14th July 2016

NIGERIA’S MOST INFORMATIVE NEWSPAPER NO 16,545

THURSDAY, 14 JULY, 2016

www.tribuneonlineng.com

FG begins audit of 2010-2015 activities of 33 agencies —P8

•Hires 18 consultancy firms

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Ikpeazu's continuous stay in office illegal —Keyamo —P5

No going back on Saraki, Ekweremadu's trial —AGF •Says their trial won't truncate democracy

—P5

Edo guber ticket: Obey court ruling, Modu Sheriff tells INEC —P29

Senators' meeting not about Buhari's impeachment —Wamakko —P34

From left, wife of the Vice-President, Mrs Dolapo Osinbajo; wife of the President, Hajia Aishat Buhari; Executive Director, International Trade Centre, Dr Arancha Gonzalez; chairman, Tony Elumelu Foundation, Mr Tony Elumelu; CEO, Emzor Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd, Dr Stella Okoli and the Executive Secretary, Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Mr Olusegun Awolowo, during the Women in Export Stakeholders Forum and Exhibition, in Abuja, on Wednesday. PHOTO: SUNDAY OSUNRAYI. STORY ON PAGE 6

Why FG can't fund NASS constituency projects —SGF —P5

NAFDAC impounds 880 bags of chemical for manufacturing explosives —P6

Court revokes NERC's increase in electricity tariff

•Reps want FG to halt planned 100% increase —P30

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Thursday, 14 July, 2016

Roads: FG to refund N57bn to Zamfara

President Muhammadu Buhari with service chiefs, when he visited troops of Headquarters 1, BDE in Dansadau, Zamfara State, as part of the 2016 Nigerian Army Day celebration, on Wednesday.

Army, police renew fight against militancy in C/River Anthony Ubong - Calabar

T

HE Nigerian Army has vowed to checkmate the nefarious activities of militants in the creeks of Akpabuyo and Bakassi Local Government Areas of Cross River State.

This is, however, coming barely three days after militants were alleged to have overrun the two local government areas and set up a parallel administration.

In a statement signed by Captain Kayode Owolabi, the Army Public Relations Officer of 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, Calabar and made available to the Nigerian Tribune on Wednesday in Calabar, the Army restated its resolve to nip the activities of militants in the bud.

The statement also described as false and misleading claims that the two local government areas were under the control of militants.

According to the statement, “The attention of the Headquarters 13 Brigade Nigerian Army has been drawn to some national dailies reports that militant groups have taken over Akpabuyo and Bakassi local government areas in Cross River.

“We want to state that this story is baseless and has no iota of truth.

“This headquarters wishes to inform the general public that our troops are on ground in Bakassi to checkmate any militant activities.

“Let us categorically state that apart from some few criminal activities which have been checked by our troops, Akpabuyo and Bakassi local government areas have been generally peaceful,” the release stated.

Nigerian Tribune

The statement however urged members of the public not to panic but go about their lawful businesses as security operatives were combat ready to tackle the menace of crime in the state.

In the same vein, Commissioner of Police, Mr Jimoh Ozi-Obeh, also dismissed the claims that militants have taken control of two local government areas in the state, adding that such reports should be disregarded.

Ozi-Obeh said that a team

of policemen had been dispatched to both local government areas, maintaining that no militant group had taken over any territory in the state.

The police commissioner said the state government, in partnership with the police, had beefed up security along the creeks of Akpabuyo and Bakassi.

“There is no militant group that is overrunning any part of Cross River. The joint security patrol in the state is always on alert to forestall

any crisis.

“It is unethical for some people to go to press and say that Akpabuyo and Bakassi local government areas are under the control of militants,” he said.

Chairman of Akpabuyo Local Government Area, Dr Patrick Ene-Okon, told newsmen that though there have been incidences of kidnapping and militancy in the area, no militant group overran the council or running any parallel government.

THE Federal Government says it will reimburse Zamfara State government with N57 billion soon.

President Muhammadu Buhari made the promise in Wanke, Zamfara, on Wednesday, when he inaugurated some roads constructed by the state government.

“I have known Governor Abdulaziz Yari as one of the performing governors who has made landmark achievements and l hope he will sustain this to bring more development to the state.”

He said the state government had spent over N57 billion in the reconstruction of some federal roads in the state, assuring that modalities were being worked out to reimburse the state.

He said the journey to fix Nigeria was still in earnest “which is why we will continue to execute the war against corruption and recover stolen public funds to be put to correct use,” the president said.

He urged Nigerians to go into farming and animalrearing to diversify the economy.

The president, who described Zamfara as a fertile ground where solid minerals could be tapped, also assured that government would facilitate the promotion of mining as part of efforts to diversify the economy.

Governor Yari had requested the Federal Government to hasten the re-

Tompolo kinsmen give FG one week to release arrested 10 students EbenezerAdurokiya-Warri KINSMEN of embattled former militant, Chief Government Ekpemupolo a.k.a Tompolo, in Gbaramatu kingdom, Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State, have given President Muhammadu Buhari one week ultimatum to release 10 students and palace workers arrested 47 days ago by members of the Joint Task Force (JTF).

The kinsmen, mostly women, led by the National Women Leader of Gbaramatu Kingdom, Chief Vero Tangbuwei, on Wednesday, in Warri, demanded the immediate release of the teenagers or be ready for a showdown in Abuja.

The women, most of whom are mothers of the arrested suspects, who have been denied sitting for their May/ June WAEC and NECO examinations, marched through the NPA axis of the busy Warri/Sapele road wailing and weeping while rolling on the floor.

They were also dressed in black attires and armed with placards with inscriptions such as “Mr President, free our sons,” “46 days on, nowhere to be found,” “They are not Niger Delta Avengers (NDA), they are students of Gbaraun Grammar School, Oporoza” and “This is pure oppression, free our innocent children,” among others.

Leader of the women, Chief Tangbuwei, while addressing journalists, said they were afraid the young

boys might have been killed summarily, asking the military to release them if their allegation was unfounded.

“For two months now, we have not heard from these children. At least, they should arraign them for trial or hand them over to the police.

“We don’t know where they are, we believe they have killed our children.

Federal Government should bring our children.

“Army should bring our children. Buhari should

bring our children. You can see the mothers, they are crying.

“Gbaramatu people are peace-loving and law-abiding people. Our mothers are crying. We don’t know where they have kept them.

Their parents have not allowed me to rest,” she noted.

According to the women leader, Buhari would have much to contend with if the boys were eventually declared dead by the military.

Code of Conduct tribunal adjourns sittings till September CHAIRMAN, Code of Conduct Tribunal, Honourable Danladi Yakubu Umar, on Tuesday, adjourned all sittings scheduled for this week and those to come within July and August till after the resumption from recess to be embarked on by the tribunal judges soon.

The decision was taken due to the ongoing round-

table discussion involving CCT and other critical stakeholders within and outside the country, to develop the Code of Ethics and Practice Directions for the tribunal to ensure fair and speedy trials.

It is being sponsored by European Union (EU) and implemented by the United Nations Office on Drugs

and Crime (UNODC).

He, however, assured litigants currently with cases before the court that they would have their new dates shortly after the vacation.

“The tribunal regrets the pains caused by the sudden change,” a release signed by the Head, Press & Public Relations, Ibraheem Alhassan, noted.

lease of the funds the state spent in the rehabilitation of federal roads.

He said the funds would be utilised to bring additional dividends of democracy to the people.

EU promises support to Jigawa on agric, solid minerals Adamu Amadu - Dutse THE European Union (EU) has expressed its readiness to work with the Jigawa State government in the areas of agriculture and solid minerals development.

The EU’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Mitchel Arrion, gave the assurance when he paid a courtesy call on Governor Muhammad Badaru Abubakar.

He said the EU has 28 members and that 20 have their ambassadors in Nigeria.

He noted that EU played a significant role in the country’s general election last year.

He said “the EU is engaging with the new administration with a view to diversifying the economy of the nation.”

Responding, Governor Abubakar said his administration had accorded priority to agriculture and solid minerals development.

He said two investors, Alhaji Aliko Dangote and Mr Lee, had invested in the cultivation of rice and sugar cane.

35,000 rice farmers in Kano to benefit from N40bn CBN’s funds Kola Oyelere - Kano NO fewer than 35,000 registered rice farmers under the Kano State chapter of Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN) will benefit from the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) anchor borrower programme.

Disclosing this on Wednesday in Kano, state Chairman of RIFAN, Alhaji Abubakar Aliyu, said the gesture would go a long way in boosting farming activities.

According to him, the CBN anchor borrower programme was introduced by the Federal Government as part of renewed effort to boost rice and wheat production in the country.

Alhaji Aliyu noted that the CBN earmarked N40 billion from the N220 billion Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Fund for farmers in 12 states participating in the programme at a single-digit interest rate of nine per cent.

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No going back on Saraki, Ekweremadu’s trial —AGF Taiwo Adisa and Ayodele Adesanmi - Abuja

T

HE Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr Abubakar Malami, has said there is no going back on the forgery suit the Federal Government instituted against the Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki; Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu and presiding officials of the National Assembly.

Malami, who appeared before the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters, on Wednesday, said the decision of his office to institute a legal action against the presiding officers of the Senate over the alleged forgery of the Senate Standing Order 2015 was in good faith and in public interest.

He told the committee that the fact that he was contracted as one of the counsel in one of the three suits instituted on the forgery saga did not constitute any conflict of interest.

Malami said the decision of his office was informed by the report of the police investigation on the matter which, he said, bordered on criminality.

He said the provisions of Section 60 of the 1999 Constitution empowered him

to file the criminal charges against the presiding officers.

But Malami did not answer why he included the names of Saraki, and Ekweremadu in the suit, in spite of the fact that their names were not mentioned in the police report.

To him, giving any reason at the moment for their involvement would be subjudice, because the proof of evidence was already before the court.

“The proof of evidence is before the court. I am a party in the suit, being the prosecutor. I can’t comment on the question you asked because doing so would be subjudice.

“I was invited to appear before the committee based on a letter which read: ‘Imminent threat to Nigeria democracy’. I have a clear obligation to do whatever should be done within the context of the constitution to sustain the democratic process,” he said.

He said his action was not taken to truncate any democratic process, but to protect the democracy, adding that there were two pending cases in court, one a civil case instituted by some senators and the other a criminal case instituted by the office of the AGF. He maintained that he

had met privately with members of the committee to apologise to them for his inability to honour the invitation in the last few weeks, hence there would not be any need for another public apology as demanded by the senators.

Chairman of the committee, Senator David Umaru,

explained that the essence of summoning the AGF was to find out from him whether his action was not a conflict of interest, being a party in the suit and whether or not it was based on public interest.

“The AGF has the powers to institute or discontinue any criminal proceedings.

POPULAR Lagos-based lawyer, Festus Keyamo, on Wednesday, described as illegal, the continuous stay of Dr Okezie Ikpeazu in office as the governor of Abia State, after a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja had nullified his nomination as the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Keyamo explained that the illegality was more pronounced since the court had also ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to issue a certificate of return to Dr Sampson Ogah, who scored the second highest number of votes in the primaries that produced Dr Ikpeazu as governorship candidate.

According to him, a thorough scrutiny of the judgment of the court revealed that, contrary to widespread opinion that Ogah’s case was that Ikpeazu presented forged tax papers to INEC, his case was simply that Ikpeazu apparently rushed to pay all his backlog of taxes just before the elections, yet he swore to a

false affidavit and supplied a false information to INEC that he paid his taxes as at when due.

“I have carefully listened to various arguments regarding the immediate issuance of certificate of return to Dr Ogah by INEC, in strict compliance with the judgment of the court.

“Contrary to opinions expressed in certain quarters, there is no judicial decision or statutory provision preventing INEC from complying immediately with the orders of the Federal High Court.

“The provision of Section 143(1) of the Electoral Act, Part VIII that gives Dr Ikpeazu (or any other office holder for that matter) 21 days within which to file an appeal against an adverse judgment (and to remain in office until the appeal is determined) applies only to post-election matters before election tribunals or the Court of Appeal and not preelection matters as in this case,” Keyamo stated.

He explained further that INEC, in the circumstance, acted legally and correctly by instantly issuing a certificate of return to Ogah, add-

gued that the AGF should not have been invited because the matter involved was before a competent court of law.

To him, both the constitution of the country and the Senate Rule Book forbade the senators from interfering on any issue pending in court.

Why we can’t implement 2016 budget in full —FG Taiwo Adisa and Ayodele Adesanmi - Abuja THE Federal Government has said it cannot fund National Assembly constituency projects listed in the budget, while it cannot, as well, guarantee the full implementation of the budget as signed by the president.

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), David Babachir Lawal, who stated this while appearing before a Joint Senate Committee on Wednesday, said the government was, after all, not in a position to fully implement the N6.06 trillion budget.

The SGF, who was summoned by the Senate on Tuesday to clarify his statement to the effect that the government may not implement constituency

projects, said revenues of the Federal Government had dropped by 50 to 60 per cent.

Babachir, drilled by the joint committees, including the committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions; Appropriations and Finance, blamed the drop in government’s revenue on activities of militants who had been vandalizsing pipelines in the Niger Delta.

According to him, the oil benchmark of the Federal Government for the budget had been dislocated, adding that at a stage, the country’s oil production came down to about 800,000 barrels per day.

“The statement is correct. That is my statement; we cannot guarantee the implementation of constituency projects in the 2016 budget. As a government,

Ikpeazu’s continuous stay in office illegal —Keyamo

By Yejide GbengaOgundare

We want to know if the AGF considered public interest, this is why we are here.

The minister has apologised over his inability to appear.

He also said the fellow that came did not represent his interest,” he said.

However, Senator Babajide Omoworare disagreed with his colleagues and ar-

ing that it would have been permissible for Ikpeazu to continue staying in office as governor of Abia State, pending the outcome of the appeal, despite the judgment of the Federal High Court (and the nullification of his Certificate of Return) if Ogah had not been issued a certificate of return instantly.

He further stated that the scenario being played out was that of a person, without any document entitling him to that office, occupying the office of governor of Abia State, whilst a person who has both a valid court judgment and a valid certificate of return was unable to assume office as governor of the state.

constituency projects are championed by members of the National Assembly.

Like the legislature, members of the executive are politicians who canvassed for votes.

“Lawmakers are aware that oil barrels had dwindled to about 800,000 per day. You predicated the revenue base of the government at 2.2 million barrel per day. This has led to the inability of government to finance the budget. It is the duty of government to prepare the minds of Nigerians ahead that there will be challenges in implementing the budget,” he said.

He further added that “government based its principle on zero budgeting this year. Funds will be released to finance key projects in line with the implementation plans of the government.

“I spoke with the Minister of Budget this morning (Wednesday) and I asked him the revenue base of the government. We are now receiving about 50 to 60 per cent earnings from what we projected.

“Some ministries, de-

partment and agencies (MDAs) might find it impossible to implement projects appropriated in their budgets. We have to re-prioritise. I like us to understand that this is the background upon which I made that statement.”

The Senators and the SGF had earlier engaged in an altercation immediately he arrived the committee sitting.

While making his introductory remarks, the SGF objected to the tone of the letter sent to him by the committee and the threat he said was contained in the letter, saying he was being threatened.

But the senators rejected his objection and asked him to withdraw the statement.

“I only saw this letter this morning. I thought it was going to be Wednesday next week. I wanted my permanent secretary to write to request for another date, knowing that Wednesdays are for Federal Executive Council (FEC) meetings. You gave me very short time to prepare,” he said.

CHANGE OF NAME

I, formerly Godwin Levi now wish to be known, called and addressed as AONDOGU MSUGTHTER. All former documents remain valid.

EcoBank Plc., and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I, formerly Seun Thomas Bello now wish to be known, called and addressed as BELLO OLUWASEUN ABRAHAM. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

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200,000 Nigerian women entrepreneurs to hit global marketplace —Aisha Buhari Calls on FG to assign 20% of public procurement to women on business

By Seyi Gesinde

W

IFE of the president, Mrs Aisha Buhari, has announced her commitment towards harnessing the potentials of 200,000 Nigerian women entrepreneurs for participation in global business.

She gave this commitment while speaking as the Special Guest of Honour at the Nigeria Women in Export Stakeholders Forum and Exhibition, which was organised by Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) with support from International Trade Centre (ITC), at international Trade Centre, Abuja, on Wednesday.

Mrs Buhari, who said her decision was in support of the organisers initiative at connecting one million women entrepreneurs to markets by 2020, also called on the Federal Government to assign 20 per cent of public procurement to women on business.

Declaring her support for this initiative in Nigeria, Mrs Buhari said: “I, hereby, announce my full support to the call to action the NEPC’s effort towards galvanising stakeholders in the public and private sectors, to harness the potentials of 200,000 Nigerian women entrepreneurs to scale up access to domestic, regional and international markets.

“Achieving this action will enhance jobs creation and enrich the national economic positive initiatives of this present administration.”

In the same vein, she said “I will like to lead a call to the Federal Government to assign 20 per cent of public procurement to women on business, because we believe that when a woman gets it right, consider everything done.

This, she said, would help in creating jobs and unleash economic growth in an increasing digital and interconnected global economy, as according to her “we believe that when a woman gets it right, consider everything done.”

Mrs Buhari, who described Nigerian women as “extremely hardworking,” but who only needed a little push, said women would succeed as entrepreneurs if given a chance in the competitive global economy.

Mrs Buhari lauded the NEPC/ITC initiative, saying it supported the country’s drive at achieving zero oil growth and women inclusiveness in global trade, which she said was linked closely to the fulfillment of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) in the area of gender equality and women empowerment.

“This is why I am not surprised that the organisers of

this forum have chosen the theme “Achieving Zero Oil Growth through Women Inclusiveness in Global Trade,” Mrs Buhari said.

She asserted that “indeed, women inclusiveness in global trade will definitely lead to sustainable economic growth and enable a nation achieve its MDGs, employment and decent work for all.”

According to her, the development tallied with the choice of the present administration, which she said “emphasises on economic diversification and all inclusive socio-economic growth.”

Therefore, she said “understanding the interlink ages required for achieving the national economic growth is to welcome development.”

She congratulated the ITC’s initiative on women entrepreneurship simply #SheTrade initiative for its campaign on the social media, especially “for creating a rallying point for stakeholders all over the world to come together in areas set out in call for action to address trade barriers and create greater opportunities for women entrepreneurs.”

Mrs Buhari said “traditionally, women in Nigeria have always participated in export trade; this varies from individuals production and marketing through participation in good production for produce development and supply through cooperative, women associations and individual enterprises.

“I am pleased that NEPC’s effort in export development programmes and galvanising stakeholders on the relevance of women in trade and activating the gender component of the nations action plan for accelerated implementation of for women export strategy.

“The initiative has identified enormous economic potentials with which Nigeria can implement its cooperative advantage.

