday, commiserated with the people of Nigeria, Ogun State and the family of the matriarch of Awolowo dynasty, Chief HID Awolowo, on her passing on. The upper legislative chamber has also resolved to send a delegation, to be led by Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki, to commiserate with the family in Ikenne, Ogun State. Senate’s resolution was sequel to a motion moved by Senator Olanrewaju Tejuoso, which intimated the chamber of the demise of Mama. Besides Saraki, other members of the Senate’s delegation include Senators Ahmed Lawan, Shehu Sanni, Ben Bruce, Biodun Olujimi, Stella Odua and the three senators from Ogun State. The motion by Tejuoso opened a floodgate of tributes to HID, with many senators describing her as an exemplary woman. While presenting the motion entitled: “The demise of Chief Hannah Idowu Dideolu Awolowo (19152015)” sponsored by Senator Tejuoso and seven others, the senators observed that Nigerians in general would miss her, adding that she was promoter of peace in the country. The senator eulogised Mama Awolowo, wife of Nigeria’s great nationalist, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, who died on September 19, in Ikenne. The senator noted that Mama was also a generous and loving woman, whose death was not only a loss to Ogun State in particular, but to the nation at large. He prayed that the Senate observe a minute silence in her honour and also sent a delegation to condole with her family in Ikenne. He also prayed that the government of Ogun State and the Federal Government should honour her in befitting ways. In his contribution, Senate President, Bukola Saraki described Mama Awolowo as a detribalised woman, as he called on women generally to emulate her devotion and simplicity. Senator Monsurat Sunmonu, who also contributed, described Mama

as a very accommodating woman, adding that she was a progressive, who always promoted issues that concern women, especially those in politics. She added that Mama HID was an inspiration to women and envy to all, adding that she stood by her husband throughout his travails. Senator Fatimah Raji Rasaki also told the Senate that Mama HID lived an exemplary life, adding that she was a mother to her, as she has been very close to Mama since her days as First Lady in Ogun State. The Deputy Minority Whip, Senator Biodun Olujimi, in her contribution, described Mama Awolowo as a epitome of a womanhood, stating that she really deserved the tag of jewel of inestimable value. Olujimi disclosed that Mama Awolowo was a bridge builder loved by all Nigerians just like her husband. According to her, Nigerian women have lost a role model. She also commiserated with her children, her immediate family and the government and people of Ogun, as well as Nigerians in general. In his own contribution, Senator Tayo Alasoadura, informed the Senate that he knew Mama Awolowo 40 years ago, when he was

to audit a business where Mama had interest, describing her as a wonderful and shrewd woman. Alasoadura said: “We all would miss her gentle disposition and sterling qualities, while we commiserate with the people of Ogun State and Nigerians at large.”

Dimeji Bankole, Lam’s wife, other Nigerians eulogise Mama Awolowo

A former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr Dimeji Bankole, on Wednesday, swelled the number of Nigerians who have visited Ikenne, home of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, to condole with the family on the noble exit of Chief Hannah Idowu Dideolu Awolowo. He commended Mama Awolowo for leading a great life and prayed for the repose of her soul. Also, Alhaja Sarat Adeola Adesina, wife of a former governor of Oyo State, late Alhaji Lam Adesina, was also among those who called on the Awolowos, on Wednesday. Alhaja Adesina described the sojourn of Mama Awolowo on earth as a time well spent. According to her, “Mama came, saw and conquered. Mama spent her time well. She was a mother, indeed. I pray that all Mama left behind will be under the pro-

tection of Almighty Allah. May the soul of Mama continue to rest in peace.” In the same vein, the controller in charge of the Lagos Seaports and Marine Command of the Nigerian Immigration Service, Mrs Taiwo Olayemi, a cousin to the Awolowos, was also present with her twin sister, Mrs Kehinde Osidele, at the family house, on Wednesday. Mrs Olayemi described Mama Awolowo as a great woman, who did not hold back her love from any member of the family, close or extended. Members of the old students’ association of Wesley College, Elekuro, Ibadan, the alma mater of the sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, were also among the visitors. Vice President of the association, Professor Gabriel Farinu, who led the delegation, described Mama Awolowo as being instrumental to the ability of Papa Awolowo to record great achievements in his private and public life. “For every successful man, there is always a woman. When we talk of Papa Awolowo’s achievements, we cannot but mention Mama Awolowo. “During Papa’s lifetime and even after his death, Mama stood as a pillar for the family. “As followers of Papa Awolowo, we members

of Wesley College College Old Students’ Association (WESCOSA), held Mama in high esteem and we still hold her in high esteem,” Professor Farinu said. A former Ogun State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Chief Abimbola Ashiru, during his visit, said “Mama was very passionate and committed. She was a mother to everybody. She was very committed to her husband. “She is going to be missed by so many people. Her death is not a loss to her family alone, but to her wellwishers and, indeed, the whole nation. She lived well. May God bless her soul.” A delegation from the secretariat of Apapa Local Government Area of Lagos State, led by the Executive Secretary, Mrs Bola Dada, was at the residence of the Awolowos. Members of the International Council of Community Churches, United States of America, Nigeria chapter, were also led on a visit to the family by the chapter head, Pastor Testimony Aderibigbe.

She was a symbol of peace —Oyo IPAC

The Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Oyo State branch, has described the matriarch of the Awolowo dynasty, Chief HID Awolowo as a symbol of peace, adding that she would not be forgot-

ten in a rush. The group, in a statement signed by the chairman, Chief Michael Aderopo, while condoling with the Awolowo family and the Tribune titles. Chief Aderopo stressed that Mama Awolowo lived to the billings of the tag ‘Jewel of inestimable value’ bestowed on her by the sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, stating that the whole nation would miss her presence and unique counsel.

HID’s counsel, evergreen in my memory —Pastor Kajogbola

Senior Pastor, Graceway Chapel, Pastor Tunde Kajogbola, has revealed that he so much treasure numerous words of wisdom he received from the late matriarch of Awolowo dynasty, Chief HID Awolowo. Kajogbola, who is also the CEO, Grace & Mercy Media, stated this on Wednesday, when he paid a condolence visit to the Tribune House, Imalefalafia, Oke-Ado, Ibadan. He centred his memory on his last visit to the sage’s jewel of inestimable value before her death on September 19. His words: “Mama, I shall not forget what you said when I had the grace to sit with you for the last time. I shall live to treasure your love for all and peace towards all. Good night Mama.”

N53bn Rivers fund got missing under Amaechi’s watch —JCI continued from pg5

recommended that some people should be prosecuted. I don’t want to tell you the name of those people (indicted), but it is in the report,” he said. Addressing the governor while submitting the report, he advised that the state government should act quickly on the recommendations and ensure that the billions of naira allegedly stashed away in the private accounts of some individuals were recovered. Justice Omereji said the commission received 442 exhibits and 27 memoranda, while 25 witnesses testified before it, adding that the commission visited several sites in line with its terms of reference. “Government should act fast on the report and Rivers people will be better for it. If government acts fast, we will be able to recover billions stashed into

where they kept them. That money belongs to the Rivers people and I hope government would act fast to recover it, so that it would be used for the people of Rivers State,” he said. He noted that the commission’s work was delayed by two suits filed by former Governor Amaechi and Mr Augustine Wokocha and that the commission only started sitting after the dismissal of the suits, thus necessitating the two-week extension of its sittings. Receiving the report, Governor Wike declared that his administration would diligently implement the recommendations of the commission in the interest of the state and its people. He promised that he would make the content public and also make known the next line of action, adding that “we will make sure that we swing into action immediately to see that the recom-

mendations by the commission are implemented. “We will not be intimidated by anybody or group of persons. So many things have been done to discredit your commission, but to me, I know when the hands of a person are not clean, he resorts to the media.” While commending members of the JCI for serving the state honestly and for working to time, Wike acknowledged that he was aware of the threats they faced in the course of carrying out the assignment. “You have taken the bull by the horns to make sure that you served your fatherland. I know that you and your members have faced lots of threats and other challenges. “But what is important in life is, once you are clean and your conscience is clear, you will not buckle under any pressure, rather, you will go ahead and do what is right,” he added. Reacting, however, Amae-

chi put a lie to the claim by the commission’s chairman as he asserted that neither the N53 billion nor any amount got missing during the period in question. The former governor, in a statement issued by his Commissioner for Information, Mrs Ibim Semenitari, said he rather saved money for the people of the state for the rainy day. “The first point to be made here is that the administration of Governor Amaechi believed in saving for the rainy day. It is a mark of prudence that the administration committed to a mandatory saving early in its life. “However, unfortunate developments in the management of our national resources and the downturn in the economy accelerated the rainy day,” she said. Semenitari further said the response became necessary in order to make more clarifications and also give more information as they related to

the amounts in question. “At the inauguration of the Justice Omereji Commission, the claim was that the sum of N96 million was withdrawn from the fund by the administration of Governor Amaechi. “The third point is that every withdrawal from the fund complied with the extant controls governing it. “Following severe shortfalls in expected revenues, the administration made three withdrawals in 2014. Each withdrawal was in line with the governing law and the proceeds were applied for the purposes of government. “The total savings by the state over the life of the administration was under N38,530,000,000. Earnings from the investment during the period were over N16 billion. “The Fund had a Net Asset Value of over N1,200,000,000 at the end of the administration in May 2015,” she added.

Thursday, 8 October, 2015

Lagosmetro

Lagos goes after owners of uncompleted abandoned buildings Bola Badmus

agos State government has warned owners of uncompleted and abandoned buildings in the state to ensure that they expedite action towards the completion of such buildings or face sanctions in the eventuality that such buildings are occupied by miscreants or used for unlawful acts. Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Fatai Owoseni, said this while briefing Government House correspondents after the State Security Council meeting. According to Owoseni, the meeting discussed various issues regarding security situation, crime management, law enforcement and traffic management within the state and some other issues, with a way of finding lasting solution. The State Commissioner of Police said the meeting examined the security implications of uncompleted and abandoned buildings and the increase in the number of people that were illegally residing in so many of the uncompleted proper-

ties around estates in Lagos. “We’ve looked at areas where we are winning, areas where we need to make more efforts and especially at the security implication of the influx of people into Lagos State in large numbers; the security implication of so many houses, uncompleted and abandoned buildings and the increase in the number of people that are getting into so many es-

tates in Lagos,” Owoseni said. Owoseni warned owners of abandoned buildings, saying that government had resolved to enforce existing laws to the letter, and ensure that miscreants who utilised such uncompleted buildings to perpetrate unlawful activities were brought to book. He said some of such buildings which were usu-

ally residential were often converted into lounges and clubs across the state. He said a decision had been taken to address the situation whereby owners of abandoned uncompleted buildings allowed people who had been infiltrating into Lagos, including miscreants to occupy and used them for illegal activities, pointing out that government was resolved to

ensure that owners of such properties were made to be accountable. The commissioner reiterated the determination of the Police to continue to arrest miscreants while conscious efforts would be made to engage and educate owners of such properties that employed some of them as security guards and were not conscious of the security risk they constituted.

Everyday scene at Lagos bus stops: A National Union Road Transport worker, popularly known as Agbero, fighting with a bus conductor for refusing to pay the illegal road tax imposed by agberos at the Lekki area of Lagos. Photo: Sylvester Okoruwa

Rape: Female students taught how to use hips to ward off attackers Lanre Adewole Female secondary school students are being taught self-defence in situation of rape. The government agency tackling rape and advocacy groups have partnered to expand the frontiers of battle against sexual and domestic violence in the state. Lola Vivour-Adeniji, Coordinator, Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Response Team, speaking on Tuesday said most of rape and defilement cases handled by the Lagos State government were perpetrated by serial offenders. She spoke at a one-day school sensitisation programme on sexual violence in the state. There is always a repeat according to her, because the offenders believed they would always get away with their crime.

“One of the reasons victims find it hard to report rape is because they feel they will not be believed. But there has been an increase in the reporting of cases” said Mrs. Vivour-Adeniji. The sensitisation programme was organised by the Mirabel Centre’s Partnership for Justice (a DFID-

funded initiative). Students were pooled from almost a dozen secondary schools across the state in attendance. Annette Oke, a member of Soroptimist International of Nigeria, while speaking on self-defence skills against sexual attack stated that “The main motive of attack-

ers is because they want to have power and control. You can take away that and render them useless.” She also demonstrated how young ladies could use parts of their bodies – from their heels to their hips – to wade off sexual predators. “First thing is to have a mental attitude that I-can-

do-it. When somebody is going to attack you, it’s the fear they put into you. ”You need to make use of your hips. As a girl, the bottom half of your body is stronger than the rest of your body. Use anything that you have to get away from your attacker” she said.

Nigerian Tribune

Edited By

Lanre Adewole

olanreade@yahoo.com

0811 695 4647 Assembly probes naval officers’ abuse of Majidun residents Chukwuma Okparaocha The Lagos State House of Assembly has commenced investigations into the alleged violation of human rights of residents of Majidun area of Ikorodu by naval and military personnel drafted to curb illegal bunkering in the area. The House has begun the investigations through a four-man ad-hoc committee headed by Rotimi Abiru, the Chief Whip. The aggrieved residents of the community in a petition entitled: “Gross Violation of Fundamental Human Rights,” had accused the military personnel of incessant abuse, rape, physical and psychological torture of innocent residents, among others which prompted the need for them to seek redress at the Assembly. The residents of the area alleged in the petition that over 200 navy and army officers of the Joint Military Task Force (JTF) had recently invaded their community, Majidun, with arms and ammunitions with a view to arresting illegal bunkers. But rather than pursue this goal, the residents alleged that the officers opted to displace people from their homes and illegally occupied them. It was also alleged that over 84 families had been displaced in this manner. Aside this, it was further alleged that the military and naval officers have also taken over their lands, cordoning off the only major access road into Majidun thereby grounding all commercial activities in the area.

Union raises alarm over alleged plans to deny colleague’s death benefits Tola Adenubi The dockworkers branch of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) has raised the alarm over plans by the management of the Five Star Logistic Limited to deny the compensation benefits of Mr. Samson Oheha who died inside the terminal on September 19, 2015. The labour union promised to resist any of such moves by the terminal operator.

It will be recalled that Mr. Samson Oheha from Delta State died at Five Star Logistic Limited’s terminal on September 19, 2015 while Pius Ifah died on September 30, 2015. The management of Five Star Logistics Terminal in Lagos, speaking through its Group Chief Accountant of Five Star Logistic Terminal Limited, Mr Bashiru Adesina, had told newsmen that the company would pay all entitlements of the dock-

worker, Mr Pius Ifah, who died on September 30, to his family. The terminal operator was, however, silent on the fate of Samson Oheha. Speaking to Lagos Metro in an exclusive chat, the President, Dockworkers Branch of the MWUN, Adewale Adeyanju stated that the body would resist all plans by the terminal operator to sideline Samson Oheha’s compensation benefits. “Both of them died inside the Five Star Logistic Termi-

nal at Tin-Can port. Therefore the terminal operator owes both families the compensation benefit that is duly applicable to both late workers. We will resist any plan to sideline the compensation benefit that is due to Samson Oheha’s family. It is worrisome that the company is looking at compensating one family while not talking about the other,” Adeyanju said. Adesina had stated that the management was waiting

for the report of an investigation into the accident that claimed the life of the dockworker. He said the company was used to observing safety standards in all its operations and was aware of the occupational hazards that come with the job. “We observe safety standards in all our operations. Since this happened, we have given all the necessary information to the insurance company for the family to be compensated,” he said.

10 news

Thursday, 8 October, 2015

Lagos committed to improving ease of doing business —Ambode Bola Badmus - Lagos

OVERNOR Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State on Tuesday reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to be fully committed to improving economic bi-lateral relations hitherto in existence between Nigeria and France. Governor Ambode disclosed this when he received members of the

Movement of the Enterprises of France (MEDEF), led by its Chairman, Perre Gattaz, on a courtesy visit. Ambode, who received the envoy, accompanied by the French Ambassador to Nigeria, Denys Gauer, described the visit of the team as very important to him because of the realisation that both countries shared many things in common. The governor said there were several economic opportunities that could be

mutually beneficial to both countries, adding that language and cultural differences must not be allowed to hamper the relationship. “Your visit at this period is also important, because of the fact that our country and your country, France, share some traits in common, which I believe would further enhance the economic growth and development of the two countries. Your presence here signifies a paradigm shift,” Am-

bode said. The governor also reaffirmed his commitment to create enabling environment for the business to thrive and improve on the ease of doing business in the state. Earlier, the Chairman of the MEDEF, Gattaz, said he led the team to Lagos to discuss areas of business partnership in the country and especially Lagos State. In a related development, the Mayor of the City of

London, Right Honourable Alan Yarrow, has assured the government and people of Lagos State of the readiness of large number of businesses in the United Kingdom to invest in the economy of the state, noting that Lagos, as the commercial capital of the country with its huge population and secured environment is a desired destination for business. Yarrow stated this while leading a trade delegation to pay a courtesy call on the governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, at his Alausa. While responding on behalf of the governor, the Deputy Governor of the state, Dr Idiat Adebule, assured the UK team of the state government’s readiness to welcome business partnership and collaboration from United Kingdom, assuring that the government would continually provide enabling environment for local and foreign investors to flourish.

Oyinlola’s wife tasks govts, NGOs, others on care for elderly From left, former President of South Africa, Dr Thabo Mbeki; Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and the President, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Dr Frank Jacobs, at MAN’s 43rd annual general meeting in Lagos, on Wednesday. PHOTO: NAN.

Egbin power station shuts operations 1,100 megawatts drop to zero THE biggest generating power station in Nigeria, Egbin Power Plant in Ikorodu, Lagos, has shut operations, leading to a drop from its 1,100 megawatts to zero. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that its generation dropped since Saturday. A senior management staff of the station told NAN anonymously that the cause was due to an alleged sabotage by one of the former employees of the defunct Power Holding Company of Nigeria. The source told NAN that the former staff threw an object into the power plant and it tripped off. The management of Egbin Power Plc had said in a statement on Tuesday that the operations of the plant were being threatened by the activities of illegal occupants. The statement said that huge investments and continuing upgrade following the plant’s privatisation on November 1, 2013 had since shored its generation capac-

ity to over 1,100 megawatts. According to the statement, the illegal occupants who have refused to leave the plant’s Housing Estate since November 1, 2013 were set to make good their threat to sabotage Egbin’s operations.

“This unfortunate development portends grave danger that is capable of decimating recent progress in the power sector. “Already, outcome from investigations into some criminal activities at the Housing Estate have been

linked to these illegal residents and their collaborators. “It is instructive to note that management has declared Amber Security Alert on the plant as a proactive step to protect lives and property.”

Kogi poll: INEC registers 47,389 more voters, police to deploy 32,000 men Yinka Oladoyinbo - Lokoja

THE Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Kogi State, on Wednesday, said it had registered additional 47,389 voters preparatory to the November 21 governorship election. The commission also explained that the elderly and disabled persons would be accorded preference during the poll as they would be accredited and allow to vote first. The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in the state, Mr Halilu Pai, who stated this at a stake-

holders’ forum, held in Lokoja, the state capital, added that already 1.9 million permanent voters cards (PVCs) had been distributed to voters in the state. He added that at least 308,159 PVCs were yet to be collected, saying that the newly registered voters would have their PVCs before the election. Speaking on the plan for special persons during the election, Pai said the decision was to ensure that no eligible voter is disenfranchised during the elation. According to him, the commission was prepared to conduct a free and fair

election, urging all stakeholders to join hands with INEC to ensure a hitchfree exercise. The REC also disclosed that the commission would embark on voter education and enlightenment to prepare the people of the state for the election The Commissioner of police, Kogi State Command, Mr Emmanuel Ojukwu, said the command was ready to make the state peaceful and conducive for the election as hotspots and people known to be security threat to the coming election had been identified.

Oluwole Ige - Osogbo

WIFE of the former governor of Osun State, Mrs Omolola Oyinlola, has charged all tiers of government, Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and corporate bodies to accord special attention and care to the elderly in the society, describing them as vulnerable in the face of harsh economic situation in the country. She gave the charge in Osogbo, capital of Osun State, during the activities commemorating the 25th World International Day of older persons and Nigeria’s 55th independence anniversary. Oyinlola, who is the founder of Women and Children Development Initiative Foundation (WOCDIF), which organised free medical treatment for the aged during the event, said, “all the three tiers of governments should endeavour to implement policies and programmes that would be of immense benefit to the elderly.” Delivering a speech entitled “Sustainability and Age Inclusiveness in Urban Environment”, she maintained that “it is important to note that most of the elderly persons in the continent of Africa are found in the rural areas; just very few elites among them live in the urban setting.”

8,000 Nigerians studying in US —Advisory agency Clement Idoko - Abuja

THE number of Nigerians currently studying in United States of America has been put at 8,000, making Nigeria a country in Africa with highest education enrolment in US. Education USA Advisory Supervisor, Folashade Adebayo, made this known in Abuja during the 16th Annual College and Career Fair organised by the US Mission in Nigeria. The theme of the 2015 career fair in Nigeria is “Education USA-Exploring the opportunities.” The Education USA Advising Center (EAC) provides quality, timely, accurate, unbiased information about all accredited US higher education institutions for persons wishing to study in the US Mrs Adebayo also said that for the 2015/2016 Academic Year, the Education USA members received financial aid of over $4 million as scholarships for Nigeria students. Also speaking on the career fair, the US Cultural Affairs Officer, Bob Kerr, said studying in the higher institutions in the United States provides international advantage to Nigerians.

Dickson swears in 8 advisers Austin Ebipade - Yenagoa

IN a bid to fill void created by defectors to the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) party, Governor Seriake Dickson has appointed eight new special advisers, and charged them to connect with the people ahead of the governorship election. This is contained in a statement issued by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Iworiso Markson, and made available to newsmen in Yenagoa. The new Special Advisers are Deacon James Dugo, Chief Bernard Agai, Chief Patrick Osunu, Honourable Agatha Goma, Honourable Ayobegha James, Mr Alex Dumbo, Chief Kienyosuote Degi and Henry Orumieyefa. The governor also appointed Mr Emomotimi Fanama as the new General Manager for the Bayelsa State Transport Company. According to him, the inability of the APC to properly coordinate its activities has confirmed the Governor Dickson’s earlier position that those opposing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) do not have the interest of the people at heart.

businessnews Migrants, refugees may be engine of economic growth —World Bank 11

By Sulaimon Olanrewaju

orld Bank Group President, Jim Yong Kim, on Wednesday, said migrants and refugees who daily troop to Europe might be the engine of economic growth required by the continent. The World Bank President was reacting to a report by the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the Global Monitoring Report 2015/2016: Development Goals in an Era of Demographic Change, which noted that the number of migrants and refugees who daily flock Europe from Africa and the Middle East will not reduce in the nearest future. The report, released in Peru to commemorate the commencement of the Annual Meetings of the World Bank and the IMF, says that large-scale migration from poor countries to richer regions of the world would be a permanent feature of the global economy for decades to come as a result of major population shifts in countries.

PoS terminals record N1.5bn transactions daily Gbola Subair - Abuja Despite the connectivity problem associated with the 120,000 Point of Sales (PoS) terminals, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has disclosed a record N1.5 billion daily transaction. Apex bank Director, Banks and Payment Systems Department, Mr Dipo Fatokun, stated in Abuja that “On a daily basis when you talk of values, close to N100 billion are processed through electronic payment system, but for the PoS, it has done an average of about N1.5 billion every day and some days you can have more than that, some days you have it lower than that. “But on average, it’s about N1.5 billion transaction done on Point of Sale transactions (PoS) terminals alone for which these awards are being given today.” Fatokun added: “We have about 120,000 point of sale terminals. That is the desktop and a lot mobile POS are being deployed. But you know Nigeria is a population of 170 million people. So, if you look at it as a ratio, you see that the ratio is still very small. But when you juxtapose this with what we had in 2011 December before the commencement of the cashless, you see that we have really moved very far.

Thursday, 8 October, 2015

According to the report, “the world is undergoing a major population shift that will reshape economic development for decades and, while posing challenges, offers a path to ending extreme poverty and shared prosperity if the right evidence-based policies are put in place nationally and internationally.” In his reaction to the report, Kim opined, “With the

right set of policies, this era of demographic change can be an engine of economic growth. If countries with aging populations can create a path for refugees and migrants to participate in the economy, everyone benefits, Most of the evidence suggests that migrants will work hard and contribute more in taxes than they consume in social services.” IMF Managing Director,

Christine Lagarde, also said, “The demographic developments analyzed in the report will pose fundamental challenges for policy-makers across the world in the years ahead. Whether it be the implications of steadily aging populations, the actions needed to benefit from a demographic dividend, the handling of migration flows - these issues will be at the center of national policy

debates and of the international dialogue on how best to cooperate in handling these pressures.” The report says the share of global population that is working age has peaked at 66 per cent and is now on the decline. World population growth is expected to slow to one per cent from more than two per cent in the 1960s. The share of the elderly is anticipated to al-

From left, Director, Drug Evaluation and Research, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Mrs Titilope Owolabi; DirectorGeneral, NAFDAC, Dr Paul Orhii and Director, Registration and Regulatory Affairs, NAFDAC, Dr Monica Eimunjeze, during first Good Manufacturing Practices training for cosmetics and medical devices manufacturers in Nigeria in Lagos, on Tuesday. Photo: Sylvester Okoruwa.

Navy seizes ship, barge with suspected stolen crude oil Tola Adenubi-Lagos THE Central Naval Command, on Wednesday, said that it had intercepted a vessel and tug boat suspected to be involved in oil theft. The vessel, registered as MT DERA and tugboat, RUNNER CHARLEY, as well as 11 crew members are in custody of the Navy. A statement issued by

Lieutenant Commander Eddie Yeibo on behalf of the Flag Officer Commanding, Central Naval Command, said the seizure followed intelligence report. The statement said the vessel and tugboat were apprehended at Eremor 1 Marginal Oil Field located off Peretorugbene in Ekeremor Local Government Area of Bayelsa.

It stated that the vessel was laden with 6,000 metric tonnes of suspected stolen crude oil. The statement quoted the Flag Officer Commanding of the Central Naval Command, Rear Admiral Apochi Suleiman, as saying at the scene of the arrest that preliminary investigation was ongoing. “The barge was arrested at

6 top banks control 68.1 % of industry total assets —Afrinvest Chima Nwokoji-Lagos Of the 15 commercial banks quoted in the Nigerian Stock Exchange, only six have total assets of N2 trillion and above, controlling N19.8 trillion out of N29.1 trillion of total assets in the banking industry last year. This was made known in the 2015 banking sector report released by an assets management and investment advisory firm, Afrinvest West Africa, on Tuesday. According to the report, the banks referred to as Tier-1 banks have continued to gain market share at the expense of Tier 2 banks. The Tier 1 banks, it stated, “retained their position in total assets in 2014, taking in 68.1 per cent of industry

totals.” On the other hand, the six banks consequently generated slightly higher liabilities in 2014, accounting for 68.2 per cent (vs. 64.8% in 2013) of total industry liabilities. Banks named in the Tier 1 category include Access Bank, United Bank for Africa, First Bank of Nigeria Holdings Plc, Guaranty Trust Bank, Zenith Bank and Ecobank International. Reviewing the report at the unveiling ceremony in Lagos, Managing Director Afrinvest, Mr Ike Chioke, said the last decade has been defining for Nigerian banks having transcended from myriads of macroeconomic headwinds and regu-

latory pronouncements that shaped the performance of the industry. He recalled that before the banking consolidation of 2005, the average Nigerian bank had a tiny capital base of about N2 billion (US$10 illion) and the 10 biggest banks at the time accounted for 50 per cent of the banking system’s total assets and liabilities.

a point where there was no loading point. “But rather, the crude was suspected to be stolen from a well head at the Eremor 1 Marginal Field,” Suleiman said. The statement warned that there would be no hiding place for oil thieves within the command’s area of responsibility. It noted that the command had made several successful raids on illegal refinery sites in the fight against crude oil theft barely two weeks of Suleiman’s assumption of office. The statement attributed the feat to the zero tolerance stance on crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism, illegal oil bunkering and other sundry crimes. It assured that the Navy would continue to make the illegal business of crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism and other sundry crimes unattractive.

Naira continues to depreciate at the parallel market THE naira on Wednesday continues to depreciate against the dollar at the parallel market in spite of the sale of foreign currency to operators of Bureau de Change (BDC). The naira lost N1.00 to the

dollar on Wednesday afternoon as it traded N225 to the dollar as against N224 on Tuesday. Meanwhile, the official interbank rate maintained its value at N197 to the dollar.

Nigerian Tribune

most double to 16 per cent by 2050, while the global count of children is stabilizing at 2 billion. It adds that the direction and pace of this global demographic transition varies dramatically from country to country, with differing implications depending on where a nation stands on the spectrum of aging and economic development. Regardless of this diversity, countries at all stages of development can harness demographic transition as a tremendous development opportunity, the report says. The report says more than 90 per cent of global poverty is concentrated in lower-income countries with young, fast-growing populations that can expect to see their working-age populations grow significantly. At the same time, more than three-quarters of global growth is generated in higher-income countries with much-lower fertility rates, fewer people of working age, and rising numbers of the elderly.

CBN insists Oct 31 deadline for obtaining BVN The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) says Oct. 31 remains the deadline for bank customers to obtain their Bank Verification Numbers (BVN). Mr Dipo Fatokun, Director, Banking and Payment System Department (BPSD) of CBN re-affirmed this while speaking to journalists on Wednesday in Abuja. Fatokun said that at the deadline, bank customers that had not enrolled for BVN would not be able to access their accounts. ``Last week Friday the bankers communicated that there is no extension on the BVN. ``If you have not registered go and register and of course submit your BVN to your bank, no extension on the deadline of October 31. ``By November 1 if you don’t have a BVN you won’t be able to operate your account, but that does not mean that your money will be confiscated as some people have said. ``No, what it means is that you should go and do your BVN, once you do your BVN and you link it to your account, you continue to operate your account.’’ The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that BVN is a unique identity number that can be verified across the Nigerian banking industry. It was inaugurated in February 2014 with the aim of protecting customers’ accounts from unauthorised access to reduce the incidence of theft and exposure to fraud.

business

Thursday, 8 October, 2015

Nigerian Tribune

daily summary (equities) for WEDNESDAY, 7 SEPTEMBER, 2015

Thursday, 8 October, 2015 13 news Again, Fulani herdsmen invade, destroy Falae’s farm Involve Hakeem Gbadamosi-Akure

HE last might not have been heard about the abduction of the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Chief Olu Falae as some Fulani herdsmen again invaded his farm in Ilado, Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State, destroying the farmland. The new invasion, which occurred in the early hours of Monday morning, came barely two weeks after the abduction of the septuagenarian, who was kidnapped on his farm by some Fulani herdsmen on his 77th birthday. A visit to the farmland in Ilado by Nigerian Tribune showed that over one kilometre of maize

plantation was destroyed by the cows brought into the farm by the herdsmen in the middle of the night. The farm manager, Bruno Akhigbodemen, who conducted newsmen around the farm, said the cows invaded in the middle of the night, arriving around 2.00 a.m. and threatening to deal with some night guards, who tried to stop them from invading the farm. According to him, the night guards noticed some suspicious movement in the farm around 2.00 a.m. on Monday and swung into action to stop them from destroying the farm, but they were rebuffed by the

herdsmen. It was gathered that some police detectives from the Special Anti Robbery Squad (SARS) were immediately drafted to the farm, on Monday. The security agents combed the neighbouring villages for the suspects, but they were unable to make any arrest while the police authority invited leaders of the herdsmen in the state who stood surety for those that were arrested and released during the last invasion when over N500, 000 worth of farm products were destroyed. Chief Falae could not be reached for comment on the attack, which is coming

after his kidnap and payment of N5 million ransom. It will be recalled that the former Minister for Finance has been having issues with the Fulani herdsmen, whose cows have on several occasions destroyed his farmland. The State commissioner for Information, Mr Kayode Akinmade while reacting to the invasion condemned the act with a pledge that the state government will meet with all security agencies to put a stop to the activities of the herdsmen. Akinmade said: “it despicable and unacceptable, we condemn and believe that the security agency will take

action appropriately. “The first they did was to kidnap him on the farm and again they are also coming to destroy the farm. They want to desecrate our land, this is unacceptable.” He however said drastic steps would be taken by the security agencies to ensure that lives and properties of the people of the are secured. The State Police Commissioner, Mr Mike Ogbodu, however could not confirmed the incident as he said he was not aware of the incident saying, “I am not aware that any herdsmen attacked Chief Falae’s farm again, am not aware.”