“If Nigerian women are supported, they will contribute to the nation and better all in the economic development of the nation,” Mrs Buhari said.

Wife of the vice-president, Mrs Dolapo Osinbajo, who accompanied Mrs Buhari to the programme, in her keynote address, also established the need to give wom-

en a chance in the scheme of things, as she said they labour in the areas of childraising and home-keeping, much more suffer humiliation from harsh conditions they are, in some cases subjected to.

“Let’s give our women a chance,” Mrs Osinbajo said, while also speaking rhetorically on the agonies women go through in fulfilling their roles in the society.

Earlier in his address, Mr Olusegun Awolowo, Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer, Nigeria Export Promotion Council (NEPC), said the ITC #SheTrade initiative was an opportunity to accelerate the country’s economic growth through increased participation of Nigerian women in global trade.

The opportunity, he said, was long overdue of “our women who dominate our non-oil export sectors, such as cocoa, cashew, hides, palm and sugar.”

Awolowo said time had come for Nigeria to move away from dependence on one single commodity, as though the crude oil accounts for over 90 per cent of

Nigetia’’s foreign exchange earnings and about 70 per cent of government income, but as a country. He said “this is not sustainable.”

He added that NEPC, in its role as the premier federal agency responsible for the development and promotion of all non-oil exports, did not only want to see Nigeria thrive in a world of ‘zero-oil,’ it wants this done holistically and inclusively to diversify our productive capabilities.

To achieve its goal, Awolowo said there was need to call to action pillar one, which is data collection, data analysis and dissemination, adding that “we have already amended our Export License Application form in order to identify women owned businesses.”

He said NEPC, in fulfilling its first commitment, commissioned a diagnostic field research on export survival strategies for women.

With this, he said NEPC had found from respondents covering prospective, current and previously exporting women that “85 per cent find export difficult; 46 per cent have difficulty accessing buyers and 42 per cent com-

NAFDAC impounds 880 bags of chemical for manufacturing explosives Newton-Ray Ukwuoma -Lagos THE National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), on Wednesday, impounded 880 bags by 25 kilogrammes of Urea Formaldehyde Resin, a chemical compound for manufacturing explosives.

The dangerous chemical substance was purportedly wrapped as sodium sulphate while being smuggled into the country through the seaport. The substance, loaded in 2 x 20 ft containers, scaled through checkpoints on the way to a warehouse of a company located at Omu-Ijebu in Ogun State, before being intercepted by the joint efforts of NAFDAC operatives, the Ports Inspection Directorates and the Investigation & Enforce-

ment Directorate.

Speaking to journalists at NAFDAC headquarters in Oshodi, where the seized containers have been kept, the acting Director-General of NAFDAC, Mrs Yetunde Oni, stated that the chemical posed a “grave” security threat to the nation if allowed in the hands of “unscrupulous individuals such as Boko Haram terrorists.”

She said that though Urea Formaldehyde resin was a chief chemical element for manufacturing fertilisers and adhesives, it was also one of the polyfunctional alcohols easily converted into explosive device by terrorists.

She also confirmed the arrest of two syndicates, namely Mr Zhao Shou Chum, the Managing Director of Six Six Manufac-

turing Global Service and a clearing agent, Mr Christian Ohia of Actus Fidel Nigeria Limited.

She said the significant security risk of the chemical had impelled the restriction on the importation of the substance to the country, allowing only two companies registered by NAFDAC, stating that the arrested syndicates had not been given the right to import the chemical.

She said: “Urea formaldehyde resin is a controlled chemical. The chemical can be used for manufacturing fertilisers for agricultural produce. It is also used as adhesives in wood. However, it can be easily converted as explosive device by unscrupulous elements, such as the Boko Haram terrorists. This was why the

Federal Government placed a ban on it.

“However, the ban was lifted because of its agricultural use and only two companies working with NAFDAC and other relevant authority have been granted permit to import the chemical. Six Six Manufacturing Global Service has no such permit.”

Meanwhile, one of the arrested syndicates, Mr Chum, who spoke to the Nigerian Tribune, said the chemical was imported into the country for adhesives and not for making explosive.

The agency’s acting Director-General, however, reassured the public that the agency would continue the investigation, in order to unravel the supply chain of the controlled chemical, as well as the intended purpose of the smugglers.

Mark on Benue massacre: Enough of this bloodbath Ayodele Adesanmi -Abuja FORMER Senate President, Senator David Mark, has urged the Federal Government to wade into the unabating bloodbath in Benue State, on account of the farmers and Fulani herdsmen clashes.

Scores were reported to have been murdered in cold blood when gunmen invaded Logo, Turan, Mbagber, Yonov, Tombo, Varser and Anyin, in Logo and Ukum local government areas of Benue State, a few days ago.

Mark, who reacted to the state of security through his media aide, Paul Mumeh, decried the continued invasion of communities in Benue State by suspected armed herdsmen, who have claimed many lives and properties worth millions of naira.

According to him, “enough of the bloodbath. Enough of this massacre. This war is senseless and needless. Why should we continue to kill ourselves and destroy our hard-earned properties?

“It is time the Federal Government steps in to salvage

the situation. It has become too worrisome and truly intolerable.”

The lawmaker lamented that the ugly situation had continued to deny the nation, both human and material resources needed to take the country to the next level.

Mark stressed: “Benue State government must, as a matter of urgency, liaise with the Federal Government to salvage the situation.

He reminded the combatants that there were established channels, including the National Assembly, for

the aggrieved to seek redress instead of taking the laws into their hands.

Senator Mark called for harmonious relationship, irrespective of ethnic or religious differences, adding that “we would be adding value to ourselves if we cohabit peacefully and harmoniously with each other.”

He, however, requested the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to send relief materials to the displaced persons in various camps in Benue State to bring succour to the victims.

plain about lacking access to relevant market information.”

From the findings, he said the improvements these women were looking for are: “73 per cent are in need of common facility centres; 77 per cent are looking for easier access to finance; 53 per cent stopped exporting all together because of the cost of freighting at our ports.”

Awolowo, however said the NEPC’s future intervention with women-owned business should be framed around the issues raised.

Executive Director, International Trade Centre (ITC), Ms Arancha Gonzalez, in her keynote address, stressed ITC’s interests in developing women’s businesses globally, since women-owned businesses represent between one quarter and one third of enterprises globally.

However, she said they were “prevalent in less productive sectors and are largely invincible in global value chains and in corporate and government supply chains.”

Therefore, she said “it is essential that policy makers, institutions, business and thought leaders identify and implement strategies fit for 21st century that leverage technology, foster conducive business environments, establish supportive institutional frameworks and increase the competitiveness of women-owned businesses.”

Minister of state, Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Hajia Aisha Abubakar, who also accompanied Mrs Buhari to the programme, called on financial institutions to support women initiative in government.

Abubakar charged the stakeholders in the financial sector against low level participation in private sector development, and asked for their contributions to aid sustainable development in the industry.

Also, in his goodwill message, Mr Tony Elumelu, Founder, Tony Elumelu Foundation, lauded the #SheTrades Initiative which seeks to connect one million women to global market place by 2020.

He said “this is very important step towards women’s empowerment,” as according to him, “it is in our enlightened self-interest, because advancing women’s equality could add $28 trillion to global GDP by 2015.”

Elumelu said: “While women make up more than 50 per cent of the world’s population and do the bulk of farming, family care and a lot of the work it takes to keep families and communities running, yet their labours are hardly counted, much less valued in currency.”

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Thursday, 14 July, 2016

Lagosmetro

Nigerian Tribune

Edited By

Lanre Adewole

olanreade@yahoo.com

0811 695 4647

Tears as Lagos demolishes eateries Chukwuma Okparaocha and Funmilayo Iseotan

Food Canteens located close to 7 UP Company Fence, Tollgate, demolished by officials of government, on Wednesday. PHOTO: SYLVESTER OKORUWA

Thousands flee as gunmen kill 4, sack communities •Schools shut Opeyemi Owoaseye

F

our people were reportedly killed by cult members in an attack against Ifakale community area of Sagamu Local Government Area, Ogun Stat on Monday.

Lagos Metro gathered that the whole community had been deserted as residents moved to other places for safety Lagos Metro learnt that after their operation earlier this month, which claimed six lives, during the celebration of 7/7 festival, they made a promise to come back for another operation to mark 8/8 festival.

Lagos Metro, gathered that of the four people killed on Monday, three of them were said to be into welding business and a girl while many sustained varying degrees of injuries, two people were said to have survived the attack as they were rescued by residents.

The suspected cultists were accused of looting the residents’ property, after killing them.

It was also gathered that they came out from Emure community and operated from 5:00pm till 7:00 and after the operation, they reportedly put up a display at the community roundabout junction.”

A resident, Mr Fatai, told Lagos Metro that they attacked innocent people, wasted their lives and looted their property.

He said: “we saw some people who came to the community and began to shoot sporadically, killed some people while others sustained injuries.

“They came in to attack innocent people, wasted their

eryone’s mind is not at peace as the whole community of about 1 million people with different villages had already been deserted. Schools have closed down.

“They were 15 in number, they came in with five motorcycles, three on each of the bike.

A community leader, Chief Fatai Kolawole, told Lagos Metro that the whole community had and appealed to government for assistance.

However, the Ogun state police spokesperson, Adejobi Muyiwa said the Ogun command was not aware of the attack.

Caterpillar operator, others get N1m bail each for site theft Bola Badmus A caterpillar operator and two others have been arraigned before an Igbosere Magistrate’s Court for alleg-

Gunmen return to Ikorodu community, kidnap another resident Demand N2m for first victim SUSPECTED militants have again attacked Isawo community with one more person kidnapped. The latest attack on the troubled community was said to be on Tuesday’s evening.

The first attack a week ago, at Ojuoro to Wood Island which led to Isawo community, saw a man kidnapped, and many people injured and properties looted.

Lagos Metro, gathered that the militants demanded

lives, carted away with their property after killing them.

“Four of them wore mask on their faces while others did not, some were also on black pullover.

“They killed three men who were into welding business and a young girl in Igodo boundary in the comunity.

They operated with gun, axe and knife.

“They are young guys and are less than 30 years of age. They came in from Emure to operate and after their operation, they went back to that same place.

“They promised to come back for another operation to mark their 8/8 festival. Ev-

for a ransom of N2 million for the man who kidnapped last Sunday, after initially paying N1.2 million.

The latest kidnap victim was said to have been picked up on Isawo road after the attack on Tuesday night. Tesidents said the situation was frightening.

However, the Lagos police spokesperson, Superitendent Polices, Dolapo Badmus could not be reached as of press time and had not responded to the message sent to her.

edly stealing building materials. They were alleged to have committed the offences on July 2, at about 7am, in Aiyeteju Village Ibeju Lekki, Lagos. Those accused are Yekini 33, Femi Johnson 34 and Adebare Ademoye 35.

They are facing a threecount charge bordering on conspiracy, stealing and malicious damage preferred against them by the police.

The prosecutor, Sergeant Innocent Odugbo, told the court that the defendants and others who are still at large, conspired to commit the alleged offences.

Odugbo also alleged that the defendants stole the following; two tons of 12mm iron rods, one ton of 10mm iron rods, two tons of 16mm iron

rods all valued at N650,000.

Others are 250 bags of cement valued at N400,000, 90 tons of granite valued at N430,000, four trips of sharp sand valued at N190,000 all with a total value of N1,610,000.

According to the prosecutor, the offences committed are punishable under section 409, 285 (5), 337 of the criminal law s of Lagos state 2011. The defendants all pleaded not guilty to the charge preferred against them by the police.

Consequently, Magistrate J.O.K Adepoju admitted them to bail in the sum of N1million each, with two sureties each in like sums.

The case was adjourned till September 13, for mention.

HELPLESS food sellers and other business operators, at the Old Toll Gate area of Lagos, battled to hold back tears when their business centres were demolished by officers of the Lagos State Ministry of the Environment (MOE) on Wednesday.

The traders who were reportedly given only a 24hour notice to evacuate their belongings from the trading centre, which was located directly at the back of the 7-UP Bottling Company, at the Old Toll Gate end of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, were left with no choice but to gather their wares in small packs.

This, according to information gathered from a reliable source, was a far cry from what the traders were used to, based on the fact that officers of MOE often gave them long notices in the past.

While the motive of the government for demolishing the centre remained a mystery to the hapless traders, Lagos Metro gathered that the development might not be unconnected with cases of homeless thugs turning the shops at the centre to their homes at night. There were also cases of sales and smoking of Indian hemp there.

This allegation was also re-echoed by an eyewitness, whose office was closed to the demolished centre.

The man, simply identified as Tunde, noted that government could have taken the action because “area boys had turned the centre into an arena for smoking marijuana.”

When contacted the spokesperson of the Ministry of the Environment, Mr Tunde Awobiyi, denied having knowledge of the demolition exercise. However, he noted that for the government to have carried out the action, it meant the place must have contravened the state’s environmental laws.

“The fact that they (traders at the centre) had always gotten away with trading there did not mean what they were doing was right.

There are laws guiding the rights of ways in Lagos, and there are also numerous

laws protecting trees and flowers in the environment from all forms of encroachment,” he said.

Pro-Buhari protesters storm Alausa, kick against restructuring Bola Badmus HUNDREDS of protesters, on Wednesday, marched the streets of Ikeja, from Shoprites, through the Lagos State House of Assembly complex, down to the Government House, Alausa, denouncing calls for restructuring Nigeria, coming from certain quarters, saying such was a coded way of calling for the disintegration of the Country.

The protesters, under the aegis of Stand Up Nigeria (SUN), led by its South West Coordinator, Mr. Oluwafemi Desmond Abiona, while declaring their total support for President Muhammadu Buhari, insisted that rather than restructuring the country, the critical issues that needed to be addressed were those bordering on corruption, impunity, insurrection and insurgency.

The leader of the protesters, contended that if the several ethnic nationalities that made up Nigeria felt unfulfilled, it was because their leaders were corrupt, acted with impunity and promoted violence against their own ethnic stocks.

“Fortunately, these are the shortcomings that the present government had been tackling. “We are, therefore, urging Nigerians to look beyond the clamour for restructuring.”

Speaking further, Abiona stated “Corruption is now a crime. Insurrection or insurgency is a greater crime, while impunity is now the preserve of those that want to do time in jail. There is no better response from us as conscientious Nigerians than to pass a vote of confidence in President Buhari.

Those distracting the president with protests and calls for break up, are enemies of Nigeria and all well meaning citizens should call them to order,” he added.

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FG begins audit of 2010 - 2015 activities of 33 agencies •Hires 18 consultancy firms Sanya Adejokun -Abuja

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FTER one year in office, the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari has commenced a comprehensive probe of income and expenditure of its important revenue generating agencies between 2010 and 2015.

Through the Office of Accountant General of the Federation, Federal Government, on Wednesday, flagged off the process that will be carried out by 18 audit consultancy firms to comprehensively review financial activities of its most important revenue generating agencies and parastatals in the last five years.

In the first phase of the probe, 33 agencies divided into categories A and B will be involved in an operation which will last 18 months.

Flagging off the audit at an interactive with the 18 consultancy firms in his office, Director of Funds in the Office of Accountant General of the Federation (OAGF), Alhaji Salau Zubairu, who represented his boss, said the first category comprised of eight agencies with a turnover of above N100 billion and category B, which involves 25 agencies, with a turnover of below N100 billion.

The Process Audit, according to him, would cover the period of 2010 till 2015.

The auditors are to undertake a critical review of the financial statements of the organisations and confirm the sources and quantum of funding received from government (whether loans, subventions, grants, etc.)

and reconcile with treasury records.

They will also “review the sources of revenues accruing to the organisations and the effectiveness of revenue generation and accounting.

“Study in detail the enabling laws establishing the organisations, with a view to identifying possible constraints and areas of improvement.

“Establish the cost of operations and make appropriate recommendations to understand real and personnel cost profile, under-

stand contractual recurrent expenses, understand cost associated with revenue collection or revenue sharing arrangements.

“Determine the amount of remittances made to the Consolidated Revenue Fund (CRF) over the last five years in the form of operating surplus, revenue dividends.

“Determine the extent of compliance with extant regulations regarding the adequacy and regularity of remittances to the CRF. “Identify all income and

interest thereon.

“Make adequate recommendations on the future management of the organisations,” Zubairu disclosed.

He said the auditing was in line with the Federal Government’s agenda to institutionalise fiscal discipline, transparency, probity and accountability in the management of public finances.

Zubairu emphasised that the assignment would enable government to assess the true state of its revenue generation, capital

and recurrent (personnel and overhead) expenditure across the MDAs and also help the Federal Government to reach better decisions in view of the dwindling inflow of revenue.

He urged the consultants to be effective and professional while carrying out their assignment and to ensure that young qualified Nigerians are engaged to assist them during this assignment.

Zubairu emphasised that the recruitment of youths by the companies would en-

hance the quality of results from the organisations and also be one of the criteria that would define future their relations with such organisations.

Furthermore, the AGF, through his representative, assured the consultants of the support and assistance of the OAGF in discharging their duties, but stressed that their activities would be closely monitored by experienced staff of the OAGF to ensure that government got value for money.

PDP, APC bicker over Wike’s N9bn loan Dapo Falade -Port Harcourt THE Rivers State chapters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) are again at each other’s throat over a N9 billion bank loan recently applied for by Governor Nyesom Wike.

It will be recalled that the governor, on Monday, got the approval of the members of the state House of Assembly to access the loan facility, which he said was meant for capital projects from Zenith Bank.

However, the state chairman of APC, Dr Davies Ikanya, on Tuesday, condemned the legislative approval, alleging that the loan was being obtained by the governor to prosecute the legislative rerun scheduled to hold in the state on July 30.

The state PDP publicity secretary, Mr Sam Nwanosike, denied the allegation and declared that

neither the party nor Governor Wike needed to take loan to prosecute the election.

Ikanya said the loan was to enable the governor to buy his way through during the election, adding: “We believe that this action accentuates the level of fe-

verish desperation that has enveloped the governor, who is infamous for coming to power at the needless expense of several lives of innocent Rivers people and Nigerians.

“Governor Wike is obviously frightened by the prospect of his candidates

losing in the forthcoming rerun, especially in the Rivers South-East axis, where his morbid fear for the rising profile and popularity of Senator Magnus Abe has become unbearable for him.

However, Nwanosike said the allegation was not only laughable, but also that the

Troops repel attack, kill 25 Boko Haram terrorists in Borno THE Nigerian Army said 25 bodies of Boko Haram terrorists had been recovered after troops of 119 Task Force Battalion stationed in Kangarwa of northern Borno repelled an attack Tuesday night.

This was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday, by acting Army spokesman, Colonel Sani Usman.

According to the statement, the attack which started at about 6.30 p.m. was successfully repelled after about three hours of exchange of heavy gunfire

that inflicted tremendous casualty on the terrorists.

It stated that one gallant soldier paid the supreme price, while 11 others were wounded in action and one of the unit’s gun truck was badly damaged.

“As of this morning, the troops counted 25 bodies of the Boko Haram terrorists and recovered two Rocket Propelled Grenades 7 (RPG 7) tubes, a 60mm Mortar tube, 2 Machine Guns, 12 AK-47 rifles and one Light Machine Gun. “The body of the gallant

soldier and those wounded in action are being evacuated, while the unit is carrying out mop-up operation,’’ it stated.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that Kangarwa had been a stronghold of the insurgents in northern Borno until it was recaptured by the Nigerian forces.

NAN also reported that Kangarwa and its environs used to be the major rallying point for insurgents coming into Nigeria from Niger and Chad.

APC leadership had lost its sense of reasoning as there was no way the loan in question can be accessed before the legislative rerun.

“APC has nothing else to tell the people of Rivers State than to say Wike is seeking for loans to win elections, but my brothers in Rivers APC and their chairman have, by the latest allegation, demonstrated that they have lost their sense of reasoning.

“Governor Wike does not need the N9 billion loan or any loan to win the rerun as Rivers is a PDP state. The allegation is more laughable due to the fact that the election in question is coming up on July 30,” he said.

He also advised the main opposition party in the state to stop playing politics with governance, adding that they should rather swallow their pride and acknowledge that Governor Wike was, indeed, working to ensure good governance and development in the state.

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Thursday, 14 July, 2016

THE PALACE PILLARS 2016 CONFERENCE HELD AT VICTORY INT’L CHURCH, REHOBOTH CATHEDRAL, OLUYOLE ESTATE, IBADAN

The Hosts: Bishop and Pastor Mrs T.V. Adelakun at the thanksgiving service.

From left: Pastor Milly Sebbanja, Pastor Bernadette Byasigarano, Pastor Grace Batangi, Pastor Dolapo Adelakun, Pastor Julie Kato, Pastor Martha Naggayi, Pastor Rose Rutabuzwa, Pastor Orpah Hassan Datti, Pastor Mercy Kefas.

From left are Pastor Ojurongbe, Pastor Deola Eboda, and Dr Chioma Asuzu. The speakers who handled the session on Stemming the tide of Divorce in the body of Christ.

From right: Pastor Elizabeth Olaoluwa (Enugu), Pastor Bolu Ojo (Akwa Ibom), Pastor Grace Ezekiel (Benin), Pastor Moyo Joseph (Port Harcourt).

From left: Dr Julianah Taiwo, Mrs Jagun, Dr Joy Ibeh, Mrs Oyebami.

From left: Queen Olashore, Mosun Aiyanyo, Funke Oyelami, Folake Saba, Tinu Ayanniyi, Yemisi Afolabi speaking at the workshop.

The “BUILDERS” The forum for young ladies.

Registrars at the conference. From left: Mrs Adedipe, Mrs Oni, Mrs Akintomide, Mrs Efosa-Uroghide, Mrs Taiwo and Mrs Aribatise.

Pastors and participants at the conference.

Palace Pillars at the thanksgiving service for the conference.

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Thursday, 14 July, 2016

We suspended strike to allow FG, IOCs implement agreement —PENGASSAN Soji-Eze Fagbemi -Abuja

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he Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), on Wednesday, said it only suspended the six-day old strike to allow the Federal Government and the International Oil Companies (IOCs) to implement the agreement reached and signed with the union during the long negotiation.

The Federal Government and the IOCs had engaged the union in prolonged negotiations for two days, which lasted through the night of Tuesday to early Wednesday to resolve the crisis.

Led by its president, Comrade Olabode Johnson, PENGASSAN went into its emergency national executive council (NEC) meeting at about 3a.m. on Wednesday and suspended the strike.

But further negotiations between the union and the Federal Government, as well as the IOCs, will resume next week Tuesday and Thursday to address other issues that were unresolved after Tuesday’s meeting.

Johnson, who addressed journalists at the end of the NEC meeting appealed to the members of the union to return to their duty posts with immediate effect.

He said: “The leadership of PENGASSAN, hereby, advise our members to return to their offices immediately.”

He, however, emphasised that the strike was suspended to see how the Federal Government would handle and resolve the pending issues, while the implementation of the agreement signed with them would determine the extent at which peace would reign in the sector.

The NUPENG president recalled that the union listed some of the reasons which informed its strike action to include lingering irregular joint venture funding and cash call payment arrears, lack of a clear cut direction on the PIB, among others.

However, a communique signed after the meeting with the minister highlighted

some resolutions which were agreed upon, while the inclusive issues were deferred for further negotiations.

The communique was signed by PENGASSAN

The Ogun State government has sacked one of the commissioners in the state civil service commission, Mr Ebenezer Olubena.

This was contained in a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr Taiwo Adeoluwa.

Olubena was a Commissioner IV in the commission until his removal,

General Secretary, Adamu Song; General Manager Human Resources NNPC, B. M. Isah and the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Labour and Employment,

Clement Illoh.

The agreement was clearly contained in the communique and it read: “The meeting reviewed the State of the Nation and was of the view

Massive construction site opposite the British Village, Mississippi Street, Maitama, Abuja, where a walkway purportedly collapsed on three people, leading to the death of two and the third person presently receiving treatment in an undisclosed medical facility.

that PENGASSAN complaints that the issue of national security, power and bad road infrastructure was in order as members of the Nigeria, nation. The meeting was particularly satisfied with the reports given by the Security Chiefs from the Department of State Security Services (DSS) and the Police on government efforts to tackling the issues of insurgency and pipeline vandalism and kidnapping of the oil workers in the Nigeria.

On the state of the nation’s refineries/non implementation of collective bargaining agreements (CBA) / Integrated Personnel Payroll Information System (IPPIS)/Restructuring and Resourcing in Government Agencies, the communique said “the explanation and work plan by the Ministry of Petroleum Resources with a view to reactivating the refineries were satisfactorily adopted.

2 perish under mud at Abuja construction site Christian Okeke -Abuja Two persons lost their lives after a mudlslide incident at a private construction site on Plot 3333, Mississippi Street, Maitama District, Abuja.

The two victims, the Nigerian Tribune gathered, were labourers at the site.

Although the identities of

the victims could not be ascertained as of the time of this report, it was gathered that the site engineer had been arrested by the police, following the incident.

Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Mr Adamu Ismaila, was at the site to assess the situation.

He said FCT Minister, Mallam Musa Bello, had also directed the FCT Development Control to thoroughly investigate the incident and report back immediately to ascertain what really went wrong that led to the death of the two men.

He said the administration was going to investigate thoroughly the incident to

avoid a repeat.

Ismaila disclosed that remedial action to protect the infrastructure was already on at the site.

Other measures, according to him, was for all the contractors working at the site to temporarily stop whatever they were doing to provide retaining wall as a matter of urgency.

The executive secretary noted that the FCT Administration had approved the engagement of a construction firm, Habib Engineering Company Limited, to immediately take over the collapsed site and restore the embankment to prevent further erosion and possible collapse of the Mississippi Road.

IPMAN to collaborate with FG over full deregulation policy Vows to banish pipeline vandalism Ademola Adegbite -Abuja THE Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), on Wednesday, said it would collaborate with the Federal Government to realise the full potential of the deregulation policy, as well as to stamp out pipeline vandalism and also end scarcity of petroleum products in the country.

Its national president, Chief Obasi Lawson, made this known in Abuja, dur-

Ogun sacks commissioner Olayinka Olukoya -Abeokuta

president, Francis Olabode Johnson; PENGASSAN General Secretary, Lumumba Okugbawa, the NUPENG president, Igwe Achese; NUPENG deputy

which was in accordance with the extant laws of the state.

The statement directed Olubena to hand over all government property and documents in his possession to the permanent secretary in the commission with immediate effect.

When contacted on phone, Adeoluwa said: “The law gives the governor the privilege to hire and fire.”

ing the inauguration of the National Executive Council (NEC) of the association.

He stressed that the association would be collaborating with the Federal Government and also ensure that the recurring scarcity of petroleum products was completely banished for the betterment of Nigerians.

IPMAN president further promised to work closely with relevant agencies of government to ensure that the deregulation policy of the Federal Government became a success.

According to him, “I pledge to work closely with the Federal Government and all relevant agencies by the Federal Government, in order to realise the full potential of the deregulation policy of the government.

“Together with the Board of Trustees and NEC of our great association, we will work to banish the problem of fuel scarcity from this country. We will vigorously pursue a policy of

importation of petroleum products and will put in place infrastructure which shall complement the efforts of government to make petroleum products available for our people.

“We shall be partners in progress with the Federal

Government, NNPC and PPMC in the promotion of industrial peace and harmony in the country and will, to this end, work closely with NUPENG, PTD and other associations and unions in the downstream sector, in or-

der that industrial peace and harmony reign supreme in our land. In this regard, we shall deploy all efforts in doing all that we can to support the government in stamping out pipeline vandalism from the country,” he assured.

FG sets conditions for absorbing 2,000 sacked immigration recruits Clement Idoko -Abuja THE Federal Government has set stringent conditions for absorbing the 2,000 “dispersed” Nigeria Immigration Service recruits allegedly done illegally by the last administration of President Goodluck Jonathan.

The applicants, who were recruited in February 2015, and subsequently sacked by the Federal Government while undergoing training had stormed the Ministry of Interior recently to protest their sacking and demanded their reinstatement into the NIS. But the Comptroller General of Immigration

Service, Mr Mohammed Babadende, who spoke at an interactive session with newsmen in Abuja, on Wednesday, said even though the recruitment was done illegally, he was committed to finding solution to the plight of the affected young Nigerians.

He disclosed that he had met with the representatives of the affected NIS recruits based on the approval of the Minister of Interior, Lieutenant General Abdulrahman Dambazzau, and gave them some conditions for normalising their appointments.

Babadende noted that because of compassion for them as innocent people, “I

gave them conditions under which their appointment could be normalised.”

The conditions he gave them were, first, their appointment could be normalised subject to vacancies; second, there has to be a budget for them and third, is the question of qualification as new conditions have been put in place by the government for recruitment into the Service.

He said: “I told them that their certificate must be verified; they must pass through security clearance, drug test and you can’t be 35 years and say you want to join the Service. They agreed and I’m going to meet with them on Friday again.

businessnews Nigeria’s domestic debt service rises by N152.32bn in 2015 Naira eases by 27% to N283.42 12

Chima Nwokoji-Lagos

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HE amount of money spent by the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) in settlement of domestic debt as at end of December 2015, has increased by 17.59 per cent to N152.32 billion.

FGN’s domestic debt service for the period amounted to over N1.018 trillion compared to N865.81 billion in the corresponding period of 2014.

According to the Debt Management Office (DMO), this amount comprised principal repayment of N25 billion and interest payment of N993.13 billion.

The just released 2015 Annual Report of the Debt Management Office (DMO) indicated that this year alone, even in the face of cash crunch when the Federal Ministry of Finance is yet to make any quarterly release in implementing the 2016 budget, N446 billion has already being paid out to creditors in debt servicing.

This is just as the naira spot rate on Wednesday depreciated by 27 per cent to close at N283.42 to the dollar as against Tuesday’s close of N282.67 to the greenback.

The local currency at the unofficial (black) market crashed against the American dollar for the first time this week, as it exchanged for N356 to the greenback compared with Tuesday’s close of N353/$1 rate.

While the local currency closed at N372.70 to the British Pounds and N314.27 to the Euro at the inter-bank market on Tuesday, a currency trader at the Hadji Camp end of

Thursday, 14 July, 2016

the Murtala Muhammed International Airport told Nigerian Tribune that the naira also weakened against the Pound Sterling (GBP) and the Euro,

as it traded for N465 and N390 respectively at the unofficial market on Wednesday.

An online media, NAIJ. com quoted a Bureau De

Change operator in Lagos as having said: “We are running out of dollar and until the CBN begins to sell forex that is when we can support the economy.

Global CEO, Boston Consulting Group, Mr Richer Lesser (left) in handshake with Dr Oba Otudeko, Chairman, Honeywell Group, Dr Oba Otudeko, when the Boston Consulting Group team visited Honeywell Group’s Lagos office recently.

Why Plateau is expanding perishable cargo terminal —Gov Shola Adekola - Lagos EFFORTS are in top gear by the Plateau State government to make seamless transportation and distribution of farm produce and livestock from the state to other parts of the country and world at large.

Dropping this hint yesterday at the Murtala Muhammed Airport, the state governor, Simon Lalong said to achieve this, the state has commenced the expansion and development of perishable cargo terminal at the Jos airport

to make this move a reality.

According to Lalong, the timely evacuation of farm produce would help the farmers make maximum profits from their crops and also ensure that they are sold out fresh.

Farmers across the country had lamented how poor evacuation of their produce by road had made them record shortage due to the loss of substantial parts of their harvest to delays and untidy movement to ready markets in populated cities in the

country.

Lalong, however, attributed the plan behind the move to build a perishable cargo terminal at the Jos airport which had already been designated as international cargo airport to the resolve of his administration to focus on agriculture as a way of assisting farmers in the state to boost their produce by facilitating the process of their reaching their market.

“The Jos airport is already designated as international cargo airport.

FirstBank targets 10 million new customers with Agency banking FIRST Bank of Nigeria Limited, is targeting to grow its customer base by over 10 million new customers in the next three years. The expansion is in sync with the Bank’s financial inclusion initiative.

This is just as Fitch, a global leader in credit ratings and research on Monday released a rating which affirmed the Viability Ratings (VR) of all the Nigeria banks, Fitch has revised the SRFs to ‘B’ from ‘B+’ for the systemically important banks; FirstBank, UBA, Zenith and GTB following the downgrade of Nigeria’s sovereign ratings. The challenging and volatile operating environment in Nigeria and other key rating factors, particularly the banks’ financial profiles, constrain the VRs in the highly specu-

Should the CBN agree to sell to us, they can be rest assured we would follow due process as well as comply with all regulatory requirements.”

lative ‘b’ range.

Managing Director and CEO, First Bank of Nigeria Limited and Subsidiaries, Dr Adesola Adeduntan, who disclosed this in Lagos on Tuesday, said FirstBank currently has over 10 million customers, adding that its new management is working towards growing this to over 20 million by 2019 through a phased deployment of agency banking. Adeduntan unfolded the key strategic focus of the Bank to Editors and online publishers at a parley which had other members of the new management, including the Deputy Managing Director, Mr Gbenga Shobo and other members of the executive management in attendance.

Describing the First Bank

as a ‘strategically important bank’ to the Nigerian economy, Adeduntan said the objectives of the new management which assumed office in January 2016, includes to retain

the spot as the number one bank in the country and sub-region; and to continue to be fully embedded in the nation’s economy whilst delivering value to all its stakeholders.

It is only that it has not been used for a very long time. So when we came in we went to the place and we have it in the budget to expand the place and provide the necessary facilities so that we can use the airport properly as cargo airport.

Secondly we now focus on agriculture as you mentioned. A lot of farm produce comes through Jos, from Maiduguri and other parts of the neighbouring states.

“Jos is a transit to about five states, so all of them will pass through the airport. Because of that we need collaboration with the federal government so we will quickly do the expansion and take advantage of the international cargo airport that we have. When we talk about ranches, we are talking about the production of more cows, so we need a cargo airport,” Lalong said.

Nigerian Tribune

Equities market closed red as Skye Bank lead losers Kehinde Akinseinde Jayeoba - Lagos TRADING on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) went back on a negative walk after a day lift as Skye Bank led the losers.

All Share Index (ASI) depreciated by 0.44 per cent to close at 28,730.40 basis points, compared with the 0.15 per cent appreciation recorded on Tuesday, to leave its Year-to-Date (YTD) at returns currently stands at +0.31 per cent.

Market breadth also closed negative as 15 gainers were recorded against 25 losers at the end of trading session.

Skye Bank Plc led the losers table having depreciated in share value to 67 kobo from 73 kobo it traded representing 8.22 decline.

Conversely, Transnational Corporation of Nigeria Plc led the gainers chart having increased by 9.52 per cent or 14 kobo from its share price to close at N1.61 kobo against N1.47 kobo it traded.

Honeywell Flour Mills Plc also appreciated in share value to N1.47 kobo per share from N1.35 kobo, just as Axamansard Insurance Plc gained N0.09 kobo or 4.37 per cent to close at N2.15 kobo per share.

Also FCMB Group Plc moved its share price to N1.45 kobo from N1.39 kobo with 4.32 per cent increase, while NASCON Allied Industries Plc closed at eight naira per share having gained 33 kobo or 4.30 per cent to its share price.

Market turnover closes negative as volume declined by 8.30 per cent against 24.60 per cent decline recorded in the previous session.

Guaranty Trust Bank Plc, Zenith Bank Plc and Access Bank Plc were the toast of investors as were most active to boost market turnover, while Dangote Cement Plc and Guaranty Trust Bank top market value list.

Fitch affirms UBA’s viability rating as Agusto upgrades rating to ‘Aa’ FITCH International, one of the foremost global rating agencies has affirmed United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc’s viability rating at ‘B,’ as the pan-African banking group continue to sustain its benchmark asset quality and strong profitability amidst industry and macroeconomic challenges.

UBA is one of the few banks with strong risk management framework, which has helped keep non-performing loans ratio at a moderate level of 1.74 per

cent as at the end-March 2016, as against industry average of over six per cent as reported by Fitch in its recent report on Nigerian banks.

Fitch also upgraded UBA’s outlook to stable from Negative, thus reinforcing the strong outlook on the Bank, especially as its diversified network across eighteen other African countries make it relatively immune against the potential cyclical volatilities in any of its country of operations.

Also, the foremost local rating agency in Nigeria, Agusto & Co, at its rating review of UBA Plc, upgraded the Bank’s rating from ‘A+’ to ‘Aa-,’ with a stable outlook. According to Agusto & Co, “the rating of United Bank for Africa Plc (UBA) is upheld by the Bank’s improved capitalisation, good liquidity and large pool of stable deposits, strong domestic presence supported by the Bank’s extensive branch network and growing alternative banking

channels.

“We note improvement in profitability and the bank’s good asset quality. The Rating takes into cognizance the weak macroeconomic climate on the banking industry’s asset quality, which we do not expect UBA to be excluded. Nonetheless, we note positively its diversified geographical reach, which will cushion to an extent the impact of the weak Nigerian economic climate,” Agusto & Co stated in its credit rating report.

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Thursday, 14 July, 2016

Nigerian Tribune

SGF’s outburst on National Confab

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HE Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Mr Babachir David Lawal, recently described the 2014 National Conference organised by the immediate past administration as a mere reward for jobless youths. He spoke against the backdrop of clamours for serious, collective thinking on pragmatic and realistic solutions to the critical issues underneath the wobbling Nigerian federation.