Kogi poll: Wada meets Buhari, seeks level playing field Clement Idoko-Abuja

AHEAD of the November 21, 2015 gubernatorial election in Kogi State, the incumbent governor and candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Idris Wada, has visited President Muhammadu Buhari, to ask for level playing field. Speaking with State House correspondents shortly after the meeting with President Buhari at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Wada said what he needed was a transparent process that would guarantee free, fair and credible election. He expressed optimism that his performance in office in the last three and half years would also speak for him. Wada, disclosed that he is working to ensure adequate security and transparent poll, which he believed President Buhari would also support. He said: “In terms of preparation, we are working hard. I am also working with security agencies to ensure that there is a secure and safe environment for our people in the course of the campaign and during the election. “Provided a level playing field is created and security is tightened, any miscreant will be dealt with in the course of the election. People are given the opportunity to express their will, I believe that on the basis of performance, I have laid down over the last three and a half years, our people will provide an overwhelming support for my candidacy. All we need is a level playing field,” he stated

Some of the maize plantation destroyed by herdsmen on Falae’s farm, at Ilado. PHOTO: HAKEEM GBADAMOSI

Security operatives rescue kidnapped victim in Delta Ebenezer Adurokiya-Warri

A combined team of the Nigeria Police and the Nigerian Army in Delta have rescued one Bamidele Daudu from his abductors. Daudu is the proprietor

of Derag Eateries located at Ozoro, Isoko North Local Government Area of the state and was abducted by five armed men at his residence and driven off in his Nissan Tera Jeep

along Kwale road. Luck, however, ran out on the hoodlums as security operatives were alerted of the kidnap of the proprietor, which immediately went after the abductors.

Security beefed-up in Kaduna Poly over alleged students’ protest Muhammad Sabiu-Kaduna

SECURITY had been beefed up in all the three campuses of the Kaduna Polytechnic over the plan by the students of the institution to protest the alleged plan by the management to increase their school fees. When the Nigerian Tribune visited the city campus at Tudun Wada, Barnawa and Unguwar Rimi campuses on Wednesday, private security personnel were seen embarking on serious checks. Nigerian Tribune also gathered that policemen were positioned at

strategic positions inside the school to monitor the movement of students in and out of their hostels. Visitors too were not spared as stern looking guards were seen checking visitors before they were allowed into the school campus. Lectures were temporarily suspended as students were seen discussing in groups. When contacted, a Student’s Union Government (SUG) official, who pleaded for anonymity confirmed the plan by students to protest if the management went ahead to increase their school fees. He disclosed that the management is planning

to increase the fees of regular students to N57, 000 while part time students are expected to pay N100, 000. In a swift reaction, the Information Officer of the polytechnic, Mr Ayegba Godwin said the polytechnic has not made any increase in the school fees. “It is just a proposal being planned in conjunction with the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and other relevant authorities. Whatever the students are planning to do is just an attempt to blackmail the management of the institution, since we have not done anything as such,” he declared.

It was gathered that a gun duel ensued between the security operatives and the hoodlums during which one of the kidnap suspects was gunned down. Other members of the group were said to have escaped with bullet wounds. The 45-year-old victim, his vehicle, a locally made cut-to-size single barrel gun and one live cartridge were recovered from the hoodlums. In a related development, operatives of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) based in Ughelli had rounded up five kidnap suspects along Ewehen/Ughelli expressway. Three locally made short guns, five live cartridges and a Toyota Sienna space bus were recovered from the hoodlums. Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Celestina Kalu, who confirmed the two incidents, said further investigations were ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects.

teachers in policy making, group advises govt By Kehinde Adio

NIGERIAN government has been advised to always involve professional teachers in education policy formulation and any other decision making as it will affect education development in the county. This advice was given on Monday at a one-day seminar organised by the Teacher Care Centre, the Redeemed Christian Church Of God (RCCG), in collaboration with Noridge Education Network, to mark this year’s Teachers’ Day, in Oyo State. Pastor Stephen Adedoyin, who addressed the press at the occasion called on government to set a standard for teaching profession where only trained teachers should be allowed to teach in Nigerian schools. “The theme for the seminar was focused on education for sustainable development, where experts in education management were invited to deliberate on how Nigerian education sector could be moved forward. The seminar noted that teachers at all levels of education need attention and that teaching is not for every Tom, Dick and Harry; it is a profession meant for those who have passion for it.”

Tribunal upholds Mark’s cousin’s election Johnson Babajide-Makurdi

THE National/State House of Assembly Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Makurdi on Wednesday upheld the election of a member of the house of Assembly, Honourable Johnson Ahubi, representing Otukpa/Akpa constituency. Ahubi, a cousin of former senate president, Senator David Mark and member of the State House of Assembly was dragged to the tribunal by Honourable Baba Ode of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Ode alleged that the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) legislator’s election was marred by irregularities of ballot box snatching, manipulation and over-voting in 12 council wards of the constituency. The Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu-led tribunal in its judgment held succinctly that the petitioner (Baba Ode) failed to prove a prima facie case against the respondent (Johnson Ahubi), adding that he could not prove beyond reasonable doubt criminal allegations of ballot box snatching.

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Thursday, 8 October, 2015

Retired judges in Adamawa yet to be paid entitlements —CJ Kabeer Gwangwazo - Yola

HE Chief Judge (CJ) of Adamawa State, Honourable Justice Ishaya Kida Banu, has stated that Adamawa State Judiciary has nearly gone into comatose following long years of neglect. Banu, who made the disclosure during the 2015/2016 Legal Year in Yola, on Wednesday, noted that as a result of the neglect, retired senior judicial officers in the state, which included former Chief Judge of the state, Honourable Justice Bamari Bansi, Honourable Justice Adamu Buba Mubi and Honourable Justice Tokunboh Olouti, were yet to receive their entitlements years after retirement. “It is on record for instance that Hon Justice Tokunboh Oluoti retired on March 3, 2008, Hon. Justice Adamu Buba Mubi retired on the of December 10, 2009, and Hon. Justice B.S. Bansi (OFR), who was a Chief Judge of the state for almost 20 years, retired on July 15, 2011, are yet to be paid their entitlements,” Banu disclosed. He noted that even though approval was given for the establishment of four judicial Divisions at Numan, Gombi, Ganye and Michika local governments of the state, in order to bring justice nearer to the people, they have been unable to take off due to financial constraints. Banu added that as a result of the myriads of problems dogging the judicial arm,

the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) embarked on a nationwide strike in an effort to realise financial independence/ autonomy of

the judiciary as enshrined in the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as amended. He said that the incursion

of Boko Haram insurgency had seriously affected the administration of justice especially in northern part of the state, as all the courts

Sokoto State governor, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal (right), with his Imo State counterpart, Chief Rochas Okorocha, when the latter paid a visit to Sokoto, on Wednesday.

Don’t appoint HoS, permanent secretaries outside civil service rules, workers tell Amosun Olayinka Olukoya - Abeokuta WORKERS in Ogun State, under the banner of the Association of the Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN), has called on the state government to fill the vacant positions of the Head of Service and 22 permanent secretaries without further delay. The body, also said that any attempt by government

to fill the vacant positions outside the civil service existing laws and regulations would be vehemently opposed to, saying such step might “not guarantee industrial harmony in the state.” The association, in a statement made available to the Nigerian Tribune in Abeokuta, on Wednesday and signed by the State Secretary, ASCSN, Comrade Adebiyi Olusegun,

expressed displeasure over the refusal of government to fill the vacant positions of permanent secretaries for some months and that of the HoS, who retired from service on September 29. The body wondered why the Senator Ibikunle Amosun-led government had not appointed an acting or substantive Head of Service as well as filling the 22 permanent secretaries seat

Enugu retired teachers decry non-payment of pensions, gratuities Jude Ossai - Enugu RETIRED primary school teachers in Enugu State have decried the non- payment of their pensions for over two years. The senior citizens also lamented that some of them were yet to receive their gratuity after retirement since 2002. The retired teachers, from the three senatorial zones, made their woes known when they paid a courtesy visit to the Speaker of Enugu State House of Assembly, Honourable Edward Ubosi, in his office, on Wednesday. A delegation of the retired teachers led by their chairman, Chief Matthias Onovo and the secretary, Chief Ben Nwachi disclosed that they had written relevant authorities in the past without

in the area have been forced to close down; although he, however, noted that with the return of peace, the courts were bouncing back to life.

any positive result, saying that as a result of the lack of payment of their pension and other entitlements, some of their colleagues have died while many were bed-ridden for lack of fund for medical care. Having exhausted every avenue possible to see that the past administration paid

them their dues, the retired teachers resorted to calling on the speaker to bail them out. They listed other grievances to include harmonisation arrears, six, 15, and 33 percent pension increases; irregularities in payment of monthly pensions, and non implementation of promo-

tion re-computer i.e. (promotion received after retirement) among others. Ubosi assured the retired teachers that something would be done to alleviate their plight, saying that, “your labour will never go in vain. You have laboured and you deserve to be paid,” he assured.

that were vacant, maintaining that such delay could not be said to be due to non-availability of qualified technocrats/personnel in the civil service. The body advised Governor Amosun to toe the path of honour as done by his counterpart in Lagos, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode, to fill these vacant seats without further delay, contending that such unnecessary delay would render government machineries ineffective and unproductive. The statement said, “The refusal to or delay in the appointment of personnels to fill the vacant positions renders the entire government machineries dysfunctional, ineffective and unproductive as well as without direction contrary to the norms and objectives of bureaucratic culture and is apparently a flagrant deviation from the norms of the public administration.

No September salary, no biometric screening, workers protest in Nasarawa Ademola Adegbite - Lafia WORKERS in the Ministry of Education in Nasarawa State, on Wednesday, boycotted the ongoing biometric screening exercise of the state government to fish out ghost workers in the state, saying none of them would participate until government

paid September salary. Some of the workers, who spoke with the Nigerian Tribune at the ministry, lamented that the government had failed in fulfilling its earlier promises to pay them immediately after the Sallah celebrations. It was further learnt that none of the workers appeared before the screening

committee, while the meeting between the Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools (ASUSS) and government representatives to resolve the matter amicably hit the rock. When Nigerian Tribune visited the ministry, staffers were seen in different groups, discussing the unfortunate incident.

According to one of the workers, who did not want her name in print, “we are not going to appear before any screening committee. Inasmuchas we welcome the decision, the government should give us September salary. The former SSG said we will get our salary few days after Sallah, so what is the problem now?”

Ogun: Lafarge Africa begins N200m road construction Olayinka Olukoya - Abeokuta AS part of its commitment towards the development of her host community, a giant cement manufacturing company, Lafarge Africa Plc, a member of Lafarge Holcim, has set aside a sum of N200 million for reconstruction works on the old Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway. The repair works would cover the stretch of three kilometres, from Agbesi to Itori in Ewekoro area. According to a statement by the Manager, Corporate Communications of the company, Mr Ademola Ojolowo, said the reconstruction work would last for three months. Ojolowo said, “This is an indication of the company’s commitment to safety of lives and property and in furtherance of its CSR efforts. It is also to complement efforts of the government.

Jehovah Witnesses to hold convention JEHOVAH Witnesses would hold its 2015 convention which was themed “Imitate Jesus” at the Assembly Hall, Ifatumo Vallage which is along Ibadan/Iwo road, Ibadan. The witnesses’ threeday Convention series would be to discuss key to family happiness and also to demonstrate how Jesus’ example could give parents and children the tools to build stronger and united families. This was contained in a press release made available to the Nigerian Tribune, signed by the Media Officer, Mr Sunday Olukayode Oladele, where he said that, “the convention program will explain “Jesus” sermon on the mountain offers timeless advice that can help parents to better use their time and resources to build a more secure and loving family environment. “Jehovah’s witnesses invite people of all ages to attend. The first day of the convention will take place on Friday October 9, 2015, sessions begin at 8:20 am on all three days of the convention, and admission is free.”

news Nigerians reject immunity for NASS leaders

OLITICIANS and other stakeholders in the country on Wednesday opposed the proposal for immunity to presiding officers of the National Assembly and the Chief Judge of the Federation (CJN). In separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos, they said that such plan was anti-people. Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Leo Ogor, had proposed constitution amendment to confer immunity to the

Varsities must focus more on research —Bogoro

Thursday, 8 October, 2015

President of the Senate, Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the Chief Justice of Nigeria. Mr Festus Keyamo, a lawyer, and a rights activist, condemned the proposal and described it as political. “It is a plan that is antipeople; it’s a plan that is not in tune with the aspirations of Nigerians; it’s a plan that elicits eminent reaction to the sentiments of the moment,” he said, adding that it was not a law or move that would benefit Nigerians. According to him, the proposal was borne out of the ongoing trial of certain per-

sons. Keyamo said that the proposal was purely political and not one that was patriotic, and therefore urged Nigerians to reject it. The National Chairman of the Progressive Action Council (PAC), Chief Charles Nwodo, who also condemned the proposal, said that every criminal case should be answered when it was committed. “The beauty of democracy is the rule of law which rates all equal before the law. “Those former governors with high level of corruption allegation are today walking on red carpets un-

interrupted,” he said. The National Chairman of the National Conscience Party (NCP), Dr Yunusa Tanko, said that immunity would give room for elected government officials to loot public treasury with impunity without fear of prosecution. “As long as there is immunity, corruption will never end,” Tanko said. He said that what the country needed was stiffer penalties to be enforced on every criminal tendency or betrayal of public trust by government functionaries. However, the Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos State,

Mr Olatunji Shelle, believed that presiding officers of the legislature needed to be covered by immunity. “Being the Senate President or the Speaker should be a form of natural immunity for the occupiers of the offices. “How did we allow them to emerge if they are not fit to be? The office should be respected,” Shelle said. Mr Austin Nnorom, Executive Secretary, SouthWest Chapter of the Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP), said that the Speaker of the House and the president of the Senate needed to be granted immunity.

Clement Idoko - Abuja

THE Executive Secretary of Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), Professor Suleiman Bogoro, has challenged Nigerian universities to focus more on developmental research in order to respond positively to the development needs of the nation. He also attributed the global low ranking of Nigerian universities to emphasis being placed on theoretical knowledge to the detriment of Research and Development. Bogoro, spoke on Wednesday in Abuja when he received the Governor of Kebbi State, Atiku Bagudu, who was at the TETFund to solicit additional support of the intervention agency in tertiary education in his state. The TETFund boss noted that none of the Nigerian universities is able to rank among the 1,000 top universities in the world according to recent global ranking. According to Bogoro, renowned universities in the world gained such recognition and ranking because they keyed into research, which in turn served as catalyst for the development of their economy. He said: “Applied and product development research is an area that our researchers have stayed away from, but that is in essence what could have strengthened their capacity to make Nigeria a knowledge economy rather than remaining a dormant economy.” He disclosed that as a way of making academicians think out of the box, Federal Government has made it mandatory for Research and Development Units to be established in all tertiary institutions in the country.

Kwara State governor, Dr Abdulfatah Ahmed (left) congratulating the first female Head of Service in the state, Hajia Zabra Omar, after her swearing-in at the Government House, Ilorin, on Wednesday.

Perform or be dropped, Ahmed charges new appointees Biola Azeez - Ilorin

GOVERNOR Abdulfatah Ahmed of Kwara State has charged newly-appointed political office holders in the state to add value to governance or prepare to be dropped. Speaking during the swearing in of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaji Isiaka Gold; Head of Service, Hajia

Zahra Oma; Chief of Staff, Alhaji Yusuf Abdulwahab and special advisers, Governor Ahmed said the appointments were made in an atmosphere of economic challenge, increasing expectations of citizens from the government, good governance and economic wellbeing. He stressed that the people have high expectations and emphasised that citi-

zens need to be empowered and elevated within the shortest possible time. “This administration is in a hurry. We are keen to fulfil our mandate in the shortest possible time. I, therefore, expect you to hit the ground running. You must quickly key into and add value to the administration or give way to others who can. “You must bring a sense

Another council boss suspended in Edo Banji Aluko - Benin City

THE gale of suspension of council chairmen in Edo State continued unabated on Wednesday as the state House of Assembly announced the suspension of the chairman of Akoko-Edo Local Government Area, Akerejola Folunrunsho, for a period of two months. He was suspended following a petition of alleged financial misappropriation sent to the House of As-

sembly by one Bello Sunday. Mr Akerejola is the fifth council chairman to be relieved of duty this week following the suspension on Tuesday of three council chairmen, namely, Osaro Obazee (Oredo), Victor Enobakhare (Egor), Roland Ibierutomwen (Orhiomwon) and another one Emmanuel Momoh (Estako Central). Chairman of the ad hoc committee set up to inves-

tigate the petition against Mr Akerejola, Honourable Sunday Aghedo, said the council chairman refused to work with his committee. Aghedo recommended that Akerejola be suspended for a period of two months to allow the committee investigate the case against him. The House adopted the recommendation and ordered Akerejola to immediately handover to his vice chairman.

of urgency to your new assignment. In doing that I do not expect you to just think out of the box. On the contrary, I expect you to throw the box away and fashion out innovative ways to contribute to our development agenda for the state and our people,” he said. The governor noted that given the prevailing realities, governance could no longer be business as usual just as success is now mandatory and non-performance not an option. He said the political appointees must apply best practices in all aspects of governance, make prudence, accountability, transparency and fear of God their watchwords. On the State Civil Service, the governor directed the new Head of Service to sensitize civil servants to the ethics of service and excellence in performance: “You should similarly identify the hidden talents who can catapult the service to the next level.”

Ondo absorbs 900 NCE holders ONDO State government has increased the number of teachers in its primary schools with 900 National Certificate in Education (NCE) holders. According to the state’s Commissioner for Information, Kayode Akinmade, the 900 NCE holders were redeployed from the local government service into the state’s Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) to address the need for more teachers in primary schools across the state. He reported that a threeday refresher course for the teachers is holding in four zones in the state with a centre each in Ondo, Akure, Okitipupa and Ikare. The inauguration ceremony of the course, which ends today, he added, was performed by the state governor, Dr Olusegun Mimiko, at the Akure centre. Akinmade who said the deployment was to address the challenge of shortage of teachers in schools submitted that government discovered that they were being under utilised in the local government areas hence the need to redeploy them. Addressing the teachers at the ceremony of the course, Dr Mimiko charged them to be diligent in the discharge of their duties and contribute their quota to the improvement of the standard of education in the state.

10 arrested over cultism in Nasarawa Ademola Adegbite - Lafia

PROPRIETOR of Nacabs Polytechnic, Akwanga in Nasarawa State, Mr David Abuluya, on Wednesday, said 10 students of the institution were arrested by the police during the 2014/2015 academic session for their involvement in cultism. He made this known in Akwanga, Akwanga Local Government Area of the state, while speaking with newsmen. According to him: “we are doing our best in maintaining standard and we will not tolerate any act of cultism, indiscipline, misbehaviour, examination malpractice, cultism among others,” he added. Mr Abuluya explained that the police were able to arrest the suspects following a tip off by the security unit of the institution. He affirmed that the institution would not tolerate any act of indiscipline and immoral dressing capable of tarnishing its reputation before the larger society.

news 2015 military retirees’ pensions’ verification exercise begins 16

Chris Agbambu and Adetola Bademosi-Abuja

HE Federal Government, on Wednesday, flagged-off the 2015 Military pensions’ verification exercise for all retired military personnel across the country. It said the exercise will ensure the provision of credible and reliable data which will be used for budget planning, National Insurance Scheme and also ensure a centralised data base of all retired military personnel in the country. While speaking in Keffi, Nasarawa State, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Alhaji Ismaila Aliyu, observed that only 30 per cent of retirees were captured in the National Insurance Scheme adding;”with this exercise we want to have 100 per cent of them at the end of this exercise, we want to have a data that at least, we will have a very insignificant margin of errors.” The exercise, which comprised of 7, 865 and 1, 359 retirees from Abuja and Nasarawa states respectively, is expected to last from October 6 to 20, 2015. Meanwhile, the chairman, Military Pensions Board, Air Vice Marshal Muhammed Rabiu Dabo, stated that about 400 pensioners had been captured, adding that so far, the ex-

Thursday, 8 October, 2015

ercise had been orderly. “As you can see, for every centre, there is a team led by group of officers who are trained including the technical staffs. The turnout is large and we are taking six at a time and as you can see the

phases are orderly, you get screened first then you go for proper verification. “Like yesterday, they enrolled about 400 people so if the rate improves, we will be able to achieve our desired objectives. We have

Earlier, one of the retirees, Last Corporal, Danladi Maiwade, who spoke with Nigerian Tribune, noted that the ongoing verification exercise was more coordinated than the ones carried out in the past.

From left, Oyo State governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi; Chief Executive Officer, Robor Group of South Africa on Steel, Tube and Pipe, Mr Gorden Gilmer; Managing Director, Mine and Water, Mr Nico Schoeman; General Manager and African Regional and Sales, Mr John Gomes, during a courtesy visit to the governor’s office, on Wednesday.

Ondo pensioners threaten showdown with govt Hakeem Gbadamosi - Akure

PENSIONERS under the umbrella of Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Ondo State chapter, on Wednesday, issued a four-day ultimatum to the state government to pay their gratu-

ities and pension arrears or face the wrath of the union. The pensioners, who issued this threat in Akure, the state capital, said that the ultimatum became imperative after the state government has failed to

N5.6 bn fraud: EFCC seeks forfeiture of ex-Oyo HoS property THE Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), on Wednesday, asked an Oyo State High Court to order the forfeiture of the properties belonging to a former Head of Service of the state, Alhaja Kudirat Adeleke and 11 others. The defendants are facing a 213-count charge bordering on conspiracy, obtaining money by false pretence, fraud and forgery. Adeleke and the 11 others were dragged before the Court for allegedly defrauding the Oyo State Local Government Staff Pension Board of N5.6 billion. Other accused persons are: Muili Aderemi, Iyabo Giwa, Adesina Ayoade, Oguntayo Banji, Adebiyi Musenbiq, Muili Adedamola, Adeduntan Johnson, Bosede Johnson, Kareem Rasheed, Olujimi Adebayo and Adewale Kehinde. At the resumed hearing on Wednesday, the case was however stalled, when counsels to the defendants said they were not served with the counter affidavit by the EFCC.

challenges of retired personnel who are into farming, the biometrics machine cannot capture so we try to use the toes which is time consuming. We don’t allow capturing by proxy, you have to be here.”

Mr Richard Ogunwole (SAN), counsel to Adeleke, Mr Ayoade Okunade, the counsel to Aderemi and other counsels for the defendants, informed the court that they had not been served by the EFCC. In his reaction, Mr Kayode

Oni, the EFCC’s counsel, told the court that he just took over the case from the former counsel handling the matter. Oni countered that, based on the briefing he had; all the defendants’ counsels had been served with the counter affidavit.

respond to all entreaties made to the government by the retired civil servants. Speaking on behalf of the pensioners, the secretary of the NUP, Funso Odere, explained that none of the pensioners who retired since 2011 has received any gratuity. According to him, the total indebtedness of the state government to the pensioners in term of gratuity aside the monthly pension is about N15billion. He said, “Certain amount of money is being deducted from our monthly pension which is illegal. They

We must amend Land Use Act to boost agric —Rep Taiwo Adisa-Abuja

THE lawmaker representing Remo Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Honourable Oladipupo Adebutu, has called for immediate amendments to the Land Use Act in the country so as to boost the growth of agriculture sector. The Rep member, who spoke to Nigerian Tribune in Abuja, said that failure to effect the amendments in the past had stalled the ability of small land owners and farmers in accessing finance. He stated that due to lack of documentation, many farmers are unable to access bank and

government intervention, adding that such restrictions are product of the existing Land Use Act. He also stated that a holistic reform of the land tenure system will unleash the great potential of the agri-business and reduce the massive unemployment plaguing the nation. Adebutu, who spoke against the backdrop of unimpressive job creation statistics in recent months, said that a recourse to agriculture as a business would help fight unemployment. He said that with youth unemployment records in Nigeria as contained in the second quarter 2015 report of the

National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) dropping by 70 per cent, a renewed effort in agriculture will help get the nation out of the woods. The lawmaker called for concerted efforts in the agriculture sector to transform it into a true platform that can urgently create jobs, directly and indirectly for Nigeria’s youths. He said: “Nigeria is blessed with swathes of arable land and human resources to pursue sustained local food production as a way of engaging the youth. We should utilise our youth demographics to boost agricultural production and reduce unemployment.

said the money is being paid to consultant who is in charge of remittal. It is the state government that should pay the consultant and not the pensioners. They should stop this illegal deduction and pay us back the money that was deducted from our monthly pension. “Some pensioners who retired years ago were being paid N5, 000.00 whereas those who retired early this year are being paid N80, 000.00. We want the government to harmonise us. You can’t imagine a permanent secretary who laid the foundation for old Ondo State being paid N50, 000.00 while those who retired this year are earning over N350, 000.00. “Some pensioners retired early this year, especially those who retired between January and August, they have not been paid their pension arrears. The government paid one month instead of eight months. “Some pensioners are on sick bed right now, some have died due to non payment of monthly pension. We are suffering in silence in Ondo State. Many died because they could not afford to buy drugs for their illness. We want government to look into our plight.”

Efon PDP chairmanship candidate promises qualitative administration The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chairmanship candidate for December 2015 local government election in Efon Local Government area of Ekiti State, Mr Bolaji Jeje, has promised qualitative administration if voted in. According to him, his administration would focus majorly on wooing of foreign and local investors into the local government to boost the economic base of the people, increments in the Internally Generated Revenue of the local government to support the money coming from the federation account, provision of job opportunities for the teeming youths, rendering of financial assistance to the market men and women, farmers and artisans to boost their business activities and tarring of roads where necessary, especially the one from the farmland areas to link the town so as to enable farmers to bring their farm products out for selling.

Group rejects move to domicile cooperative department in labour ministry Collins Nnabuife-Abuja THE Institute of Co-operative Professionals of Nigeria (ICOPRON) has rejected the move to domicile the Federal Department of Co-operative in the Labour Ministry. Expressing the displeasure of the Institute on the move at the Federal Ministry of Agriculture Headquarters in Abuja, the National President of ICOPRON, Dr Emma Okechukwu, stated that the proposed move would be a ‘rape’ on co-operatives. Dr Okechukwu, said that the Institute was in the ministry to make its stand known on the proposed bid to domicile the Cooperative Department in the ministry of Labour and Productivity, saying their intention was not to be confrontational with government or its agency but to register their displeasure in a most enlighten manner through interactions and verification of ideas.”

Thursday, 8 October, 2015 With Tommy Adegbite 0811 695 4631 tommyabijo@yahoo.com

8 1. Secretary-General, Kwara State Marketers Association, Alhaji Moshood Bello; the Iyaloja General, Hajia Adenike Lambe; Kwara State governor, Dr. Abdulfatah Ahmed and the Babaloja-General, Alhaji Tunde Jimoh, during a courtesy call on the governor, at the Government House, Ilorin, recently. 2. From left, Chairman, Committee on Education, Kano State House of Assembly, Honourable Baffa Babba Dan-agundi; deputy governor and Commissioner for Education, Professor Hafiz Abubakar; Head, Government and Community Relations, Mohammed Suley-Yusuf and Mukadas Babangida, Head, Regional Sales, North, (both of Etisalat, Nigeria), at the inauguration of a solar-powered installation by Etisalat at Girls’ Government College, Dala, Kano State. 3. From left, National Publicity Secretary, New Nigeria Agenda, Mr Tony Ayodele; National Coordinator, Mr Phil Roberts and the National Youth Coordinator, Mr Ogedengbe Olufemi, during a press conference on the state of the nation, held in Abuja, recently. PHOTO: BAYOOR EWUOSO. 4. Mr Oluwafemi Babatope and Miss Omowunmi Ojoge-Damiels, flanked by Omowun-

mi’s parents, Barrister and Mrs Olawale Ojoge-Daniels, during the introduction ceremony of the couple in Ibadan, Oyo State, recently. 5. Mr Adewale Raji, ODU’A GMD/CEO with the Oyo State Commissioner of Police, Mr Adeleye Oyebade, during a ourtesy visit to the new CP, in his office, recently. 6. Leader, Yoruba Obas Conflicts Resolution Committee and the Olugbo of ugboland, Oba Obateru Akinruntan, with the former Pro- Chancellor, University of Ibadan, Chief Wole Olanipekun, at the coronation of the Ogoga of ikere, Oba Adejinmi Adu, in Ikere Ekiti, Ekiti State, recently. 7. From right, Oyo State Commissioner of Police, Mr Adeleye Oyebade, CEO; “Hotel the plaza Haruna, Chief Olakojo Elewi, Oyo Area Commander, Yemi Oyedira and the Oyo/Ogbomosho OC, SARS, Mr Sola Amore and others, during the visit of CP to Oyo. 8. The graduand, Mr Amsat Idowu Okunade (middle) with his parents, Alhaji Musibau Ayoade Okunade and Alhaja Rahmat Olanike Okunade, during the induction ceremony of Medical Laboratory Scientists of the College of Health Sciences, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomosho, recently.

For bookings, contact ’Laolu Afolabi on 08116954645 or Tommy Adegbite on 08116954631

Thursday, 8 October, 2015

SEND YOUR SHORT MESSAGES TO: 08054005323, 08055001746

yournews

Buhari, our govs are still withholding bailout fund

espite the fact that the Federal Government has released the bailout fund to the states that

applied for it, many of the governors are still holding on to it for reasons best known to them. This is the situation in virtually all the

states of the South West. Some governors who had confirmed receipt of the money have not given tangible reason why they have

not been paying the workers who have been struggling to survive because of the nonpayment of their arrears. I am, therefore, bringing

Stages of life! photo: TOMMY ADEGBITE. it to the attention of President Muhammadu Buhari and Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Mr Godwin Emefiele, that

it seems the state governors have an ulterior motive with the bailout fund they got. V.A Oluwansebebe, 07060520065.

ter all, an Ibadan indigene, Chief Jumoke Akinjide, has just returned as a minister in the government of former President

Goodluck Jonathan. In the spirit of equity, justice and fair play, we should let Barrister Shittu become a minister; we

need to rotate positions among the political zones of the country. Chief Adewale Adisa, 08038483530.

government tax them like real businesses? This will definitely bring about healthy competition in the oil industry that has been plagued by endemic

corruption, bunkering, oil theft and vandalism. It will also reduce the influence of the oil cabals, thereby erasing the huge money government is pay-

ing as subsidy. It will also lead to a drastic reduction in the price of petroleum products in the country. Tola Akinwumi, 09020142910.

avail. All that the INEC officials told us was to have patience as they were still expecting the PVCs. Although the election may have been concluded, we still need the PVCs so that we will be able to

vote in the next election in 2019. We should also not forget that this is a permanent card which is useful in other areas of our national life. Mrs. Gladys O. Doherty, 08057810371.