The rash of violent conflicts in parts of the country, especially in the North-East and the Niger Delta region, upped the ante of the crusade. In their wisdom, well-meaning stakeholders in the Nigerian project believe that implementing the report of the 2014 National Conference offers a veritable window of opportunity for the country to get out of its prolonged quagmire and step forward towards attaining nationhood. Their insistence is anchored on the far-reaching decisions arrived at by consensus at the confab on highly contentious challenges constituting a wedge in Nigeria’s quest for a workable federal structure.

Coupled with the landmark resolutions is the pedigree and calibre of delegates to the conference, who included seasoned technocrats, senior citizens, clerics, legal luminaries and traditional rulers, with the entire representation underscoring the political plurality and ethnic heterogeneity of the country.

Some of the delegates included the chairman, Justice Idris Kutigi, a former Chief Justice of Nigeria; Chief Ayo Adebanjo, Pa Olaniwun Ajayi, Ambassador Tokunbo Awolowo Dosumu, Professor Jibril Aminu; Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Sulu Gambari; Lamido of Adamawa, His Royal Highness, Dr Muhammadu Barkindo Mustapha; Gbong Gwong Jos, His Royal Highness, Elder Jacob Gyang Buba; chairman of the Arewa Consutlative Foerum (ACF), Alhaji Ibrahim Coomasie; the most senior lawyer at the Bar, Chief Richard Akinjide (SAN); Professor Bolaji Akinyemi, and the Emir of Gummi, Justice Lawal Gummi.

It therefore amounts to a gratuitous insult for the SGF to refer to such a crop of distinguished citizens as boys who availed themselves of jobs disguised as a confab. His outburst is indicative of the fact that certain individuals easily get carried away by the privileges of office, power and authority, all of which are temporal and ephemeral. Indeed, while the SGF’s political camp may not share the spirit of the confab, it does not deny the reality about the progressive outcome, which represents the collective wishes and aspirations of Nigerians about the future of their country. Democracy is about the majority having their way, while at the same time not denying the minority of their say.

Therefore, nobody should see himself as being larger, powerful and influential than the rest of Nigerians put together just because of the aura of office, political association, inclination and persuasion.

It is disturbing to say that a conference presided over by a former Chief Justice of Nigeria was a mere job for the boys. It is equally provocative and disdainful to aver that the assemblage of such senior citizens spiced with the new breed was a jamboree to siphon scarce national resources, and to infer that the report of such a historic gathering was self-serving, given the precarious state of the Nigerian federation at the period the conference was held, and the prevalent despondency in the country today which even President Muhammadu Buhari has acknowledged while demanding patience, understanding and sacrifice from his fellow compatriots.

The SGF’s comment ignored possible backlash from other major stakeholders in the Nigerian project who, in spite of bottled up emotions, have demonstrated maturity by calling for restraint from hitherto restive quarters in the hope that, with time, reason would prevail concerning the sanctity of the confab report to safeguard the unity of the country. Therefore, we strongly condemn the outburst of the SGF and advise that he treads the path of honour, integrity, decorum and statesmanship in the discharge of his duties, and when speaking from his vantage position on national issues. It will be outlandish if such indignity suddenly becomes the norm rather than the exception in exalted offices in the land.

We believe that the delegates and indeed Nigerians as a whole do not deserve any form of gratuitous insolence and vituperation, regardless of whoever is in the corridors of power. Lawal needs to show penitence and demonstrate sufficient capacity to acknowledge his fallibility as a human, otherwise his utterances and actions are capable of creating the mindset that leadership amounts to impugning the integrity of the vast majority of the populace.

Certainly, in a plural society like Nigeria, there is bound to be divergence of opinions on critical national issues. But the divergence must be expressed within the framework of promoting decency and decorum. Leadership is about responsibility and receptiveness, and not cant and profanity.

The SGF needs to descend from his current Olympian height to ponder the realities confronting the country. He must not be seen to be talking down on others who have equal stakes in the Nigerian project and have demonstrated patriotism. It is unethical to insinuate political harlotry on the part of elder statesmen and professionals of no mean integrity and repute who volunteered to serve their fatherland, denying themselves of personal comfort, resources and time towards proffering workable solutions to grave issues threatening the corporate existence of the federation.

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14

Thursday, 14 July, 2016

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yournews

•What a woman can do, a man can do better!... Photo: Tommy Adegbite

IBEDC, save us from darkness in Owode-Ede FOR several weeks now, we have not had electricity supply at Owode-Ede, Osun State, and this has brought untold hardship on homes and businesses in the locality.

However, more painful is that efforts to get electricity workers to repair the fault have so far failed, since the workers seem not interested in our predicament.

As a result of this, businesses that rely on electricity for survival have not been finding it easy in the area, and this is affecting profitability.

I am, therefore, calling on the authorities of the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) to look into our case, with a view to repairing the fault that has thrown our community into total darkness.

•S.F Aremu, 08054022498

Ban on hawking: Appeal to Lagos govt

I

N as much as I understand why the Lagos State government took the decision to ban hawkers from Lagos highways and streets, it is also important that the government realises that things are tough economically for many people, and that is why some are out on the highways looking for

what to survive on. Apart from those hawkers who are in primary and secondary schools who hawk after school hours to support their parents, there are many graduates among them who are also into hawking because they can not find anything doing after leaving school.

If the Lagos State gov-

ernment is to ban hawking, then it should provide alternatives for these people who have no other means of livelihood.

Every society has its peculiarity; while hawking may not be accepted in other developed countries, wanting to turn Lagos into a mega city overnight, and making life difficult for the

Oyo govt, tar road leading to Olubadan’s palace SINCE the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Saliu Adetunji, ascended the throne of his forefathers, one would have expected the Oyo State government to tar the road leading to the palace of the monarch.

The terrible condition in which the road is now does not show that it leads to the palace of the foremost royal father in Ibadan.

As the father of everybody in the state capital, many important dignitaries across the country have been visiting the palace, and it does not speak well of us that this is how the road leading to the Olubadan’s palace is. Consequently, I am calling on

the state governor, under the leadership of Senator Abiola Ajimobi, to quickly start work on the rehabilitation of the road leading to the palace. It is also important that prominent Ibadan sons and daughters prevail

on the state governor to rehabilitate this road immediately, as it will go a long way in positively projecting our royal father in the eyes of non-indigenes.

•Abayomi Babatunde, 07054556784

less-privileged is not fair enough. I hope the government, under the leadership of Governor Akinwumi Ambode, will rescind this

anti-poor policy immediately.

•Jimoh Mumin, 08034435211

Attention, Gov Okowa I want to use this opportunity to call on the Delta State governor, Senator Ifeanyin Okowa, to come to our aid on Chief Joseph Ndudi Ozah Street in Ogwuashi-Uku. The road on this street is just so terrible that it has affected economic activities in the area. With the bad road, the area is also prone to flooding, and with the rainy season, many residents are always scared whenever t rains.

As a result, I am calling on the governor to order the immediate reconstruction of the road, while also fitting it with drainages.

Apart from this, I want the governor to provide the town with a community library, and equip it with quality books.

This will go a long way in developing our children educationally, while also occupying their time.

•Onyeajunwa Amoku, 08052212361

Tackling corruption in Nigeria THERE are several families that need just thousands of naira to get by in life, and we have some people who are lucky to have held political offices siphoning billions of naira meant for the citizens of the country.

If we don’t strengthen

our penal system, then corrupt politicians will keep on escaping justice.

It is important that those who have stolen from the country are punished by making them lose everything they have stolen, as well as those properties they had acquired legally.

After all these have been confiscated, then they should be sent to several years in jail without the option of fine.

It is also necessary that plea bargaining is phased out completely, as it doesn’t make those who have stolen from the coun-

try to get the punishment they deserve.

We need to be more firm if we really want to tackle corruption in Nigeria, and the judiciary has a huge role to play in this regard.

•Olaolu Akinpelu, 07063010430

15

opinion

Thursday, 14 July, 2016

Developing an effective tax policy

By Maxwell Adeyemi Adeleye

E

VER since crude oil was discovered in Nigeria on January 15, 1956, the country has never remained the same again. Nigeria has strategically abandoned other sources of income where the nation could rake in trillions of naira annually.

Until the discovery of crude oil, Nigeria’s major sources of income were majorly agricultural produce such as groundnut, cocoa, cashew, palm oil, among others. These produce are free gifts of nature that are planted, harvested, processed and exported under import-export substitutions policy of the then Nigerian government.

Through income earned from cocoa and other agricultural producce, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, the first Premier of the Western Region, built Airport Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos; the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University); Cocoa House, Ibadan; Western Nigeria Television Authority (Now NTA), Ibadan; Oodua Textile Industry, Ado-Ekiti; Ire-Ekiti Brick Industry, Igbemo Processing Mill, Ifon Ceramics, Okitipupa Oil Palm Mill, Oluwa Glasses, Igbokoda, all in the present Ondo State, and many more business firms for his people.

Succinctly, with agriculture as her major source of revenue, Nigeria hit the ground running immediately she gained independence on October 1, 1960. Now, what Nigeria has as her main source of income is crude oil. Other income generating sectors have been jettisoned for the oil boom that is now more of a curse than a blessing for the Nigerian people.

For the solution; great nations develop through tax. America and Britain survive mostly on taxes. I can say through direct observation that the Nigeria Tax Policy is too weak and archaic. Nigerian leaders have allowed more money to be taken out of the country by neo-colonialists masquerading as owners of multi-national corporations, than what they (the neo-colonialists) pay as tax.

For the fact that oil might one day dry up, and with the calculated eradication of agriculture from the Nigerian economy, an effective tax policy can remedy the challenges currently militating against our development. With adequate tax

policy, we can get more funds to salvage the infrastructural decadence presently battering the country.

First, ‘Pay as you earn’ policy must be pursued with rigour.

Those earning substantial salaries and allowances should be made to pay as more as they earn. It is also recommended that the Nigerian government implement ‘Pay as you have’ policy. With this, Nigeria can increase its revenue by taxing multi-millionaires and billionaires who litter the nooks and crannies of the country; the implication is that the more properties one has, the more one pays.

I am aware of the country’s tenement rate policy, but apart from this, government should ensure that privileged Nigerians who possess many mansions in choice areas in Abuja, Kano, Lagos, Port-Harcourt, among others places, pay tax according to the number of houses they own. In fact, they should pay not only according to the number of properties, but also according to the quality of the properties.

Let me declare unequivocally that it is very unfair for someone who builds a house valued at N5million on a plot of land at Ojodu, Lagos, to be paying equal tax and tenement rate with a super-rich Nigerian who has a house worth N100million on a plot of land in the same location. The inequality in the payment of tax in Nigeria is antithesis of development and tax policies worldwide. Why would a building at Ogba-

Aguda, Lagos pay same tax and tenement rate with a mansion at Banana Island in the same city?

Government has also failed to boost her revenue through vehicle registration. The policy of duty payment designed by the Nigeria Ports Authority and Nigeria Customs Service should be adopted by those in charge of vehicle and number plate registration in the country.

At Nigerian ports and borders, one is charged duty on imported cars based on the year of production of such cars. The duty of cars manufactured in Year 2010 costs more than cars manufactured in 2014, even when the purchasing price of some 2010 cars are higher than those of 2014.

Consequently, it is totally unacceptable and economically unwise for the Nigerian authority to charge same amount for registration of number plates of Year 2000 model of Land Rover SUV and 2015 model of same product. It is also unwise for the licensing of a 1998 Honda car to be equal with that of a 2015 Toyota Camry car.

Nigerian authorities should be reasonable as far as revenue generation is concerned. A billionaire driving a car worth N20m should be able to pay N200,000 for number plate registration, after all, the rich and the poor do not get equal treatment in the country.

I also charge Nigerian authorities to de-liberalise our tax system. Nigeria is too liberal with multi-national corporations and corporate establishments in Nigeria.

We allow these conglomerates to evade tax in the name of enticing them to invest more in the country, so that the teeming unemployed youth can secure employment opportunities to earn decent living. These foreign businessmen and women are just exploiting our weakness.

Another problem with Nigeria’s tax system is corruption.

The tax collection agencies are too corrupt, insincere and unfaithful to the Nigerian state. Of course, when one trades for someone, there’s cost of trade, but Nigeria would have achieved more in terms of infrastructure and employment generations if 60per cent of what is due to the three tiers of government are remitted by tax collection agencies.

•Adeleye is a public affairs analyst, lives in Lagos.

Agriculture: Cinderella of the Nigerian economy

By J.A Oluyemi

Agriculture is the competent “general” that was prematurely retired from the Olympian height of playing a dominant role in the Nigerian economy. With the economy now virtually in tatters, the “knight” in a shining armour must patriotically respond to the appeal to come to the rescue of our nation.

However, its effectiveness in this role is subject to a number of conditions that did not previously exist and which hinge on sustainability.

First is the potentially enormous internal market that needs to be consolidated by banning the importation of competing agricultural products and for which the nation should be prepared for a pitiless and protracted, if not endless, battle against smugglers and their internal and external collaborators. The internal collaborators are the corrupt public officials whose days may be numbered with the zero tolerance for corruption of the present political leadership. The external collaborators are the foreign suppliers of the smuggled products, who possess the wherewithal, and that possibly enjoy subsidy, to undersell local producers. They may therefore be a harder nut to crack, possibly requiring retaliatory and resolute approach. Not to be underrated in reducing national crop yield is climate change which, however, is a universal problem.

Whereas foreign exchange can be preserved by banning importation or minimizing it with high tariffs, its direct acquisition with agriculture is by exportation. This can be achieved by targeting a trade zone and by negotiating with those outside it, consisting of those actually in need because of internal production problems and those that require bilateral agreements. The latter may take the form of the old fashioned but useful “trade by barter” since it would be fair that countries to which Nigeria is a market for manufactured goods should also patronize her agricultural market (produce) in compensation.

The second consideration is the continuous satisfaction of local and external demands for the agricultural products so as not to undermine the whole scheme. Indeed, production will be stimulated by price incentive generated by a stabilized market,

while profitability will be maximized by research-based cutting edge technology from the myriad of agricultural and veterinary institutions in the country.

All the same, rather than production being open-ended, one limiting factor or another will ultimately arise. This factor is expectedly the availability of arable land, even when intensive cultivation and irrigation are adopted. The extent to which agriculture can be used to diversify the economy is, on this account, open to speculation. Moreover, land in general is subject to competing demands. However, not all exportable farm products may be affected by land constraint or scarcity and, in fact, there may be none, especially at the initial stage and this may lead to overproduction and a price fall below production cost.

Overproduction will, therefore, be a red signal for remedial action to prevent or limit its recurrence and for the storage of the surplus. This will need to be worked out proactively or from the standpoint of crossing the bridge when it is reached.

The third consideration is augmenting foreign exchange earnings with value-added products. Efforts in this direction start from the agricultural institutions turning out superior genetic materials through the use of modern technology for the most marketable farm products. Although such farm products of the best quality may be adequate for exportation, industrialization is also essential to add value to the domestic market and even, to some extent, exportation. Otherwise the useful “lesson” of importing our crude oil from foreign refineries would seem to be lost. In fact, local production of fuel from the domestic plants

should be considered.

Related to this issue is the reliance on foreign experts to solve local agricultural challenges, which is a wasteful expenditure of hard-earned foreign exchange. Of what value then are the agricultural institutions? After all, their facilities can be upgraded for any specific purposes. In fact, agriculture in Nigeria is being technologically starved in spite of the presence of several agricultural institutions. As a remedy, the approval of agricultural loans should be contigent on commitments to employ agricultural graduates. This would go a long way in solving or minimizing youth unemployment.

The fourth important consideration is the privatisation of industries, of which agriculture is typical and critical. Pooling resources for productive or marketing purposes, facilitated by the formation of cooperatives or boards, does not go against any government policies. However, the elevation of agriculture from the status of mere commercial enterprise for individuals or groups to that of a national instrument of economic diversification is of government concern because it involves legislation.

And only the government can enact laws against importation and engage in foreign trade negotiations, even state governments are, at best, of less effectiveness in such negotiations.

The fifth consideration is the coincidence of the expected revamping of the agricultural sector with the financially troubled times of the nation. The available investment fund is evidently less than that of a more prosperous earlier time(s). Moreover, the gestation period of agriculture should be factored in. In short, agriculture should now urgently be accorded priority.

Lastly, there may be no end to the news media articles, like mine, on the virtually magical power of agriculture in salvaging the economy, but which may amount to the usual academic exercise or wishful thinking, that is, if no practical steps are taken.

Hence, a blueprint for the cost-effective investment in agriculture is required. Otherwise the investment may become counterproductive, amounting to a waste of funds and a betrayal of trust of youths who may see themselves as cannon fodders in a poorly planned and managed economy.

•Professor Oluyemi was a former Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry, University of Ibadan.

16

Thursday, 14 July, 2016

Minister sad over homeless staff Christian Okeke - Abuja

M

INISTER of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Musa Bello, came close to tears as he said it was a surprise for him to realise that a number of staff at the FCT administration, particularly those in the middle level and junior cadre, did not own properties in Abuja despite the fact that some of them have worked for the administration for so many years, processed land applications and files, and provided services.

He said the situation was contrary to an impression he had before becoming a minister that all staff of the FCT administration were landlords.

To that effect, he assured the Head of Service of the Federation, Ms. Winifred Ekanem Oyo-Ita, that his administration would do all it could to build 400 units of houses every year to close the housing deficit and provide affordable accommodation for its workforce.

He said that substantial amount of money had already been provided in the FCT 2016 statutory budget to immediately commence the project, which he said, was dear to his heart.

The minister hosted Oyo-Ita in his office, and while responding to her request for a suitable land for mass housing projects for all civil servants in the territory under Federal Integrated Staff Housing Scheme (FISH), he assured that his administration was ready to partner with

Alhaji Musa Bello, FCT minister the service to achieve the initiative even if it meant retrieving lands that it had previously allocated to other government institutions.

“With respect to this particular programme, I assure you we will try to identify and locate land in areas where you will build and deliver the houses at the rate you have mentioned so that the houses can be occupied immediately,”

FCT Administration releases N6bn for projects Christian Okeke - Abuja THE Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Administration has released the sum of N5, 744, 835, 928.38 to various development partners being counterpart funds for the projects they are executing in the territory.

The counterpart funds were not paid for several years.

Abuja Xtra gathered that the sum of N1, 787,077,262.75 was released to the Universal Basic Education Board which has not been paid since 2013.

Also, N50 million was released for the FCT Community and Social Development Programme NYSC. Out of the sum of over N5.7 billion, the sum of N46, 513,666.000 was released for

the Japanese International Corporation Agency (JICA) projects in the territory while the sum of N113,488,000 is for FCT FADAMA programme.

The sums of N2, 939,681,413.96 and N808,075,585.62 were released as counterpart funds for the Abuja Rail project as well as its consultancy services.

Ms Winifred Oyo-Ita, Head of Service he told the Head of Service.

The minister went further to say: “Even if it means we have to look at existing allocations that have not been utilised, especially if they were allocations made to government agencies, then I think we will have to recover them and bring them all under your office under this new proj-

ect so that we will be able to have them successfully executed the way they were meant to be from the very beginning.”

Further expressing disappointment on the situation as it affects staff of FCT administration, the minister said: “Some of them have worked here for so many years, processing land

applications, processing files, giving approvals, providing services, but they have been tenants in this city. Some of them never had the opportunity of occupying the houses that were sold some years back.”

Bello lamented that pockets of houses were built in the past without proper linkage with the city centre in terms of access road, power lines, water lines and sewage, and said that the FCT administration had concluded plans to revamp its mass housing programme to make it more inclusive and responsive.

He lamented that some of the previous mass housing projects had not been occupied despite having gulped so much funds.

Responding, the Head of Service recalled that since the year 2001 when the government’s monetization policy was implemented, only the first few crop of civil servants who were occupiers of official quarters at that time had the good fortune of being able to take over their houses with some assistance through the banks.

She lamented that no other group of civil servants had had the fortune again and urged the minister to allocate good piece of land that would be used to develop housing estates as well as provide site and services and other infrastructural needs that were very paramount to the successful development of the housing estates for civil servants under the FISH programme.

Street light contracts risk revocation over poor maintenance Christian Okeke - Abuja CONTRACTORS handling maintenance of streetlights in Abuja have been warned to either sit up or have their contracts terminated.

At an emergency meeting between the contractors and the Federal Capital Territory Administration, the acting coordinator, Abuja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC), Hajiya Safiya Umar, warned that the adminis-

tration would not condone any further poor performance from the contractors.

Abuja Xtra gathered that the coordinator noted that the FCT administration was not in default of any payments due to the contractors and stated that the administration expected that the contractors fulfilled their own side of the obligation.

She was quoted as having said that, “our payments are up to date

and therefore we expect effective service as no street in any part of the city should be in darkness when there is electricity supply by the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company.”

Abuja Xtra further gathered that the administration has written official warning letters to all the contractors to show the seriousness it attaches to the efficient functioning of streetlights in the city.

Avian influenza: FCT administration completes fumigation of poultry farms Christian Okeke - Abuja THE Federal Capital Territory (FCT) administration said it had undertaken holistic fumigation of poultry farms across the territory in continuation of its efforts to check the resurgence of Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) in the area.

It said it was adoption of further health measures aimed at prevent-

ing outbreak of diseases in Abuja and would soon embark on registration of poultry farmers in the entire territory.

According to the administration, it has also concluded arrangements to resuscitate and flag-off the annual vaccination and treatment of livestock herd.

Acting Secretary of Agriculture and Rural development, Dr Musa

Abubakar Aliyu, said the exercise would focus mainly on livestocks in grazing areas of Gwagwaglada, Old Gawu as well as Fulani herds in Abaji, Bwari, Karshi, Kwali, Kuje and Yaba.

He noted that the administration would provide support and encourage livestock farmers to embrace settlement in the grazing reserves.

According to him, this will also prevent outbreak of infectious diseases of livestock as well as provide treatment for the infected ones.

He said, “This will not only generate employment to the teeming youths in the Federal Capital Territory but would also boost income and generate wealth especially for the livestock farmers.”

17

Thursday, 14 July, 2016 With Adewale Oshodi tribunearts@yahoo.com 08054005323

‘Nigeria needs more dramatic therapists’ Dr Laide Nasir is Africa’s first doctorate degree holder in dramatic therapy. In this interview with ADEWALE OSHODI, the Performing Arts lecturer at the Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, speaks on his specialisation, and how he is promoting healthy living among Nigerians using the theatre. EXCERPTS:

Lateef), who saw my vision and passion and came to my aid by never getting tired of my book demands. Through them, I was able to digest most of the works of Jacob Levi Moreno, the founder of psychodrama from where drama therapy emerged. Also, I acquainted myself with the works of Eleanor Irwin, Robert Landy, Renee Emunah, Sue Jennings, Richard Courtney, Adam Blatner and lots of other writers who took after Moreno.

What does drama therapy entails?

Succinctly put, drama therapy is the systematic and intentional use of drama and theatre processes to achieve therapeutic goals which could be of symptoms relief, personal or societal growth or even emotional and physical integration. It’s a health and human service profession that is capable to address the needs of citizens be they young or old. In advanced countries, it is used in the assessment and treatment of individuals, couples, families, juvenile delinquents and people in lock up institutions. It could be administered on people suffering from all kinds of ailments such as mental illness, drug abuse, schizophrenia, trauma, emotional problems, among others.

Y

OU just bagged your PhD in drama therapy, how was the feeling like after all the hard work?

Well, all glory goes to God, the most high. It was not easy I must say, but at the end, I just felt a weight lifted off me. It was exhilarating, time and money consuming, but I now feel artistically fulfilled. And for me, that is what matters most. And looking back to all the work done on the field and off field, I felt fulfilled that it has not been time wasted at all. It’s really worth it.

You are Africa’s first PhD holder using drama as therapy, how did you discover this line of academic endeavour?

Well, the field of applied drama, under which drama therapy falls, is not new in several advanced countries. Since my undergraduate days, I have always been interested in the therapeutic area of theatre.

Unfortunately, the area was hardly taught in those days. After my masters degree, I saw an opportunity to go after my dream and explore the therapeutic use of theatre.

So I made up my mind that I wasn’t going to focus on any area except the therapeutic area. Fortunately for me, I got a lecturing job at Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo, where I started teaching Theatre for Development (TfD), which is also an aspect of applied drama. Four years later, I crossed to Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye in Ogun State. It was there that I was really able to actualise my passion. Again, I was teaching Theatre for Development (TfD) among other courses allocated to me. It was at Olabisi Onabanjo University that I was able to fester my nest using drama as therapy. I actually started the practice in Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Aro, Abeokuta and The Nigerian Prisons, Igbeba, Ijebu-Ode in 2006, though I didn’t get to start interaction with the patients/inmates till 2007. This is because being specialised lock-up institutions, the authorities are wary of allowing the patients/inmates to interact with total strangers. As a result of this, I was forced to adopt the migratory approach of TfD, wherein the performances were rehearsed and enacted without inputs from the patients/inmates who are the recipients of the drama package as against the

•Dr Laide Nasir homestead approach where they will form an integral part of the players. During the question and answer session which is usually found in TfD performances, the authorities of the institutions understood my point and granted my request to interact with the patients and inmates for future practice. Since 2007 till date, I have been in the practice at both the Neuropsychiatric Hospital in Abeokuta and in the Federal Prison at Igbeba in Ijebu-Ode. This is in addition to using theatre to educate the villages and communities within the envi-

The use of drama as therapy is fairly new in this country and considering the composition of Nigeria, we are in dire need of it.

ron about topical issues such as dangers of Lassa Fever, Hepatitis B, Ebola virus etc. At this juncture, I must express my gratitude to the management of Olabisi Onabanjo University and Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Abeokuta as well as that of the Federal Prison, Ijebu-Ode for their unflinching support accorded to me all these years. In the same vein, I commend the management of General Hospital, Ijebu-Ode and General Hospital, IjebuIgbo for their support too because I extend the tentacles of the practice to those places as well.

Since no one has done this academic research in Africa before, how did you find a supervisor and how easy was it finding references for your project?

Actually, I must say am very lucky to find someone like Professor Lanre Bamidele to supervise me. He is a man of many parts and being a professor of theatre, drama therapy, though not practiced in Nigeria as at then, was not new to him.

Therefore, under his tutelage and astute supervision, I was able to do a thorough job. Getting literature was not easy and I must give kudos to my friends abroad, most especially Mrs. Toyin Balogun (Nee Olumilua) and Temitope Badmus (Nee

In the past, you worked with the psychiatric hospital, Aro, Abeokuta by using drama to calm the nerves of psychologically-disturbed patients, tell us more about this project.

The work done with the Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Aro, Abeokuta are numerous, and this is why I really appreciate the management for realising the importance of drama as therapy in the lives of the patients of the institution.

I actually started in the Occupational Therapy (O.T) department, where I engage the patients in dramatic games. I also make use of Jonathan Fox’s playback theatre; David Read Johnson’s developmental transformation, while relying heavily on Robert Landy’s role method.

All this culminated into the writing and productions of two full length drama in 2009 and 2012 titled “Turbulent Waters” and “The Crashed web.”

So what is your next line of action since you have bagged your PhD? I see the acquisition of the PhD degree as the beginning of my research. I shall continue to research more in this field and engage in more refresher courses, because new challenges abound daily. The use of drama as therapy is fairly new in this country, and considering the composition of Nigeria, we are in dire need of it.

It is an area that all sectors of development should key into because of its importance in human and societal growth. In this wise, I shall implore all institutions of higher learning offering theatre/drama/ performing/creative arts to follow the trail laid by Olabisi Onabanjo University by shifting their attention more towards the therapeutic aspect of theatre.

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arts&review

Thursday, 14 July, 2016

Book review: Understanding ethics in public administration A review of Akin Isiolaotan’s book, Administrative Law and Ethics in Public Administration

by Lasisi Olagunju.

This is a 44-page specialised book on Administrative Law and Ethics in Public Administration. The objectives of the author are implied in the title and also, clearly set out by him in the Preface.

The author situates the functional context of the book in what he describes as “the non-practice of ethics in public administration” in the country which he says, has created “the problem of inefficiency and breaches by civil and public servants caught in the web of violations of ethics.”

He also seeks, through this book, to clarify for students of law, “what administrative law is, as distinct from constitutional law.”

Written in simple, easy-to-read language with a style I will describe as very lucid, the five-chapter book is an excursion into the world of this branch of Public Law. In plot and in form, the book is logically structured in such a way that achieving the stated objectives becomes like building a multi-storey building by a skilful engineer.

You cannot properly explain a phenomenon without first setting out its key components in clearly defined terms. If you want to help students solve the befuddling problem of confusing Administrative Law with Constitutional Law, you must set out by operationalising the key concepts in each of them and those terms straddling both areas of law. Thus, chapter one is dedicated to conceptual clarifications explaining concisely but exhaustively, what Administrative Law means and what Constitutional Law contains. Other concepts that arevery key in any sensible discussion of these topics such as Rule of Law, Separation of Powers, Ministerial Responsibility and Parliamentary Sovereignty are well defined in the opening chapter.

The next chapter dwells on what powers administrative bodies have under our laws.

Thus, issues such as delegation of powers, justification and criticism of the practice ofpower delegation, rule making procedures and the rules governing delegation of power are treated here.

Chapter three speaks to the checks on the powers of administrative bodies and organs- by the legislature, the executive itself and control by the judiciary.

Chapter four is on Administrative adjudication in line with separation of powers.

It contains a whole range of administrative bodies empowered by law to exercise adjudicatory powers, the over-arching rules guiding the exercise of such powers and the remedies available for victims of rights violation in the exercise of these powers.

If chapter one is the take-off of this book’s aeroplane and chapter two, three and four represent the levelling and the cruising stage, then chapter five is the landing. And how successful has the author, the captain of this plane, carried out that task?

Remember he did not just set out to write a book for the sake of writing. He states clearly in the preface that re-inventing an ethical society anchored onthe respect for the Rule of Law and practice of ethics in public administration is one cardinal goal of his effort.And so, he appropriately titles the last chapter: Ethics in Public Administration. Here, you find an exhaustive discussion of what Code of Conduct means, who it is meant for, what it ismeant to achieve, the implications of infractions and violations of the code.

He then caps that chapter with what he describes as the three theorieswhich he honestly attributes to one ChineduEkeke which he posits drives the serial rape of the nation’s values, ethos and ethics and the

subversion of whatever objective the makers of the Code of Conduct had in mind.

The first theory he calls: Chop but do something–“created by a wicked and mischievous tribe of rulers, exported to the streets for purchase wholesale by the masses and sustained in circulation by both the rulers and the ruled”to give legitimacy to what he describes as “monumental treasury lootings.”

The second theory, according to the author, is: Chop I chop - a “summary of the

benefits of forming a workable collusion before, during after the act of stealing public funds.”

The third street law is what he describes as: Do something for Ya people- which gives ethnic legitimacy to thievery and plunder of the national till- a patrimony generally regarded as no man’s property.

The author concludes the book with a general overview of the problematic context under which the nation has, over the years, been trying to re-invent itself, fighting corruption and entrenching the Rule of Law in a cavalier context wheremoney is god,venerated and worshipped by almost everyone. While arguing that the get-rich syndrome and the misnomer called the “Nigerian factor” facilitate corruption and the progressive run downof the Nigerian nation, it is interesting that the author’s thesis is that “Nigeria needs more than laws to fight corruption.” It is hisargument that a vicious combination of sociological, legal and religious factors is responsible for the current elevation of corruption to a cardinalprinciple of state policy in Nigeria. He, therefore, posits that any serious war to fight and defeat the demon must be waged using platforms and weapons supplied from those contexts.

In other words, he is connecting societal, systemic health to morality, religion and the law as recommended by Lord Denning, Master of the Rolls whose position is that: “Without religion, no morality, without morality, no law.”

Having gone this far, can one say that the author has addressed the purposes

he set for himself at the beginning of this book. I think he has, substantially.

And, I am not alone here, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, in the Foreword notes that the “compelling” book, with “concise definitions and explanation of concepts” is timely, coming at a period when “gross incompetence nurtured by mediocrity, nepotism, fraud and other vices has permeated all strata of public service.”In content and structure, the book tells us, from the legal perspective, where we are as a people, linking, seamlessly, the past with the present, the private with the public, the social with the psychological. It effectively takes care of all the concerns of Administrative Law - the actions and decisions of government decision makers, the right to appeal administrative decisions, and the resultant administrative reviews. The book is a complete,compact, carefully built vehicle, or should I say, a Noah’s Ark, needed by students of law navigating through the suffocating floods of our crisis-ridden school system and by political voyagers on the impossible ocean which Nigeria has become for all.

I congratulate the author for a successful effort and the publishers for a well edited book, carefully, fully referenced and indexed, elegantly designed and beautifully produced.

I strongly recommend this book to all of us- politicians, journalists, lawyers, all...”who care to know about their (basic) legal rights” in the context of our peculiar administrative set up.

Dele Jegede’s Transitions to take Lagos by storm

S

IX years after his last solo exhibition in Nigeria, US-based artist and art historian, Professor Dele Jegede is set for another show in the country.

Titled ‘Transitions’, the exhibition of paintings and drawings opens today at the upscale Terra Kulture Art Gallery, Victoria Island, Lagos and will be on till July 23.

Speaking ahead of the show’s opening last Friday, the artist, art historian, painter, art critic, curator and art administrator who began his career at the Daily Times of Nigeria as art editor and cartoonist, disclosed that the theme, ‘Transitions’ has two sides.

He said the first has to do with coping with the trauma of a personal loss; the death of his son, Ayo in 2011 and then happenings in the body polity; how the nation has fared under successive civilian administrations.

Given that he started painting the works in 2014, the Boko Haram insurgency, Sambisa Forest, the hideout of the insurgents, abduction of the Chibok schoolgirls and the displacement that comes from conflicts amongst others are represented vividly on canvas.

There is, for instance, the IDPs series where the artist explores different kinds of displacement. Aside those actually displaced by the conflict (IDP 3 and IDP 1), the artist, in his inimitable manner of punning, also gives us ‘Internally Displaced Politician’ and ‘Internally Displaced Police’ (Rofo-Rofo Fight). The Internally Displaced Politician is the typical Nigerian politician not interested in diligently and faithfully serving the people but one who strives to feather his own nest by all means necessary.

‘Internally Displaced Police’, on the oth-

•One of Olojede’s artworks, Boko Haram.

er hand, shows two policemen from different branches locked in a fight-to-finish.

Interestingly, the law enforcers have become the law breakers, signposting to the rest of society that there is fire on the mountain.

There is also the Boko Haram series where the artist paints various heart searing scenes of the dehumanization people in the North East have had to bear. Among such are ‘Boko Haram I’ and ‘Boko Haram 3’.

But the works are not all gloom and doom. There are also the light ones including ‘Generation What: Selfie’ showing two elderly men wrestling with a selfie stick. This is a humorous take on technology and people’s fascination with it irrespective of age.

The Celestial Aesthetics Series is a

beautiful interplay of blue and deep orange that soothes and further shows that jegede is not all gore.

Explaining his work, the Professor Emeritus of Miami University, oxford, Ohio states: “As a cartoonist, I drench acerbic issues in palatable coats of humor for public consumption, often at the expense of the powerful...As a painter, I employ variety of media to inveigh against economic constructs and political shenanigans that wreak unimaginable havoc on unsuspecting publics while perpetuating the subaltern condition of the underclass...Above all, I work primarily to express my individuality. It is conceivable that my work may touch a nerve or two, provoke a reaction or stimulate aesthetic cognizance. That will be a plus.”

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Thursday, 14 July, 2016

education

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

NLNG invests $12m on engineering technology in six varsities Biola Azeez - Ilorin

Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, with the Ondo State governor, Olusegun Mimiko, during the second Foundation Day Lecture of Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State, which was delivered by the vice president.

How state varsities can achieve sustainability —Pro-chancellors

By Laolu Harolds

F

OR state universities to effectively achieve their mandates, especially in the light of the current economic realities, there is a need for them to, among other things, intensify their internal revenue generation drives.

As a matter of necessity, they must step up their commercial activities and consultancy services, as well as incorporate vocational studies in their curriculum.

These are some of the resolutions arrived at during the recent 4th Biennial Conference of the Committee of Pro-chancellors of State-owned Universities (CPSUN), hosted by the Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED), Ijagun, Ogun State.

The theme of the three-day conference was ‘Current Challenges Facing State Universities and the Way Forward’ In its communiqué, the body of prochancellors identified acute underfunding, poor infrastructural and research facilities, political interference in the university governance and erosion of autonomy as some of the challenges facing state universities in Nigeria.

It particularly noted that state universities cannot operate effectively without charging appropriate tuition and other fees; and expressed concern over “government’s imposition of fees for political reasons.”

CPSUN challenged members of univer-

sity councils to protect the sanctity and autonomy of the university system.

It also identified “undefined relevance of the curriculum to the demand and realities of the society” and inadequate collaboration between universities and industries.

The conference noted that most state universities rely too heavily on government funding, keep overblown non-teaching staff, and suffer heavily from government control and policy imposition.

In tackling these challenges, the conference said university managers would have to “think outside the box by employing workable strategies.”

In this regard, a proposal was adopted to understudy TASUED and the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) as models. These two institutions are deemed to have achieved great strides and successes in effective resource management and creative revenue generation models, among others.