Oke Ogun supports Bayo Shittu as minister The people of Oke Ogun area, comprising 10 local government areas of Oyo State support the appointment of Barrister Adebayo Shittu as minister in President Muhammadu Buhari’s cabinet. During the Presidential and governorship elections, we voted massively for the All Progressives Congress (APC), and Governor Abiola Ajimobi has been acknowledging this in many of his comments on the election. At that election, the APC led with an average of just 2,000 votes in Ibadan, when the party led with an average of 45,000 votes in Oke Ogun. The

results are there for posterity to see. Why then should anybody deny us of the benefit of our efforts?

Left to the APC leadership in the state, they can never give the slot to Oke Ogun as Buhari has given us on a silver platter. Af-

On illegal refineries The Federal Government should legalise the activities of the so-called illegal refineries and allow them to operate freely under certain laws.

In a situation whereby the country’s main refineries have refused to function properly, is it not advisable to allow the illegal refineries function legally, while

We want our PVCs at Mafoluku I want to use this opportunity to inform the Acting Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission

(INEC), Mrs Amina Zakari, that there are still issues of missing Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs) at Mafoluku, Oshodi.

Ogwuashi-Ukwu roads in deplorable state The roads in OgwuashiUkwu, capital of Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State are in such a terrible state, and the residents have been appealing to those in positions

of authority, from the state governor to those administering the local government to do something about it. Terrible roads have a way of slowing down the economic activities

in an area, and it is as a result of this that something should be done fast about the terrible roads in Ogwuashi-Ukwu. •F.A Kareem, 08098245620

It was a disgrace that only 35 polling booths out of 45 functioned during the last election. Concerned individuals were always going to the INEC Office in Oshodi to do something about the missing PVCs to no

IBEDC, Sango residents are in darkness I am using this opportunity to express the sadness of residents of Sango area in Ilorin, Kwara State about the total blackout they have been experiencing. Despite

the jubilation by some people around the country that there is now improvement in the distribution of electricity, Sango residents are suffering in darkness.

I, therefore, want to urge the IBEDC to please take urgent action by restoring power to the area. Femi Ajagbe, 08063472846.

editorial

Thursday, 8 October, 2015

Nigerian Tribune

Slaves in their own country

EFORE sealing off the Chinese firm in Amuwo Odofin area of Lagos, following a media report on its severely subhuman treatment of its workforce, several workplace injuries and deaths had been recorded there. The Lagos State Safety Commission (LSSC) eventually visited the firm and sealed it off after confirming that it had indeed violated safety standards which caused the tragedies. It is simply befuddling that the LSSC had to wait until the poor and vulnerable Nigerian workers suffered and died before sealing off the premises of the offending firm when all along, it had such powers. Routine visits to such premises may have forestalled those tragedies and the families of the dead may have been saved from unnecessary mourning. But then, the truth is that there is a rash of such firms strewn along the country’s industrial landscape feasting on its ravenous quest for foreign direct investment (FDI), a quest that has always been aggravated by the high rate of unemployment and corruption in the supervisory and regulatory agencies. Although the firm was sealed off for violating safety standards, many of these firms always violate many more requirements than safety standards. Somehow, with neither hindrance nor compunction, they have successfully replicated such slavery camps in the guise of factories all over the country where all staff welfare grievances are routinely trounced and denied. Against the law, hordes of vulnerable workers are put under reprehensible working conditions on casual basis with absolutely no rights to any form of compensation whenever accidents occur in the workplace. Without any union to agitate on their behalf, these workers are usually left in the lurch to suffer several deprivations. To worsen matters, they are replaceable and even expendable since there are always other willing hands on the queue outside the factory gates waiting and praying to be called in. Of course, such practices also ensure that the profit margin will swell in favour of the factory owners at the end of the day. It is painful to see such slavery going on in an independent country with its citizens at the receiving end just because the regulatory bodies set up to protect them have either been complicit or negligent. The Labour Ministry, particularly, is culpable for watching these violations thrive at its instance when

it should have ensured that the workers’ interests are protected. The factory owners may not be blamed for exploiting the lapses provided by the various agencies of the Nigerian State that have been obviously compromised to look the other way when these violations are being flagrantly committed. This is because all over the world investors are always out to make the highest returns on their investments and the onus lies on the state to ensure strict compliance with all stipulated regulations, including safety and workmen’s compensation. It is easy and convenient to demonise firms owned by foreigners as if they are the ones that abuse their workers’ rights and dignity, especially because of the racial tinge. Nothing can be farther from the truth as indigenous firms and factories are equally involved in such sharp practices that tend to swell their profit at the expense of workers’ rights and welfare. The various regulatory agencies must spread their dragnets wide to ensure strict compliance to the rules by all these factories by sealing those factories which run against the law. The embassies of those countries whose firms violate safety standards and other laws of Nigeria should be in the forefront in the efforts to rein in such firms in the bid to maintain a cordial relationship with their host country. There should also be a noticeable effort to pay wages that are congruous with the country’s minimum wage in order to be fair and avoid being accused of exploitation. These firms should be encouraged to be good corporate citizens of Nigeria by refusing to be tempted to exploit the prevalent unemployment rate for their maximum advantage and the Federal Ministry of Labour ought to be able to enforce this and the rules governing the employment of casual workers. A member of staff of the sealed firm in Amuwo Odofin was quoted in a media report as saying that “although the working conditions were harsh, they subjected themselves to those conditions because they had no alternatives.” That is certainly not good enough; in fact, it is enough cause for a national lamentation. No Nigerian should be made to work under demeaning conditions in their country and anyone who works for a living deserves respect regardless of how trivial their tasks or drudgeries are.

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opinion

Thursday, 8 October, 2015

Nigeria: The challenge of nation building By Mark Debo Taiwo

UR society is the reflection of our core value systems — how we fare as a nation; what our acceptable norms are; how we handle our infrastructural and environmental concerns and the things that we pay more or less attention to as a people. The way we place our priorities show clearly whether we are ready to build a lasting legacy for the coming generations, or we are just concerned about the moment. It is quite appalling that at 55 years of nation building, we are unable to get our acts right and bequest workable structures and institutions that can promote and sustain decency and patriotism. Our reward system is not in favour of hard work and probity. It is the survival of the fittest and winners-take-itall syndrome that has been our predicament since the coming into existence of this so-called giant of Africa, without any iota of good leadership but visionless disposition of those who have enslaved the rest and the best of us to their own advantage. It is mind-boggling that corruption has taken over the whole landscape and the fabrics of the nation, that people are now stealing public funds in trillions, while they get a gentle slap on their wrists. The laws seem alive only for the weak and the poor, but alien to those with links to the corridors of power. It only takes a man or woman to be an overnight billionaire if suddenly appointed as a minister in this country. Since the intrusion of the military in the governance of the nation, and now that we are practising democracy, we have not really done well in terms of dedication to nation-building as being done in other climes. We still showcase our faulty transportation system and poor environmental responsibility, which reflects in the way we take care of our society. The way we handle our affairs show clearly that we are a nation in confusion and disorientation. We don’t

have good structures to promote patriotism and nationalism; all that we are concerned about is how to make money out of every situation, and not how we can sacrifice and uphold the integrity of the nation. I was purely ashamed when I was in Dallas, Texas, in America for this year’s summer; I saw how the government over there makes life more meaningful for the citizens, particularly by the way the system is being run. I travelled on the President George Bush TurnPike, and saw the beauty of their ‘spaghetti’ flyovers in layers. I imagined the comfort and pleasure I derived from plying the roads in Fort Worth, Texas. We can travel for hours non stop without stress on all American roads. I recalled my experience when we traveled to Iowa State University, in Ames from Minneapolis, Minnesota. It was a memorable three-hour journey; I don’t know any road in Nigeria that one can travel for hours without encountering potholes, stress, fear of accidents or armed robbers, or the possible breakdown of vehicles on the roads; we should not forget ‘officers’ on the highways who ask, ‘wetin you carry?’

Americans really love pleasure and they make allowance for it in all facets of their national life. They care for lives and its sustainability, hence they lay premium on protecting lives. The environment in most American cities is superlative which enhances high rate of life expectancy. Their love for nature reflects in the way they cultivate the idea of clean environments with trees and grasses allover the place, with no traces of dust anywhere at all. This often prevent many airborne diseases and increase the health chances of the citizens. Hardly can one find any smoke producing vehicle on American roads. Americans make their country functional by being truthful and patriotic in serving their motherland. This reflects in tax regimes operating there, where some pay as high as 35 per cent, and are enjoying good social amenities and services from their government as returns from the taxes. Now coming back to Nigeria, it’s going to take eternity to restructure our society and get good orientation and workable ideas in order to lay strong foundations for development that will last till the end of days. Ours is a society that lack conscience and commitment both from the leaders and the led. What interests us mostly is what we can get and not what we can do to make Nigeria great. Little wonder that our legislators are the highest paid politicians in the whole world, while making less contributions to our national developmental index. I wonder when we are going to celebrate uninterrupted power supply in this nation. A lot really needs to be done if we really want a conducive country, and as we celebrate our 55th anniversary, it is my hope that we can start by changing our mindset first; we need citizens who truly desire to see change in the country. •Pastor Taiwo sent this article via taiwodebo@gmail.com

Danbatta: Still juggling the ball By Jibrin Kofar-Nassarawa

It has become obvious that the rapid growth in the number of GSM subscribers is stretching the capacity of operators in the telecoms industry to render efficient services. More affordability and availability of network devices means congestion, especially as the service providers lack the commensurate expansion drive towards building new infrastructure. With this in mind, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) recently set up a nine-member task force to proffer solutions to the problem of declining quality of service in the telecommunications sector. An initiative of the Executive Vice Chairman (EVC), Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta, the task force was the highlight of his maiden meeting with top management staff of the commission on Friday, August 21, 2015. The task force has just one term of reference: “To look at the issue of quality of service in all its ramifications and suggest practical measures that will lead to improvement, and recommend any other measure as appropriate that will project the image of the commission in a good light.” Headed by NCC’s Director of Special Duties, Mrs. Iyabo Sholanke, the task force is expected to submit its reports to the monthly management meeting, beginning from Friday, August 21, 2015, until the expiration of its tenure in six months. Members of the task force include: Director of Technical Standards, Mr. Fidelis Onah, Head of Compliance Monitoring and Enforcement, Mr. Efosa Idehen, Head of Compliance and Monitoring, Mr. Ephraim Nwokenneya, Assistant Director of Technical Standard, Mr. Edoyemi Ogoh, Deputy Director of Projects, Mr. Bashir Idris, Head of Legal and Regulatory Services, Mrs. Yetunde Akinloye, Head of Public Relations, Mr. Reuben Muoka, and Head of Media Relations, Mr. Philip Eretan. NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, Mr. Tony Ojobo, in a statement, said the establishment of the task force to assess the quality of service delivery was agreed on during the management meeting. The task force has a period of six months beginning from 21st of August to submit their reports to the management during their monthly meetings. The management will also contact the relevant stakeholders in order to find solutions on how to resolve the recurring issue of poor

service quality. Poor signal transmission/reception, dropped calls, misconnections and sundry other challenges have been intractable problems in the telecoms services sector since inception. Past efforts to resolve the issue through regular consumer/regulator/service providers’ interface and interactions have only yielded minimal successes. Imposition of fines on the service providers have not served as sufficient deterrent. These and other issues are the immediate challenges confronting the NCC under the headship of Prof. Danbatta, who was appointed on August 4. To be fair to them, telecoms services providers are faced with wilful destruction of their facilities and infrastructure, coupled with multiple taxation from different tiers of government, all of which affect the quality of services, one way or the other. They also consistently face poor electricity supply, insecurity and multiple regulations from competing, rather than complementary public agencies. Danbatta has declared that under his leadership, the NCC would ensure considerable improvement in the quality of services and other key performance indicators, stressing that

broadband penetration though low in sub-Saharan Africa, would be improved upon with time. It is worthy of mention that as the new helmsman begins to assert his authority in directing the affairs of the commission, there is the need for constant engagement with industry stakeholders on regular and peculiar problems. Such problems include right-of-way for telecoms infrastructure, multiple taxation in the industry, unfair competitive practices, regulator-operator synergy, amongst many others. Already, the commission has convened a meeting with States Desk Officers on Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF) at its head office in Abuja. The USPF was set up by the Federal Government to facilitate universal access to information and communication technology in rural, unserved and under-served areas in Nigeria. Prof. Danbatta also observed that the commission is being inundated with complaints from service providers on multiple taxation from the federal, states and local government councils. This, he observes, would not allow speedy growth and development of telecommunication infrastructure as the number of subscribers increase on daily basis across the nation. He has reiterated the need for the protection of telecoms infrastructure through facilitating the right-of-way for telecoms companies to gain access to sites and locations where they need to lay infrastructure like fibre cables. The commission also seeks to prevail on operators to expand through building more infrastructure which can carry the ever increasing number of subscribers on their networks. All said, it is only realistic that the new EVC should not be expected to carve out new policy directions for the NCC. There is enough on the menu from the existing programmes left behind by his predecessors on which he can build, governance being a continuum. This, however, does not rule out the benefits of innovation and new ideas where necessary, and the possibility of a radical departure from policies deemed to be unsuitable for the growth of the industry. •Kofar-Nassarawa a businessman, writes from Kano.

Thursday, 8 October, 2015 Femi Olukunle Co-ordinating Editor 08158610216

maka nd’igbo

The state of Ugwogo/Neke/Ikem road Jude Ossai - Enugu

ISTURBED by the deplorable condition of Ugwogo/Neke/ Ikem road, the people of IsiUzo Local Government Area of Enugu State, who ply the route, have made a fresh appeal to Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi to complete the project. Maka Ndigbo learnt that the Ugwogo/Neke/Ikem road, started by the immediate past administration, was also abandoned by the same Sullivan Chime regime. Some residents of Ikem community, who spoke to Maka Ndigbo recently, lamented the untold hardship they went through while crossing the Ebenyi Bridge at Ikem-Uno. The residents, therefore, urged the new administration in the state to rescue motorists, the indigenes and travellers plying the road to connect neighbouring communities in Udenu Local Government Area as well as Benue and Ebonyi states. A businessman at the local government headquarters, Ndubuisi Odo, lamented that his business across the Ebenyi River had been paralysed since he could not cross the dilapidated Ebenyi Bridge built shortly after the civil war in

Abandoned road: Ikem community cries out

1970. Traditional Ruler of Ikem-Uno, Igwe Okechechukwu Ogbodo, while appreciating the efforts of the past administration in con-

‘New Yam festival, a unifying cultural heritage’

—pg22

structing the road, pleaded with the current administration to help complete the construction of the bridge and the remaining few metres of the road linking Nsuk-

ka-Nkalagu road at Ukwumango. The royal father stated that the hanging bridge was being maintained by community effort, especially by the late President

The dilapidated Ebenyi Bridge

Ugwuanyi moves to complete abandoned projects

—pg22

Rescue us from flood menace, Oguta urges FG

—pg22

General of the Ikem community, Mr Greg Ugwueze, adding that since the demise of Ugwueze, the bridge had become almost impassable. It was gathered that the state Ministry of Works awarded the contract of building the bridge at a cost of N350m to a different contractor and not Greyline Construction Company that constructed the 28km Ugwogo-Ikem road, and thus the bridge was left uncompleted by the past administration. Further checks also showed that the contractor did not mobilise up to 20 per cent of the contract sum, yet it sourced money to erect piles of the bridge with the hope that the past administration would pay up before May 29, but that did not happen and the contractor was frustrated, hence his withdrawal from site.

CREW

Jude Ossai-Enugu -South East Bureau chief 08052817955 Joe Nwachukwu- Owerri 08033271227 Suzy Oruya- Onitsha 08063653735

22 makandigbo

Thursday, 8 October, 2015

‘New Yam festival, a unifying cultural heritage’ Suzy Oruya - Onitsha

HE Deputy Speaker, Anambra House of Assembly, representing Awka South 2 Constituency on the platform of All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), Mr Halford Oseke, has called for promotion of Igbo customs and culture. Oseke maintained that customs like the New Yam festival were unifying tools as people of diverse professions come together to celebrate the festival, not minding their social status. He described “New Yam festival as a period farmers do relax and celebrate their blessed labour with their loved ones near and far and a time the Igbos who, as a result of modernity, have gone to the cities for greener pastures, recognise their roots and customs associated with them in a bid to continue from where their forefathers stopped. “There is nothing fetish in celebrating New Yam festival before people officially eat the yam. In fact, it is seen as head of cropping

Tubers of yam on sale in the market as the yam is eaten with respect as a way of honouring and appreciating the farmers who farm to sustain humanity”, he said. The lawmaker said that the

need to maintain these customs could not be over emphasised as it created room for the people to see themselves as one and come together to discuss their common

Tubers of yam set aside for New Yam festival. problems and proffer solutions. According to him, the Igbos have rich customs and cultures which, if well garnered, would daily inculcate in people how best

Ugwuanyi moves to complete abandoned projects Jude Ossai - Enugu JUST as the Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Honourable Edward Ubosi frowns on the non-completion of work at the Enugu South International Building Materials Market, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi has reiterated that the International Conference Centre, Enugu, would be completed in good time, a government source revealed. The construction of International Conference Centre was started by former Governor Chimaroke Nnamani, but abandoned by the administration of the immediate past governor of the state, Sullivan Chime. Maka Ndigbo further learnt that prior to the abandonment of the conference centre, the project had reached over 70 per cent completion and was later vandalised. To heighten the problem, the ex-governor Chime, at the twilight of his regime, allocated part of the premises of the centre to some of his alleged acolytes and this development led to an uproar from members of the public. Ubosi had, last week, charged the Materials Building developers to expand the market by constructing more shops to enable the traders take effective occupation of the place. The third man in the state, who gave the charge when he paid an unscheduled visit to the site, commended the construction work going on at the proposed market, but sued for quick completion. He noted that the market, when completed, would help improve the economy of the state, generate revenue for the state state and at the same time generate employ-

The outlook of the International Conference Centre constructed by Chimaroke Nnamani ment for the teeming youths in the state. Earlier in his remarks, the Developer of the market, Chief Chuks Nnaji, explained to the honourable speaker and his entourage that the project was in phases, pointing out that the first

phase would be completed by the end of October 2015. Chief Nnaji assured that the asphalting of the access roads to the market would be done when the rain subsided. The chairman of Enugu South Local Government Council, Hon-

ourable Victor Oguejiofor Agbo, who was also part of the entourage, commended the work done so far at the site by the developers. It will be recalled that the issue of relocation of building material traders from Kenyata Market where they have continued to cause obstruction to road users, to the new site at Ugwuaji, has been a reoccurring decimal over the years. The Assembly has passed a resolution for the relocation of the traders and the relevant House Committees have visited both the old and new sites on several occasions to ensure that the move to the permanent site is actualised. Indeed, although, many roads in Enugu metropolis were reconstructed under the immediatepast administration, but some of them are already of a deplorable condition.

to co-exist peacefully and in good health. He said that the ancient people maintained this rich heritage and it paid off well in their ways of living and urged that people of this era should not allow modernity to erode the traditional bond that cements the existence of the Igbo race. Oseke said that during the New Yam festival, masquerades dances, moon light plays, among other customs, were the spice of life in their growing up days and that the sweet memories still lingered on, hoping that modernity would never rob the race of the old blessing. Oseke said that celebrating New Yam festival was in line with the activities marking the World Day which implied that people of various ethnicities should promote their rich heritages including language, customs and beliefs. He said that in line with reviving the cultural heritage of the Igbo, the present administration had embarked huge money for the resuscitation of tourist sites in the state and carnivals to promote Igbo cultures.

Rescue us from flood menace, Oguta urges FG J oe N wachukwu - O werri SOME of the communities in Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State have started experiencing flood which, at the moment, is affecting buildings, economic crops, roads, etc. Last week, downpour in the communities added more sorrow to the pains caused by severe erosion already devastating the economic life of the people. The mainly affected communities include Egwe, Ndionyembi and Egbuoma. The recent erosion was attributed to a road work awarded by the state government after the April general elections. A community leader, Dr Alphausus Ajaero, at the erosion

site, shed tears as almost half of his building was caved in by the gully. He said that heavy flood started affecting about six buildings in the communities, including church premises which were on the verge of collapse, since the contractor came to the site, saying some economic trees like oil palm trees were not left out. The affected communities are now calling on the contractors handling the work to quickly speed up works on the site as residents of the areas can no longer cope with the situation. While some people have started packing out of the areas, others are making arrangement to relocate to places where their relations are in safer communities.

Bishop Udo Azogu, the Dmepalm chairman, described the flood as a threat to the oil communities of Ohafi/Egbema, including Oguta Local Government Areas of Imo State, and appealed to the Federal Government to do something to checkmate the flood. In Imo State, areas mostly affected are Oguta, Osemoto, Orusu, Obodo, Ezi-Orusu, Part of Obudi Agwa, Obokofia Egbema, Abacheke and Ndoni areas. These communities need to start making hay while the sun shines as a member of the House Representatives in the area, Chief Goodluck Opaih, in his remark on the issue, said economic waste resulting from flood could not be compensated by relief ma-

terials. Meanwhile, Owerri/Port Harcourt road has totally blocked due to bad roads, particularly at Umuapu, the community in Imo State. The Arab contractors abandoned the road immediately the presidential election was announced in favour of President Muhammadu Buhari. The few commercial vehicles that ply the road collect a fee of N1, 500 instead of the usual N600 per passenger while a great number of drivers pass through Aba to Port Harcourt. People from both Rivers and Imo states are passionately appealing to the Federal Government to save their lives by asking the contractors to complete their works on the road.

Thursday, 8 October, 2015

campusbeats

Nigerian Tribune Doyin Adeoye 08058130577 kreatifink@yahoo.com

UI SU inaugurates new leaders

A cross section of the newly inaugurated Students’ Union executives of the University of Ibadan with some of the institution’s principal officers.

The Students’ Union (SU), University of Ibadan (I), on Monday, September 21, inaugurated new set of executives for the 2014/2015 session. The event which was held at the Trenchard Hall of the institution started around 12 p.m. with the arrival of top officials of the university, including the Vice Chancellor, Professor Isaac Adewole, and other top management officials. The newly elected eight-man team of executives alongside with other over 90 elected members of the Students’ Representative Council were sworn-in by the Registrar of the university, Mr Jimi Ireti Olukoya. The new set of leaders is the fifth since the resuscitation of the SU in 2011. The executives are Olateju Aliyu Oladimeji as President; Aderibigbe Mosopesoluwa as Vice President; Onuoha Ihunanyachukwu as the General Secretary; David Mark as the Assistant Gen-

LASG pays bursary, urges students to shun negative tendencies

he Lagos State Government has again urged students to shun negative tendencies that could dent the image of their parents and that of the state. The Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Education, Mrs Olabisi Ariyo gave the advise recently at the presentation of bursary and local scholarship to students (2014/15 set) who are Lagos State indigenes in various tertiary institutions within Nigeria. Held at the Government College, Agege, Ipaja Road, she implored the beneficiaries to avoid negative peer pressure as well as say no to cultism, while remaining steadfast, focus and forge ahead with sheer determination and confidence. She stated that the provision of bursary and scholarship is part of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode’s administration’s concerted efforts at improving the standard of education in Lagos State, as well as providing opportunities for its citizenry irrespective of their socio economic status. She added that the State Government has approved the recruitment of 1,300 primary school teachers and is also committed to the promotion of technical education and skill acquisition in order to “support and empower brilliant trainees to be self-reliant.” In her welcome address, the Director, Lagos State Scholarship Board, Mrs Omauton Yetunde

Jegede commended the State Government for its commitment and dedication to the yearnings of the people. According to the Director, for the 2014/15 set of bursary beneficiaries, the State Government will disburse N54, 495, 000 to 1, 596 students. The award ranges between N20, 000, N30, 000 and N50, 000, depending on the course of study. She added that 192 Nigerian

Law School students and six students from Maritime Academy, Oron, Akwa Ibom State who are indigenes of Lagos State were also awarded the total sum of N39, 600, 000 as bursary. Furthermore, for local scholarship, Mrs Jegede said the State government will use the sum of N88, 900, 000 for 400 successful candidates who took part in the 2014/2015 Local Scholarship Computer Based Screening

test. The Director also used the occasion to appreciate Governor Akinwunmi Ambode for approving the payment of all outstanding bursary for 2015 totalling N231, 465, 000 to 6, 940 old beneficiaries. Bursary and local scholarship are given by the Lagos State Government to its indigene studying in tertiary institutions for the duration of their course.

MOCPED students brainstorm prospects for NCE graduates By Naza Okoli

DETERMINED to get graduates of colleges of education out of the doldrums of unemployment and poverty threats, the Students’ Union of the Michael Otedola College of Primary Education (MOCPED), Noforija-Epe, Lagos State has held its 2015 Sensitisation Symposium for the final year students at the college’s main campus, with the theme ‘What’s Next after School?’ The symposium, according to the president of the union, Safiriyu Ayodeji, was organised to sensitise the intending graduates on life after school, and the challenges ahead, given the unemployment rate in the country, especially in the public sector. Ayodeji explained that the programme was also projected to teach participants about societal

norms and morals, so as to increase their chances of employment in the education sector, and give them effective business tips aimed at channeling their thoughts towards self-reliance in the private sector. A retired Director of the Central Bank of Nigeria, who was also the main speaker at the event, Prince Olufunmilade Ayantuga, commended the provost of the college, Professor Olu Akeusola, and other members of staff of the college for their contributions to the lives of the students, assuring them that the feedback from the employers of their products would be a true reflection of their positive impact on the youths. While wishing that the graduating students would be models and sources of pride to society, he charged them to follow their passion, remove doubt from

their thoughts and move closer to God, as that according to him, is the only place to get the right answers for the questions of life. “Your passion should be your foremost guide in your choice of career. This is my advice for you and it is drawn from my rich experiences of life,” he said. While agreeing with the Federal Government’s position of unemployment rate of 7.4 per cent, Ayantuga blamed most unemployed young people in the country for refusing to register with the government or going to government offices to look for jobs in order to enable the government have a true picture of the unemployment rate; a situation which he said was not helping the country’s economy as most young graduates end up not utilising their specialised education in the right sectors.

eral Secretary; Ayantola Alayande as the Public Relations Officer; Awolola Babatunde as the House Secretary; Odunuyi Adeolu as the Treasurer; and Adelore David as the Sports Secretary. The university community was glad at the eventual success of the event which had been long overdue, due to the postponement of the elections which was originally scheduled to hold on May 16, 2015 to September 5, 2015. The outgoing regime led by Odesola Oluwafemi donated a Campus Shuttle to the SU, as part of its capital project for the union. In his acceptance speech, the newly sworn-in president, Oladimeji, promised to focus on the needs of the students through joint efforts of the students. “There might be the need for us to make a collective sacrifice that will justify the end,” he said. Ayantola Alayande (Public Relations Officer, Students’ Union, University of Ibadan)

Nigerian students charged to be entrepreneurs By Festus Iyorah

Nigerian undergraduates have been charged to imbibe the spirit of entrepreneurship. Mr David Ossai gave this advice at a conference he organised for students recently, where he said opportunities are perched everywhere in the society, adding that students need to learn how to identify and utilise those opportunities for the betterment of our society. Held at the NuStreams Conference and Culture Centre, Iyaganku, Ibadan, the keynote speaker, Akpo Kentebe, CEO, Verse 29 Limited, stressed on the need for students to think and be acute observers on how to turn opportunities into reality. Speaking with Campusbeats, a participant at the event said it was inspiring. “The programme was insightful, as it is an eye opener into making my dreams come true,” Dara Aderemi, a student of Mass Communications, Lead City University said. “I’ve been inspired today and my notion about life has been reshaped. I’ve also learnt that everything is not about books, or striving to make a first class. There are many things youths can do to change the society and add value to lives,” Chukwudi, a 100-Level student of the Faculty of Law, University of Ibadan said. Other entrepreneurs who graced the events were Chude Jideonwo, co-founder Red Media Africa; Seun Onigbinde, co-founder BUDGIT; Iyin Aboyeji, co-founder Andela foundation; and Oluyomi Ojo.

Thursday, 8 October, 2015

education

Editor: Laolu Harolds 08111845016 tribune.education@yahoo.com

‘Nigeria will produce electric vehicles in 10 years’ A group of students from the University of Lagos recently built what they call an ‘eco-friendly car’. Dignitaries at the official exhibition held recently on the campus included Head of Automotive Engineering Laboratory at the University of Birmingham, United Kingdom, Professor Oluremi Olatunbosun; Managing Director of Elizade Nigeria, Mr Adedamola Adeojo; and the Permanent Secretary in the Lagos State Ministry of Commerce, Mr F. A. Akandu. In this interview with NAZA OKOLI, the coordinator of the team, Mr Peace Omoruyi, speaks about the making of what he calls “Nigeria’s first urban electric car”.

ow did it all start? (The team) was founded by Olukoya Olusanya; he got all of us together. We became eight eventually. Most of us are from the Faculty of Engineering, but there is someone from Building. The goal was to build a vehicle that would not emit harmful gas – an eco-friendly car. Are normal cars dangerous? Yes they are; they emit gases. The ones that use petrol and diesel are dangerous because they produce sulphur dioxide, especially diesel. They produce nitrogen oxide, which is also very harmful. So what power does this use? It uses battery; rechargeable battery. In the next model, we intend to charge the battery with a solar system which will be incorporated in the vehicle itself. When fully charged, how long does it last? One hour, thirty minutes. It can’t go far? It can. In the original design, it was supposed to be seven or eight hours. But that would have required a different type of battery – a lithium ion battery, which is not available here in this country, and it is very expensive. So, we had to adapt to the kind of battery that we have here. It is a 212-volt battery. Is this idea new? Did you invent the design? No. Tesla motors have been working on producing electric cars. The idea primarily is not new; but our design and technology are new. We had to adapt a gear train system – a transmission system – that I personally haven’t seen anywhere before. Conventional cars use axles which help to regulate the speed difference between both tyres when the car is going through bends and turns, and when they are moving at irregular speeds. But in this car, we adapted a new mechanism. ‘Electric vehicle’; is that the right name for this car? Yes. It is an eco-friendly electric vehicle. It weighs 200 kilogramme, its design

Project Dove money, so that I can come back in due course to help develop my country.

speed is 35 km/hour. It’s the first urban vehicle that runs without fuel in Nigeria. But I am aware that students from your school produced an electric vehicle last year under a project called ‘AUTONOV II’. Yes; but AUTONOV is not an urban vehicle. An urban vehicle is the conventional four-tyre vehicle. AUTONOV, on the other hand, had three tyres. What I am trying to say is that this vehicle here, as an urban vehicle, has all the essential properties of an ideal vehicle system. It’s a very small car. Surely that is a major setback? Yes, it is a one-seater car. It’s small not because we couldn’t have made it bigger, but there are a lot of financial implications that we could not have been able to handle. Most of the things we used to construct the frame here were hard metals. We could have gone for aluminium, but that would have been too expensive. So, do you think Nigeria has what it takes to produce cars? Nigeria will in the next 10 years produce full-sized electric vehicles made by Project Dove, designed with zero vehicle emission. Project Dove is the name of this initiative. The name of this car is Dove P1. You should watch out for Dove P2. Why do you think is the reason we haven’t really started producing cars? One thing people believe outside there (and even within our country) is that we don’t have the resources in terms of human skills to actually build advanced technology. I can categorically state here that it is a big lie. Right now as I am speaking to you, I have worked on several projects with different teams, and I know that we have the potential and the ability. But there is just one problem: our human resources leave this country because there is no support. So you find a lot of engineers that would just graduate and they begin to work for banks, or they leave the country because they cannot really practise engineering here. Engineering is not maintenance; engineering involves providing solutions to problems by ingenuity, by utilising and creating strategies.