There was also a call to university management to make judicious management of funds and institutionalisation of realistic annual budgeting a priority.

CPSUN also called on the National Universities Commission to interface with pro-chancellors of state universities for the understanding of their peculiar challenges.

Elizade varsity names Law Faculty after Osinbajo The proposed Faculty of Law of Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State, has been named after the vice-president, Professor Yemi Osinbajo.

The founder of the university, Chief Michael Ade-Ojo, revealed this while speaking at the second Foundation Day lecture of the university, which was delivered by the vice president.

Chief Ade-Ojo disclosed that the proposed faculty would admit students for the 2016/2017 academic session, and that

when operational, it would produce legal luminaries that would impart the country positively like Professor Osinbajo.

He said efforts are underway to invite the resource verification team of the National Universities Commission (NUC) to assess the level of preparedness of the university to commence the Law programme.

He thanked the vice president for honouring the university’s invitation to deliver the lecture.

THE Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG), through its university support programme, has invested a sum of $12 million in six universities in the country.

Speaking during the inauguration of NLNG/University of Ilorin Engineering Research Centre in Ilorin, the managing director of the company, Mr. Babs Omotowa, listed the benefiting universities under the support programme as Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria; University of Ilorin (UNILORIN); University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN); University of Ibadan (UI); University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID), and University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT).

Mr Omotowa said that one of the company’s “approaches is to develop Nigerian human capital and foster technological advancement in our great country.”

“We recognise that universities are one of the critical fertile grounds from which ideas to fast-track Nigeria’s progress will spring from. With this programme Nigeria LNG is partnering with six universities in Nigeria to uplift engineering teaching and research in our tertiary institutions.

“On its part, Nigeria LNG invested two million dollars each to build and equip world-class engineering facilities in these schools.”

He also said that the universities were chosen based on their relative ranking in their geo-political zones by the Nigerian Universities Commission (NUC) and the world ranking of universities.

Omotowa also said that the organisation has reduced gas flaring in the country from 65 per cent to 20 per cent, and that Nigeria is no longer in the league of top five gasflaring countries in the world.

“One of the reasons why Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) was established was to reduce gas flaring in the country.

When we started, Nigeria was flaring about 65 per cent of its gas. We were the second highest gas flaring nation in the world.

“Through the construction of the six trains we have in NLNG, we have helped to bring that down to about 20 per cent, and today we are no longer top five gas flaring countries in the world. So, we are very proud that we have contributed to the environmental improvement in the country and the health implications of this.”

In a remark, Kwara State governor, Abdulfatah Ahmed, represented by the Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Alhaji Musa Yeketi, said that “NLNG, a major global gas supplier, has been a huge revenue earner for the country. Practically, every state in the country has felt the positive impact of this company as proven by the huge tax which the company paid to the Federal Government last year, which was utilised as a bailout fund for several states.

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Thursday, 14 July, 2016

At Professor Obiakor Lecture, Don canvasses accounting education for all Sam Nwaoko - Ado-Ekiti T he 20th edition of the Professor E. K. Obiakor Lecture Series of the Federal Polytechnic, AdoEkiti held recently at the institution, and the lecturer, Mr. Olusola Luke

Oluwagbuyi, canvassed making accounting and accountability sacrosanct

in public and private administration.

Oluwagbuyi, who is a

Chief Lecturer in the Accountancy Department of the institution, in the lec-

ture entitled ‘Accounting and Accountability: The Bedrock of Sustainability

‘Corruption, child negligence bane of education development’ DEAN, School of Secondary Education, Arts and Social Sciences programmes, Federal College of Education (Special) Oyo, Mr. Gabriel Bamikole, has observed that corruption and nonchalant attitude of parents towards education of their wards are major courses of education setback in Nigeria.

Mr. Bamikole made the observation on Monday during the opening ceremony of the 12th Annual National Conference of the school.

According to him, there is need to generate policy ideas that will assist the federal government in its bid to reduce corruption and all forms of indiscipline in both public and private sectors of the economy.

Speaking further, he said: “The emphasis of the Change Agenda of the present administration should be on individual positive attitudinal change towards nation building and education development. The poor quality of education in secondary school is a reflection of the serious problem facing primary school education in the country.

It is sad to note that the teaching and physical facilities in the Nigerian primary schools have been overstretched to accommodate the increasing numbers of users. This explains the poor quality of secondary schools intakes and which invariable transfers to tertiary institution to produce unemployable graduates for the labour market. “ Since it is obvious that government alone cannot fund education, parents and individuals, philanthropists should give their support towards the development of education, especially at the primary and secondary school levels . If private schools thrive in Nigeria, there is no reason public schools should not thrive.

From left, Dean, School of Secondary Education Arts and Social Science Federal College of Education (Special) Oyo, Mr Gabriel Bamkole, Dr Tajudeen Asiru of Alayande College of Education Oyo, Professor Clement Kolawole and Professor Francis Egbokhare from the University of Ibadan respectively, during the opening ceremony of the 12th Annual National Conference of the school held on Monday.

FG urged to focus on science education Clement Idoko - Abuja A former president of the African University of Science and Technology (AUST), Professor Wole Soboyejo, has called on the Federal Government to focus on development of science education as panacea to the numerous challenges confronting the nation.

He gave the advice at a four-day Pan African School of Materials conference held at the AUST, Abuja, stressing that Nigeria must look inward in solving her problems.

Soboyejo faulted the lopsidedness in the Nigerian education system where basic education is neglected, especially the teaching and learning of Mathematical sciences at the rudimentary level.

He, however, disclosed that a team from the Pan African Material Institute (PAMI) is currently working in collaboration with the World Bank towards enhancing the teaching of mathematical science at all levels in Nigeria and other African countries.

According to him, the project was intended to take all the materials from the kindergarten to senior high school and make them in digital form so

that they could be accessed from schools from all over Africa.

He said: “There is a programme that we have started with the World Bank which focuses on primary education on mathematics and science. It is called the Mathematics and Science for sub-Saharan Africa programme.

“The idea behind that is to take all of the materials from the kindergarten to senior high school and make it in digital form so that it can be accessed from schools from all over

Africa,” he said.

He explained that in order to ensure that the project is properly accessed and utilised, there would be intensive training of trainers across African countries who will then train the teachers to use the modules for the pupils in mathematics and science in schools.

“This for me is actually the next frontier and as you can see much of what we have been doing is at the top and now we realsed that we need to come from the base and we are work-

ing with people from Singapore, China, and India,” he said.

Prof. Soboyejo, further revealed that the project is expected to be launched before the end of the year.

The current AUST President, Prof. Kingston Nyamapfene, in his remark said the conference was part of series of events organised and coordinated under the auspices of a Pan African Universities in West and Central Africa with collaboration with some American universities.

NAPPS recommends unified private school exam Naza Okoli, Lagos THE National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS) has said its unified end-of-session examination would help expose the strengths and weaknesses of teachers.

The deputy national president of the association and proprietor of Lagooz Schools, Lagos, Mr Abayomi Otubela, said this last week while monitoring the examination conducted in 40 schools across Lagos State.

“This is the third edition.

The idea behind the examination is to forge a united

association. But it is also an avenue to assess the teachers in terms of their input into the students.

“The examination is set by carefully selected West African Examination Council and National Examination Council examiners. The questions have passed through different quality checks. The grading is devoid of influence.

Imagine a situation where a particular teacher is the classroom teacher and home teacher, he would be the one that would set the questions, mark the questions, grade the pupil;

this may happen from primary 1 to Primary 6. Now if that teacher is getting it right, then it is good for the child.

“But what if he isn’t getting it right? This examination would be able to correct that in time. It would expose the strengths and weakness of teachers, students, and even the school systems, because there will be healthy rivalry among the schools.

A teacher may earn himself or herself promotion or pay raise based on the performance of their students.”

and Consolidation in the Public Sector and Corporate Organisations’, noted that with accounting and accountability, administration would be easier and more effective.

Among other recommendations, Oluwagbuyi said: “Since accounting cuts across all endeavours of human existence, the government should provide adequate fund for accounting education at all levels.”

The lecturer noted that accountancy is key in the performance of almost all other professions, and therefore said “since all professions, vocations, and businesses depend on accounting and accountability for progress and sustainable development, the study of accounting should be made a core course of study for all disciplines.”

He said “all career officers in the public sector and corporate organisations should be exposed to the current issues in accounting,” pointing out that these were “the latest accounting packages, forensic accounting studies as well as automated accounting and audit software applications.”

Oluwagbuyi also said government and corporate bodies should “mount enlightenment campaigns and awareness programmes on corporate social responsibility while public sector and corporate organisations should be more conscious about their status and be more impactful on the development of their society.”

Speaking on the occasion, the rector of Ado Poly, Dr. Teresa Taiwo Akande, commended the lecturer for the scholarly work and noted that the recommendations were apt for the further development of the Nigerian society.

She explained that the array of professionals and experts in the institution had created an atmosphere of professionalism and that the institution practices what it preaches.

Dr Akande said the government should look into the recommendations of Mr. Oluwagbuyi with a view to making them workable solutions to some of the problems bedeviling the socio-economic life of the nation.

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Thursday, 14 July, 2016

Secondary school students tasked on reading culture Dapo Falade-Port Harcourt

Professor Kayode Soremekun (left) with officials of FUOYE after meeting with officials of the Alabama A&M University, United States recently.

Federal character bane of educational advancement in Nigeria —Don Johnson Babajide - Makurdi

A

University Don and Public Commentator, at Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, Dr Ichor Tersaghhas stated that the federal character and quota system being adopted in the appointment of management team of universities in the country has been the bane of educational advancement in the country.

Dr Tersagh, who spoke with newsmen in Makurdi, Benue State capital advocated merit and excellence in the university system, stressing that the nation’s citadel of learning should not be based on ethnicity, if the desired standard of education should be realised.

While making reference to the recent appointment of Mrs Helen Nyitse, as the ‘Registrar’ of Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, Dr Tersagh, who is a lecturer in the department of Biological Sciences expressed disgust in the petition of a group against the appointment of Mrs Nyitse, who he believed was appointed by the council based on merit.

Earlier, a group had called on the Federal Ministry of Education to jettison the appointment of Mrs Nyitse as the new registrar of the institution, who was said to have come first in the examination conducted for 15 persons by the council.

The group in their petition claimed that the appointment of Mrs Nyitse did not reflect federal character since other principal officers of the institution are from the same ethnic group (Tiv) with the new registrar.

Dr Tersagh said: “I’m aware of a petition against the new substantive registrar of Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi,

Benue State arguing that the appointment did not reflect federal character.

“Whereas I’m very much aware that about 15 persons sat for the examination in which Mrs Nyitse came first, while the second and third persons were also from the same ethnic group, with the new registrar and the template upon which the interview was conducted was excellence not ethnicity,” adding, ‘if we continue to jettison merit and excellence in our citadel of learning, then the much de-

Our researchers have what it takes to compete globally —AAUA VC Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Ondo State, Nigeria, has again recorded another feat as two of its academic staff won grants from the world-acclaimed Alexander Von Humboldt Foundation of Germany (AVHF) and the International Foundation for Science (IFS), Sweden.

The researchers, Dr I.A Ololade, an Associate Professor and Acting Head, Department of Chemical Sciences, won $12,000 from IFS, while Dr. N.A. Ladoja, a Senior Lecturer and Hydrochemist, won equipment grants worth 19,800 Euros.

The Vice Chancellor, Professor Igbekele Ajibefun, who inspected the scientific equipment procured with the grants at the Biochemical Laboratory of the university, described the grants as big donations from AVHF and IFS. The VC expressed the confidence that

FUOYE, Alabama A&M Varsity sign cooperation agreement As part of efforts aimed at attaining food security for the country and improve its revenue base, the Federal University, OyeEkiti (FUOYE) Ekiti State and the Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical (A and M) University, US, have signed a cooperation agreement.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) which was signed recently when the institution’s Vice Chancellor, Professor KayodeSoremekun, led a team to the US also included staff and students exchange as well as research collaboration.

Explaining the reason behind the agreement, Professor Soremekun said: “FUOYE is a gold mine that has not been explored, especially for agricultural services. So apart from a real desire to diversify the revenue base of the university through agricultural mechanisation, we will also be helping to fulfil the

sired growth in our educational system will remain elusive.”

In his reaction, the university’s Public Relation Officer, Mr Fanafa stated that the onus lied on the council who earlier approved the appointment of Mrs Nyitse as the substantive registrar to issue the letter since the visitor cannot do so, adding ‘ it does not make sense for federal character to react now or act on any petition when a particular tribe has held the position for 15 years.”

federal government’s goal of bridging the food gap in the country.”

He added that President Muhammadu Buhari is looking for ways of engaging the youth of the country in productive ventures, and that he would ensure that FUOYE becomes one of the key centres for actualising this vision.

“When I came on board, I looked around and found that the community has good soil and very fertile land that we can deploy to mechanised farming to provide employment for professionals from this institution and to ensure we attain food security,” he said.

Soremekun, who disclosed that the MOU is only the beginning in the area of partnership for FUOYE, added that the institution recently forwarded 23 new academic programmes to the National Universities Commission (NUC) for approval.

AAUA has researchers that can compete favourably with their peers around the world.

He said: “These grants are very big donations from AVHF and IFS. It takes only great scholars to win these kinds of grants. I want to say that the university is very proud of these distinguished scientists, Dr Ladoja and Dr Ololade.

“AAUA has great researchers who can compete with their peers around the world.

The grants will, no doubt, add great value to research endeavours in the university.”

Professor Ajibefun added, “It is equally important for members of staff, particularly the academic staff, to compete for grants as these ones so that scholarship can be enhanced and the image of the university can continue to soar both locally and internationally. What we are witnessing today is a pointer to the fact that our university is one that prioritises cutting-edge research.”

Dr Ladoja, whose research grant is given to support a research proposal written and submitted to the foundation to develop a Ceramic Membrane for ground-water deflorisation, said he has enjoyed a lot of support from the university as it creates enabling environment for research to thrive.

Ladoja said: “The essence of the grant from AVHF is to support a research proposal written and submitted to the foundation to develop a Ceramic Membrane for ground-water deflorisation. This is not my first grant. I had also won other grants, but this is for highlyskilled researchers. I have enjoyed a lot of support from the university. The university creates enabling environment for research.”

Dr Ololade explained that the grant given to him is to enable him to do a research which is aimed at evaluating the level of power flow in rivers across the six geo-political zones in Nigeria.

Students in secondary schools in Rivers State have been admonished to see reading beyond making good grades in examinations, but as a means to acquire more knowledge.

This was the submission of various speakers at the 2016 edition of the Book Reading Event, organised by oil giant, Total E&P Nigeria Limited and held in Port Harcourt, last week.

Addressing participants drawn from 10 secondary schools across the state, Deputy Managing Director of Total (Port Business District), Mr Nicolas Brunet who spoke on “Knowledge is an Edge”, said the annual book reading event was in fulfillment of the oil company’s social responsibilities to the people of the state.

Brunet, represented by Mr Victor Bandele, urged students as well as teachers who were present at the event to be more interested in gaining knowledge order than passing examinations.

“This event has proven to be one of the ways Total in Nigeria has been promoting human capital development amongst youths in our operational areas and host communities. For us in Total, we are committed to it as a known tradition.”

“The theme for this year’s Book Reading Event is ‘Knowledge is an Edge’. We have chosen this theme to encourage students to read for knowledge beyond passing examinations. This is further expressed in the saying that ‘knowledge is power’.

“Through the book reading event, we have been able to let students meet prominent Nigerians who have achieved success in their various spheres of endeavour as role models and to share in their experiences. This is a way of keeping the students focused in life”, he said.

Police Secondary school graduates 458 students Adelowo Oladipo-Minna POLICE Secondary School (PSS), Minna, Niger State, at the weekend graduated 458 students for the 2015/2016 to mark the 19th batch of graduating students of the college.

The ceremony, which was held on Saturday, featured the award of special prizes to the best 30 students in each of the 27 subjects offered in the school, and the inauguration of a block of one-storey building for students’ hostel accommodation, named after the new acting InspectorGeneral of Police (IGP), Ibrahim Kpotu Idris.

IGP Idris, who was represented by the Niger State Police Commissioner, Alhaji Abubakar Marafa, urged the graduating students to put into practice what they have learned in the school, and to be good ambassadors of the college.

He also advised them to shun cultism, drug abuse and other negative tendencies before and after getting admission into higher institutions of learning.

Also, the Commandant of the college, CSP Umar M. Hadejia, said that over 90 per cent of the 458 graduating students recorded an average of credit pass in all subjects in the last WAEC/ NECO examinations.

education Why announcement of rector, FEDPOLY, Offa is delayed 22

Biola Azeez - Ilorin

R

easons behind delay in announcement of substantive rector for the Federal Polytechnic, Offa, Kwara State have been discovered.

The Tribune Education gathered that the delay was not unconnected to a fresh investigation into allegations against one of the three candidates vying for the rectorship position being ordered by the minister of Education, AlhajiAdamuAdamu.

It is recalled that three candidates; Dr Ayo Olaosebikan ,MrEgheIgbinehi and Dr Lateef Olatunji, had been shortlisted for the job and had since February undergone series of screenings and interviews, both in the school and in Abuja under the ministry of Education, the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and the Department of State Security Services (SSS).

Competent sources confided in our reporter that the fresh allegations surfaced last week just while the federal government was about to name a substantive rector for the institution. The allegations, it was gathered, were contained in a petition forwarded to the minister of education by a group said to be against the candidate.

The development, it was learnt forced the minister

Thursday, 14 July, 2016

to direct the announcement of the approval to be put on hold and ordered an investigation into the allegations.

The Department of State Security Services (SSS) was asked to do a thorough probe of the issues raised in the petition particularly as it bothers on security.

The minister was said to have called for the record of the three candidates, and after verifying them directed the management of the polytechnic to undertake a probe of the allegations and report back to the ministry this week.

The petitioners, it was gathered, were said to have claimed that the particular candidate had earlier been allegedly indicted for cases of involvement in anti-social activities on campus, extortion and sexual harassment and wondered why the federal government had in the first instance allowed such

a candidate to pass through the three stages for consideration for the rectorship.

While none of the stakeholders would want to officially comment of the development, a source in the polytechnic, who asked not

Host Community Leaders and traditional rulers comprising Umudike and Umudike, Ukwu autonomous communities respectively in Ikwuano local Government Area of Abia State have re-iterated their resolves to collaborate with Michael Okpara University of Agriculture,Umudike (MOUAU) for peaceful coexistence.

It would be recalled that the visit by the Women Association of the university was to strengthening ties with host communities led

by His Royal Highness Eze PeterOnyekwereAnyaegbu of Umudike autonomous community and his counterpart His Royal Highness Eze Ben Ogechi Oriaku of Umudike-Ukwu autonomous community respectively.