Omoruyi And because Nigeria has been groomed to become a trading economy, rather than a producing economy, you don’t find engineers that we groom here resourceful. But the truth is that we have the necessary skills and the intellect. We need exposure, we need resources and we need finance. Your team, ‘Project Dove’, has a plan to build big cars in 10 years. How do you hope to go about it, especially since these problems you have highlighted are yet to be addressed? If we were looking at the problems currently facing us, we would not have been able to build this vehicle that you see here. It would probably still be in someone’s mind. We had to channel our attention towards our objective, and discard every problem that hindered that objective. This is the resilient spirit that will make Nigeria become a world-leading economy someday. Wouldn’t you leave the country if offered a chance? Personally, I have a passion for this country. I want to stay in this country and watch it grow. And it is not just to watch it, but to be part of the people that will cause its transformation. I did a course in my second year entitled ‘Engineering in Society’, and we did a history of how engineering was and how it is at the moment, and what led to certain things that made us to deviate from what we are supposed to be doing. I realised that Nigeria has this potential, but there are certain things like corruption that have kept us here. So, if I ever I take a job outside this country, it will be because I want to work in order to gain more experience and probably save

So, is there a plan to keep this team together? Well, the idea behind creating this platform is to enable Nigerian undergraduates to channel their intellectual skills into the manufacture of things like vehicles. So, it is not limited to the number of people who worked on this project. We are even planning to recruit new members. We want to see this country grow. We want to see how much we can do ourselves, because we are tired of waiting for the government. And if the government cannot realise that from what we have done so far, we need more support, then it is really a pity. How much did it cost to put this car together? In design and construction, there are a huge gap. There are a lot of things we did to save money. For example, the body of the car was moulded by us. It is made of fibre glass. But even then, we still wasted money while trying to explore different methods. It is not because we did not know what to use, but because of financial constraints. In all, we spent about N600,000. But now we know that N400,000 would have done it. This car… what purpose can it serve? This small car is an ideal car for the University of Lagos students. It is easy to maintain. The ideal speed limit is 35 kilometre per hour, which is not too far from the university’s speed limit of 25 kilometre per hour. Maintenance procedure for engines that use petrol or diesel is complex. If you want to maintain this vehicle, on the other hand, there are only two parts you need to focus on, and they are the gear system and the brake. How much support did you receive from the university? We had access to the laboratory, and there were lecturers who gave us technical support. Did you learn to make the car in your classrooms? The classroom provided the theoretical backbone.

education

Thursday, 8 October, 2015

OOU gets NUC’s nod to offer Civil Engineering

…Begins on-campus students’ accommodation Laolu Harolds

EGINNING from the next (2015/2016) academic session, the Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State, will admit its first set of students for degree programme in Civil Engineering. This is part of OOU’s efforts to strengthen and improve its number of existing programmes. The National Universities Commission (NUC) has given its approval and has already carried out its statutory resource visitation to the university on the development.

The vice chancellor, Professor Saburi Adejimi Adesanya, who disclosed this in his address at the combined 23rd/24th convocation of the university on Tuesday, also spoke of plans to, in the coming years, commence programmes in Nursing, Physiotherapy, Radiography, Estate Management, Quantity Surveying and Veterinary Medicine. Professor Adesanya used the occasion to announce the donation of a radio station, valued at N100 million, to the university by a philanthropist and benefactor of the university, Sir Kessington Adebutu, who incidentally is one of the two friends of the university to be conferred with hon-

orary doctorate on Saturday on the third day of the convocation. The vice chancellor also reiterated the plan by the university to convert from its off-campus students’ accommodation to oncampus, saying that students in OOU’s main campus in AgoIwoye and Ibogun would be provided hostels at the beginning of the next academic session, “while plans are ongoing to provide similar facilities at the Sagamu and Ayetoro.” “The university has taken delivery of the first set of 18 flats to initiate the development of our staff quarters at Ago-Iwoye and our hope is to gradually expand these quarters to house all aca-

From left: Registrar, Elizade University, Mr. Omololu Adegbenro; the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kunle Oloyede (standing) and the Bursar, Mr. Samuel Ajeigbe, during the orientation programme for the newly admitted students of the university.

demic staff,” he announced. A total of 10,753 students are graduating in this exercise, 9,594 of them at the first degree level, while the remaining 1,159 are graduates of the various postgraduate programmes. According to the breakdown given by the vice chancellor, 26 of the of those graduating with first degrees have First Class

honours; 1,333 with Second Class (Upper Division), 4925 with Second Class (Lower Division) and 2,239 with Third Class honours. Graduands from the faculties of Sciences, Education, Law, Pharmacy, Basic Medical Sciences and the College of Engineering & Technology took part in the Tuesday event.

Obasanjo to host Independence Anniversary schools debate By KEHINDE ADIO STUDENTS at the basic education level in Nigeria will converge on Chief Olusegun Obasanjo’s Presidential Library, Abeokuta, Ogun State, for an inter-state SUBEB debate. The former president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, has agreed to personally attend the event, according to the National Coordinator, Mr. President School Debate Programme, Nigeria (PSDP), Elder Dare Oritu. The PSDP has been organising series of inter-school and inter-state debates among primary, junior and senior schools in the country to promote unity and boost learning as well as encourage effective public speaking skills among the youth. “Annually, we organise debate tournaments for these children in different categories to cel-

ebrate Nigeria’s independence anniversary. This year, the former president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, has magnanimously agreed to celebrate the 55th independence anniversary with Nigerian youths at his presidential library, Abeokuta. “Our participating students are drawn from the 36 states in the country, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), courtesy of the States’ Universal Basic Education Board. “The Ogun State government has volunteered to accommodate the participants with cash award awaiting the outstanding teams.” According to Elder Oritu, the programme is scheduled to start from October 11 through 16, 2015. Some state governors have been nominated for award in recognition of their achievements in their various states.

Being pioneer students was tough, but … —Adeleke University’s best graduating student Miss Boluwatife Alabi made history recently when she emerged as the overall best graduating student at the maiden convocation of the Adeleke University, Ede, Osun State, with a CGPA of 4.90 in Computer Science. She speaks with ADEBOLA ADENIYI on some of her experience in the institution. How do you feel being the first overall best student of Adeleke University? When I found out I was the overall best graduating student, I was speechless. I found out three days to the convocation. I didn’t believe it. It was like a dream even till the next day, but it became a reality when people started greeting me. I was speechless, but at the same time I was very happy. Being one of the pioneer students of Adeleke University, what challenges did you face? We the pioneer students have a lot of stories to tell. We faced a lot of difficulties because there was a time in 100 Level that there was no water in the hostel. We had to go to a far place to fetch water in a reservoir. So many things were not in place, but at the end of the day, it was still very nice because those experiences equipped us for the future. There is really nothing we can’t face; that is the feeling. What is your background like? Does this intel-

my mentor. She is also like a mother to me. She made us to understand that no matter one’s age one is still going to get there and one can achieve what one wants. These people have an impact on my success. How were you able to balance your social life with academics? From 100 Level, I wasn’t a social person. I am very slow when it comes to making friends, but I didn’t isolate myself either. When I had to go to class, I knew it was time for academics; and when I was with my friends, I knew these were my friends. I think the main thing was the balance. I did what I had to do. I didn’t separate anything, because when separation comes in, you will think you have to allot time for friends.

Miss Boluwatife Alabi

ligence run in the family? I believe that everything I have is from God. Do you have a mentor? Yes, I have mentors. My parents are my mentors. I like the way they act; and that is how I react to situations – even academics. In academics, I have a lot of mentors. My Head of Department, Dr Olumide Longe, who was also my supervisor for my final project, made me realise that if you are going to do something, you should do it well and you shouldn’t be lazy about it. Also, Dr Mrs Oyerinde is

How were you able to handle the pressure from guys such that it did not affect your studies? Having a relationship is another thing; and if I am going to enter a relationship, the person I am getting into relationship with must know the type of person I am. He must know my study time; and if he is not okay with it, he should go away. The person should have interest in my success. Were you ever harassed by any lecturer? I didn’t face such. What is your next plan? First of all, I will go for national youth service, thereafter go for Master’s degree. But, by the grace of God, I don’t want my Master around here; I am looking for scholarship to undertake my master’s programme abroad; and I will be glad if I can find someone that will give me scholarship.

education

Thursday, 8 October, 2015

RUN deploys interactive touch-screen boards in lecture theatres …Graduates 15 First Class at 7th convocation Laolu Harolds S part of efforts to continue to raise the bar of academic standards among Nigerian universities, the Redeemer’s University of Nigeria (RUN), Ede, Osun State, has pioneered the use of electronic interactive boards with touch screen technology in all its lecture rooms and theatres. A delegation from Samsung West Africa, which was in the university last week to commission the project, confirmed that the university is the first in the country to deploy such innovative educational e-learning infrastructure for teaching. This was part of the achievements of the university as highlighted by the vice chancellor, Professor Debo Adeyewa, in his address at the 10th anniversary and 7th convocation ceremony of the university on Tuesday. A total of 447 students, christened the ‘Triumphant Class’, graduated on the occasion, 15 of them with First Class degree. Also at the event, two outstanding personalities were conferred with the honorary Doctor of Science (honoris causa) of the institution.

Pastor (Mrs) Foluke Adenike Adeboye, the wife of the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, was conferred with the Doctor of Science in Management; while Professor Folagbade Olajide Aboaba, a pioneer Dean of the College of Technology, University of Ibadan and pioneer pro-chancellor and chairman of council of the Redeemer’s University, was conferred with the Doctor of Science award. Tribune Education recalls that RUN earlier came into limelight by emerging as the best rated university in research among universities in West and Central Africa, and was selected as African Centre of Excellence for the Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), funded by the World Bank. The first case of the Ebola Virus Disease in Nigeria was diagnosed at the Redeemer’s University’s ACEGID laboratory, one of two such laboratories in Nigeria recognised by the American Centre for Disease Control (CDC). Adeyewa also spoke on the Recovery of Destiny (ROD) programme started few years ago by the university, which was designed for student offenders

who after expulsion are ready to undergo a transformational programme and wish to return to the university if successful. According to him, a total of 85 students have gone through the ROD programme – five of them (four male, one female) on Tuesday graduated with the ‘Triumphant Class’. “Apart from academics, we build lives through conscientious

spiritual and social engagements. We (are committed) to the building of not just the intellect of our students, but their character and spirits as well. Holiness is our lifestyle and godliness is a principle that cannot be compromised in Redeemer’s University. This is our stance for both staff and students,” he said. Governor Rauf Aregbesola, in his address urged the graduat-

ing students to strive to be ‘gems embedded in the rock’, and stand tall wherever they find themselves, saying that with what RUN had equipped them with, they have no reason to fail. The highly revered General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, who is the Visitor to RUN, was in attendance at the event.

Computers in the new-look ICT Centre at Girls’ Government College, Dala, Kano State, renovated by Etisalat Nigeria, being inspected by the state’s Deputy Governor and Commissioner for Education, Prof. Hafiz Abubakar, together with his team, on Tuesday.

ABUAD students shine at Microsoft competition in America Sam Nwaoko - ado-Ekiti TOP executives of Microsoft Corporation in the United States of America, the organisers of the Microsoft Imagine Cup Competition, have commended the team from Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), ‘Team LifeWatch’, and described the team as “the best in Africa for five years.” ABUAD’s Team LifeWatch participated in this year’s edition of the competition which took place in Seattle, USA, and was generously praised by Microsoft executives for its excellent performance. For their invention, AsthmaVisor, a device for a more effective and efficient way of managing Asthma, particularly among children, a senior director with Microsoft Corporation, Mrs. Jenny Lay-Flurie, described Team LifeWatch as “the best team in Africa in five years” while the deputy director of Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Jeninie Firpo, said the team’s invention was “awesome.” Team LifeWatch, made

up of four ABUAD students, eventually emerged fourth out of the five teams nominated for Imagine Cup Ability Award on account of the potential impact their projects could have on the lives of people with disabilities and design principles, usability and potential in the market place. Other criteria include how the project has been tested with people with disabilities and overall quality of the execution. Team Prognosis (with a solution for Parkinson’s disease detection and intervention) from Greece won the award as their solution has already been deployed on a large scale and in use by disabled people for about a year now in Greece. Team LifeWatch, made up of Adeyemo Oluwaseun Kayode, Raymond Obinaju, Sobola Timilehin David, and Ahwin Kevin with a joint passion for saving lives, had earlier invented AsthmaVisor. The race to the finals of this year’s edition of the Imagine Cup competition among higher institutions in Nigeria commenced

with ABUAD winning in Nigeria to qualify for the African Zone (semi-finals) where it defeated higher institutions in other African countries, including Burkina Faso, South Africa, Uganda, Egypt, Angola, Algeria and Morocco as well as Tunisia, to qualify for the world finals. At the end of Team LifeWatch live performance to a panel of seven judges, made up of seven industry experts like Thomas Middleditch (Star of HBO’s Silicon Valley), Alex Kipman

(inventor of HoloLens) and Jens Bergensten (Lead Developer of Minecraft), the judges were so impressed about the presentation that they opted for a 10-minute hands-on demonstration with the team to test its solution (AthsmaVisor). The level of recommendations Team LifeWatch received from the judges also led to a private session organised for the team with Microsoft Brand Manager, Dennis Tom. This, according to the judges, was a proof of how much they

35,467 candidates scramble for Kwara poly admission Biola Azeez, Ilorin No fewer than 35,467 candidates are seeking admission into the Kwara state polytechnic, Ilorin for 2015/2016 session. However, a statement signed by the deputy registrar, (information and publicity), Alhaji Moshood Amuda, which was made available to journalists

said that the institution could only admit 4,380 candidates for both ND and HND. This is in accordance with the carrying capacity of the institution as determined by the National Board for Technical Education(NBTE), which is the regulatory body for polytechnic and monotechnics in Nigeria.

loved the project and how they “cannot wait to see it in the market.” During the private session which lasted for 40 minutes, important issues

relating to how the solution can be improved upon and how a partnership can be established with Microsoft for making the solution a reality were discussed.

Thursday, 8 October, 2015

Nigerian Tribune

Group Business Editor Sulaimon Olanrewaju

m:08055001708 e:lanresulaimon@yahoo.com t:@lanresulaimon

aviation

anchor Shola Adekola

m:0803 365 4818 e:sholanig@yahoo.com

Ekiti people are not against airport project —Lere Olayinka Lere Olayinka, a journalist, social critic and public analyst, is currently the Special Assistant to the Ekiti State governor, Ayodele Fayose, on Public Communications and New Media. In this interview with SHOLA ADEKOLA, he speaks on the controversy trailing the decision of the state government to build an airport in the state capital, Ado Ekiti and other issues. Excerpts:

n view of the opposition being mounted by different groups in the state towards the plan by the Governor Ayodele Fayose government to provide an airport for the people of the state; how do you intend to convince the public that the project will better the lots of Ekiti people? There is no other way to convince people on the desirability of the project than for the project to kick-off and be completed. As at today, Ekiti people are not against the project. It is only a section of the All Progressives Congress (APC) that are running their mouths against the project just for the sake of politics, but I believe everything should not be about politics. No doubt, the airport will go a long way in improving the investment climate of the state and reduce the tiring 5 to 6-hour journey which potential investors visiting the state have to go through from Abuja and Lagos. It is being alleged that your government wants to hide behind the project to siphon public funds. What is your reaction to this? Those saying this are only trying to stay relevant. Governor Fayose is about the most prudent governor in this country, and I can defend that anywhere. Are they not members of the same APC that was in government here when N3.3bn was used to build a hilltop governor’s lodge and another N604.9m used to procure furniture for the lodge?

Governor Fayose Before embarking on the project, what have you done to ensure that all the conditions guiding the construction of a standard airport in line with civil aviation rules and regulations are met? The project was not initiated by the Fayose-led government. It has been on before now. It was actually initiated in 2009 by the PDP government of Engineer Segun Oni, with the support of the Yar’Adua led administration. But it was frustrated by the APC government of Dr Kayode Fayemi. As at 2010, terrain flight check for site selection had been done, site approval obtained from the Ministry of Aviation, perimeter land survey completed, meteorological data (i.e. Wind-Rose) already obtained from the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NIMET), Form AC-001 had been collected for completion and submission to Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), guidance materials on the procedures to be followed for development and certification of airport and related technical and

Lere Olayinka regulatory requirements to be met had been collected for necessary assessment; and materials needed for runway orientation and establishment of Obstacle Limitation Surfaces had virtually been concluded. The consortium of surveying firms who handled the surveying of the site was led by the Ajero of Ijero-Ekiti, Oba Adewole Adebayo. APC only chose to deprive the state of the Federal Government supported project while running the affairs of the state because of parochial and selfish political reasoning. There are airports created by some state governments that have been downgraded for not meeting the standards in view of the low standard structures such as poor runways, lack of adequate fire cover and other safety components. How will you ensure that all these loopholes do not occur in the planned Ekiti Airport project? We are starting with an airstrip

The airport will go a long way in improving the investment climate of the state and reduce the tiring 5 to 6-hour journey which potential investors visiting the state have to go through from Abuja and Lagos.

and we wish to take it off from there. If you know Governor Fayose very well, you will know that he is a man that does not compromise with standard. When he sets out to achieve something, he already has the picture in his mind and you can be assured that the airport, when completed will meet international standard. If completed, in what areas do you think people of the state can benefit from it? Rome was not built in a day. Development must have to start somewhere and it must be futuristic. In Ekiti, there are many tourism potentials, and tourism is money spinning. The reality is, without the air transportation system in Nigeria, there is no way foreign tourists can be attracted to places like Ikogosi Warm Spring and Arinta Water Fall in Ipole-Iloro. But with the opportunity of flying from Lagos, Abuja and other International Airports in Nigeria direct to Ado-Ekiti and taking 30 minutesdrive to Ikogosi, we can begin to attract tourists to the state. Also, Ekiti being an agrarian state, we have option of a cargo handling section that would specialise in the handling of agricultural products Ekiti State is not among the oil producing states; how do you intend to fund the project in view of the huge capital such a project requires? How many countries in Europe and America are oil producing? Have you bothered to ask yourself

how countries like Netherlands and France were able to achieve the level of developments that they have achieved? You can network all the cities in Europe using trains. So do all countries in Europe have oil? The project will be funded; it all depends on getting the government’s priority right. And I can assure you that Governor Fayose is someone who set his goals and pursue them vigorously. One of the reasons why people are saying Ekiti does not need an airport is because of its nearness to Akure Airport which has been described as unviable. Do you agree with this? I don’t agree with that. Ibadan to Lagos is a distance of not more than one hour if the road is good but we have airport in Lagos and Ibadan. Most importantly, every State should have its own priorities and this is one of the disruptions caused in our body polity by long years of military rule. Between 1979 and 1983, we had totally free education and free health in all the then four Southwest States and Bendel State that were under the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), while Kwara State that was under the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) did not. As at 1983, the Alhaji Lateef Jakande led UPN government in Lagos had awarded contract for the construction of Metro Train Lines. That’s the beauty of federalism, which allows each federating unit to develop at its own pace.

aviation

Thursday, 8 October, 2015

Bi-Courtney hosts students on maiden ‘Girls in Aviation Day’

crucial moment With Shola Adekola

0803 365 4818

Lawmakers and the aviation sector There is no doubt that the country’s aviation sector has remained one of the unluckiest amongst government sectors despite its sensitive role. This is a sector that is about the most regulated and run in line with international standards as stipulated by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards and recommended practices devoid of any local or regional politics. There is no ‘African’ aviation or ‘European’ aviation; hence the sector has been described as a global village because whatever affects the industry in America will affect the industry in other parts of the world. The earlier those in positions of authority particularly the politicians realise this, the better it will be for the sector where people don’t talk anyhow or jump into conclusion in view of the aftermath consequences. Only last week during its plenary session, a member of the House of Representatives moved a motion entitled ‘urgent need to screen domestic airplanes operating in Nigeria’s airspace to ensure reliability which was unanimously bought by other members. In his submission, the member further noted that some of the commercial airplanes operating in the country are over 20 years old and have been written off in the countries from where they were purchased hence; concluded that most plane crashes that had been recorded in the country resulted from the use of outdated air planes, poor maintenance of same and lack of supervision from the relevant authorities. Agreed that the lawmakers have the right to monitor and do a critique of happenings in the sector, but it becomes worrisome when such steps are not taken in line with the expected rules. One major bane of the sector has been the presence of too many ‘experts’ who claim they know much about aviation and have the magic wand to stop incidents and accidents in a day. Without blinking an eyelid, it is known in the sector that many of the challenges bedevilling the sector today are traceable to the politicians who have used their positions to unduly politicise the sector. The result of which is now a sector struggling to find its feet again. Each time there is a change of government, the new politicians often seize the opportunity to use the aviation sector as a guinea pig to test their power. While it is agreed that domestic airlines have their own problems, it is, however, wrong to attribute the cause of the crashes recorded to old aircraft. It is on record that many of the crashes that the sector had recorded in the recent past had nothing to do with the machine, but mainly human error and besides this, who says a one year old aircraft cannot crash? Even in Europe and America, there are still aircraft of 40 years flying, so far it is well maintained. Without any doubt, the relevant aviation agencies including the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB) and the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) are on top of the situation despite the unnecessary distraction from the politicians. Therefore, our lawmakers should mind the way they talk on technical issues as this act does not only embarrass Nigeria before the global aviation community, but sends wrong signals and creates panic in the minds of the flying public. Above all, there is no way the lawmakers can screen any aircraft because it is not their function and they should leave those trained on such areas to do their work.

Nigerian Tribune

Members of the ‘Girls in Aviation’ being led by the president of Women in Aviation, Glowing Wings Chapter, Mrs Ify Megwa (in pink top) and an official of Bi-Courtney on tour of the facilities at the MMA2.

FAAN to expedite cargo clearance at airports StoriesBySholaAdekola-Lagos

he Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) is working with the Nigeria Customs service and Clearing Agents to expedite the clearing process of cargo at the airports especially at the Murtala Muhammed Airport. The Managing Director of FAAN, Engineer Saleh Dunoma made this known earlier in the week on an inspection tour of on-ongoing projects at the airports. Dunoma, in pursuit of diversification of source of revenue from aeronautical sources to other source said cargo operations will soon become a main stay of the Authority’s operations. According to Dunoma, the limitations are due to the laid-down procedures and processes that must be followed which is statutory. He revealed that cargo terminals are built all over the country to take advantage of the agricultural potentials of the country and eliminate wastage. Dunoma, however, assured the general public that efforts are being made to fast-track the system saying: “The regulators and operators, that is, the

Customs and FAAN, are working together with the clearing agents to make sure that clearing at the airport is expedited.” He further stated that the new

Cargo Terminals being constructed will stimulate exports, especially perishable produce, and will be of utmost benefit to the general public and Nigeria.

Delta Airline marks annual breast cancer awareness event As part of its annual campaign in support of Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) Delta Airline has revealed a new look to mark the Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In line with the event, a Delta airline’s dedicated ‘Pink Plane’, will be sporting an updated livery in time for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which started on October 1. The Boeing 767-400ER aircraft, which features a pink ribbon wrapped around its fuselage and the trademarked Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) pink ribbon logo adjacent to its boarding door, will be flying to destinations across Europe as part of Delta’s annual campaign in support of BCRF. This year marks Delta’s 11th annual survivor flight, which took place on October 1. The aircraft carried more than 140 employee breast cancer

survivors on board Delta’s newly painted pink plane on the flight’s first international route from New York City to Mexico City. Across the Atlantic, Delta’s pink plane is also scheduled to fly to cities including: London, Madrid, Amsterdam, Frankfurt and Nice over the coming weeks. Speaking on the development, Delta’s Vice Presidentin flight service, Sandy Gordon stated: “We are proud to showcase our commitment to a cure on a global scale. Our 80,000 employees worldwide look forward to this campaign each year and rally together to find new, innovative ways to generate awareness and funds for BCRF. We are grateful for our employees and customers for their continued passion and support as we work together to eradicate breast cancer.”

Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL) has hosted over 60 female students, drawn from different secondary schools in Lagos, who undertook a guided tour of the Murtala Muhammed Airport Two (MMA2). The visit to MMA2 was part of the activities marking the maiden edition of the ‘Girls in Aviation Day’ celebration, organised by the Women in Aviation (WAI), Glowing Wings chapter held at the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) annex at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport. The aim of the event, according to the president of WAI, Mrs Ify Megwa, was to “enable participants connect with other girls and women who are excited about aviation and have excelled in various careers in the industry. And to mentor and educate them to see beyond the perceived myth of women in the career of aviation and to also explore the opportunities for work in the aviation and aerospace industry.” Other activities that commemorated the occasion included a conference, at which the Chief Operations Officer (COO) of BASL, Ms Adebisi Awoniyi, was the guest speaker, as well as a quiz competition to test the participants’’ knowledge of the aviation industry. In her keynote address, Awoniyi encouraged the young girls to always chart a good course and determine the kind of life, future and destiny they would rather have noting that “gone are the days when women seem to just find themselves in any profession that the society or providence throws at them.”

Union calls for Aviation Act reforms Members of the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN) have called for the reforms of both the Aviation Act and the Labour Act. Rising from a three day training in Badagry, Lagos State, organized by Safecrest Service limited , the members in a communiqué issued condemned the neo-liberal management type of yellow dog contract where management was involved in the policy of outsourcing staff in order to avoid social responsibilities accruing to a regular, permanent employment.

ATSSSAN noted that it was unlawful for any Management to prohibit employees from joining unions just as the law regulating outsourcing even required that agencies must file a report which include state of affair of labour before license were renewed. The union noted that there was a dire imperative to work with pertinent government institutions to create an industry-wide standard for the aviation industry through a “principle of engagement” that shall respect UN Global Impact on Human Rights, Labour, Environment and

anti-corruption. According to the training facilitator, Comrade Solomon Ohiomah who signed the communiqué, the unions should henceforth, report cases of these kinds of abuse to the Ministry of Labour and Productivity for appropriate sanction. They called on Government and employers to respect all the relevant International Conventions that seek to entrench decent work, work-life balance in the world of work such as ILO Convention 87 & 98 on the rights to join and belong to union and for col-

lective economy; Convention 151 and Recommendation 158 on tripartite consultations as well as declaration of social justice. The Union called on the Ministry of Labour and Productivity to look into and find means of resolving some knotty issues confronting the vibrancy of unions such as voluntarism, poaching of other union members, proliferation of unions in any industry, jurisdictional scope and disputes between National and Branch Union executives leading some time to tampering with check off dues.

Thursday, 8 October, 2015

anchor

maritime

Tola Adenubi

m:07068476673 e:adenubiadetola@yahoo.com

Facts, issues for new transport minister

Although President Mohammed Buhari has sent a list of potential ministerial nominees to the Senate President, Bukola Saraki; the demands and potential of the maritime sector leave much to be desired if a technocrat is not appointed minister of transport; Tola Adenubi writes.

he Federal Ministry of Transport (FMOT) is an embodiment of seven different government agencies, with maritime related parastatal accounting for the larger chunk of presence amongst these seven agencies of government. From the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC); to the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA); Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA); Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC); National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA); Nigerian Institute of Transport Technology (NITT); Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN); and the newly included Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN), the mandate for any appointed Minister of Transport cuts across a wide array of economic concentration. A cursory look at these agencies of government reveal that

maritime related agencies enjoy a larger percentage of the numerical strength of agencies of government under the supervision of the FMOT. However, aside the fact that the numerical strength is on their side, a number of factors give credence to the argument that if Mr. President decides to tow the line of his predecessors by slaughtering professionalism at the stables of political affiliation in appointing a politician ahead of a technocrat for the maritime dominated Transport Ministry, the approach of whoever is appointed will determine the future of the nation’s second largest revenue earning sector. Maritime facts Nigeria is a coastal State with about 853 kilometres Atlantic coastline. Her exclusive economic zone covers a total area of approximately 315, 950 square kilometres. With a vast marine environment vis-a-vis enormous resources, the

Nigerian Tribune

Nigeria’s maritime sector has remained largely untapped due to unskilled management of the sector in years past. The current structure of the Nigerian maritime sector is composed mainly of the port industry, shipping and ancillary services, offshore services, shipbuilding and ship repair, marine services, bunkering services amongst others. The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) controls six major ports, excluding oil terminals, with a cargo handling capacity of 35million tonnes per annum. The berthing facilities at the ports include 93 solid cargo berths, 11 bulk liquid cargo berths, 63 buoy berth and a host of privately owned jetties under government supervision. Maritime related cluster services include the various professional support services relied upon by the transportation and ancillary services to facilitate compliance,

It is imperative that the Federal Government appoints a core professional as Minister of Transport given the fact that the maritime sector is only second to the oil and gas sector in terms of revenue generation into government coffers. competitive edge and operational efficiency. With also a vast network of navigable and potentially navigable rivers, lakes and creeks traversing more than 3,000 kilometres of inland waterways, Nigeria remains the economic hub of West Africa if properly managed by people with in-depth knowledge of the sector. In the words of the Chairman of the Shipping Association of Nigeria (SAN), Chief Val Usifoh, the technicality of the nation’s maritime sector demands the appointment of a core maritime individual as Minister of Transport. “Ideally, the Federal Government needs to appoint a technocrat as Minister of Transport. However, if the appointment goes the other way round, then we need somebody who is broad minded and can dedicate himself to the challenges confronting the maritime sector of the economy. “We need somebody who has relevant knowledge and experience of the sector because it is a very technical sector of the economy. Maritime cuts across all the sector of the economy, that’s why such individual has to be broad minded, not narrow minded.” It is imperative that the FG appoints a core professional as Minister of Transport given the fact that the maritime sector is only second to the oil and gas sector in terms of revenue generation into government coffers. Going by the dwindling fortunes of oil in the international market, placing priorities in the right direction could help the maritime sector in cushioning the effect of the drop in oil price on the nation’s economy. Issues for incoming minis-

ter However, due to poor management of the sector in past years by people who lack understanding of the maritime business, Nigeria’s shipping sector, estimated to be capable of generating N7 trillion annually, has been neglected over the years. Many of the indigenous ship-owners lack vessels to participate in the cargo trade despite the enormous abundance of maritime resources at the nation’s disposal. According to NPA statistics, more than 5,300 different types of ships call at the nation’s ports annually, carrying over 150 million metric tonnes of cargo. However Nigeria does not participate in this trade because of lack of vessels. Due to lack of capacity on the part of indigenous ship-owners, this has adversely affected the nations terms of trade. There is need for a change as regards the terms of trade for Nigeria’s crude oil carriage from Free On Board (FOB) to Cost, Insurance and Freight (CIF). Under the FOB terms, buyers of Nigeria’s crude oil are responsible for arranging shipment of their purchase, thus allegedly denying Nigerians the opportunity of capturing the value that would have accrued to the economy from such exercise. CIF on the other hand is a trade term requiring the seller to arrange for the carriage of goods by sea to a port of destination, and provide the buyer with the documents necessary to obtain the goods from the carrier. What this means is that even if Nigeria has the required fleet tonnage, the buyer determines the terms of freight for exports and also determines who freights his/ her imports and the terms. This is where Nigeria is losing huge revenue. More so, if indigenous operators are given opportunities to own ships, this will address many issues like the level of unemployment, aside the imbalance in Nigeria’s trade terms. The availability of vessels will provide a veritable platform for many unemployed Nigerian seafarers that currently roam the streets in search of jobs. Currently, many Nigeria seafarers, due to unemployment onboard vessels have retorted to swelling the ranks of armed bandits terrorising the nation’s waterways while many others roam the streets for job placement. For instance, the country exports 2.7 million barrels of crude oil per day. Statistics have shown that this crude is lifted by foreign liners who collect as much as $4 per barrel. This means that annually, the country loses over $3.9 billion yearly on the freight of crude oil alone.

maritime

Thursday, 8 October, 2015

Nigerian Tribune

MWUN forecasts more industrial accidents at Five Star Logistics Terminal Stories by Tola Adenubi - Lagos

he Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria, Dockworkers branch has forecasted that there will be more industrial accidents at the Five Star Logistics Terminal Limited of the Tin-Can Island port in Lagos due to lack of compliance to safety by the terminal operator. This is even as the body revealed that two people have already died in the last two weeks due to safety concerns. Speaking to Nigerian Tribune in an exclusive interview, President of the Dockworkers’ Branch of the MWUN, Mr. Adewale Adeyanju stated that given the lackadaisical attitude of responsible government agencies that should monitor safety issues at the seaports, they expect more calamity at the Five Star Logistics Terminal Limited because the terminal is currently bedevilled with safety concerns. “We have written to the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) over the shoddy state of safety concerns at the Five Star Logistics Terminal Limited, but we are yet to hear from them. “The Five Star Logistics Terminal Limited is currently experiencing a dip in terms of safety compliances. Many of our members, who work inside the terminal, don’t have overall protective vest or safety boots to wear while on duty. “On September 19, we lost one of our members, Samson Oheha inside the Five Star Logistics Terminal Limited while he was partaking on a discharge effort

on a vessel inside the terminal. Barely a week after, we lost another worker, Pius Ifah inside the same terminal. Ifah died when stacked heavy-duty pipes rolled off

and killed him instantly. “The incident which happened at about 1:00 a.m. was an eyesore and a very unprofessional way to operate.

“The management of the terminal failed to comply with safety standards for this kind of operation, which caused the pipes to roll off and kill the man.

stop them as they slide down and killed Ifah. In a normal seaport setting, should pipes be held by wooden wedge? This contravenes safety standards,” he said. Adeyanju added that though the police report showed it was an accident, the situation would not have resulted to death if there were standard safety measures in place by the terminal operator.

Seme Customs command generated N884m in September

The Controller, Federal Operations Unit Zone ‘A’, Comptroller Amade Abdul pointing at the 5,020 cartons of smuggled frozen poultry products neatly concealed with 2,016 packages of nestle bottled water that was recently seized by officers of the Nigerian Customs Servioce (NCS) along the Sagamu-Ijebu Ode express road in Ogun State.

Maritime security: NIMASA, NAVY set to renew MoU The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the Nigerian Navy have resolved to deepen their collaboration with the aim of providing a safe and secure maritime environment for shipping activities by strengthen the existing Memorandum of Understanding between both organisations. This pledge was re-emphasised when the Acting Director General of NIMASA, Mr. Haruna Baba Jauro paid a working visit to the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok-

Ete Ibas at the Naval Head Quarters Abuja. Mr Jauro who stated NIMASA’s commitment to renew and strengthen the existing Memorandum of Understanding between both organisations commended the Nigerian Navy for keeping to the spirit and letters of the MoU which he said has drastically improved safety in the Nigerian maritime domain. According to the DG, “having acquired a satellite surveillance system that is capable of monitoring in real time vessel activities in our maritime domain, NI-

MASA is also committed to the MoU with the Nigerian Navy both of which have the overall aim of making Nigeria a maritime destination of choice for both operators and investors.” The DG said the determination of the Agency to enhance business activities in the maritime sector by ensuring safety and security also led to a Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement with Global West Vessel Specialists Limited (GWVSL) which was approved by the Federal Government. According to him, the mandate of GWVSL

MOL Liner makes maiden call at P&CHS Ports & Cargo Handling Services Limited (P&CHS), a member of Sifax Group and concessionaire of Terminal C, Tin Can Island Port, Apapa, has added a new client to its growing clientele list, MOL Liner Limited. The shipping line made its maiden call at the terminal recently with MV MOL NALA vessel. While welcoming the vessel’s crew to the terminal, Mr. John Jenkins, Managing Director, Ports & Cargo Handling Services Lim-

It is very sad because it is the same terminal where a dockworker died on Sept. 19 and is yet to be buried. “The wedge used to hold the heavy pipes could not

ited, expressed the company’s delight at the vessel’s maiden call, adding that the development is a testimony of the terminal’s readiness to welcome more clients. He said: “It’s a good feeling having this ship berth at our terminal. We are delighted that MOL, which is one of the world’s largest ocean shipping fleet owners, would prefer our terminal for their operations. This does not come as a surprise to us as we have invested heavily, over the years, in

both equipment and quality personnel. This has set our terminal apart. “This business relationship with MOL is one of several partnerships we have consummated over the last few months. You would recall that Evergreen Lines also made its maiden call at this terminal about a week ago. We are not only providing quality services to existing clients but also strive daily to partner with new shipping lines across the world. ”

While responding on behalf of the vessel’s crew members, Captain S.M.N Jahangir, who was overwhelmed by the hospitality and excellent service provided by the company, expressed his joy at berthing at one of Africa’s prime ports. “This is a resounding welcome we have received here and it would stick in our memories wherever we sail to. Though we are sailing back very soon, my crew and I cannot wait to be back here again,” he said.

is to procure and bunker vessels for NIMASA’s operations, manned by the personnel of the Nigerian Navy on a Supply, Operate and Transfer (SOT) basis for a 10 year period after which ownership of the vessels will revert to NIMASA. Responding, the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas appreciated the efforts of the Management of NIMASA in the past eight years since the MoU was first signed most especially in the areas of training of officers and logistics support to Naval operations. Throwing light on the use of NIMASA vessels by the Nigerian Navy personnel, Admiral Ibas stated that by the provisions of the MoU, “we (Nigerian Navy) provide security, we arm those ships. By whatever means the vessels are acquired, the Nigerian Navy is fully manning those boats and we still do.” Admiral Ibas also advocated for a review of the existing Memorandum of Understanding to reflect current realities and to make it more effective and beneficial to both organisations and the country at large.

The Seme Command of the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) has generated a total of N883, 791, 678.00 million Naira in the month of September, 2015. The Command also made twelve seizures with a Duty Paid Value (DPK) of N3, 094, 000. 00. According to a statement signed by the Commands Spokesman, Taupyen Selchang, the Seme Customs Command has strived to meet its revenue target despite the many hindrances that constitute hiccups to the revenue drive of the command. The statement further disclosed that the Seme Customs Area Controller, Compt. Ndalati, G.M attributed the reduction in the numbers of seizures to the aggressive anti-smuggling operations embarked upon by the officers of the command in the spirit of renewed war against smuggling, which has led to drastic reduction in smuggling activities in the Command. Compt. Ndalati also stressed the need for attitudinal changes among officers of the Command for effective service delivery in the current Customs dispensation. He noted that while officers work assiduously for maximum result in the command, they must be careful to do so according to the laid down guidelines and procedure of the service On arrest made thus far, the Controller explained that suspects were arrested at different anti-smuggling operations in the Command, and that they are at different stages of investigations and prosecutions.

Thursday, 8 October, 2015 With Adewale Oshodi tribunearts@yahoo.com 08054005323

At Oro-Ebedi, Gani Adams, royal fathers preach cultural renaissance By Adewale Oshodi

HE need for the Yoruba to value their culture was the main message from royal fathers and cultural enthusiasts during this year’s edition of the Oro-Ebedi Festival in Iseyin, Oyo State. Speaker after speaker lamented the fact that Yoruba people are relegating their culture to the background, in favour of the Western way of life. In his opening remarks, the sponsor of the festival and National Coordinator of the Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC), Chief Gani Adams, urged the Yoruba not to allow their culture to die. “When we go to the United States, Cuba, Brazil, as well as some other countries of the world, we will be shocked to see how they value the Yoruba traditional way of life. “From the way we dress, to the food, to the language, to the religious aspect, the Yoruba culture is complete, and we must respect and value it,” he said. Apart from the Oro-Ebedi festival, Chief Adams, through his Olokun Festival Foundation, is also at the fore-front of the promotion of other cultural festivals across Yorubaland. “Organising and celebrating festivals is our modest way of projecting the memories of our indigenous religion and culture. “The celebration of festivals in honour of our ancestors is the foundation’s way of contributing to the growth and development of tourism as a potential but unexplored alternative revenue earner that can accentuate our common quest for the economic development of Yorubaland and Nigeria as a whole,” Chief Adams, who is also the Global Coordinator for the Oodua Progressives Union (OPU) which has branches in 61 countries of the world, said. On the OPU, Chief Adams said the idea is to liaise with Yoruba sons and daughters in the diaspora so that they can contribute their quota to the development of their motherland. “We should not wait till election period before we liaise with them; through the OPU, we have created an avenue through which we can discuss on how to develop Yorubaland,” the OPC Coordinator said. Also at the Oro-Ebedi festival was the Aseyin of Iseyin, Oba Salau Abdulganiy Adekunle Ologunebi 1, who commended Chief Adams for his contributions towards the propagation of the Yoruba cultural heritage. “Through your activities, the Yoruba culture is spreading fast like wildfire across the globe, and I know that when our young ones see this, then they will no

•Chief Gani Adams (in white) with royal fathers and Brazillian Ifa priestess, Maria Mendez, during this year’s Oro-Ebedi festival in Iseyin, Oyo State last week. longer see their culture as being inferior to any other culture in the world. “I want you to keep up the spirit, as posterity will judge you for your contributions to the propagation and projection of the Yoruba culture, not only in Nigeria, but across the world,” the Aseyin said. Other traditional rulers at the event also echoed similar sentiments, while

urging Yoruba sons and daughters to stop relegating the culture to the background. In particular, Oba Gabriel Adegoke, the Amunijio of Ijio, Oyo State, lamented the fact that Yoruba parents now want English to be their children’s mother tongue. “When our children are not taught the

language right from their tender years, then there is no way they will grasp it when they are older,” Oba Adegoke said while urging parents to pass the language on to their children. Apart from the preachings, there were also cultural displays, poetic recitations, dances, as well as other cultural activities.

New book explores causes of radical Islam The immediate past Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, SAN, has called on Nigerians and the international community to remove the religious label on the Boko Haram sect which has been perpetrating acts of terror in Northeast Nigeria. Fashola who spoke in Lagos at the public presentation of a book entitled Frontiers of Jihad: Radical Islam in Africa, said the religious label on Boko Haram should be removed by describing them as common criminals. He said Islam stood for peace and any group known for murder, rape, kidnapping and other forms of crime are working at cross purposes with the religion. The former governor observed that the book authored by a lawyer and senior lecturer at the Babcock University, Ilisan, Remo, Ogun State, Dr. Yinka Olomojobi could not have come at a better time as it addressed the fundamentals of insurgency, a nightmare the global community has been faced with in recent years. The chief launcher of the book, Pastor

From left: Chief launcher, Pastor Tunde Bakare; chairman on the occasion and former Lagos State governor, Mr Babatunde Fashola; publisher, Joop Berkhout; Islamic scholar, Prof. Daud Noibi; reviewer, Dr. Laja Odukoya and the author of Frontiers of Jihad: Radical Islam in Africa, Dr Yinka Olomojobi, at the public presentation of the book in Lagos.

Tunde Bakare of the Latter Rain Assembly agreed with Fashola saying that there should be clear separation between religion and radicalism. He said as a former Muslim, he knew that Islam was against rascality as is now being perpetrated by Boko Haram. The reviewer of the book, Dr. Laja Odu-

koya observed that the book took a critical and scientific journey into the causes and and manifestations of radical Islam. He said while poverty provided the ground for radical Islam in Africa, African elite could not be exonerated from the growth and expansion of terrorism in the continent.

arts&review

Thursday, 8 October, 2015

‘How I brought romance into Christian writing’ Unoma Nwankwor is a Christian romance author. In this interview, she speaks on how writing on Christian romance is a perfect melding of her talents as a writer. EXCERPTS:

the world of writing willingly, life threw me in it. It happened some years ago when I was faced with an illness that made me think of what my impact on the world would be if my Father in heaven called me to be with Him. What would I tell Him I did with the gift He gave me while on earth? That experience pushed me to pen my first novel, ‘An Unexpected Blessing’. I was going to conquer my fear and see what happens. The response has blown my mind and I haven’t looked back since.

OW did you come about Christian romance writing? That’s easy. I am a hopeless romantic. My favorite genre is romance and Christian fiction. I love watching chic flicks and look forward to the cliché misunderstanding and make up at the end (laughs). Then I’m on fire for the Lord, my faith drives me. So what better way to marry romance, faith and my gift but to write Christian romance novels. Would you consider yourself a full-time writer? I’m not a full time writer; I have a day job in the financial industry. Writing is my passion and purpose, so I make time to write at night and on the weekends.

POEM

From faceless beasts We are the frightening forest, staring Causing the city to crave comfort Breaking her neck, leaving her in pains Which force her on her knees Begging us as if we were gods We are the friendly hawk Looking lively and hungry Like angry life long denied daily loaf We fly, we swoop, we catch The innocent children of the city And feast on them for daily bread We are the beastly beasts Ravaging the land, raping her Wallowing in the nation’s wealth Like swine in mud, brothers And sisters may die if they want We are the brain behind bombings Secret behind brutal bloodshed The nightmare of old and young Frustrating the head of the land Making foolishness out of his wisdom Mothers may cry and go mad As we give their scholarly girls to Wolves to eat up their hymen, making Them wives who will wear our thoughts Useful weapons in our hands To wreak havoc on their blood We are the beasts having backbone By Emmanuel Ikuoye

•Unoma Nwankwor Did you go for any formal qualification in writing? I have a Bachelor’s degree in Banking & Finance from the University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria and an MBA in Global Management from the University of Phoenix, Arizona, United States. I did not take any traditional writing classes to begin writing but while writing my first novel, I read many craft books and aligned myself with seasoned authors I respect in my genre. I have also attended writing workshops, online or in person. Many people find it difficult to get published; how did the world of

writing open up to you? I have always known I wanted to write or could write, I should say, but never thought others would want to read it. You see I’m the only girl in a family of five, so journaling and writing short stories was my getaway. A way to share my thoughts since my brothers would never understand. I was a serious introvert, sometimes I think I still am in some way. The world of writing was always open, I guess I was just afraid to enter it. Thinking no one would ever want to read what I wrote. Those are the kinds of lies we tell ourselves that hinder us from reaching our fullest potential. Since I refused to enter

Chinese artist, Ai Weiwei finds bugging devices at Beijing studio Ai Weiwei has posted a number of pictures of what he says are listening devices found in his Beijing studio. The Chinese dissident artist captioned one photo of a bug on Instagram with “There will always be surprises”. His friend Liu Xiaoyuan confirmed the bugs were found after the artist returned from a trip to Germany. Xiaoyuan tweeted that they were found when redecoration started on Ai’s home and were found in the office and a living room. The pictures show the devices were hidden in electric sockets. The artist also posted a video clip of firecrackers being set off in a metal bucket next to one of the devices. He wrote “Did you hear it?” next to the video. The artist has retweeted an article saying listening devices had been found at his studio. His mother Gao Ying told journalists that she believed the devices were placed in his studio four years ago when the artist was arrested and his studio was searched by the authorities. The artist has long been critical of the ruling Communist Party and was held in 2011 for 81 days before being released. He was arrested during a government crackdown on political activists. He was held over alleged crimes of bigamy and tax

As a Christian romance writer, who are your mentors? The simple answer is my writing is influenced by my faith and life. The expanded answer would be I’m influenced by the desire to tell stories that are based on the message of Christ—hence Christian fiction—but also to educate non-Nigerians about our culture. The characters in my books are mostly Nigerians or Africans that live or have lived abroad. They are inspired by the culture of their homeland and of their current base and also by things happening in their present environment. I was born in the United States but lived all my formative years in Nigeria. I only relocated back to the States after graduating from the university. So I know what it’s like to live at home and abroad. And so do my characters. My foreign readers love my books for the fusion of both sides. Are you really a specific genre writer? I guess not since I only write Christian fiction. My first book, An Unexpected Blessing was specific to romance while my second novel, ‘When You Let Go’ is classified as women’s fiction but my main umbrella is Christian fiction. What books have made the most impact on you? I read almost every genre, but I’ll be remised if I didn’t give tribute to books like ‘Centerspread’ and ‘Dreammaker’ by the late MEE Mofe-Damijo or Double Yoke and Second Class Citizen by Buchi Emecheta. Then more recently, books in my genre of Christian fiction like ‘Because of Grace’ by Kendra Norman Bellamy, this was the first Christian fiction book I read. Since then there have been many others like ‘The Guilt Series’ by Pat Simmons and ‘Dance Into Destiny’ by Sherri Lewis. What are the challenges authors face in developing countries? I can’t really answer this accurately since I don’t live in a developing country. I’m thankful to God for the opportunities provided me in regards to where I live.

•Al Weiwei evasion, but was released without charge. He was later given a 15 million yuan (£1.5m) fine for evading taxes, although the artist maintains the charges were politically motivated in retaliation for his criticism of the Chinese government. The authorities kept his passport for four years but it was returned earlier this year. Since then he has visited Germany, where his son lives, and London. In September he was in London for the launch of a retrospective of his work at the Royal Academy.

When you are taking aspiring writers in writing courses, what do you mostly tell them? To better your skills, you have to practice. There are no shortcuts. There is a difference between being a story teller and being a great writer. The first we might be born with, but to attract readers and keep them we have to master the writing craft. Read more than you write, set goals that are attainable, attend workshops, read craft books, join critic groups and hang around like-minded people. Finally, never let your fears hinder you from what God created you to do. If that’s writing for you, then just do it.

Thursday, 8 October, 2015 Editor:

health you&EYE

Sade Oguntola sadeboguntola@yahoo.com 0805 506 9260

sex,sexuality&You

naturalhealth

PPP: Healthy push for hospitals?

INSIDE

By Sade Oguntola

T Feeling, looking young is possible with surgery —Ajayi Page 36

natural health

Create your own herbal garden Page 37

HEALTH QUOTE

Help for couples who can’t achieve sexual climax Page 37

he ongoing moves by the Federal Government to privatise public hospitals in the country have been generating intense heat in the polity. In fact, different unions in the health sector had taken different stands because of the effect it could have on their members. Staff of hospitals like the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owerri, had also embarked on strike to protest plans to privatise the hospital’s Pharmacy and Laboratory Units. Also, many Nigerians had expressed concern that it was going to make health out of reach of the common man.

Empty ward

But concerns of doctors under the aegis of the Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN), University College Hospital, at their 2015 annual symposium was evident as they deliberated on the implication of the proposed privatisation of teaching hospitals on medical education, research and service delivery. UCH’s MDCAN chairman, Dr Bukola Adesina, said “Privatisation means different things to many people, so there is the need for people to look at it holistically and properly plan before its execution”. Observation of sectors that had been privatised, such as the education sector, Dr Muideen Olatunji, Oyo State Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), said also calls for caution. “If teaching hospitals are allowed to go the way of private schools, where a pupil in primary two now pays as much as N200, 000, then the goals of these hospitals which are teaching, research and service delivery might be lost. We may have improved service, but access will become an issue; as doctors, we have moral burden on this,” he said. Professor Abiodun Ilesanmi, a former Chief Medical Director, UCH, Ibadan, speaking through Dr Chris Aimakhu, in his assessment of the health system, indicated it was bedevilled with many challenges, including under-funding, quality problems, old infrastructure, and absence of monitoring, evaluation and feedbacks. These challenges, alongside, upcoming threats in the health sector such as dwindling oil money, insurgency and insecurity issues, he said had led to increase in medical tourism and loss of confidence of many Nigerians in the nation’s public hospitals. Although, privatisation may provide solutions to some of these challenges bedevilling the health sector, he said privatisation has its own problems such as the investors profiting from the poor. “Privatisation is a simple solution, but complicated by

many challenges,” he declared. However, Dr Tony Marinho, a consultant gynaecologist at St Gregory Specialist Hospital, Yemetu, Ibadan, Oyo State said the successes recorded in elimination of polio, river blindness and malaria vaccine development is because of private organisations involvements in these health issues. Marinho, who decried non involvement of Nigerian philanthropists in medical research to meet the health needs of Nigerians, said listed differences between a public and private driven health care to include cost, efficiency, and emotional commitment to patients. The medical expert, noting the need for adequate budgetary provision for health, however, declared “no amount of upgrade in facilities in the teaching hospital without an upgrade in the general hospitals will improve health services; it will continue to fall.” However, with Nigeria’s economy dwindling, Marinho said the Federal Government may not be able to resuscitate its moribund medical services on its own and as such partial privatisation is inevitable. Marinho, added that whatever form the privatisation should take, it should ensure that it has a safe mechanism to cater for those that cannot pay. Nonetheless, Director, Public Private Partnership (PPP), Federal Ministry of Health, Dr Bola Olowu declared that privatisation is not the same as PPP, even though the word private is common, stressing that the process of carrying the

two processes out were different. The expert also denied Federal Government’s moves to privatise its hospitals, saying it was only considering how it could through public private partnership(PPP) bring in more investments in transforming the social aspects of healthcare. Olowu remarked that the muted privatisation of some Federal Government hospitals arose from the media misinterpretation of a document the Federal Government presented at a technical working meeting on the National Health Act. She declared that the existence of PPP was imperative to sustain the health sector, adding that “what government is thinking about the health sector is to gradually transform the social aspect of healthcare into a business enterprise. “Government is not looking at outright sale of healthcare; government is trying to see how to bring in investments from the private sector into the public sector. “There is infrastructural gap in the county, which government is trying to bridge. Government alone cannot do this because of dwindling funds. Also, the coming on board of PPP is to reduce medical tourism. Olowu, remarking that many hospitals are going into PPP on small scale services they cannot afford to do on their own, added, “PPP is aimed at achieving better value for money than would have been conventionally achieved. PPP approach is pragmatic and not dogmatic in the provision and management of infrastructural facilities.

“The awareness that health is dependent upon habits that we control makes us the first generation in history that to a large extent determines its own destiny.” —Jimmy Carter

Thursday, 8 October, 2015

Dr. Ben Ajayi 0805 400 5447

you-and-eye@gmail.com

Working together to provide eye care for all

n my youth, one of my favourite songs was, “No more sorrow, no more pain.” I can’t remember the other lines of the song now. Wait a minute! I think the next line is, “We are together in this world.” Bible scholars will immediately recognize the possible origin of the title, “No more sorrow, no more pain.” But to be honest, at the time, it never occurred to me that the words were taken from the Scriptures. As a child, I hated pain. Yet, unknowingly, courted it at every turn by my actions. If I wasn’t knocking over boiling pots, on shaky stone tripods, while opening them out of curiosity and rewarded with blisters on my legs, I would be climbing mango trees plucking mangoes or involved in other rough plays. Thus I had a fair share of self-inflicted pain and sorrow that came in its wake and have numerous scars to show for it! But what is ‘pain’ and what is ‘sorrow’? These are twin words which are inevitable companions. Pain is an unpleasant experience occurring in varying degrees of severity and may be physical or emotional. It is nearly always accompanied by sorrow. ‘Sorrow’, on the other hand, is an uneasiness or pain of the mind - a feeling or an expression of distress caused by loss, affliction, disappointment, grief, sadness, or regret happening to one or to someone else. Sorrow is emotional and even more difficult to quantify than pain. It is very difficult for me to separate it from emotional pain.

As described above, I had a good deal of physical pain as a child and surely my parents must have felt some degree of sorrow to see me in pain. But now that I am a ‘little’ older, it is the emotional pain or sorrow that is devastating. Watching others suffer or doing something that will inevitably result in pain is perhaps one of the most distressing things that can happen to anyone. Can you therefore imagine the pain an eye medical specialist goes through every day as one patient after another comes in with avoidable blindness? If you find it difficult to get the message, please take a look at the following statistics and if you don’t experience any pain or distress, you must be superhuman. More than one out of every 170 Nigerians are either blind or visually impaired from cataract. Cataract blindness is reversible by simple surgical operation yet only about one in 10 cataracts are operated by the eye doctors. An equal number of cataract patients are operated by quacks and charlatans with disastrous consequences. The remaining eight patients are buried with their cataracts. Why? Simply lack of access to eye care. Poverty is a major factor. Glaucoma is the second commonest cause of blindness in Nigeria. Glaucoma blindness is irreversible but avoidable. Unfortunately how can we help when two out of 10 patients are already blind in both eyes and six out

of 10 are blind in one eye or severely visually impaired before they come to us? In a disease that causes no physical pain or discomfort, complacency is rife especially for the poor! But here the rich also have a problem. They have the money to spend but no time to spare for eye checks to find out if they have glaucoma. Have you visited an ophthalmologist in the last one year, do you know you might be in this group? Don’t wait for blindness to announce itself before you visit? Do you know that over 140 million Nigerians have never heard about glaucoma; another 25 million have heard something but are unsure of what it is all about while less than eight million Nigerians actually know something accurate about it? Can you now appreciate my pains – our pains and why we are making all this fuss?

More than one out of every 170 Nigerians are either blind or visually impaired from cataract.

Today, October 8 is World Sight Day. It is an annual day of awareness to focus global attention on blindness and vision impairment. The theme for this year’s World Sight Day is “Eye Care for all.” Let us all unite to encourage and support initiatives that will help promote awareness, mobilise human, material & financial resources from the government, big businesses, industry as well as local people to fight the scourge of blindness. Therefore, in line with my favourite song let us all sing the refrain, “No more sorrow, no more pain, let us work together to provide eye care for all.” May I seize this opportunity to thank the Catholic Church, Nigerian Tribune Newspapers, BOVAS Charitable Foundation, OBJ Foundation and several other organisations and individuals who have hearkened to our call to support free sight restoring surgeries for a number of patients in the past one year. The Eleta Eye Institute and its affiliated hospitals are planning to do 1,000 Sight restoration and preservation operations to bring succour to the poor in honour of our departed Mama HID Awolowo as part of the rites of passage of this “jewel of inestimable value.” It is a great opportunity to help the poorest of the poor. Would you like to support this venture? Please contact 0805 076 9112 or 0805 400 5447 (SMS) and watch out for further details next week.

Dr Abayomi Ajayi

ivf &you

info@nordicalagos.org

0700 6673422

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Continued from last week Often, ovarian cysts don’t cause any symptoms. You may not realise you have one until you visit your health care provider for a routine pelvic examination. Ovarian cysts can, however, cause problems if they twist, bleed, or rupture. If you have any of the symptoms below, it is important to have them checked out. That’s because they can also be symptoms of ovarian tumours. Ovarian cancer often spreads before it is detected. Symptoms of ovarian cysts and tumours include: •Pain or bloating in the abdomen •Difficulty urinating, or frequent need to urinate •Dull ache in the lower back •Pain during sexual intercourse •Painful menstruation and abnormal bleeding •Weight gain •Nausea or vomiting •Loss of appetite, feeling full quickly How do doctors diagnose ovarian

cysts and tumours The obstetrician/gynecologist or your regular doctor may feel a lump while doing a routine pelvic examination. Most ovarian growths are benign. But a small number can be cancerous. That’s why it’s important to have any growth checked. Postmenopausal women in particular should get examined. That’s because they face a higher risk of ovarian cancer. Tests that look for ovarian cysts or tumours include: Ultrasound: This test uses sound waves to create an image of the ovaries. The image helps the doctor determine the size and location of the cyst or tumour. Other imaging tests: Computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron tumours can help see whether and how far they have spread. Hormone levels: The doctor may take a blood test to check levels of several hormones. These include luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), estradiol, and testosterone. Laparoscopy. This is a surgical procedure used to treat ovarian cysts. It uses a thin, light-tipped device inserted into your

abdomen. During this surgery, the surgeon can find cysts or tumours and may remove a small piece of tissue (biopsy) to test for cancer. CA-125 If the doctor thinks the growth may be cancerous, he might take a blood test to look for a protein called CA-125. Levels of this protein tend to be higher in some — but not all – women with ovarian cancer. This test is mainly used in women over age 35, who are at slightly higher risk for ovarian cancer. If the diagnosis is ovarian cancer, the doctor will use the diagnostic test results to determine whether the cancer has spread outside of the ovaries. If it has, the doctor will also use the results to determine how far it has spread. This diagnosis procedure is called staging. This helps the doctor plan your treatment. How are ovarian cysts and tumours treated? Most ovarian cysts will go away on their own. If you don’t have any bothersome symptoms especially if you haven’t yet gone through menopause, your doctor may advocate “watchful waiting”. The

doctor won’t treat you. But the doctor will check you every one to three months to see if there has been any change in the cysts. Birth control pills may relieve the pain from ovarian cysts. They prevent ovulation, which reduces the odds that new cysts will form. Surgery is an option if the cyst doesn’t go away, grows, or causes you pain. There are two types of surgery: Laparoscopy uses a very small incision and a tiny, lighted telescope-like instrument. The instrument is inserted into the abdomen to remove the cyst. This technique works for smaller cysts. Laparotomy involves a bigger incision in the stomach. Doctors prefer these techniques for larger cysts and ovarian tumours. If the growth is cancerous, the surgeon will remove as much of the tumor as possible. This is called debulking. Depending on how far the cancer has spread, the surgeon may also remove the ovaries, uterus, fallopian tubes, omentum – fatty tissue covering the intestines – and nearby lymph nodes. To be continued...

35 everydayhealth

Thursday, 8 October, 2015

Why cervical cancer remains a problem in Nigeria —Study

By Sade Oguntola

he increasing cases of cervical cancer in Nigeria may be linked to the persistent infection (one which does not clear on its own) with high-risk types of Human papillomavirus (HPV), a necessary but insufficient cause of cervical cancer, in many Nigerian women, a study has said. In a study, researchers at the Institute for Human Virology, Nigeria(IHVN) found that a high level of high risk HPV infection among women, with the most common type specifically being type 52. They discovered that 38.5 per cent of the women initially had HPV. At six months, when 650 women came back for follow up, 24.6 per cent still had the virus when tested for HPV. In addition, there was persistent high risk HPV infection in 16 per cent of the studied population, with the commonest type been HPV52. Genital human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a very common sexually transmitted infection. It is estimated that about 80 per cent of sexually active women will become infected with HPV at some point in their lives. However, most infections are transient and in 80 to 90 per cent of women, the infections become undetectable in six to 24 months, without the woman even knowing she had it. However, in some women, the HPV infection will not clear off and as such abnormal cells may develop on their cervix. If abnormal cells occur and go undetected and untreated they can progress to cervical cancer. Of these high-risk HPV types, HPV type 16 is the most common and is found in approximately half of all cervical cancers. HPV type 18 may account for around 10 per cent of cervical cancers. The study enrolled 1,020 sexually active, but not pregnant women between April 2012 and December 2013 from National Hospital, Abuja and University of Abuja Teaching Hospitals, two hospitals were IHVN provided cervical cancer screening services. Some 42. 6 per cent of these participants were HIV positive. They were screened for HPV. At follow up visits after six months, they were again tested for HPV. Its findings were presented at the 2015 Human Papilloma Virus Meeting

in Lisbon and was part of the studies on Human Heredity and Health in Africa - H3Africa and CADRE Capacity Development for Research in AIDS Associated Malignancies. Professor Clement Adebamowo, a co-researcher of the study, said all women with persistent HPV infection were at extremely high risk of developing cervical cancer and need to

be treated. The expert declared that most studies on HPV were done in developed countries and have generally found that types 16 and 18 were most commonly associated with cervical cancer. However, he declared that findings in Nigeria and other developing countries like China and India, now suggests that the other high risk HPV types are

rather common in these population. Given the difference in common HPV associated wth cervical cancer in devloping countries, Nigeria inclusive, he added that there was the need to know more about how much impact these prevalent HPV types had in the cause of cervical cancer. “This is important because some of these HPV

types are not covered by the current vaccines. So it is important to know if the current vaccine’s “power spreads to prevent infection by these types too” - to put it in lay person’s terms. We also know that it is difficult to include protection against too many HPV types in the same vaccine without loosing the vaccine’s effectiveness.” Adebamowo, remarking

that HPV is the commonest cancer causing virus in the world, warned against obesity, saying that people that are obesed stand a higher chance of having HPV infection. The expert expressed doubt on the appropriateness of screening for cervical cancer with VIA, even though it is widely recommended for developing world.