Receiving the delegation in his palace, HRH Eze Peter Onyekwere Anyaegbu described the visit as historic, considering the fact that none of the past vice chancellor’s wives have ever come close to their domains, except Mrs Bertha Otunta, the wife of the current vice chancellor of the university.

on the issue of Post UMTE, but he was called to another meeting where he was shown the petition and ordered to come back to school and pick the files of the three candidates. He went and when he came back and we heard that

he was told to go and set up a committee to look into the allegations. Right now the committee has been meeting and they are supposed to submit their report to the Ministry of Education on Monday”, the source said.

From left, Chairperson, Parent-Teacher Association, Maryland Convent Private School, Maryland, Lagos, Mrs Chinelo Ujubuonu; Head Teacher, Reverend Sister Gladys Osagie (OLA), and Chairman, Golden Jubilee Planning Committee, Mr Louis Adebola, at a press conference to herald the forthcoming 50 Anniversary Golden Jubilee of Maryland Convent Private School, held on Monday in Lagos. Photo; Sylvester Okoruwa.

USAID trains Osun poly staff on apiary, honey production As part of the efforts to improve the entrepreneurship skills of staff and students of Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, a five-day workshop has been organised for the polytechnic community on apiary, bee keeping and honey production.

A volunteer of the United States for International De-

velopment (USAID) to Nigeria, Mr Caleb O’biren, described the Apiary farming and Bee Keeping as a panacea to poverty, saying it is a veritable venture that could boost the nation’s economy.

The apiary workshop was packaged by USAID and Winrock International, a Non-Governmental Or-

Abia monarchs pledge support to MOUAU Celestine Ihejirika Umuahia

to be named because he was not authorised to speak on the matter however confirmed the development.

“It is very true and I know that the registrar was sent from Abuja where he had gone to attend a meeting

The royal father said the visit won’t be forgotten in a hurry, as he assured the team of total support of the host communities, more importantly on laudable programmes and policies that attract developments to the communities and particularly the womenfolk.

Eze Anyaegbu also noted that the visit by the association to the community would go a long way to provide the necessary opportunities for women in their domains to interact and exploit opportunities from the university apart from employments and admissions of youths.

Speaking during the visit,

leader of the delegation, President, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike Women Association (MOUAUWA) and wife of the vice chancellor, Mrs Otunta stated that the visit was to flag-off the training programme of Umudike community women in various aspects of agriculture in the university agriculture unit.

She said the programme was carefully designed to accommodate women in the host communities, considering the present challenges facing women and girls in the society.

ganisation as a stable of the farmer-to-farmer programme of the organisation to boost Agricultural technology in Nigeria through trainings and workshops for officials of tertiary institutions and local farmers in the country.

According to a release by the institutions Media Relations Officer, Mr Tope Abiola, participants at the workshop which included staffers of the polytechnic and farmers in Boripe Local Government Area of Osun State were trained on modern technology of Bee Keeping and Honey Production, which the USAID official described as a veritable venture that could be used to provide jobs for unemployed Nigerians.

Mr O’biren, an American based Apiary and Bee Keeping specialist, declared that “apiary is a good venture that could be done in local communities with a little capital to produce honey in large quantity”.

While explaining the importance of honey and de-

mand for honey in all parts of the world, O’biren explained that “Honey Production is not capital intensive, its production can survive a country, because it is what is needed by all homes in a country. It is a daily need that is used for treatment of certain ailments.

“It is also used to prevent certain diseases which could cause damage to some cells in our bodies”.

While speaking on why Winrock International collaborated with the USAID to embark on training of tertiary institution staffers in Nigeria, the Director of the USAID/Winrock’s Farmers to Farmer programme Dr Mike Bassey enthused that “we believe that Bee Keeping is a kind of Agriculture that is not fully known to majority of Nigerians as a low capital intensive farming that could boost their agricultural production. “We need to improve the skills of the farmers and expose them to modern Apiary for production of honey in large quantity because of high de-

Ahmed constitutes KWASU visitation panel Biola Azeez - Ilorin Kwara State Governor, Alhaji Abdufatah Ahmed has approved the constitution of a visitation panel to the Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete to look into the affairs of the institution and make appropriate recommendations for improvement.

The Secretary to the State Government (SSG), AlhajiIsiaka Gold, who announced this in a statement on Friday, said the visitation panel is to

ensure efficient and effective fulfilment of the objectives of the university as spelt out in the law establishing it.

Alhaji Gold stated that the panel is made of tested academics, technocrats and bureaucrats who according to him were considered across board with due recognition paid to experience clout, integrity and ability.

The terms of reference of the panel, amongst others, include to examine the areas of comparative advantage enjoyed by the university

and advise on ways to make it second to none in those academic fields.

It will also examine the staffing position of the school in relation to student population and financial ability to pay staff entitlements; assess fund management in relation to available resources; examine the relevance of courses being offered; explore the possibility of running the institution without requesting for increase in subvention, and take the census of the staff

and students.

The panel is also expected to make any other advice or recommendation that will assist the state government in making the institution self-reliant.

The seven-man Visitation Panel has Professor Saka Nuhu as the Chairman, Dr S. O. Ajayi, Mustapha Hussain Olarewaju, Mr S. A. Musa, Mr O. J. Fabiyi, Mr H.A. Gegele are members, while MrA. M. Odetokun is the secretary.

The panel has three weeks to submit its report.

mand for honey in Nigeria community.”

Explaining reasons why the Osun State Polytechnic, Iree organised the training for staffers of the institution and farmers in Iree Community, the Rector of the institution, who is the facilitator of the workshop, Dr Jacob Olusola Agboola stated that it was part of the capacity building and skills acquisition programme embarked upon recently by the institution.

Dr Agboola stressed that “Apiary and Bee Keeping is a type of agriculture that we must encourage in our community to engage our teeming youths in the country, who are unemployed, while employed individuals can also embark on it to boost their economic power.

He added that it is part of efforts of the Department of Agric-Engineering and Bioenvironmental Studies of the polytechnic to train local farmers in the state on modern Agricultural skills.

“We are collaborating with local farmers in the state on modern agricultural technology in various ways, not only in Crop Farming, but in Apiary, Livestock and Animal Production, that is why we have acquired some acres of land for research and training of students and farmers in the state on the modern Agricultural skills, this has made us to collaborate with USAID and Winrock International for the exercise.

About 150, both from the polytechnic and Iree township who participated at the workshop were introduced to practical trainings in the polytechnic farm.

23

Thursday, 14 July, 2016 Editor:

health

Sade Oguntola sadeboguntola@yahoo.com 0805 506 9260

You are what your mother eats

Can a mother’s pregnancy diet influence her child’s future health? Well, experts say that individuals are what their mothers actually eat rather than what they eat, reports Sade Oguntola.

U

p until now, genetic studies have been unable to interpret fully the process by which some diseases including type 2 diabetes and obesity are inherited.

But what a woman eats when she is pregnant can affect her child’s risk of obesity, regardless of how fat or thin she is, and what her baby weighs at birth, Researchers that uncover how a mother’s diet during pregnancy could permanently affect her child’s attributes said this could explain how diseases such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease and obesity are inherited.

According to them, it is not just genes and lifestyle that affects a person’s risk of conditions such as obesity and type 2 diabetes, what happens when the person is still developing in the womb, including what the mother eats, also matters.

The discovery, which provides the missing link in the mystery of disease inheritance, also indicated that attributes, such as weight, could be shaped by genetic variation in an unexpected area of the genome.

In 2011, researchers in the journal Diabetes found that a process called epigenetic change alters the function of an unborn

baby’s DNA in response to changes in the mother’s diet. These changes can be detected by sampling the umbilical cord at birth for “epigenetic markers” of obesity risk.

Dr Olusoji Jagun, consultant obstetrics and gynaecologist, Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital, Sagamu, Ogun State said that the fact that a mother’s nutrition while pregnant

It is not just genes and lifestyle that affects a person’s risk of conditions such as obesity andtype 2 diabetes

can contribute to her offspring’s risk of obesity during childhood occurs for several reasons.

According to him, “if a pregnant woman has an inherent tendency to become obese or is obese and now eats recklessly, she stands a chance of developing gestational diabetes. Due to this, her child has a higher tendency to develop obesity and hypertensive problems later in life.

“Of course, some also end up with mental retardation either as a result of a complication of diabetes or birth complication like birth asphyxia.”

He declared that diet in pregnancy and was highly important to ensure the health of the next generation, adding “more often we advise women to eat balanced and adequate meals in pregnancy so as to ensure proper development of their babies.”

The use of multivitamins and supplements in pregnancy, he said, is not necessary once the pregnant woman conforms to a diet that is balanced and adequate, including high intake of fruits and vegetables.

Avoidance of foods with free sugars such as soft drinks is also important. “Taking foods with free sugar can make the unborn baby very big unlike complex sugars,” he added The term free sugars includes glucose, fructose and sucrose added to foods and drinks, as well as sugars naturally present in syrups, honey and fruit juice. However, it does not apply to sugars found naturally in fresh fruit, vegetables or milk.

Also, babies born small for age due to growth retardation in the womb for reasons such as poor diet, state of health of the woman and congenital problems, Dr Jagun said a higher risk of developing chronic health challenges such as type 2 diabetes later in life.

Dr Adeola Afolabi, also a consultant obstetrics and gynaecologist, LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Osogbo, Osun State, said that generally, genes and environment have a role to play in manifestation of diseases.

According to her, a recessive gene for a medical condition in an appropriate environment would manifest itself.

“Even if the gene for diabetes is recessive and the mother’s diet is bad, that increases the chances of her child later in life coming down with chronic diseases like diabetes. This is because the environment supports its manifestation,” she declared.

However, to ensure healthy mothers and babies, later in life, she said pregnant women are not supposed to eat for two as many women do.

Dr Afolabi declared: “By eating for two, they end up over-eating and as such end up with big babies and other conditions that are not good. We also encourage them to eat little amount of food at a time, but it may be frequent.

“Pregnancy hormones tend to release sugar into the blood so that the baby end up being exposed to lots of sugar. So those prone to diabetes or that has gestational diabetes should only eat small meals.

“Taking small but frequent meals is also advised because in pregnancy, the time it takes for food to digest is more than it is in other people.

“Of course, heavy eating will cause them a lot of discomfort; they may end up with abdominal pain, heartburn and even respiratory distress.

“In addition, increased intake of water is important to prevent constipation. On the average, many pregnant women experience constipation.”

Could environmental influences on parents affect their children? Environmental factors, such as diet, stress, and smoking, work alongside genetic factors in the womb environment can influence the attributes of offspring as adults.

Experts for instance, hypothesised that parents could pass on to their children traits that they acquire as a result of exposure to environmental influences. However, the extent to which environmental conditions impact future outcomes remains unclear.

Factors that affect the offspring’s future health outcomes are thought to include what the mother consumes while she is pregnant or lactating, which molecules are present in the father’s semen and the microbiota of either parent.

Although experts say that mother’s influence also appeared to be greater than that of the father on their offspring’s future health outcomes, epigenetic factors in genes play an important role in passing on the risk of obesity and diabetes from parents to offspring.

Sex, Sexuality&your health

natural health

How walnuts boost fertility, prevent diabetes Page 26

The sensual parts of a woman’s body Page 26

24

Thursday, 14 July, 2016

Dr. Ben Ajayi 0805 400 5447

you-and-eye@gmail.com

The game of football and its lessons for ‘You and Eye’

T

he world’s most popular sport is football, (also widely known as soccer). It has an estimated 3.5billion fans worldwide. The main objective of soccer is to score a goal with any part of the body except the arms and hands. There are 17 Laws of the Game which help to ensure order and fairness in play.

Four categories of people are involved.

The first group are the players - 11 players on each side. The second is the referee, who is solely responsible implementing the rules. He is assisted by the linesmen, who constitute the third group. The fourth group are the onlookers – the fans – often fanatical, cheering, shouting and piling pressure on the players in and outside the stadium.

As I watched the football match between France and Portugal yesterday, some thoughts about the reality of life came to my mind. I took a look at the players, the referees, and the linesmen as they lined up for their national anthems and the usual exchange of pleasantries before the match.

Then suddenly, as if to complete the quartet, the camera flipped on to the stands and focused on the faces of the restless fans. Three things struck me!

First, the few fans that I could see in the close-up, all wore wrist watches just like the referees and the linesmen. Secondly, the referee had something more – the whistle for calling the attention of the players to the rules and maintaining orderliness.

There was a third thing common to all four groups, without which the game of football would not have been possible. I’ll keep you guessing what this is.

The only group without any wrist watch were the players on the field of play. Yet time was crucial in this encounter! The game must be won or lost within the stipulated time. If there was no winner, it would go to extra time. I watched as they got into the field of play and played their hearts out, “knowing that even though they don’t know the exact time, the exact minute the game would end and the whistle would be blown, they are conscious of the fact that the game will definitely end when the one holding the time blows his whistle.” I found myself almost recalling the sermon from a source that came through my WhatsApp. I can’t put better so, I beg to quote with some modifications.

“I liken this to our race here on earth. We are on the pitch of play called life. And even

Without a good eyesight, the play would be uncoordinated.

though we all wear wrist watches, we know they are just a man-made device to guide our daily activities and give us a sense of timing. The one who holds time – our Referee - is somewhere waiting and watching us play our game on the pitch of life. He has a whistle. When the time is up, by His own timing, he will blow the whistle and the game will be over and then winners and losers will emerge and rewards will be given to deserving players.”

The only goal of the match was scored in the extra-time and soon after, the referee blew his whistle for the last time. The game was over! Portugal won and France lost.

There was jubilation on one side and crying on the other. Why? This is the pastor’s answer, “They cry and gnash their teeth because it’s all over! The game is over and the time is up! They weep because they see missed opportunities, missed scoring chances, but by that time, the time is up!

And those who celebrate do so because they won the match. They were adjudged winners and deserving of the much - contested trophy.”

The Portugal – France game is over and will dominate the news for weeks and perhaps, several months but for us, our play is still on; the final whistle yet to be blown and the trophy is still within our reach! We must not lose the lesson of this simple game of football. Unlike France, you still have the opportunity to win the coveted trophy by making up for those missed scoring chances

and be a winner like Portugal, against all expectations!

Do you remember I said all four groups except the players had wristwatches? Yet there is something common to all without which the game of football would not have been possible. That is a good eyesight. Without a good eyesight, the play would be uncoordinated; players would kick the ball in the wrong directions; the goalkeepers would be chasing shadows; the referees would be making wrong calls; the linesmen would cause more chaos and bring the game to disrepute and the spectators would find it difficult to appreciate the game.

What then is the real lesson in a game of football? First, remember the pastor likened the game of football to our race here on earth. We are on the pitch of play called life and the one who holds time – our Referee - is somewhere waiting and watching us play our game. When our time is up, he will blow the whistle and the game will be over. Some of us may already be in extra time and it just be the right time to score the winning goal!

Would you like to do something for the hundreds of people who because of cataract or some curable eye diseases cannot enjoy a game of football? The play is still on for you, do something today; help someone to regain his sight. And above all, take care of your own eyes so you may continue to enjoy the game of football before the Referee blows the final whistle and it’s all over.

Viral hepatitis ‘kills as many as AIDS or TB’ Viral hepatitis is one of the leading killers across the globe, with a death toll that matches AIDS or tuberculosis(TB), research in the Lancet has suggested.

The report estimates that hepatitis infections and their complications led to 1.45 million deaths in 2013, despite the existence of vaccines and treatments.

World Health Organisation data shows there were 1.2 million AIDS-related deaths in 2014, while TB led to 1.5 million deaths.

The WHO has put forward a global strategy to tackle hepatitis and researchers say these plans must be put into action urgently to tackle the crisis.

Viral hepatitis refers to five different forms of virus (known as A, B, C, D, E) - some can be spread through contact with infected bodily fluids and others (A and E) through contaminated food or water.

Most deaths worldwide are due to B and C, which can cause serious liver damage and predispose people to liver cancer. But because people don’t always feel the symptoms of the initial infection, they can be unaware of the long-term damage until it is too late.

Scientists from Imperial College London and the University of Washington examined data from 183 countries, collected between 1990 and 2013.

They found the number of deaths linked to viral hepatitis rose by more than 60 per cent over two decades - partly due to a growing population.

Deaths from diseases such as TB and malaria have dropped.

Dr Graham Cooke of Imperial College London described the findings as startling.

He said: “Although there are effective treatments and vaccines for viral hepatitis, there is very little money invested in getting these to patients - especially compared to malaria, HIV/AIDS and TB. “We have tools at our disposal to treat this disease - we have vaccines to treat hepatitis A and B and we have new treatments for C.

“However the price of new medicines is beyond the reach of any country - rich or poor.”

The study suggests the problem is biggest in East Asia.

But unlike many other diseases, deaths from viral hepatitis were higher in high and middle income countries than in lower income nations.

The WHO hepatitis strategy, which was put forward in May 2016, includes targets

to reduce new cases of hepatitis B and C by 30 per cent by 2020, alongside a 10 per cent reduction in mortality.

The WHO says countries and organisations will need to expand vaccination programmes, focus on preventing motherto-child transmission of hepatitis B and increase access to treatment for hepatitis B and C, to help ensure these targets are met.

Diversity in TB bacteria hinders rapid diagnosis in West Africa Worldwide, Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) is responsible for the vast majority of tuberculosis (TB) cases. However, there are several other closely related mycobacterial species that cause TB, all part of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (Mtbc).

One of them, Mycobacterium africanum (Maf), causes up to 40 per cent of TB cases in West Africa. TB diagnosis across Africa relies largely on tests optimised to detect Mtb. A study led by the Medical Research Council Unit, The Gambia and the Antwerp Institute of Tropical Medicine, Belgium, published in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases now suggests that in West Africa tests to identify Mtbc in culture miss a substantial fraction of cases, with dire consequences for the patients and for TB control efforts.

Concerned about substantial discrepancies in samples from West Africa between the sputum-based results and the results of

rapid tests, Florian Gehre, who is affiliated with MRC and ITM, and colleagues undertook a systematic evaluation of two commonly used rapid TB tests. Both tests detect the product of the mycobacterial mpt64 gene.

The researchers started by comparing the abundance of mpt64 gene product in sputum samples of patients with untreated pulmonary TB caused by Maf 2 (the Maf strain common in The Gambia) or Mtb. Samples from five patients with Maf 2 TB, they found, had about 2.5 times less mpt64 gene product than those from six patients whose disease was caused by Mtb. They then prospectively analysed culture isolates from 173 patients with one of the rapid tests, the BD MGITTM TBc ID kit.

All of the patients had positive sputum microscopy, and cultures were negative for a second test that detects contamination by unrelated bacteria.

Based on the results, 22 per cent of Maf 2 patients, and 10 per cent of Mtb patients would have been wrongly classified as having non-TB mycobacteria if the tests had not been repeated after Day zero.