From Left: President, Nigeria Medical Association(NMA), Oyo State branch, Dr Muideen Olatunji; Dr Tony Marinho and Director, Public-Private-Partnership, Federal Ministry of Health, Dr Bola Olowu at the opening ceremony and 2015 annual symposium of the Medical and Dental Consultants Assocaition of Nigeria(MDCAN),University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, recently.

NUAHP charges Buhari on health minister As the nation eagerly awaits the announcement of the cabinet members of President Muhammadu Buhari, a call has gone to him to free his government from the stranglehold of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) by not appointing the next Minister of Health from among its members. This call was made by the Nigerian Union of Allied Health Professionals (NUAHP) at a news briefing

the association held at the University College Hospital (UCH), where it was alleged that the problem being faced in the health sector could be traced to what it called ‘poor administrative performance by the previous Health Ministers’. At the briefing addressed by the President of the union, Dr Obinna Ogbonna, who was supported by other officials of the union, the union stated that ap-

pointing another member of the NMA into that critical office would amount to enslavement of the NMA and thereby extending invitation to chaos from other health workers, who constitute more than 90 per cent of the hospital total workforce. The union recalled that both former Presidents, Late Umar Musa Yar’Adua and Goodluck Jonathan didn’t heed the counsel by the union by going ahead to

make members of NMA as their Health Ministers with the monumental disaster that befell the health sector under their tenure. “We don’t want President Buhari to miss it the way his immediate predecessors did and lived with regret over their action which is why we are shouting now for him to do the needful by ensuring that the position that had for several years been seen as the prerogative of the NMA is for all of

Nigeria delisted from polio-endemic countries but ... —Experts By Victor Ogunyinka Against the backdrop of the recent milestone attained in delisting the country from polio-endemic nations, medical experts have pointed that though Nigeria has been removed from the list of endemic nations, it has not been certified polio-free yet. Dr Johnson Adeniji, Director of World Health Organisation (WHO) National Polio Laboratory, University of Ibadan, explained that for the first time, Nigeria has been able to interrupt the transmis-

sion of wild polio virus; it would however take another 24 months of non-interruption of wild polio virus transmission before the country could be certified polio-free and eradicated. “If you can interrupt polio transmission for one year; you will be removed from the list of endemic countries. That is not to say we have eradicated polio. For you to eradicate polio, you must maintain that free status for three solid years. “We still have 24 months to be under observation; so, we still need to continue working. People should take

seriously, the issue of polio eradication well such that we will be able to sing the song that Nigeria is polio free eventually,” he said. Also, Dr Bamidele Iwalokun, Head, Molecular Biology and Bio-technology Division, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), Yaba, Lagos State, tasked stakeholders not to “rest on their oars”, adding that stakeholders must harmonise immunisation goals for effective vaccine delivery across the country. According to him, information and surveillance are key factors in identify-

ing areas with low immunisation coverage. “We are no longer spreading polio; we need to sustain the engines that drive the public health. In as much as we are improving the attitudes of caregivers, thorough education and political engagement, our health system also needs to be strengthened. “The interaction between a caregiver and an immunisation health worker should be cordial in such a way that the confidence will improve and Nigeria would not only be polio eradicated but measles eradicated,” he said.

us in the health sector. “The President should break the jinx to create fairness and justice among all the different categories of professionals within the health sector and this will create a sense of humility in whoever is appointed as he or she will appreciate that he/she is not all in all”, he added. NUAHP boss remarked that his members were not out to attack their colleagues in the medical profession, but, were only seeking for justice, fair play, equity and commonality of direction towards ensuring that the best of health practices are available to the generality of the people. “The major problem besetting the sector is selfcentredness, lack of teamwork, disregard for the rule of law and financial and administrative corruption. For balancing, harmony, peace, social justice and all round development, our union strongly canvasses that the new Health Minister should be appointed from members of Allied Health Professionals”, the NUAHP President added.

Thursday, 8 October, 2015

healthpeople Feeling, looking young is possible with surgery —Ajayi Tola Ajayi, Coordinator, Body Art Cosmetic Surgery Centre, Lagos, in this interview with Sade Oguntola speaks on how individuals can resort to use of cosmetic surgery to improve their looks, by so doing, boost their well-being.

ellness is the complete integration of the body mind and spirit. So, how true is it that everything we do, think, feel and believe has an effect on our state of wellbeing? There is a connection between the mind, the body and the spirit that even books like the Holy Bible makes us to understand. The body, mind and spirit of an individual that is ill are affected. This is why, for instance, when an individual is happy, it will be evident on the person’s face, action, body movement and so on. This is why the health of a person that is always unhappy, who will not socialise and feed well, would be affected negatively over time. Before long, high blood pressure, inability to sleep and of course depression, may set in. Does it therefore infer that such attributions like looking and feeling young, people can achieve through procedures like cosmetic surgery, rather than dreaming it? Well, looking good starts from the mind. It starts with accepting that you want to look good. Looking good is not synonymous with being rich. It involves the person’s personality, confidence and so on, and not what an individual wears or its cost. Certainly individuals can feel and look young. But looking and feeling young are two different things. Looking young is about what people see, feeling young is something that is inside of you. Feeling young will make you look young because you would also want to do things that will make you look young. For instance, I put a lot of emphasis on my frame for glasses. It gives me a kind of pleasure, that I am trendy. This comes from within. For instance, when you compare two women that are 60 years of age that dress differently. There is the tendency to refer to the one that is always wearing Iro and Buba as the older one in comparison with the other one always in skinny jeans with trendy blouses and shirts. So in looking young, one might need to wear what is trendy and have a fitting hairdo, which really does not have to be expensive. Where does cosmetic surgery comes into looking youthful and attractive; having a self worth or looking the way you dream? Having a cosmetic surgery is a personal decision. For instance, in looking young, there may be certain parts of the body that are not in the right proportion or not acceptable that merely adjusting would

allow them to enjoy sex. They could have a form of surgery to ensure vagina tightening called vaginoplasty. This is far better than resorting to inserting chemical substances into their vagina and then sustaining injuries of different grades. Having vaginoplasty is perfectly okay, a lot of people do it. So, can virginity also be restored? Once virginity is broken that is the end, all that is possible is to tighten the vagina by making it more compact and not loose. But some experts talk about exercises like Kegel exercise as helpful in tightening vaginal muscles, and as such, ruling out the need for a surgical repair... Certainly, the exercise helps to strengthen the vaginal muscles, but there may be other reasons for the exercise to be prescribed for women, such as when she leaks urine. How receptive are people to cosmetic surgery services and procedures in Nigeria? It will surprise you that many Nigerians go for cosmetic surgery; it is just that many would not own up. Walking on the street, you might not be able to identify those that have undergone one form of cosmetic surgery or the other except they say so even when the difference in looks is obvious. So it is really what people do, without minding what anyone says. No doubt, Nigerians say a lot of things about cosmetic surgery because of lack of information. But cosmetic surgery is not something that needs to be done in secrecy, we want people to be able to come out to say I have undergone cosmetic surgery as well as do cosmetic surgery rightly.

Tola Ajayi make a person look better, fresh and youthful. It might be wrinkles that would need to be straightened out. Some individuals’ small butts need to be made bigger to look good. Now, we have a lot of artificial butts on sales to make small butts look bigger. You cannot imagine the number of people that walk around with artificial butts. Only people that they undress in their presence or confess to wearing an artificial butt will know about it. Rather, they can use a cosmetic surgery to have a permanent solution. Similarly, women who do not want their

Liposuction is not a permanent solution to weight control, although it is very useful in getting rid of fats that despite exercises and dieting remain a challenge

breast to look as if it is sagging wear the type of bra that pushes it up a little. Rather than all these, at Body Art Cosmetic Surgery Centre, cosmetic surgery, can be done to increase breast and butts sizes and ensure a good breast cleavage required for that nice dress. Butts that are too big or not firm can be reduced or tightened. To renew appearance and restore self confidence, eye brow lifting; chin and cheek lift can be done for individuals that are not happy with their face. Now more people are losing weight and with this come sagging skin in different parts of the body such as the arm, tummy and thigh. No amount of exercise will take off the excess skin flab in an individual, for instance, whose weight dropped from 150kilogrammes to 70kilogrammes. This would need to be removed by cosmetic surgical procedures. Issues of embarrassing tribal marks on the face or a tear on the ear lobe can all be effectively made less repulsive through different cosmetic surgical procedures, all in the bid to improve a person’s looks and confidence. People work on all these, at least, to make them feel good. After child birth, the vagina muscles can become loose. Women say that it does not

How safe are cosmetic surgery procedures? They are safe. There is no need for it to be done in secrecy, which could expose one to the danger of falling into the hands of surgeons who are not well trained for cosmetic surgery. So, it may not be safe. But at our centre, our watch word is safety because we have being in business for long and have a name to protect. Can liposuction, a cosmetic surgical procedure, be a permanent solution to weight control? Liposuction is not a permanent solution to weight control, although it is very useful in getting rid of fats that despite exercises and dieting remain a challenge. Even when excess fat is removed through liposuction, there is still the need to keep exercising, proper diet and refraining from old habits that can allow for the fat to accumulate again. Liposuction only helps to remove the accumulated fats; it will not stop its accumulation. Will a breast implant affect possibility of breastfeeding in the future? Breast feeding should be discussed with the breast surgeon before any breast surgery or implant is put so that the surgeon can adjust the technique in helping to maintain the woman’s ability to breast feed later on, if she so wishes.

37 By Sade Oguntola

N herb garden is the perfect way to bring a bit of nature into maintaining good health, no green thumb required! And growing own herbs is much more convenient—and affordable— than buying them at the local markets. Regardless of where one lives, space or time should be no excuse for not growing herbs that can come useful to provide fresh and delicious food, treat or prevent common ailments, thus supporting wellness. Having an herb or vegetable garden with the indigenous plants, national chairperson of the Association of Lady Pharmacists (ALPs), Mrs Zainab Shariff, said is something that individuals could adopt for their nutritional, economic and health benefits. Already, ALPs is promoting cultivation of vegetables and other plants that have nutritional, economic and health benefits. For instance, in Delta State, a garden has been identified where the association has cultivated medicinal plants, which they are using in training women. Shariff listed vegetables and other medicinal plants that can be cultivated in home gardens to include moringa, fluted pumpkin leaves (Ugwu), Okazi (wild spinach or Afang leaves), Oha, sweet basil (Efinrin) ginger, and zobo (Roselle or Sorrel). Locally, okazi is used as a remedy for sore throat, nausea, reducing pain during childbirth or as a dressing for warts. Okazi is also a rich source of protein and has an anti-inflammatory, anti- cancer and antioxidant properties. It contains iron and iodine. Shariff, remarking that one of the best species of moringa grows in Nigeria, declared that Zobo is a medicinal plant that is useful in the management of blood pressure and can be found in the North east as well as an ingredient for vitamin C. Researchers’ assessment of its effects on the immune system indicated in the July 2013 edition of the African

Sex is fun, it feels good, and is a great way to be physically and emotionally close to your partner. But without an orgasm or sexual climax, it can be a less satisfying experience for both people involved. Orgasm, is the climax of sexual excitement, which comes with intense muscle tightening around the genital area, this is experienced as a pleasurable wave of tingling sensations through parts of the body; which leads to a feeling of complete fulfillment after a sexual activity or experience. There, however, could be physical or emotional reasons why you are not experiencing sexual climax; with the right diagnosis and possibly a sex therapy you can learn how to achieve orgasm and have a satisfying sexual relationship. Some people feel the issue of not having orgasm is absolutely for women only, this is wrong because, both men and women experience this problem. The good thing, however, is that, help is available for both sexes. While some women may have difficulty achieving, men also can have orgasm difficulties as well, especially if there are physical or emotional issues at play in the relationship. Reasons why some people cannot have orgasm or climax during sex, include; Not having an orgasm at all,

Thursday, 8 October, 2015

natural

health Create your own herbal garden

Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology that Zobo (Hibscus sabdariffa) stimulates the production of various blood cell components.

sex,sexuality

&your health With Monica Taiwo

strictly adult teenagers, adult & geriatric sexual well being

08187754992 (sms only) taiwomonica@gmail.com

Help for couples who can’t achieve sexual climax having a delayed orgasm; taking a long time or needing a lot of stimulation to achieve orgasm. Not having a satisfactory orgasm, delayed ejaculation and ejaculation without orgasm. Some potential causes of these problems in women and men could be as a result of problem/ problems in the relationship, boredom in the bedroom, emotional or physical trauma, like rape or abuse. Others include, health conditions that affect nerves or hormone levels, being shy or embarrassed about sex. Lack of education about orgasms, sex, and what form of stimulation works best for you. Side effects of certain medications, including some antidepressants. Fear can keep both sexes from experiencing orgasm. Being afraid of letting go, afraid of going crazy; fear, in other words. Another explanation could be the physiologically in nature; this could be that the sex partners are not getting the right stimulation.

By cultivating bitter leaf in the herbal garden, she said such will come handy for making vegetable soup and in the treatment of malaria and diabetes. Bitter leaf is rich in vitamins and minerals. In traditional medicine, it is also used to treat hepatitis, diarrhoea, dysentery, menstrual pain, and cough. The leaves are also used as medicine for scabies. It also reduces the sugar level of the body drastically and repairs the pancreas and kidneys which makes it great for diabetic patients. She said Ugwu (fluted pumpkin) is well known for its health benefits, including blood production, treating dizziness and as an immune booster. Ugwu is rich in minerals such as calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron and folic acid which make it highly nutritious. It is also a good source of vitamins A, C and, K and lots of minerals. Researchers also found out that eating meals rich in fluted pumpkin leaves and seeds helps prevent cancer, improves blood count, beats diabetes, reduce blood glucose and cholesterol levels. Also, African basil (Efirin in Yoruba; Daidoya in Hausa; Nchuawun in Igbo), which is a digestive stimulant, can used to prepare pepper soup or as a remedy for constipation. In traditional medicine, it is used to lower blood pressure, reduce blood sugar level and treat piles. In Congo, scent leaf decoction is used for diarrhoea and gonorrhoea infection. In Nigeria, it is also used as a strong mosquito repellent. Leaves of vegetable jute (Corchorus olitorius, Ewedu in Yoruba or Ahihiara in Ibo) are a rich source of beta carotene, iron, calcium and vitamin C, as well as an immune booster. When it is pounded with rubber leaves and mixed with a little water, its filtrate can be taken as a remedy for irregular menstrual flow in women. In herbal medicine, it is used to control or prevent dysentery, worm infestation and constipation. Its leaves are also used for pain, piles, and tumours. To get the herb garden started without any major problems, ensure you choose healthy plants or seed. An ideal location would be a place not too far from the house.

If either a man or a woman is used to achieving an orgasm with his or her own hand; masturbation, someone else’s touch and body part might seem strange and this could hinder sexual climax or orgasm. Getting help Most doctors and even certain therapists do not have training in sexuality and sexual problems. If you are experiencing difficulty achieving an orgasm, seeing a sex therapist may help root out the reason and get the right treatment. A sex therapist can also help determine if you are having a physical problem, and recommend that you see a physician. To help identify the problem, a sex therapist will ask about your sexual history. Be prepared for topics to include a frank discussion of your current partners, masturbation practices, and the nature of your symptoms. A sex therapist will also ask about your expectations of sex and what you want to achieve in your sex life. If there is a medical problem, your doctor will prescribe the appropriate treatment. And if the cause is psychological, working with a sex therapist can help. For the female orgasm, a woman should learn how to achieve orgasm by herself and realises exactly what kind of stimulation it takes, including whether she needs to fantasise in order to have an orgasm. For men, the process is similar. Part of the solution is the same for men and women when it comes to sex; you have got to talk about it with your partner. If you want to achieve multiple orgasms or just feel uninhibited in the bedroom, you have to be open about your wants and needs. While it could be normal to be embarrassed to talk about these intimate issues or be afraid of your partner’s reaction, you have to open up. If you can’t relax because of some unresolved problems between you, even if it is because the house is a mess; you must address it if you want to have a satisfying sexual experience. Talk about what you want, what you like, and what you need because if orgasm difficulties are affecting you, they are also affecting your partner. Talking about sex and intimacy will only bring you closer together, and help ignite the fireworks you are looking for in the bedroom.

Thursday, 8 October, 2015 Group Politics Editor Taiwo Adisa - 08072000046 tai_adis@yahoo.com

Following the rapprochement between President Muhammadu Buhari and Senate President Bukola Saraki on Independence Day, October 1, many expected the combatants against the Senate President to sheath their swords, but there are still some rumbles. Groups Politics Editor, TAIWO ADISA, provides some insights.

Saraki: The endless plots in the Senate

hose who saw the pictures of President Muhammadu Buhari and Senate President Bukola Saraki at the Independence Day celebration in Aso Rock, Abuja as published in the newspapers last Friday would easily conclude that it heralded a new dawn. The duo were caught exchanging pleasantries in many pictures while some showed the two leaders in hearty laughter. Earlier on Wednesday, Saraki had prevented what appeared like a legislative coup, where senators had planned to ambush the list of nominees sent by the President and reject them even before screening. The senators had expected Saraki to list the names of the nominees into three agencies named in August by President Buhari. The anger was that the nominees had assumed office before their screening and the lawmakers were waiting to extort their pound of flesh from the executive. According to the plot, the senators were to overwhelmingly shout “Nay” immediately Saraki mention the names of the nominees in the process of assigning them to committees for screening. The same procedure was used to stall the screening of Mrs Mfon Akpan named by former President Goodluck Jonathan in 2012. The woman was not confirmed, leading to the appointment of an acting chairmen until August when Babatunde Fowler, nominated by President Buhari assumed the office in acting capacity. But Saraki had got wind of the plot and refused to list the names of the nominees on the Order paper. The nominees included Mr Williams Babatunde Fowler, as executive chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Umaru Garba Dambatta, an engineer, the nominated as vice chairman of the National Communication Commission (NCC), Ahmed Lawan Kuru, nominated as Managing Director of Asset Management Corporation (AMCON), as well as Messrs Kola Ayeye, Eberechukwu Fortunate Uneze and Alhaji Aminu Ismail, who were nominated as executive directors of AMCON. By Senate tradition and the Rules of the Senate, the upper chamber was expected to publish names of the nominees on the Order Paper a day after letters of their nomination were read in the plenary. Publishing the names would enable the Senate President assign the nominees to the relevant committees to handle their screening. But, the Senate President, according to sources, refrained from putting the names of the nominees on the Order

Saraki paper to ensure that a peace move he had flagged off was allowed to jell and help forestall the ambush of the nominations. Without that intervention, the Senate would have witnessed an outright rejection of the nominees. Though he had read the official communication from President Buhari on Tuesday, the names were not in the Order paper for Wednesday, prompting Senator Barnabas Gemade to raise Order 40(1) of the Senate Standing orders 2015 to question the perceived lapse.

The Order states that “The President of the Senate shall immediately after prayers ....read to the Senate any message addressed to the Senate by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.” But Saraki, relying on Order 40 (2) and the intervention of the Senate deputy Leader, Bala Ibn Na’allah, declared that the Senate had the latitude to publish the names at a later date. The Order read: “A message from the President, if presented to the Senate by the Leader of the Senate may be brought up at any time before the

Saraki waited until they brought the list and his office immediately shared pictures of the incident. That shows that the National Assembly will always co-operate with the President to ensure that state policies, programmes and appointments get the necessary legislative backing.

commencement or at the close of public business, and shall be considered forthwith or ordered to be considered upon a future day.” A competent source had said: “If the Senate President had raised the issue of the nominees last Wednesday, the fear was that they could be rejected outright. The anger against them was palpable on the floor.” The source said that by doing that, the Senate President had demonstrated good faith and readiness to work with the executive. He was said to further show-cased this when he stayed back in the office till 5pm on Wednesday to receive the ministerial list. The source added: “If the Senate President had left the office after the sitting, it meant officials of the Presidency would not have met the September deadline given by the President for the submission of the list. “But Saraki waited until they brought the list and his office immediately shared pictures of the incident. That shows that the National Assembly will always co-operate with the President to ensure that state policies, programmes and appointments get the necessary legislative backing.” continues pg40

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What are the fears? continued from pg38

Besides the personal efforts of the Senate President at presenting himself as a dove in the unfolding scenario, there are other stakeholders said to be working in the same vein. A set of peacemakers comprising leaders of the party was said to have kick started a peace efforts aimed at dousing the rising tension between the Presidency and the Senate President. Some influential members of the APC were said to have elected themselves as peacemakers in the unfolding scenario and have also decided to get former President Olusegun Obasanjo and a former governor of Lagos state, Senator Bola Tinubu involved in the deal. As a result of the feud over the leadership of the Senate, Saraki only visited the Presidential Villa for the first time in four months during the Independence celebrations on October 1. Even at that, the sources said that Buhari could not sideline the Senate President from the state function, since it would be against the state protocol to do so. This new move is said to have coincided with the mandate given by the House of Representatives to Speaker Yakubu Dogara to intervene and bring the two leaders together with the overall objective of resolving the imbroglio in the Senate. The contention coming out of the peace moves however indicated that, while peace could reign in line with political solutions, there are bound to be casualties. According to a source: “There is a two-way arrangement aimed at saving Saraki on the table. One is the move from the House in search of political solution. The second is an initiative of some leaders who have decided to involve Obasanjo and Tinubu. The second group also plans to ensure the duo of Obasanjo and Tinubu reach out to President Buhari for his proposal on the lasting solution.” Sources said that some options are already being put forward including a possible reconfiguration of the leadership structure of the Senate in a way that will accommodate the party’s interest. A source said that the political solution might work in the case of Saraki if the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) takes the same position it took in the case of Tinubu, where it nullified the suit for failure of the Code of Conduct Bureau to intimate the former governor of any complaints to his CCB forms before instituting the trial. “There are indications that the CCB trial is being threatened due to CCT’s earlier ruling on Tinubu, which fits the Saraki case. But the system is still angry and the alternative out there is to get Saraki to the negotiating table to give one thing for his safety,” another source said. So, what will Saraki give? That is the difficult question out there. He cannot give his deputy, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, who is one of the sources of anger of the APC. Ekweremadu is of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which has 49 senators in the chamber. He has also filled the leadership positions in the Senate with his own loyalists, thus shutting out the likes of SUF’s leader, Senator Ahmad Lawan, who was tipped as Senate Majority Leader at a stage by the ruling party and other senators named by the party for accommodation. Opponents commence search for successors Notwithstanding that demonstration of readiness to make peace, opponents of Senator Saraki are however unrelenting in

Gemade

Akume

Lawan

Adamu

Some options are already being put forward, including a possible reconfiguration of the leadership structure of the Senate in a way that will accommodate the party’s interest.

their quest to battle him out of office. Meetings held in Asokoro and Jahi areas of Abuja on Wednesday and Friday last week indicated that senators opposed to Saraki are still in the trenches. Members of the Senate Unity Forum (SUF), the group loyal to the All Progressives Congress (APC), were said to be doing all they could to unseat Saraki. Investigations showed that in the SUF camp, a search for Saraki’s successors had commenced with names already being bandied about. The initial search was said to have included North-East and NorthCentral senators. But, indications emerged

that the North-Central had got the nod. It was gathered that Senators Barnabas Gemade, George Akume and Abdullahi Adamu were being mentioned. However, a section of that camp is of the view that the senate should ensure religious balancing by picking a Muslim as Saraki’s likely successor. Some of the party chiefs had argued that the emergence of Speaker Dogara from the North-East appeared to have knocked out that zone from contention for the Senate President, while the zone has also enjoyed high profile appointments including the

Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the Chief of Staff to the President, the National Security Adviser and the Chief of Army staff. But, some leaders of the battle against Saraki are said to be insisting that Senator Lawan could still emerge the Senate President since Dogara is leading a separate chamber. Members of the other section of the anti-Saraki forces are however said to be wary of the implication for the Federal Character principle, especially as a number of appointments have already been concentrated in the North East. A source said that some of those in the plot have suggested that the next senate president should come from the North Central if they are able to get at Saraki. Those in that class also said that the successor to Saraki should be a Muslim from the North-Central since Dogara, who leads the House of Representatives, is a Christian. Another school of thought in the same camp was however believed to be disposed to a possibility of Senator Lawan taking the slot, as according to them, the emergence of Saraki and Speaker Dogara was against the wishes of the party in the first instance.

39 politicscommentary

Thursday, 8 October, 2015

Still waiting for Mr President’s magic wand By Ayodele Adesanmi

HEN the present Federal administration mooted its desire to start implementing the Single Treasury Account (STA) few months ago, many Nigerians received the presidential moves with mixed feelings. The reactions of people cut across professional lines: bankers, forex dealers, insurance practitioners, builders and even traders have different views on the implications of adopting that type of fiscal policy, especially at this period that Nigeria is experiencing a lot of economic challenges. The government made the first moves sometime in July this year but as at today the enforcement of the Treasury Single Account (TSA) has been finally adopted by the Federal Government. Ever before it was mentioned, Nigerians have expressed fears of liquidity squeeze due to the possible unification of government accounts by the Federal Government. No doubt, there was genuine need to fear at that early period; and with the Monetary Policy Rate at 13 per cent, Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) at 20% and 75% for private and public sector deposits respectively, it was very clear that its implementation would be tough for banks particularly. The effects it has on banks are colossal. First is that the financial policy is capable of pruning down the workforce of virtually all financial institutions in the country. By so doing, there will be more pressure on the labour market which is already saturated with high number of unemployed youths. It is interesting to note that most Nigerian banks survive and service the manpower development with the proceeds got from interests. When these banks are forced to keep these monies in the CBN coffers, then that benefits must have been removed completely. That is not all; another critical aspect of the STA fallout is that returns of lenders in Nigeria, driven substantially by net interest margins, would further be wiped away by the TSA implementation. It is so, because the STA, which is supposed to unify and monitor incoming and outgoing government transactions for transparency and accountability, will deny the banks huge funds belonging to Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) which were hitherto lodged in the vaults of banks. But common sense dictates that if you don’t pump money into the system, nothing happens. How then can the banks finance private sector investments, small and media scale enterprises (SMEs) and other microeconomic projects capable of taking the economy to the next level with the STA regime? With dearth of money in the system, portfolio investors from outside the country, no doubt, may not be interested in doing business in the country. The unfavourable investment climate has been made evens more difficult following the recent ban on payment of cash into domiciliary accounts in the country by Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). Although the apex bank said that it took such action in order to stop illicit financial flows in the Nigerian banking system, a move that aligns with the anti-money laundering stance of the Federal Government, but how can it be explained that such drastic action is coming at a time President Buhari is unable to appoint his ministers who ordinarily would have assisted in facilitating the budget process. In the absence of ministers, is it any surprise that the government of the day has not shown or indicated any form of economic master plan to her people?

Buhari The value of Naira has continued to nosedive. Last September the CBN devalued the currency to N168 against the dollar in its struggle to rescue the naira. However, the intervention didn’t stop the currency from

slumping further. This free fall is taking place notwithstanding Buhari’s campaign promise to strengthen the naira once he assumed office. The impression given by the president and the All Progressives Con-

He should meet up its obligation to the people and make sure there is liquidity in the economic system so as to open up avenues for investments, economic activities and growth generally.

gress, APC, leadership was that Jonathan was responsible for the depreciation of the naira even as the former President’s economic team had correctly fingered falling oil practices. Reports had it in one of the dailies where Buhari was quoted to have said that he would bring up the Naira equal to the dollar if he was elected. Unfortunately, the APC had driven partisanship to a ridiculous dimension denigrating the former President in very uncomplimentary language as an incompetent manager of the economy. So what is happening now? Is it not ironical that the same APC is now blaming falling oil prices for its gross inability to deliver on campaign benchmarks? Or is it the case of what goes round comes around? Poor me: I was among those who naively thought that when Buhari sails on, he would use his magic wand to automatically stabilize the naira and take the Nigerian economy to the next level. The way things are, I do not think we are anywhere near that land of “milk and honey” promised us by the President. Be that as it may, Nigeria has not experienced this level of economic hardship in a long time. Nor have we been so annoyingly confronted with a government that refuses to operate the national budget while borrowing recklessly to fund operations and stultifying capital projects. To imagine that virtually all construction work has grinded to a halt bespeaks of scuttled infrastructure growth not to think of the specter of grinding unemployment that looms in the horizon, what, with construction companies alone said t have released a staggering 64, 000 hands into the labour market. What exactly is Buhari up to? Where is his economic agenda? Where is his magic wand? As at today, many private enterprises have also been hard hit. Many have closed shops and the few ones remaining are groaning under the pressure of harsh economic policy coupled with unfriendly business environment. Traders can’t source foreign exchange. Financial institutions are the primary victims of the administration’s economic ruckus as the banks are no longer in a position to sustain the labour force they are carrying. Recently Fitch Ratings warned that Nigerian banks may be heading into financial and operational storms. It based its opinion on what it described as the increasing difficult conditions under which the banks are operating. One would have therefore, expected the government of the day to create enabling environment for these financial institutions to survive but the reverse has remained the case since May 29 this year. Could it be part of the change phenomena? Whether the banks would survive or not depends largely on government policies and reforms targeted at sincere growth and development of the economy. Buhari should therefore, come out openly and point to the direction where Nigeria is heading to. He should learn to work with the budget and also intimate Nigerians on the proper amount of money in the system. In addition, he should meet up its obligation to the people and make sure there is liquidity in the economic system so as to open up avenues for investments, economic activities and growth generally. We have waited for so long and those pre -election promises are obviously, not what we are getting as at today. Change, sometimes from my standpoint, could be a mystery if not outright misery! •Adesanmi, a political scientist, writes from Lagos.

MACHINE K1 USERS PUBLIC EDITION FOLDER POLITICS (BIG LOGO) PAGE-C

politics&policy

(GEORGE)

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What are the fears? continued from pg38

Gemade

Akume

Lawan

Adamu

Some options are already being put forward, including a possible reconfiguration of the leadership structure of the Senate in a way that will accommodate the party’s interest.

41 news

Thursday, 8 October, 2015

We inherited N14.3bn pension liability in Kaduna —el-Rufai

aduna State governor, Nasir elRufai, on Wednesday, revealed that his administration inherited a pension liability of N14.3 billion when he assumed office in May. El-Rufai made the disclosure at the maiden edition of the African Pension Award organised by the World Pension Summit Africa in Abuja. “When we got sworn in May this year, we inherited pensions and gratuity deficit of N14.3 billion unfunded; we are still grappling on how to resolve that,” he said. The governor also said that his administration inherited a partly funded defined pension contribution scheme of N4 billion. El-Rufa’i said the government, under the guidance of the National Pension Commission (NPC), had redrafted a new pension reform law for the state as part of efforts to strengthen pension admistration. He said the state execu-

tive council had already approved the draft law which would be forwarded to the state assembly for approval. “Actually the state executive council approved it just (yesterday) October 6 that will strengthen the pension regime in Kaduna

State to be consistent with the provision of Pension Reform Act of 2014,” he said. The governor expressed the hope that in seven to eight years time, the pension scheme in the state would be fully funded to take care of retirees benefits.

On investment, the governor advocated a significant reduction in interest rate on lending by financial institutions in the country. He disclosed that the state government was investing in infrastructure to create an enabling environment for investment,

and was also subsidising farmers to attract investment in the agriculture sector. The Governor of Akwa Ibom, Mr Udom Emmanuel, said that his state had been operating the defined benefit scheme over the years.

From left, an expert on global economy, financial markets and policy, Dr Gerald Lyons; Governors Nasir el-Rufai of Kaduna; Emmanuel Udom of Akwa Ibom and Atiku Bagudu of Kebbi states, on the governors’ panel, during the Africa Pension Awards, in Abuja, on Tuesday night. PHOTO: Nan

Icpc lauds nafdac’s anti-graft fight The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has commended the efforts of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) for being in the forefront of fighting corruption in the country, particularly in the Pharmaceutical and food industries. Chairman of the commission, Mr Ekpo Nta represented by Deputy Director in the commission, Mr Akeemd Lawal made the commendation at the flagoff of a 3-day sensitisation workshop for NAFDAC staff in Enugu, organised by the Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) of the agency. He said NAFDAC as an anti-corruption compliant agency had taken leadership through the instrument of ACTU to strengthen its system and put in place workable strategies that prevented corruption within the system. He stated further that it had helped immensely in the successes recorded in the fight against counterfeit regulated products. Earlier, the DirectorGeneral of NAFDAC, Dr Paul Orhii represented by the Director of Special Duties, Dr Abubakar Jimoh said in order to enthrone transparency, the Agency introduced e-Registration process through computerisation to allow the client initiate and monitor their application for product registration from the comfort of their room.

This, according to him, had prevented the incidence of corruption hitherto associated with the process. Speaking further, Dr Abubakar said other strategies adopted by the

Agency especially the use of cutting-edge technologies such as the TRUSCAN and Mobile Authentication Service, (MAS) were deployed to check the incident of counterfeit on-the-

spot and prevent fraudulent practices. He attributed the huge successes recorded by the Agency, especially the reduction of the prevalence of counterfeit

antimalarial drugs from 64 per cent in 2005 to just 3.4 per cent in 2014 to the multi-layered and well co-ordinated strategies antithetical to corruption.

Shittu’s nomination will rekindle our faith in Nigeria —Groups From Biola Azeez and Ogundele Samson Oke Ogun people of Oyo State, have lauded President Muhammadu Buhari for including the name of Mr Adebayo Shittu among other ministerial nominees, recently. The commendation was contained in a release signed by the acting President and General Secretary, Mr Doja Oladele and Mr Jare Ajayi, respectively, of Oke Ogun Development Council (ODC). “It is known fact that President Buhari is a stickler for excellence. To enable him realise his noble objectives for a Nigeria of our dream, he needs people of equal mien as his lieutenants. Adebayo Shittu is a man of sterling qualities – integrity, finesse, incorruptibility, dedication to causes he believes in, hard work, honesty, piety and of course, unquestionable patriotism – qualities he shares with Mr President. In a related development, a socio-cultural organisation of Oke-Ogun people of Oyo State, Oke Ogun Forum, has said that the choice of an indigene of the

area, Mr Shittu, as ministerial nominee, will bring government nearer to the people and eradicate political oppression and marginalisation. This was just as the group condemned the protest against the choice of Shittu as a ministerial nominee. A statement signed by the chairman of the forum, Chief Lasisi Adewuyi, a copy of which was made available to journalists in Ilorin, on Wednesday, said Barrister Shittu worked

relentlessly for APC’s victory during the last general election, noting that any protest against him was uncalled for. Also, members of the National Association of Saki Elite (NASE), at home and abroad, have called on President Buhari to discountenance the objection raised by the leadership of the Oyo State All Progressives Congress (APC) for the nomination of Shittu, a legal practitioner, as a ministerial nominee from

the state. The call was contained in a joint statement by the national president and general secretary of the association, Messrs Dele Togunde and Abraham Ogunkanmbi, respectively. According to the group, Shittu was a member of the Oyo State House of Assembly during the Second Republic, a former Oyo State Commissioner for Justice and a political big wig in Saki, Oke-Ogun area and Oyo State for many decades.

Fasanmi writes Buhari, says Nigeria witnessing rebirth Clement Idoko -Abuja A leader of Afenifere, Pa Ayo Fasanmi, has commended the bold steps and political will demonstrated by President Muhammadu Buhari, towards tackling the cankerworm of corruption in Nigeria. He said Nigeria is currently witnessing what he called a second re-birth under President Buhari. The nonagenarian, in a letter written to President Buhari, which he personally signed on October 3, 2015, said he was appre-

ciative of the president for his warm message of congratulations during his 90th birthday recently. He said he was humbled by the sentiments expressed in the message and he felt honoured by the attention paid to him. Fasanmi noted that corruption was being vigorously tackled and infrastructural deficiencies being eliminated by the present administration, adding that more than ever before, insurgency was being checked under the Buhari administration.

The Afenifere chieftain, in the letter addressed to the president, said: “I am indeed thankful to God to be alive to see the beginning of a second re-birth for Nigeria under your leadership. “The cankerworm of corruption that had arrested the development of our beloved country and rendered its institutions dysfunctional is being vigoroursly tackled. In addition, other infrastructural deficiencies especially in the energy sector are gradually being eliminated.

‘Obasanjo, quintessential, visionary leader’ By Gbenga Olumide A fellow of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors, Dr Segun Osifeso, has described former President Olusegun Obasanjo as a quintessential leader, whose tenure as the nation’s president brought sustained peace and significant socio-economic development to Nigeria in particular and Africa in general. Osifeso, who stated this in a statement on the prestigious Leadership Person of the Year 2014 Award being conferred on Chief Obasanjo, noted that the contributions of the former president to the unity of the country would continue to be a reference point and a rich resource in national discourse. He expressed joy in the transformation the country witnessed during Chief Obasanjo’s regime as a military head of state and as civilian president, stressing that the former president is, indeed, a visionary and charismatic leader whose exemplary leadership style is worthy of emulation.

Delay, non-payment of salaries economic crime Muhammad Sabiu - Kaduna Chairman of Industrial Global Union that has registered workers from 141 countries, Comrade Issa Aremu, has observed that it is economic crime to delay or not to pay the wages of workers as and when due in some states of the federation. He made this known in a statement issued to newsmen in Kaduna, on the occasion of the World Decent Day celebration. Aremu observed that the non-payment of salaries of workers for close to seven months in some states in Nigeria, and the delayed and non-payment of salaries is wage theft which should be treated as economic crime. “Workers have the right to make ungovernable and unmanageable companies and states that are defaulting on wage payment, remittance of pension contributions and union dues.” Aremu, who is also the Secretary General of Textiles Union Workers, commended Buhari for working out ways and means to assist some states governors to meet their wage obligations.”

42 communitynews

Thursday, 8 October, 2015

Rivers residents, traders bemoan incessant flood dapo falade-port harcourt

esidents of Rumuodomaya in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State have cried out over incessant flooding ravaging the community. This is just as traders in the popular Mile 1 Market, Ikwerre Road, also lamented the pervading heavy rainfall, that had been disturbing their businesses. The people of Rumuodomaya blamed the recurring incident on the refusal of the local government to clear a nearby canal linking Rumuokoro, Rumuagholu, Rukpokwu and Rumuodomaya communities, despite several pleas by residents. Narrating his ordeal to newsmen in Port Harcourt, one of the residents, Dr Ralph Ezewuzie, said the recent flood, which occurred last Thursday, destroyed a lot of property in his clinic, including the X-ray and ultra-sound units and the laboratory. He appealed to the Rivers State Ministry of Environment and the State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA) to assist residents of affected communities to clear the canal of water hyacinth, which he said caused the

blockage of the canal. Also speaking, a landlord in the area, Francis Isomhie, said residents of the community have been passing through difficult times as a result of the overflowing of the canal, blaming it on the activities of traders at Rumuokoro Market. “After the heavy rain, my compound became flooded because the canal behind the fence was blocked by weed. “The traders by the canal are also not helping

matters; they are always throwing refuse there, blocking the waterway. “We have called the attention of the local government to it. We have also called the attention of RIWAMA but they have not done anything about it. The flooding has been like that overtime. “We approached the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and it was NEMA that mounted

pressure on the local government that made them to come here three weeks ago, but they only cleared the entrance to the canal. “Whenever this canal is blocked, the whole of Rukpokwu, Rumuagholu, Rumuokoro and Rumuodomaya is flooded. Go to the communities now, you will notice that a lot of people are cleaning their houses as a result of the flood,” he said. Another resident of

Nwosu Street in Rumuodomaya, Solomon Okereke, stated that the flood destroyed his poultry farm as well as part of his wife’s church building and appealed to the state government to come to their aid by clearing the canal. Also speaking with Community News, a butcher and meat seller at the Mile 1 Market, Saheed Lawal, said the floodthat occurred last week Monday, greatly affected, his

Flooded Mile 1, Ikwerre Road, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, after the Monday downpour. Photo: DAPO FALADE.

Traditional rulers cry out over killings by unknown persons Worried by incessant killings and burning of market shops by unidentified persons within Uvuru autonomous community in Abah Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State, traditional rulers in the area have called on security agents to intensify efforts in protecting life and property in every nook and cranny of the area. It will be recalled that in the last three weeks, three persons have been reportedly killed while goods worth thousands of naira were destroyed by yet-tobe-identified persons. Speaking on the incidents, the traditional ruler of Akpotu/Egbelu (Isiala), Eze Eugene Onyenwe Ebubedike Isi II, who condemned the act, told Community News that the incidents had prompted several meetings of Ndieze aimed at

proferring a lasting solution to the situation. He disclosed that local guards attached to the markets were presently in police net for interrogation, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend the culprits. He added that all relevant unions within the

community were meeting on a daily basis on the issue. Also condemning the incidents, the paramount ruler of Umurobara Okwunakuwa Uvuru, advised youths in the area to desist from taking drug and alcohol.

He said Ndieze had been meeting with relevant security agencies over the issue and that the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of the area had promised to do everything possible to arrest the perpetrators.

Community News, however, learnt that normalcy is gradually returning to the community, while security agents are keeping 24hour vigil to ensure free movement of people and transaction of business, especially at the market.

Monarch laments youth unemployment Biola Azeez-Ilorin

A traditional ruler, the Magaji Aare of Ilorin, Alhaji Aremu Zubair, has lamented the high rate of youth unemployment in his domain. He said engaging jobless youths in his domain had been his greatest challenge since he ascended the stool of his forebears a decade ago. He, however, said that despite the challenge,

youth restivenens had been curtailed in his domain. The Magaji Aare spoke with journalists in Ilorin during a special prayer to mark the 10th anniversary of his ascension to the throne. He commended the state government for creating jobs for the people of the state but stressed that government cannot do it alone. “The challenges are many; one of them is

how do you cater for your people, especially unemployed youths? Sometimes the civil service in the state comes to the rescue, I thank God. But my main problem is how do I get job for these boys?” the Magaji Aare said. In his lecture, a renowned Islamic cleric, Sheik Sulyman Faruk Onikijipa, said the reign of the Magaji Aare had been peaceful. The cleric said the

traditional ruler had achieved a feat that no one thought was achievable in the community. Also in his lecture, Sheik Buhari Musa, said Idi-Ape community had carved a niche for itself such that the history of Ilorin can never be complete without a mention of the area. He advised those in positions of authority to be sensitive to the plight of the masses.1

business as the meat he displayed for sale were washed away. “This is not the first time we will be experiencing flood, but what happened last week Monday was as a result of a long period of neglect. “Though Ikwerre Road is one of the best in the state, the drainages are either narrow or badly done. This has been causing flood whenever it rains. “As it happened on Monday, the entire road was blocked after the afternoon rain. My business was disturbed, even as some of the meat I displayed for sale were washed away by the flood”, he said. Another trader at the market, Hellen Nnachukwu, a fish-seller, also narrated her ordeal as she claimed that the Monday floodwashed away many of her fishes. She said she incurred a huge loss in her business on that day, adding that: “We are calling on Governor Nyesom Wike to come to our rescue and save us from hunger.”

Education secretary wants construction of classrooms in rural communities

Alhaji Mukhtar Mukaddari, the Education Secretary, Malammadori Local Government Area of Jigawa State, on Monday, canvassed for the construction of more classrooms in primary schools in the area. Mukaddari made the appeal during the public hearing on the 2016 budget preparation, organised by the council. He said the project should be captured in the budget to facilitate construction of additional structures to decongest classrooms in schools. “We need classrooms rather than furniture at Dantamo Primary School. “The council should also provide additional classrooms in other schools in the area,” he said. Also speaking, Alhaji Muhammad Sale, the District Head of Malammadori, urged the council to provide a patrol vehicle and an ambulance for the vigilance group. Sale also called for the construction of perimeter fencing of the graveyard in the area to enhance security at the cemetery.

opinion

Thursday, 8 October, 2015

The carnage of cattle rearers By Femi Fani-Kayode

support the call by Afenifere that all Fulani herdsmen should be banned from the South-West. Actually I believe that they should be banned from the entire South and not just the South West. I also stand by every word that I wrote in my widely published essay entitled, “The Herdsmen From Hell.” This contribution serves as a follow up to that essay. The bottom line is this: we do not want those that slaughter innocent people, including women and children, in our midst. Those that say that we must remain silent when aliens and vandals invade our land, rape our women and kill our people are, at best, misinformed and misuguided and, at worse, insensitive and wicked. How can they expect us to remain silent when our elders and leaders are being terrorised and brutalised on a regular basis. Those that harbor such views and that have such misgivings are suffering from a callous and diseased state of mind and they shall be put to shame. No matter what they say we will continue to expose and resist this barbarity and we shall continue to call it precisely what it is: pure and unadulterated evil. We shall not be intimidated by those that seek to silence us and neither shall we cowered into silence. I have no regrets for describing those murderous Fulani herdsmen as tsetse flies. Actually they are worse than that because, like Satan, they only come to kill, steal and destroy. It is obvious to any discerning mind that this categorisation is limited to those Fulani herdsmen that indulge in barbaric and criminal activities and not the entire Fulani race. Like any other ethnic group there are good Fulanis and there are bad ones. For someone to suggest that we ought to spare the bad ones simply because we are scared of offending the sensibilities of the good ones makes no sense to me. I have many Fulani friends and the last thing on my mind would be to demonise an entire ethnic group. For anyone to suggest that a literary attack and a verbal assault on a bunch murderers and killers who happen to be of Fulani extraction is an attack on the entire Fulani race is absurd. Worse still to describe such an attack as ‘’hate speech against the Fulani tribe’’ is simply asinine: it is nothing more than the gross manifestation of a subterranean slave mentality and an attempt at sucking up to those that believe that they own Nigeria. Those that have voiced such puerile nonsense ought to provide an answer to the following question: should we remain silent when we see some wicked and uneducated cattle rearers committing atrocities which may, if not properly checked, result in a full scale ethnic war? If the herdsmen had been Yoruba or Igbo I would have condemned them in similar terms and labelled them in precisely the same way. I may even have gone further because I would have expected far better from my own people. I also happen to know that if Yoruba or Igbo traders or farmers went to the core North and singled-out the elders, leaders, traditional rulers and women and children of the Fulani tribe for murder, pillage, torture and rape, all hell would have broken loose by now and their reaction would not have been limited to harsh words, strongly-worded essays and uncomplimentary categorisations. The bottom line is this: the days of us keeping quiet and suffering in silence in the name of political correctness are long over. If we don’t want trouble and we don’t want matters to escalate we must speak out against evil very clearly and very quickly and we must condemn and correctly label those that like to shed human blood at the drop of a hat. This is especially so when they prey on the weak, the elderly and the more vulnerable in our society. It is the gutless cowards that live amongst us that seek to play down the pillage, murder and rape of others that are guilty of hate crimes and collusion with genocidal maniacs and not those of us that have the courage to call a spade a spade. Those that support the atrocities of the herdsmen are insensitive to the feelings and sufferings of others and that is the biggest crime of all. They hate the victims of these terrible atrocities and they love and make excuses for the perpetrators. They are completely incapable of any form of empathy with those that have been violated and slaughtered and in their heart of hearts they relish the atrocities and they consider them fair game and fair sport. A good example of such people is the individual who leads an organisaton which is supposed to protect the rights of the less fortunate in our society. This individual apparently does not deem it appropriate to stand up against the evil that the herds-

men have been indulging in for the last few years and he prefers to pamper them. Why am I not surprised? Instead of speaking up for the human rights and civil liberties of those that have been maimed, killed and persecuted as he has been charged to do, the man is busy trying to say things that are politically correct. Whilst he is attempting to please and impress his new paymasters people are being killed by his cattlerearing friends on a daily basis. I say shame on him and those that think like him and I honestly believe that the blood of those innocent people that have been maimed and slaughtered by the herdsman are partly on his hands because he has encouraged them with his complicit silence and his veiled support. Given the attitude of men like that, coupled with the apparent indifference of the Federal Government to the whole issue, it is clear that the carnage and tyranny of the Fulani herdsmen may not end any time soon. I say this because barely 10 days after the abduction and matcheting (yes matcheting) of Chief Olu Falae and on October 1, 2015, which is Nigeria’s independence day, the Fulani herdsmen struck again. On that day, they abducted a traditional ruler from the Yoruba-speaking area of Kogi State. His name is Oba Adebisi Obademi and they abducted him from his palace in Apa-Bunu in the Kabba-Bunu area of his state. They have asked the family to pay a ransom for his release. On the same day they released a 70-year-old Yoruba cleric by the name of Pastor Japhet Obafemi who is from Ilepa, Ik-

It is the gutless cowards that live amongst us that seek to play down the pillage, murder and rape of others.

are Akoko in Ondo State. They had abducted him and kept him in tortuous captivity for 11 grueling days. Sadly a number of others whose homes were invaded by the herdsmen were not so lucky. Mr Agbaose Sowetan from Oja-Odan, Ogun State and Mrs Ayeshi Balogun from Asa village, Ogun State, both of whom were farmers, were not allowed to go home to their families but instead they were murdered in cold blood. According to press reports Mrs Balogun, who was a mother of three, was gang-raped before being hacked to death. Can there be any greater evil than this? Who will tame these wicked and hard-hearted herdsmen and who will clip the wings of these bloodthirsty cattle-rearers? Who will deliver us from these sadists and terrorists that have no sense of restraint or remorse and that have no mercy or compassion? Who will stand up to them boldly and say “let my people go”? Permit me to conclude this intervention by repeating an interesting and relevant contribution from the famous British historian, writer and educationist, Dr. T.R. Batten. He wrote: “The Fulani were at their most influential in Gobir. Then a dispute broke out between their Imam, Usman Dan Fodiyo and Sarkin Gobir Yunfa.The Fulani rallied behind their leader who encouraged them to defy their Hausa Chief. He began a jihad and fighting broke out. Thus the Fulani seized the country by force against the will of those who lived there. The enmity had nothing to do with religion for among those who fought (against the Fulani) were many Muslims. It was about the Fulani’s wish to seize power from the Hausas.” It follows that the herdsman and those that they represent conquer by infiltration, assimilation and guile. Those that doubt this should find out what became of the ancient Hausa kingdoms. They should also find out about the terrible fate that befell the famous Yoruba general, the Aare Ona Kakanfo of the old Oyo empire, Afonja, at the hands of Abdulsalami, the son of his erstwhile “ally” and friend the Fulani Salih Janta (A.K.A Shehu Alimi). After Afonja died, Abdulsalami killed his son and took over his throne in Ilorin. Since that time a Fulani Emir, with a flag from the Sultan of Sokoto, has ruled Ilorin whilst the Yoruba descendants of Afonja have been denied the throne in a predominantly Yoruba town that was founded and established by Aare Afonja, their illustrious Yoruba forefather. It is better to learn from the mistakes of history rather than to allow them to be repeated. •Chief Fani-Kayode is a former Minister of Aviation.

Thursday, 8 October, 2015

Palestinian woman ‘shot after stabbing Israeli man’

foreig naffairs

08116954632 with seyi gesinde foreignn ewseditor@gmail.com

Russian warships hit IS targets in Syria

ussia, which has been carrying out airstrikes in Syria, said on Wednesday that it has used four warships in the Caspian Sea to launch rockets at Islamic State targets in the war-torn country. Defense Minister, Sergei Shoigu, told President Vladimir Putin that the vessels fired 26 cruise missiles at 11 Islamic State targets that he said were destroyed. He said there were no civilian casualties. “The results of the strike confirmed the high effectiveness of the missles at great distances – nearly 1,500 kilometers,” Shoigu told Putin. Word of the Russian naval strikes in Syria comes as Russia considers coordinating with the United States and Turkey following criticism of its weekold Syrian campaign. The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which monitors violence in Syria, said Russian airstrikes Wednesday hit Hama and neighboring Idlib provinces, with Syrian troops using surfaceto-surface missiles in the area. Also on Wednesday, the head of a U.S.-trained rebel group called Liwa Suqour al-Jabal told Reuters that Russian airstrikes destroyed the group’s main weapons depot in Aleppo province after attacking the group’s

training camp in Idlib last week. A spokesman for Russia’s Defense Ministry said Russian and U.S. defense experts would meet on Wednesday to discuss proposals to “coordinate actions in the fight against” Islamic State militants in Syria. U.S. Defense Secretary Ash Carter told reporters on Tuesday that the two sides held talks last week that

were initiated by Russia. Carter also declined to comment on a U.S. response to Russian warplanes violating Turkish airspace, saying the issue would be covered at a meeting of NATO defense ministers on Thursday. Russia and Turkey have each talked about the prospect of establishing a joint working group to coordinate and prevent possible incidents related to Russian airstrikes in Syria.

Russian warship passes through the Bosphorus, in Istanbul, en route to the Mediterranean Sea, Oct. 6, 2015. PHOTO: AP

UNHCR: Migrant ‘hot spots’ must not be detention centres in disguise The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights called on Tuesday on EU member states to ensure that all discussions of migration policy are grounded in the need to protect the human rights of all migrants. Speaking ahead of the October 8 meeting of the EU Justice and Home Affairs Council, Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein expressed particular concern about the nature of the “hot spot” approach, driven by countries’ security agenda. UNHCR welcomes “the efforts of the EU to offer support to the front-line member states receiving large numbers of migrants” and says states “must ensure that these “hot spots” are not, in effect, detention centers in disguise,” the high commissioner said. Italy and Greece have both

reduced the use of immigration detention. Italy will be the first to begin relocating refugees on Friday; a group of Eritreans, under an EU plan to ease the burden of Europe’s most severe migrant crisis since World War II.

In a related development, the European Union said it had agreed with Turkey to step up cooperation on the resettlement of refugees and migrants from the conflictplagued regions of the Middle East. The European Union said

David Cameron vows ‘assault on poverty’ in conference speech David Cameron has vowed to devote much of his time in office to “an all-out assault on poverty”, in his speech to the Conservative Party con-

ference. The prime minister, who will stand down before the next election, said he wanted to tackle “deep social

David and Samantha Cameron braved the Manchester weather to make speech. PHOTO: BBC

otherNEWS Pistorius family angered at parole board delay The family of convicted South African paralympic athlete, Oscar Pistorius, who was jailed in 2014 for killing his girlfriend, is criticising government authorities for delays in transfer-

ring the star from prison to less restrictive house arrest. A parole board on Monday ruled that Pistorius, who has served 10 months of a five-year manslaughter sentence, should not yet be

granted house arrest, despite earlier qualifying for it. The board ruled he first should undergo psychotherapy. In a statement on Tuesday, the family accused parole of-

DRC govt demands evidence of rights abuses A spokesman for the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo said human rights groups concerned about abuses in the DRC should cooperate with the government by providing proof of alleged violations so that the government may investigate such claims. The United States based Human Rights Watch, released a report on Tuesday, accusing top security and ruling party officials in the DRC of hiring thugs to attack peaceful demonstrators last month calling on President Joseph Kabila not to seek another term

it would help Turkish coast guard patrols in managing the refugee influx under a crisis plan discussed during talks Monday between European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

A Palestinian woman has been shot in occupied East Jerusalem while stabbing an Israeli man, according to Israeli police. The woman stabbed the man in the back on Wednesday, Luba Samri, Israeli police spokesperson, said. However, he managed to take out his gun and shoot her, Samri said. The woman was seriously injured while the man sustained light injuries. She has been identified as Shurooq Dweiyat, an 18-year-old from the Sur Baher neighbourhood in East Jerusalem. In a separate incident, an Israeli soldier was slightly injured in Kiryat Gan, located south of Tel Aviv, when a Palestinian allegedly stabbed him and attempted to steal his weapon. The Palestinian was shot and killed during the confrontation. Wednesday’s incidents come amid growing clashes across the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, between Israeli forces and settlers, on the one hand, and Palestinians on the other.

when his mandate ends in December 2016. Information Minister Lambert Mende said the allegations are not credible because Human Rights Watch has yet to provide a single name to support its claims. “We were very concerned about that statement from Human Rights Watch. We did ask them to give us more evidence to help us inquire. But what we saw was that it was just a copy of a statement from the opposition that was launched on the same day of the demonstrations.

ficials of bowing to “public, political and media hype” surrounding the case, which drew global media attention just hours after super model Reeva Steenkamp was shot dead in Pistorius’ home in 2013. At trial last year, defense lawyers argued he shot Steenkamp through a closed bathroom door after mistaking her for an intruder in the middle of the night. Pistorius was approved for release to his home under supervision in August, in a fairly common procedure for South African offenders sentenced to prison for five years or less.

problems” and boost social mobility. He also announced “dramatic” planning reforms to increase home ownership. And he launched a broadside at Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, accusing him of having a “Britain-hating ideology”. Mr Cameron said he wanted his time in power to be remembered as a “defining decade for our country... the turnaround decade... one which people will look back on and say, ‘that’s the time when the tide turned… when people no longer felt the current going against

Oscar Pistorius. PHOTO: AP

them, but working with them’.” He also: Promised to end discrimination and “finish the fight for real equality; said he would not “duck” a fight over EU reform ahead of the UK’s membership referendum, saying he had “no romantic attachment to the European Union and its institutions; vowed to tackle “big social problems” including extremism and “segregation” caused by faith schools; condemned “passive intolerance” of female genital mutilation and forced marriages.

tribunesport

Thursday, 8 October, 2015 Editor: Ganiyu Salman tribunesporteditor@yahoo.com 08053789060

Nigeria, Cameroon match gets new venue The friendly between Nigeria’s Super Eagles and Cameroon will now be played at the Edmond Machtens Stadium in Brussels. The stadium has a 11,000 capacity and it is the home ground of a Belgian second division club. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) confirmed the venue change on Wednesday. The match will be played on Sunday and kick-off time is 8pm. The last time both countries clashed at full international level was at the 2004 AFCON with Nigeria winning 2-1 to qualify for the semi-final of the tournament in Tunisia.

Etim Esin warns Oliseh

Musa named Eagles captain

Nigeria’s head coach, Sunday Oliseh has named Ahmed Musa as the new captain, as the Super Eagles confront the Leopards of the Democratic Republic of Congo today in a friendly in Belgium. The game billed to kick off at 7pm at the VISE Stadium, serves as a build up to the upcoming World Cup qualifer, as Nigeria will also on Sunday face the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon in another friendly. Meanwhile, there was a major fallout between Oliseh and Vincent Enyeama as concerns the Eagles captaincy on Tuesday night in Belgium. However, Oliseh insisted he has named CSKA Moscow forward, Musa as the Eagles new skipper. “There is no captain tussle - Nigeria is going forward, I need a player who is regular in the team and it is Ahmed Musa, who did a great job in Tanzania under very difficult circumstances,” Oliseh said in a radio interview on Wednesday morning. “He is the captain of the team, not somebody who is thinking of retirement. “A captain has to lead by example. We are not here to build stars. “If you don’t conform to what I am trying to do, we will be friends, but we will be friends from afar.” Oliseh added: “There has been a new government and the President (Muhammadu Buhari) has picked new ministers. And that is what I have also done.”

Musa

Belgium drama: I was ‘stripped naked’ in camp —Enyeama

Enyeama

EMBATTLED Vincent Enyeama has reacted to Tuesday’s disgraceful drama that pitched him against Nigeria coach Sunday Oliseh, saying he was “stripped naked” and being thrown out by security “breaks me completely”. Enyeama had a major fallout with Oliseh after the coach announced Ahmed Musa as his new captain at a team meeting ahead of the Lille goalkeeper, who has been wearing the arm’s band since the retirement

of Joseph Yobo from international football. The 101-capped Enyeama was philosophical when he took to his Instagram page ‘vinny 2908’ to lament his ordeal on Tuesday night in Belgium. He said: “After 13 years of national service, having this smile on my face and this passion in my heart. Through the billows, the waves of the ocean, the tears of defeat, the sound of rejoicing from victory chants. Now the thought of

being stripped naked and security agents throwing me out breaks me completely. “I will take anything but not insult to my dead mother.” At the weekend, Enyeama buried his mother after he was granted compassionate leave by his French club. The former Enyimba keeper, it will be recalled, only last month stayed away from the two Eagles matches against Tanzania and Niger following the

demise of his mum. Meanwhile, Enyeama contrary to some media reports trained with the rest of the Eagles squad in Belgium on Wednesday despite the bustup with his coach, same as late invitee Wilfred Ndidi. President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Mr Amaju Pinnick had also reassured that Enyeama will train with the rest of the squad notwithstanding the row of the previous day.

international, Former Etim Esin has warned the Super Eagles coach, Sunday Oliseh to thread softly in his dealings with his players should he intend to achieve positive results. Oliseh had a faceoff with goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama on Tuesday in the Eagles’ Verviers camp in Belgium, but the timely intervention of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), helped rescue the situation. The former Calabar Rovers player feels Oliseh must learn to manage his players’ differences properly towards achieving the desired results, while insisting that it would be a wrong call for the Lille goalkeeper to retire from international football. “It would be wrong for Enyeama to quit now because he has many years to serve the country,” Esin who featured at the 1987 FIFA U-20 World Cup told Goal. “Oliseh was once the national team captain, he knows the pressure and with what he went through on the eve of the 2002 FIFA World Cup, he should be able to balance the ego of his players which could be a big problem here. “Aside from balancing the team by managing their ego, he should show Enyeama some respect if he wants respect in return.” “Captaining the national team is not an easy feat. He (Oliseh) has been in that position before and definitely will understand what I mean here. “My advice to Oliseh is to go the extra length in balancing his players’ ego because he has no time for wrangling. What Nigerians want is result and there will be no excuse,” Etim said.

Oliseh

tribunepools

BEST BARGAIN

(08163084077) 25, 26, 37, 44

With the new trend in the ongoing United Kingdom Pools Industry, We have contacted directly members of the pools panel who have assured us of bountiful harvest starting from the pools panel, play it and end your losses. The game costs N25,000 from next week. Registration remains N250,000.

DR JK POOLS – 07039275802

(29XX 34) 17 – 20 – 25 – 27 – 36.

As I said last week, I am fully back to wonders in pool s inspite of the fact that most stakers hardly show appreciation. Really if you want to win better enroll with 5000 Naira payable to Zenith Bank account Name – Ekhomu John acc. No – 2085795936. I enjoined all stakers to continue to smile weekly now that we have draw leakage. Now pick two draws from 17 – 20 – 25 – 27, 36 and add to the above bracket games. Goodluck says Dr J.K Pools.

26XXX 28 LUCKYMAN 08054352685

It’s N40, 000 when you win Grab your 3 sure draws at N40, 000 when you win far away fans will send N1, 000 MTN Card for 3 Unfailing sure draws you can also contact your nearest agent perm with 26xxx 28.

31 BET 43 THE LILIES 08086944309

Wk 12 result= f 19xxx 32xxx 39xxxf 43xxx 44 Another 3 over 3 await all our fans call now and win with our 3 unfailing jackpot X5 send N1, 000 MTN Card and hit Big Jackpot on pools 31 Bet 43. SIR BRAKA (08078052128) For 2 DRAWS 7X 21X 42 Mark 7xx 21xxx 42 for 2 draws wk 14 3 draws cost N2000 Glo Card.

MISTER DRAW 08030415683= 18cbk.

Coventry City to Hold fleet wood town plus 2 valuable bets cost N2000 MTN Card.

LAST HOPE 2015=

08103222635= 25XX 29XX

TWO BANKERS N3000 WK 12 NO 12X 13X PAIR 32X 33F WK 13 2015 N6, 000 NO NAP NAP NAP NAP WITH. 25. 29. KEY EVERY WK 13, 23, 33, 43, BANK NIGER NO 25. 25. 25. TO DRAW PLUS. 4. OTHERS COAT N6, 000 KEY VERY BROWN COLOUR BANK CAR LAST TO DRAW WK 13. NO 29. 29. 29. PLUS 40 OTHERS COST N6, 000 Wk 13= 2015 no NAP NAP NAP NAP with 25. 29 Wk 14 2015 No NAP NAP NAP NAP with. 29. 30 Wk 15 2015 No NAP NAP NAP NAP with 11. 12.

SINBAD NAP –

07083993858 (35 MUST 21) 13X 27X 32XXX 44X 49F

Glory be to God Almighty, our second release score 4/5 on – 13x 27x 32xxx pair 44x 49f. congratulations all my last week winners for their patronage. Please call for our assures third round win this week. Goodluck.

MID – WEEK OFFERS 30 – 34 (08087176217)

The juicy Mid-Week International is at it again with the gift pair on 3034 for a possible draw on Saturday. You will definitely enjoy your weekend with pair is you combine them with our one sure banker. The sure banker cost only #1,500, 2 draws sell for #3,000 while 3 Nap with pair cost #10,000 on 08087176217. Be a sure winner this week and single to your bank on Monday. Best of luck.

SHORT – GUN

08050614477\ 08168241902

17 HOT 16

We are set again to continue our impressive performances this current U.K. season with the pair above which must supply again this week as usual with other fixed draws, The game costs N25,000. Join the winning team and stop your losses, We must win again this week.

DONOHILL NAP

(08107048991) 1 PAIR 2

Donohill Nap still mention his leadership roll in the field of pool forecast in Nigeria. This week13 is do die week because nothing will stop Donohill Nap from Scoring 3 over 3and the pair to produce a draw. Just send #5,000 MTN recharge card to me and laugh to your bank on Monday with your winning money on pool staking.

Thursday, 8-14 October 2015

NIGERIAN TRIBUNE POOLS PAGE THE WINNERS CHOICE GET A COPY AND WIN

MBA EXPERT (08077247137/08104694618) WK13 PAIR 23 X 24

NUMBERS 23 x 24 as pair of the week are compiled from regular computation of week/dates of play draw sequence. This 3rd brown color fixtures shows slight difference from those of weeks 05 and 09 as the Europeanship has taken over the position of both the premiership and championship slots. Meanwhile that jinx surrounding the elusive draws in my purple color computation is bound to be broken from week16 fixtures. The invincibility and mystery had made it thrice beaten and thrice worried. The coast is now clear for thorough business. My 3 banker draws this week are drawn from the 1st, 2nd and 4th segments at Euro-championship, Skybet League One and English Conference respectively despite picking the pair at South end versus Port vale and Swindon vs. Peterboro verdict go for draws at the Euros with 6 LANDS ending etc. Call/Text now. Good luck.

MR CYRIL (THE CURRENT CHAMPION) 08154836338= (08 MUST 11)

WEEK 12= WATFORD, WESTHAM & WIGAN= ALT. 39X = 03X 09X 32XXX ALT 39X FREE PUBLISHED. Our 3 weeks bumper to bumper win stated for weeks 12, 13 and 14 stated well on W.W.W. Co (Newport Co) – 3 Weeks Winning KEY Week 12 – PETERBORO ON PORTVALE= 03X 09X 32X Week 13 – PORTVALE ON PETERBORO= X X X Week 14 – PORTVALE VS PETERBORO= X X X Congratulations the above illustrations confirmed/convinced your doubts. Wise/lucky stakers still win pools. Your problem is doubt is the correct contact Again your winning is Cyrilistic sure – N30, 000= Last week winners – N100, 000 – Welcome to the celebrants place. Goodluck.

OBINYAN CELEBRATED WITH STAKERS.

The evergreen 12x magnate, the managing Director & Chief Executive of King and George group of forcast papers Prince Willy Ehi Obinyan celebrated the Nigeria 55th independence Anniversary in a memorable way in all the late news of his papers as promised, page 18 of pools Telegraph late news got all its pairs in Express, Jackboulder, Longsight and Figaro – 3x 6x 13x 32xx incredible independence celebration win others paper performed wonderful. Chief, Obinyan in chat with Tribune Pools Editor during the week promised more tidings ahead, he therefore enjoined stakers to buy and browse through his fortune forecast papers for regular winnings. The papers are Pools Telegraph, Pools Guide, Shoot Pointers, Murphy Sports, New Dream and final result.

IKECHUKWU ON RAMPAGE – WAR PATH WITH

PROMOTERS – 08168157259= WINNING – CONTD (8 X 18) Weeks 10, 11, 12. W W W Promoters Regret. Weeks. 10 & 11 – WOLVES and WALSALL. Wigan Pair Wycombe Week 12 – WATFORD, WESTHAM, WALSALLThe 3 W.W.W at away= 03x 09x 32xxx. Week 13 – 15 winning is strictly again on 2015/2016 current programe. Welcome to another 3 weeks winning scheduled on fixed matches. FAROE ISLAND MUST FLEETWOOD. (F X F) = 08 MUST 18. And 3 gazetted calculated Naps – week 15 – 1M. Join the Ikechuckwu millionaires new contact 3 weeks win.

OLA-CITY FANS TO SMILE (08140575314) WEEK 13 PAIR 21XXX 22XXX

It is true as things were not as expected last week 12 as our 3 Draws got only one draws on No-City Compiler will try his possible best to regain the past losses on pool by the grace to God. He appeal to his fans to be patient as things will be O.K. and you all will smile to your Bank. Only fans that phone me will be recorded for the obligations as I will not buy cards again to text to anybody except only interesting stakers. Week 13 pairs 21xxx 22xxx. Happy weekend. DR. SAN, WITH EVERY COLOR SYSTEM WKS 13 TO WK15 3RD TIME OF PLAY,(2015 CURRENT UPDATE FIXED DRS 100%..!!!) NOW WK 13., = (14XX 15XX) & (31XX 41XX) = FIXED DRS ONLY “XX” !! 07038878227OR08189472447. (WINNING TIME IS HERE NOW) You saw last wk12 great free offer to all our “tribune pools million fan’s “ (4-draws). Score’s (a.)., = 3\6 headlines...(you now). (b.)., coupon nos = 2/3.. (c.)., = every purple wk nos = 2/4.. congratulation.!!! You are now in money (now 3rd weeks of free offer) wk09, wk10, last wk12. our release’s (wk13 to wk15) is fully programm for any interested staker’s, each wk cost N20,000. (Three wks #60,000) cash payment no down cut please..!! All payment to first bank acct no 2018702734..FEMI OLUWA JOHNSON. access bank acct no 2018702734..FEMI OLUWA JOHNSON. Access bank acct no 0692898125...FEMI JOHNSON. Join Dr. Sanj winners club now., we are ahead of winning now. Happy winning to you again. “Money is power use it” to next level...it’s a words.!!!

Triple Spice Gives 23 – 24 (08035324990)

A quarter of the season is after this weeks fixtures. How have we faired? Truely, things have not been easy for most compilers and punters. Yet billions of naira will still be won by consistent punters, we do not give up. This week, we look at coupon Nos 23 and 24 for a good draw mark it down, a draw will surely emerge from the duo. Add them to our 1BK and claim your 2/3 this weekend. Our 1BK costs only #1,500, 2 draws sell for #3,000 and 3 draws cost #10,000 on 08035324990, You are a clear winner!

MOLLY ONE BANKERS GROUP= 08055230300= 34XX 35

With God one. Bankers N1000 Wk 10 No 20x Wk 11 No 38x Wk 12No 27X Wk 13No Nap Wk 14 No Nap. Molly one Banker N1000 Wk 11 No 27x Wk 11 No 13x Wk 12 no 3x Wk 13 No NAP Wk 14 No Nap USA one Banker N1000 Wk 10 No 37X Wk 11 No 6x wk 12 No 32x Wk 13 No Nap Wk 14 No Np. BigMan One Banker N1000 Wk 11 No 43x wk 11 No 22x Wk 12 No 39x Wk 13 No Nap Wk 14 No NAP. Stakers try to molly one Banker Group. 4 Special draws this Wk 13 cost N25, 000 Wk 11 No 6x 13x 22x 38x Wk 12 No 12x 27x 32x 39x wk 13 Brown No NAP NAP NAP NAP= 4/4 N25, 000 send MTN Card 08055230300.

HOPE NAPS & CO GOT 3 DRAWS CORRECT IN WEEK 12 ON NOS. 10X 32X 44X Pair 30f 46f Set for 3 Draws this week 13, wk 14, wk 15 Phone 08107128449

Week 13 Pair 15x 27x for a draw. The compiler of Hope Naps & co. who get his 3 Draws correct in week 12 on Nos. 10x 32x 44x pair 30f 46f assures stakers of his 3 Draws for this week 13, week 14 and week 15 cost N10, 000= Cash each week which will get all correct again. We are ready to give the best you want in pool. Pay to first Bank plc. In person, of Mr Gbadebo Stephen A. Account No. 3088328923 you will receive from us when your payment is confirmed each week. Thank you God Bless.

ENOUGH IS ENOUGH TEXT MESSAGE OF WRITE UP WITHOUT ADVERT IS REGARDED VOID . PLACE YOUR ADVERT FOR EFFECTIVE PUBLICATION OF YOUR FORECAST. THANKS POOLS EDITOR

ADEOTI SYNDICATE 07051327960

Nos: 16x 18x 25x (2 DRAWS) The above 3 games will give you at least 2 draws on Saturday for those who like permutation they can take NOS: 23xxBK.24xxBK joined the 3games above. All registered members should not forget what I told them for this week 13 and get set for weeks 15 – 16 – 17 for another gift, for all the people who are ask for our account. AHMED SHAFIRI. A/C Nos: 2001788431 ZENITH BANK account. 16x 18x 25x must for 2 draws. Thanks, Good luck.

ALHAJI SADIKU EXPLODES AGAIN

08062978995 HOT 15X 26

Wk. 12= 6xx, 27xx, 39xx. Pair 43f, 44x last week was wonderful with my release 6xx, 27xx, 39xx, Pair 43f, 44xx, but week 13 wise be fantastic, so dear stakers try to get my release and win your fortune this week. Cost Price is GT Bank to Alhaji Sadiku Adedoja, accts No 0030411077. Call 08062978995 or 08057416201.

SIR MICHAEL NAP 08130011263 15 PAIR 20

The system that got 12xx, 13xx, 14xx 3/3 last week must get it again cost mode of payment.

LADY “K” (4 PAIR 5) 08072216644

In the field of pool forecast, no one does it like Lady “k”. History must repeat itself this week13 because he will not disappoint all his fans with his 3 life fixed draws and a pair. You will become a millionaire this week, send N5,000 MTN recharge card to Lady “k”.

MARY NAP – FOR WEEK 13, (07088694992)

NO 10 BANKER ...ISREAL vs. CYPRUS plus two others, for week 13 cost N5,000 and for week 14 and 15, with (3) Nap-draws and a pair cost N15,000 each week, for more details. Wishing you best of luck.

AUSTINE CHUKWU –

(08054462577) NAP–3, 6, 25 After intensive research, I assure you of a sure win with the above Nap for this week, Call for details.

MAGIC KINGDOM – 08056753098/07085060512 NAP – 26, 27, 28 – PAIR – 20 and 22

This week 13 is my promised week to all stakers, The above games is one of the KEY to our weeks 14, 15 and 16 sure Nap that cost N25,000 – each week. All payment to BALOGUN ADESHINA KAMORU Account number – 0279550010, Wema Bank, or G.T. Bank acc no. 0115505082, Call my Secretary on 08182560652. GOOD LUCK.

tribunepools

EMIRATES FLY 08087104491 = 25XX 26

We are back as never on our annual odd year 2011, 2013 and 2015 = 3yrs win Week 13 - 2011 — 08x 14x 36xxx 23x 24x Week 13 - 2013 — 04x 18x 31xxx 24x 25 Week 13 - 2015 — X X X = 25x 26 Board Emirate to your Bank on Monday. No bet! No winning! = N20,000 = Welcome fee.

WINNER CODE 505= 08135637650= 6XX 7XX

UK SYSTEM TWO BANKERS N2000 WK 12 NO 27X 32X WK 13 NO XX WK 14 NO 2X 4X WK 14 NO NAP NAP WK 15 NO NAP NAP Winner code 505 two Bankers N2000 Wk 12 No 3x 32x Wk 13 No X X Wk 14 No X X Wk 15 No NAP NAP Wk 16 No NAP NAP. ADESURE NAP TWO BANKERS N2000 WK 12 NO 39X 44X WK 13 NO X X WK 14 NO X X WK 13 NO NAP NAP WK 14 NO NAP NAP. Power X Power two Bankers N2000 Wk 12 No No 12x 48x Wk 13 No X X Wk 14 No X X wk 13 No NAP NAP Wk 14 No NAP NAP 4 Expert. 4 Special Draws this wk 13 cost N25, 000 Wk 12 No 12x 32x 39x 48x 4/4 Wk 13 No XXXX= 4/4 Cost N25, 000 Wk 13 No NAP NAP NAP NAP= 4/4 Send MTN Card 08135637650. The Game will send to you by text message.

SAM AYO - 08109152433 27 SURE 33

Our pair is consistence and the Naps are excellently sure. Call for your 3 Naps this week is fantastic. Win and smile to your bank.

HEAD MASTER 08032747136

NAP 08X 09X 13X 49X - for 3 or...

Headmaster is back with 3 draws this week 13 no pair prepare yourself down for week 14 at rate of N25,000 cash. Good luck.

MR CHRIS NAP & CO.

08021365017, 35 FIXED 35

The day of reckoning has come and when its time to say loud and cleared that some games was fixed with NOTTS CO vs. PLYMOUTH fixed with 2 other numbers. Also are fixed, played anywhere. Don’t waste time looking for Nap to play. Call MR CHRIS your ultimate in pool compilation cost = N25,000= Good-luck.

LADY “K” 08072216644 4 PAIR 5

AUTHORITY NAP AGAIN – 09030084552 (15 PAIR 37) W4/4

Congratulations, Promoters in another problem as I did last week, starting of our 3 weeks tailored Nap. Join the Authority winning team. Call for your winning details. Goodluck.

SUNDERLAND. SYSTEM 23XX 24 09038460009= 23 NAP 24

4. SPECIAL DRAWS N6, 000 WK 11 NO 13X 14X 15X 22X= N6, 000 4. SPECIAL DRAWS N6, 000 WK 12 NO 9X 12X 27X 32X= N6, 000 4. SPECIAL DRAWS N6, 000 WK 13 NO NAP NAP NAP TWO BANKERS N3000 WK 11 NO 13X 22X PAIR 15X 16F TWO BANKERS N3000 WK 12 NO 27X 32X PAIR 8X 9F TWO BANKERS N3000 WK 13 NO NAP NAP PAIR NAP NAP Time to win pool this wk 13 Sunderland system 4 special Draws this wk 13 play 4/4 correct hury to get your copy today two Bankers coat N3000 wk 13 no NAP NAP Pair NAP NAP. 4Bankers wk 13 no NAP NAP NAP NAP.

WEEK 13 STATUS.

EKO – 47 PPP – 19 LKO – 1, 4, 5, 6, 7, 11, 12 SUNDAY – 2, 3, 8, 9, 13, 31, 35

WEEK 12X RAY

Thursday, 8-14 October 2015

PLEIAD DE MAXWELL - 09099968585 16-17-18-20-37

BURY - ROACNDALE = YEOVIL 2015 European championship qualifier division appear to be fertile for draws Bosnia Harz, Poland, Croatia, Czeck Rep, Faroe Island, Greece and Kazakhstan are punters delight. In skybet league one, draws are likely on Bury to Roachdale, Southend and Walsall. With Skeybet League two, a dicey look but Barnet, Bristol R, Cambridge, Luton, Notts Co & Yeovil are favoured while the conference division is sure for good win. Contact De Maxwell draw clinic for your sure bet where we unmarsked draws. TOKEN MANAGER.

FAITHFUL INTERVENTION - 07082899957

WALSALL must YEOVIL = 25XX 37. Its time for us to intervene to your staking problems = Weeks 12 to 15. OH YES! We started well last week from our 4 weeks intervention REAL win. NEWCASTLE AWAY 7 = 2014 & 2015 winning gazett = 2 times last year and 2 times this year. Week 5, 2015 = 13x 43x 30x Gillingham = 39x 41x 5/5 Week 12, 2015 = 13x 43x 27x Gillingham = 39x 41x 5/5 Week 13 CONTROLLED BY CONFERENCE TEAMS FIXTURES 2/2 = WEEKS WIN Week 9 = 06x 20x 39x = 29 - 41x Week 11= 08x 35x 41x = 27x - 39 Week 13= x x x = 25 - 37 Get your records for confirmation = It’s MAGNANIMOUS! NOTE: WALSALL and YEOVIL on bar added value Cost unregrettable - N50,000 = Please confirm the above illustration before you call. Welcome and Goodluck.

STAKEHOLDERS COMMEND NAZAR MASTER

Stakeholders in the pools industry were unanimous during the week in their commendation of NAZAR Master Pools Company Limited, Ibadan, for paying winnings on time as and when due and for maintaining friendly business environment. This was made known to TRIBUNE POOLS during press chats with some stakers and other stakeholders in the pools business. According to them, “NAZAR Master has brought back the confidence the people had in the pools business. Stakers are now sure of receiving their winnings without delay. This is very good for the business and the industry.”

4 MEMBERS. 4 BANKERS= 08162705220. 15XX 29XX

4 BANKERS N5000 WK 13 NO NAP NAP NAP NAP WITH. 15. 29 4 BANKERS N5000 WK 14 NO NAP NAP NAP NAP WITH 39. 41 4 BANKERS N5000 WK 15 NO NAP NAP NAP NAP= WITH. 12. 13 Stakers try to get 4 members 4 Bankers this wk 13 cost N5000. KEY every Brown colour. Bank BRADFORDC to draw No 15. Bank CARLISLE to draw No 29x plus 4 others cost N5000 wk 13 Brown No NAP NAP NAP NAP with. 15. 29. Wk 14 Blue No NAP NAP NAP NAP with 39. 41.

MADAM DE MADAM-(08023329191) 03 MUST 06

Week 13 (MUST) No Excuss For Failure (WIN) He who feels it knows it. Its no longer news telling you, we are equal to none, we have many millionaires in our fold. Our experts are at it again to ensure your assured winnings. Call our Media Man (Mr Joshua) for your winning details . Our previous adverts said it all. Welcome to the Madams winning world.

MANCITY SYSTEM= 0903863666= 08135888720= 26 XX 27XX

TWO BANKERS N3000 WK 12 NO 12X 32X PAIR 41X 44X TWO BANKERS N3000 WK 13 NO NAP NAP PAIR NAP NAP 4 SPECIAL DRAWS N6, 000 WK 12 NO KEY 12X 32X 41X 44X 4 SPECIAL DRAWS N6, 000 WK 13 NO NAP NAP NAP NAP= 4/4 4 SPECIAL DRAWS N6, 000 WK 14 NO NAP NAP NAP NAP= 4/4 Stakers try to get MANCITY. 4 SPECIAL Draws this wk 12 cost N6, 000 two Bankers wk 12 cost N3000 we set for 4 wks operations wk 12 No NAP NAP NAP NAP two Bankers Wk 12 No NAP NAP NAP Pair NAP NAP send MTN to 09038633666= 08135888720.

AKIN MR AKIN –(07067202291) 16 AGAIN 17

WIGAN MUST GILLINGHAM= 4 WEEKS WEEKS – 11, 12, 13 AND 14. FIXED NAP. Welcome to 2 Experts in One 4 weeks winning series – with stationed pair on Wigan and Gillingham Week – 11 – 13x 27x 41xxx 16fx 32xx= 4/5 Week – 12 – 13x 27x 41xxx 27x 32xxx 4/4 Week – 12 – X X X – 21x 30= 4/4 2/2 weeks – stationed winning numbers in week 11 and 12. Another 2/2 weeks – stationed winning teams in week 13 and 14. Congrats don’t be left out of last 2 week winning SUIRE–N30, 000– sure win.

PROFESSOR ONE BANKERS= 08055230300= 23XXX 24XXX

PROFESSOR 3 BANKERS N7500 WK 12 NO 12X 27X 32X= 3/3 PROFESSOR 3 BANKERS N7500 WK 13 NO NAP NAP NAP= 3/3 PROFESSOR 3 BANKERS N7500 WK 14 NO NAP NAP NAP= 3/3 PROFESSOR 3 BANKERS N7500 WK 15 NO NAP NAP NAP= 3/3 PROFESSOR 2 BANKERS N7500 WK 12 NO 12X 32X PAIR 3X 9X PROFESSOR 2 BANKERS N7500 WK 13 NO NAP NAP PAIR NAP NAP Professor. English system booklet out cost 3000 membership group a. cost N100, 000. Send MTN Card to 08055230300. The game will send to you by text message.

NIDAS – (08033510149) 20, 27, 34 for 2 draws

The game above which must play at least 2/3 is the key to our game in Week14. All our fans both old and new are to use the game in their selections to have money to buy our release in Week14 that cost #50,000 only. Membership registration is on with #250,000 deposits. Pay all cash to NIDAS through U.B.A Alc No. 202319865, Alc Name: ADESIDA ADENIYI. Good luck.

JACOBSON IS BACK

08072974729. Afer 7 yrs. 3 weeks 7-7 years NAPS in weeks 13, 14 and 15. (2008) & (2015) 1st Alphabet away team 31 for 3 weeks NAPS. Week 13, 2008. Colchester ‘C’=3 =2x 3x 4xxx NAP NAP NAP Week 14, 2008. Leyton. O. ‘L’=12 =11x 12x 13xx NAP NAP NAP Week 15, 2008. Nothampton ‘N’14 =13x 14x 15xxx NAp NAP NAP Week 13-15 (2015) Jacobson is the only Experts that has the winning statement. N30,000 starting fee.

MODUPE (08033566694) 16- 21- 41. 2drs New season sure win call for details.

DR JACKSON 08156829811

BOSNIA - HERZ KEY WALES No 1 Preparatory Naps for weeks 14, 15, 16. 01x 03x 06xxx 25x 26 Congratulations when you invested fully on the above win games to enable you in weeks 14 to 16. N100,000 = Act Now. No story.

WINNING CONTINUES UNABATED AS FORTUNE DONOR DONATES 27 – 28 (08099111828)

As punters and lovers of Fortune Donor continue to savour and relish the taste of good computation from our stable, we surely guarantee that the goodies will continue unabatedly this week as you add the duo of 27 – 28 to our sure banker draw this week. Go all out for the 1 sure draw at only #1,500, 2 draws sell for #3,000 and 3 draws cash #10,000 on 08099111828. Always be a winner!

KAMARK SUPER – 08186673842.

38X 41X 47X=FOR 2 DRAWS.

The above games is sure for 2 draws against my week 14 special release of 3 fixed draws. With KEY: AFC Wimbledon vs Morecambe appear on coupon under the bar controls 3 over 3 bankers and a pair. All interested stakers are to pay N8, 000 – while the permulation is N6000 – payable to Mr. S.B. Odesola. IBTC bank, A/C no 0001361916. Congrats & Godbless

3 SYNDICATE=

08139714848= 6XXX 7XXX 3 CHAIN DRAWS N6, 000 WK 12 NO 12X 13X 14X WITH 39X 40F 41X 3 CHAIN DRAWS N6, 000 WK 13 NAP NAP NAP WITH CHAIN CHAIN CHAIN Time to win pool this week 13 3 CHAIN draws cost N6, 000= Wk 12 No 12x 13x 14x with 39x 40f 41x wk 13 No chain chain chain chain with chain chain chain Key PORTUGAL at away on top of the first Bar to control 3 chain draw this wk 13 cost N6,000.

SHADOW 0808770776

8 PAIR 9

Time of failure has gone, it’s time to win million of Naira on pool. Please don’t listen to master na lie, send #5,000 MTN recharge card to me and receive your 3 gazette banker draws and I hot pair. Don’t miss it, you are told.

OLOYODE WONDER NAP WITH KEY.

08103244128 HOT PAIR 4, 16

Stakers, my last release in week 10 drew, 19xx, 20xx, 21xx. I am releasing another 3 current working key for week 13. It is a must win for all interested stakers cost N30, 000 cash. Pay at GTB to Mr Oloyede Ibrahim olamide, accts no. 0154084567 call 08103244128 or 08144047577.

VIC DESTINY NAP NAP 35X 39X 09099813819

Free game, I want to specially Congratulate week12 lucky pool winners while I use these medium to invite all stakers nationawide to call me on 09099813819 free week 13 Nap Nap Nap against wks14, 15, 16 and week17 Nap price to be release nextweek.

NJOROGE: MR ASSURANCE - 08177474535 18 SURE 25 = COVENTRY - WALSALL.

Events makes History. AGAIN as we did in week 11 COVENTRY HOME 18 and WALSALL on BAR. Refrence to week 11 of full payment. Week 11 - 06x 13x 35xxx - 18x 27 Week 13 - X X X - 18x 25 Assured NAPs and must pair - Coventry and Walsall. Human memories are short lived so all our week 11 beneficiaries another bumper winning is sure again = N25,000 = At Njoroge our PRIDE IS YOU.

EDITOR’S PLACE

20-37

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SIDELINES

NO 16,344

“It will be a disaster if the proposition of further devaluation of Naira is accepted by Buhari-led government. To avoid further devaluation, the government is advised to embark on nine deliberate economic and political measures stated herein.”

N150

THURSDAY, 8 OCTOBER, 2015

OFR, CON, SAN, LL.D, D.Litt

S I stated last week, the devaluation of the Naira over the years and in recent times continue to have adverse effects on Nigeria. This is why I consider the statement of the President that his administration would no longer devalue the naira as welcome and commendable. However I am aware that the issue whether Nigeria should continue on the path of devaluation of its currency is one that continues to attract debate. Several weeks back, Standard & Poor’s (S&P), an American financial services company, stated that Nigeria would still, at some point in time, have to devalue its currency possibly by more than 15 percent. Ravi Bhatia, the firm’s director of sovereign ratings is reported to have stated that: “Another devaluation is inevitable… they will have no option but to devalue,…I think at this stage the plan is to move in increments, not to do a ‘one big step’ devaluation like they would in the old days,” Not unsurprisingly this statement and a similar one published in the Economist Magazine brought about reactions from the government and Nigerians. The CBN in a statement signed by its Director, Corporate Communications, Mr. Ibrahim Mu’azu, maintained that the CBN does not panic and will not resort to desperate measures. According to him, inflation is still within the CBN’s single-digit band, the exchange rate has stabilized around N197 per US Dollar for the last five months, GDP expanded by four per cent in the first quarter of 2015, and 469,070 new jobs were created in the same quarter. Similarly Mr. Henry Boyo, an economist, is reported to have told Daily Independent that it would be a disaster if the proposition of further devaluation is accepted by government. According to him, “If the government accepts the proposition, then the value of the Naira will go down to around N240 to a dollar. Then, you would have created a ripple that cannot be immediately stopped. That will have an inflation impact and the value

One Chikwado Omokwa reportedly lost a portion of his ear after he was bitten by commercial sex worker, Precious Osas in Lagos, over his refusal not to pay more money for extra rounds of sex after paying N3,500. Perhaps, one needs to ask why can’t Omokwa sue Osas who is already in custody, for breach of contract after all, the fee was for an all-night show?

afeonthursday

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Buhari’s standoff on further devaluation of naira, a repeat of his position in 1983 – A commendable decision (3) of the Naira will continue to drop further and the price of petrol will go up to about N170 or N190 per litre. These two drivers of inflation would create their own ripple that you will have to devalue the Naira the more like between N260 and N280 to a dollar. By the time a dollar is N280, the price of petrol will go up to N200 per litre and that will take us to the precipice”. PROACTIVE ACTION IS NEEDED I doubt if the ordinary Nigerian on the street, who is most affected with the effect of the devaluation of the Naira will in reality be concerned with the economics principles surrounding the issue of whether or not to continue with devaluation. Therefore it is clear that only conscientious and deliberate economic and political measures will turn the fortunes of the country around. This is why I will conclude my discussion of the current crisis with a summary of points which I have made time and time again and which without a doubt deserve urgent consideration by those who are in a position to prevent a recurrence of the difficulties being experienced by Nigerians. 1. No more creation of States - The proposal for the creation of more States must be jettisoned immediately. The current 36 States have experienced a drastic drop in revenue accruing from the Federation account to the point where many States are unable to pay salaries. 2. Zonal or Regional Governments – There should be a return to the Zonal or Regional arrangement with less emphasis on the States. This will stimulate develop-

ment faster and reduce the cost of running the several States. This arrangement worked to the benefit of the entire country during the 1st Republic and I see no reason why it should not be explored again.

invest in the economy of Nigeria. In this respect, efforts must be made to reduce interest rates. There cannot be economic growth if entrepreneurs do not have access to loans at reasonable rates.

3. Re-examination of cost of running presidential system – The current Presidential System is too expensive. It was recently reported that the three tiers of government spent N82 trillion in the last 15 years of democratic rule, that is between 1999 and 2013 and that this amount was 28 times the amount received in the previous 15 years, between 1984 and 1998. Furthermore, in the period under consideration Nigeria earned an average of N2trillion annually from oil and that 68.3% of the revenue was spent on recurrent expenditure with less than 25.9 percent on development of infrastructure.

7. Clamp down on stealing of crude oil– Nigeria currently loses billions of dollars to crude oil theft. To stem the tide, government has licensed some private companies to work with Naval authorities in patrolling the nation’s waterways. However, much still needs to be done as crude oil theft is still an ongoing activity.

4. Reduction in emoluments to political office holders–Political office must be made less attractive. The current position in which political office holders earn astronomical amount of money as salary and allowances make such offices too attractive and therefore encourages politicians to adopt a do or die attitude in aspiring to political office.

9. Encouragement of local industries– Government must encourage local industries by putting in place necessary infrastructures such as good roads and adequate power supply.

5. Diversification of source of revenue – Government must develop other areas of revenue such as agriculture and other minerals. 6. Investment by Nigerians - Government must also encourage Nigerians to

8. Capital investment by government – Federal government as well as state governments must make deliberate effort to invest in capital projects to stimulate economy thereby increasing wealth and national gross income.

It is my view that if the above are implemented and if government adopts an attitude in which it places premium on the welfare of the citizenry, Nigeria will be better positioned to withstand the effect of any economic crisis. With such an attitude, Nigeria and Nigerians will be able to return to the position of prosperity despite any temporary period of economic insecurity. Aare Afe Babalola, OFR, CON, SAN

Blatter suspended EMBATTLED FIFA president, Sepp Blatter has been provisionally suspended for 90 days. Members of the FIFA’s ethics committee met this week after the Swiss attorney general opened criminal proceedings against Blatter, 79, last month. He is accused of signing a contract “unfavourable” to football’s governing body and making a “disloyal payment” to UEFA president Michel Platini, 60. Swiss Blatter, who has run FIFA since 1998, and Platini, who wants to succeed him, deny any wrongdoing. A final decision will be made tomorrow by Hans Joachim Eckhert, the head of FIFA’s ethics adjudicatory chamber, according to a close friend of Blatter. No decision has been made on whether to suspend Platini. On Wednesday, Blatter told a German magazine that he was being “condemned without there being any evidence for

wrongdoing”. The ethics committee had been meeting in Zurich since Monday. The investigation is centred on allegations believed to be around a 2005 TV rights deal between FIFA and Jack Warner, the former president of Concacaf, the governing body of football in North and Central America and the Caribbean. It is also examining a payment of two million Swiss francs (£1.35m) that Platini received in 2011 for working for Blatter. He claims it was “valid compensation” for work carried out more than nine years previously. The Frenchman has provided information to the criminal investigation but said he has done so as a witness. Swiss prosecutors said he is being treated as “in between a witness and an accused person” as they investigate corruption at world football’s governing body.

Blatter

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