At the end of the 10-day window recommended by the BD MGITTM TBc ID manufacturer, 16 per cent of all Maf 2 samples remained negative, compared with only two per cent of Mtb samples.

Their findings, the researchers say, “indicate that MPT64 tests need to be cautiously used in settings where Maf 2 is common.”

However, they also recognize that “given the relatively low cost, limited technical expertise and shorter turnaround time associated with using rapid speciation tests compared to alternative speciation methods, MPT64 rapid tests will likely remain one of the preferred options for timely diagnosis of suspected TB despite the possibility of false negative results.”

25 healthnews

Thursday, 14 July, 2016

Why Nigerians will continue to die from kidney failure — Salako, NAN president

By Sade Oguntola

P

resident, Nigerian Association of Nephrology (NAN), Professor Babatunde Salako, had decried the gap in the health system for kidney disease treatment despite its high burden in Nigeria.

Salako said this in a lecture he delivered on “Challenges of Managing Chronic Kidney Disease in Nigeria: An Appraisal of the Ethics and Legal Issues Involved” at the Osun State University, Osogbo, Osun State.

The medical expert, who remarked that many Nigerians are not aware of havoc caused by chronic kidney disease, puts the prevalence of the problem

at between 15 and 30 per cent in Nigeria.

Salako, the provost, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, said that its incidence increases by six per cent every year world over and that between eight and 16 per cent of the world’s population currently live with chronic kidney disease.

The expert, noting that the age of most Nigerians with chronic kidney disease ranges between 20 and 55 years, declared that hypertension, glomerulonephritis and diabetes were the major causes of kidney problem in Nigeria.

Although dialysis and kidney transplantation are the only effective ways of treatment, he declared that managing the condi-

tion in Nigeria has been rather challenging because its treatment is costly and as such good quality of life cannot be guaranteed.

According to him, “the outcome for kidney failure patients has not improved beyond the situation in the early 90s because the patients have to pay out of pockets.

“These modalities of treatment, dialysis and transplantation, have become prohibitive in cost and conservative estimate may be more than N1.5 million per year for dialysis alone.”

Salako, declaring that the longest dialysed patients in Ibadan spent only 27 months, also linked the gloomy situation to occasional lack of regular sup-

plies of dialysis software.

However, he said that scarcity of altruistic organs donors and donated organs as well as ethical and legal issues on organ donation remains some challenges against kidney transplantation in Nigeria despite this being the best treatment option for kidney failure.

“Till the last one year, there is no transplant law in Nigeria and both the doctors and the patients were not protected. Each hospital has been using its internal checks,” he declared.

Salako said insistence on an affidavit from the court of law before transplantation is carried out and that this had also resulted in transplant tourism outside

From Left: Provost, College of Health Science, Osun State University, Osogbo, Osun State, Professor Christopher Alebiosu; President, Nephrologist Association Nigeria, Professor Babatunde Salako and Dr Michaeline Isawunmi at the lecture, recently

WHO regional director for Africa visits Nigeria, pledges to support health agenda The World Health Organisation (WHO) Regional Director for Africa Dr Matshidiso Rebecca Moeti has pledged to support the Nigerian Health Agenda especially in the areas of Universal Health Coverage, primary healthcare, resource mobilisation, capacity building, maternal and child health, immunisation to prevent child killer diseases, as well improve surveillance and preparedness against health emergencies.

Dr Moeti made this known on Monday while meeting with management of the Federal Ministry of Health in Abuja.

She said that the essence of her visit was to meet with national authorities

in Nigeria to strategise on ways of sustaining the landmark achievements so far in the health sector.

She said “Nigeria is the biggest country in Africa in terms of population. So, it is very important to work with Nigerian government to improve the healthcare system of the country if Nigerians are healthy it means African people are healthy”.

Speaking on Primary Healthcare, the WHO Regional Director for Africa said that Primary Healthcare and Universal Health Coverage is number one priority in WHO agenda in Nigeria.

She added that WHO would share experience, ideas on Primary Health-

care System with a view to achieving the Universal Health Coverage in the country.

“I want to assure you of our firm commitment and support to make sure that Nigeria realise and achieve the laudable Health Agenda,” she said.

She further suggested that government at all levels should provide incentives to healthcare officials residing in rural areas, such incentive will encourage them to put in their best no matter the difficult circumstance they find themselves.

Earlier in his presentation, title “Universal Health Coverage, an Agenda for Change”, the Minister of Health, Pro-

fessor Isaac Adewole, said that the Ministry’s focus is more on achieving the Universal Health Coverage as it was believed that it would change the perspective of health to the one that is contributory to National Development.

He said that Federal Government is in the process of rehabilitating 10,000 PHCs in the next two years with minimum of one functional PHC per ward.

“Having at least one functional health facility per ward offering quality health services 24 hour seven days a week for free, will go a long way of closing the gap between the rich and the poor in accessing the healthcare service,” he said.

Nigeria.

The expert while decrying the National health Act’s silence on organs obtained from living donors, described the health act as one of the highlights of organ trafficking in different parts of the world.

NAN, he assured was already making moves to allay the plight of persons with kidney problems.

Salako said that NAN had

already proposed to the Federal Government that dialysis for patients under NHIS will now be covered for six months.

In addition, he said the proposal include that patients who are able to do their transplant operation in Nigeria be given free immunosuppressant drugs for life, saying this is also being planned for next year’s budget.

‘Doctors also contribute to medical quackery’ Practicing Doctors in Oyo State have been charged to checkmate medical quackery in the state given its implication on their profession as well as human lives.

Dr Diran Olabisi, a retired permanent secretary and former, Director of Medical Services, Oyo State Hospitals Management board gave the charge at the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Oyo State branch Continuing Medical Education lecture in Ibadan.

The medical expert said though medical quackery has been constant through ages, and in all professions, it was a problem being fuelled by the society, fear of surgery, medical doctors, the government and the media.

According to him, “Poverty or ignorance or both tend to make them price professional services low. Some educated ones because of ignorance and the poor ones because of poverty end up with the bone setters. But what follows this is complications and deformities.

“Many Nigerians fear surgery. Because of this fear and being used to the native doctors, they fall into the hands of those who promise to cure hernias, appendicitis, fibroid and so on without holding a knife.

“Some bad eggs amongst us cover quacks and traditional midwives for monetary rewards. Some promote quackery by not visiting hospitals established by nurses after we have signed undertaken to supervise such facilities and therefore leave the nurses to practice quackery.”

Continuous under-funding of the health sector, poor facilities in Nigerian hospitals and poor remuneration of medical doctors by government, he said, had also contributed to residents and poorly trained medical officers open clinics to practise quackery.

Olabisi, an Ear, Nose and Throat expert, who recounted cases of medical quacks

both in government and private hospitals as well as the Federal Ministry of Health, said quacks may include medical doctors doing jobs they were not trained for and other hospital staff that act as medical doctors.

The medical expert, who disclosed that training of auxiliary nurses by some private hospitals was contributory to quackery in the health sector, stated that this was better resolved by doctors ensuring that training of auxiliary nurses is recognised and standardised by the government.

Olabisi said government’s recognition of traditional birth attendants as a stop gap to make up for the shortage of trained and licensed midwives needs to be reviewed, saying that they were also a set of medical quacks that should be replaced by mass production of midwives.

“Traditional birth attendants always take on more than what they should do, that is the problem,” he declared.

In putting an end to quackery, Dr Olabisi asked that patients should know their rights and their responsibilities; government address the problems of poverty and illiteracy; and that all doctors display their certificates and current registration licences to practise for all to see.

He urged the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria and other health professional licensing boards to go all out to address the problem of quackery.

Also, NMA he said should make the fight against quackery a priority.

“We should not over charge the poor people and thereby push them to the quacks. However, the time health insurance fully takes off, it will also limit this problem because all health outfits both at the federal, state and local government levels would enrol in the health insurance scheme,” he concluded.

26

Thursday, 14 July, 2016

How walnuts boost fertility, prevent diabetes

natural

health

By Sade Oguntola

W

alnuts do not only taste great, but support good health.

Like most nuts, they could be easily added to a healthiest way of eating. Consuming walnuts every day could help to reduce cholesterol level, boosts sperm count and fertility, treat fibroid, and ease menstrual flow.

The nutritional properties of walnuts are again under the spotlight as a new review in the Journal of Nutrition points to the nut’s omega-3 content as a factor in reducing the risk of developing physical impairments in old age.

Walnuts are rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a plant-based omega-3 fatty acid, which makes up one of the nut’s profile of healthy polyunsaturated fats.

The study focused on data collected from 54,762 women in the Nurses’ Health Study, which tracked women for over 30 years.

According to these researchers from the Brigham and Women’s Hospital in collaboration with Harvard Medical School, participants who increased intake of walnuts, along with oranges, orange juice, apples and pears, and romaine or leaf lettuce, were less likely to have incidents of physical impairment that could restrict independence.

“The simple message from this study is that eating an overall healthy diet, including certain foods, such as walnuts and other whole foods, may help women with the ability to do key everyday tasks as they age, like carrying groceries or dressing themselves,” said Dr Francine Grodstein of Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School.

Could walnuts help boost semen quality?

A research data published in Biology of Reproduction indicated that consuming walnuts every day could help to improve the quality of semen in young men.

Led by Dr Wendie Robbins at the University of California, Los Angeles, USA, the research team reveals that eating 75 grammes of walnuts a day improves the vitality, motility, and morphology of sperm in healthy men aged 21 to 35.

The study assessed the semen quality of 117 healthy men between the ages of 21 and 35. After 12 weeks, the men consuming walnuts had significantly increased levels of omega-6 and omega-3 (ALA) fatty acids and experienced improvement in sperm vitality, motility, and morphology.

Those eating walnuts also had fewer chromosomal abnormalities in their sperm following the dietary intervention. The control group, on the other hand, experienced no changes.

Numerous studies have linked regular consumption of nuts to be beneficial to defer, prevent or delay some types of cancer, including breast colon and prostate.

A 2013 trial data, published in the journal Cancer Investigation, indicated that consumption of a ‘modest’ amount of walnuts may be associated with a protective effect against prostate cancer, The walnut portion was not a large percentage of the diet. It was the equivalent to a human eating about two handfuls, a day,

which is not a lot of walnuts.

Researchers have also shown that eating snack-sized quantities of walnuts could slow the growth of cancer. A team of researchers from UConn Health and The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine found that eating walnuts can reduce one’s risk of getting colon cancer, the third most common cancer in the world.

In the study, mice that were fed an ounce of walnuts daily developed fewer instances of colon cancer. It was suggested that walnuts may also act as a probiotic to make the colon healthy, which in turn offers protection against colon tumours.

Walnuts have at least three components that could account for their cancer-slowing effect. They are high in Omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to slow cancer growth. They also include antioxidants and components called phytosterols, both of which have shown cancer-slowing effects in other studies.

Indeed, previous studies had shown that walnut prevents heart disease. They suggested eating walnuts at the end of a meal might help cut the damage that fatty food can do to the arteries.

It is thought that the nuts are rich in compounds such as omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants and phytosterols that reduce hardening of the arteries, and keep them flexible, thus reducing the risk of heart disease.

Frequent consumption of walnuts also could help to slash the risk of type 2 diabetes by almost a quarter. Writing in the Journal of Nutrition, the team show that eating walnuts two or three times a week were associated with a 24 per cent reduction in the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

sex,sexuality

&your health With Monica Taiwo

strictly adult teenagers, adult & geriatric sexual well being

08187754992 (sms only) taiwomonica@gmail.com

The sensual parts of a woman’s body (II) Apart from the body parts that were listed as the most sensitive parts, there are a few other places that could help you find more creative ways of giving your partner an orgasm.

Brain While men are aroused by things they see, women are stimulated through sound and touch. Moreover, these senses are routed directly to the brain and arousal actually occurs because of how the brain perceives thing that is heard.

Because of this women don’t mind repeatedly hearing sweet words. Simply whispering about the depth of your love during sex can achieve a far quicker climax.

Neck The neck is an interesting erogenous zone and stimulation of the neck occurs mostly due to a psychological effect. Massaging the neck can make a woman feel dominated, delicate and feminine, while making the man seem powerful, talented and masculine. Such a sexual expression gives some women a powerful sensation. It is important to experiment and understand just how much your partner is comfortable with before mastering this particular region during sex.

Hand and Feet Caring for parts of the body that face regular

wear and tear can show the tender and attentive side of a relationship.

Gently massaging callouses on the feet with oil can stimulate the sensitive parts of the feet. Simply touching these

parts can produce waves of pleasure in some women. Hands as well have sensitive points that can be stimulated. They can be massaged gently to relieve the tension in the muscles and relax a woman. Loving care for these parts can go a long way to attest to your devotion and love, and in some cases can aid orgasms far better.

Stomach The stomach is a special part of any woman because that is where she carries a child. As a result, your partner could be sensitive here and protective of this region.

Licking or touching this part can produce feelings of arousal, as well as show just how careful you can be. Exploring this region above the vagina can indicate promises of pleasures to come. It could also be surprising for a woman to see the attention you lavish to this often neglected part.

Forehead The forehead is a generally forgotten part of the body, but a kiss here can have a great psychological impact on a woman. A forehead kiss shows your compassion and how much you care. When a man is able to hold a woman close, kiss her forehead and avoid further sexual advances, it shows control and reassures a woman about his ability to take charge. This will stimulate her and cause her to desire the man sexually.

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Thursday, 14 July, 2016 Taiwo Adisa - 08072000046 Group Politics Editor taiadis@yahoo.com

Why Nigeria should be restructured —Adebayo It was a chance meeting with former governor of Kwara State, a prominent leader of the Middle Belt Forum and Afenifere, Chief Cornelius Adebayo, in his Ilorin residence. BIOLA AZEEZ brings excerpts of the interaction.

F

ORMER President Olusegun Obsanjo recently described unemployment rate in Nigeria as a time bomb. Also of late, economic recession has led to the sack of many people in both the public and private sectors. What do we do?

That’s a germane national issue. But it is also not a new issue. It has been with us for very many years. The global situation has worsened and deepened our own challenge to what I might call recession. I believe we have a new government. ‘New,’ because it’s been there for a year, but one out of four is still relatively new and from all we hear and see daily from what you guys write and publish, they are trying to tackle these issues. They are not things they can handle overnight. People are still talking i of increase in pay. They are difficult issues to tackle in a short time. I think our concern should be those that who are in power and who have the responsibility are doing the right thing to ensure that we eventually get over the serious hurdles before us.

Many people complain about rising cost of living, expensive items and hardship and there seems no way out...

You have asked the same question in different words. The recession we are talking about cannot leave out employment and purchase of essential materials, including what we eat and wear. That’s the issue we say the government claims to be addressing. We may have our views as to how they are tackling it. But there’s no question at all about their being conscious of it and they are going about it in the way they all understand.

Fortunately, ours remains a democracy; you are my witnesses. People can say

Adebayo

anything they like and you journalists will carry it. So, if we have lost anything, that remains a precious property. People who have ideas are flying them. They are suggesting to government, institutions. We do believe that, ultimately, these will lead to improvement in our circumstances, economy, wage and all other areas of life in the

country.

What will be your own suggestion as part of this national dialogue on the way out?

Hmmm....A serious confrontation of the problems. That’s the way out. And there’s no one way. We must learn from other countries which have gone through

My people in Kwara want to be part of the Yoruba nation within a federation. And so long as they have such desires, they must be addressed. And if they are not addressed, the people are not happy.

recession. It’s interesting that in recent years, one of the countries that was best known for democracy from the beginning, Greece—we all know what situation it got into. And the solution was beyond them.

Thank God they have the European Union.

Even a country like Spain had its problems. The problems we have are not peculiar to us, in general terms. But what probably is heavier is that we know that things wouldn’t be as bad as they are if people had been more careful with the national resources. So, the management of our national resources, those that were denied us and we can recover and those we still have, would be the only areas where we could say greater attention is required and I am persuaded daily from all we see and hear, thanks to the press that these are being Continues on pg28

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politics&policy

Thursday, 14 July, 2016

‘War on corruption inevitably selective’ or economic points of view?

Both. Are we enjoying our economy now that some people are protesting that they are not getting their due from Nigeria?

That’s where the economy comes in. There are nations, and I am talking about conventional sense of the word nation, in the sense that Yorubaland is a nation. There are smaller and there are bigger. Who wants to be together?

My people in Kwara want to be part of the Yoruba nation within a federation.

And so long as they have such desires, they must be addressed. And if they are not addressed, the people are not happy. They are not getting what they believe they need to be able to stay happily within the federation. I belong to another federation, Canadian nation, which recognises the sovereignty, up to a limit, of each of the provinces. Power is too heavy in the hands of the Federal Government in Nigeria. There must be devolution. Before devolution, there must be restructuring so that the oppression of the minority within a unit can be stemmed.

Continued from pg27

tackled.

Some people describe the anti-corruption crusade of the Federal Government as selective, what’s your reaction?

It is inevitably selective. You tackle what you can see. You can’t fight what you cannot see. And sometimes, you can’t see a mosquito but before you go to bed at night you spray insecticide. There are preventive measures and there are investigative devices which can help to ascertain those who are affected or those involved in leading us to where we are. And I believe they are tackling it.

To now talk of being selective, people have to show evidence that they have named x, y, and z who have also been involved and are not being looked at. But what people are saying which makes me laugh is that there’s concentration on a particular group. The Yoruba say that when two trees fall, you begin to cut down from the top. Is the government of today to start with 1960? What is immediately visible is what has been stolen and not yet spent and they are trying to recover as much of that as possible. What should be of interest to us is what they do with what they recover.

I think that’s what we should face.

Generally, will you say this government has performed in the last one year, and what do you think they should do better?

Certainly, it has performed. It’s a matter of personal assessment as to percentage in terms of expectation. The great, huge word is change. People say there had been no change. I assert that there has been change. Whether it has been fast as everyone expects or not is a different matter. And don’t forget, there’s one thing that we are fortunate to have. We still have a justice system that assumes that a person is innocent until he’s proven guilty.

You can’t rush things when it comes to determining involvement in crime and level and depth of involvement. This government is going about it the way it knows best. If people have ideas of how faster it could be, they must be free to offer them. But talking in theoretical terms, saying they are too slow, they haven’t done this and that is not fair.

In essence, you are saying the government should go after treasury looters?

It should continue. They are already going after the suspected looters.

The restructuring of the country has been a germane issue among Nigerians over the years, what’s your position on the renewed clamour for restructuring of Nigeria?

My position remains what you’ll expect it to be. With all modesty, I was one of the leaders of the Middle Belt Forum, and I remain one of the leaders of the forum.

I was at one point chairman of the political forum of Afenifere; I remain a very strong believer in Afenifere and of course the Yoruba nation. I believe Kwara wants

So, you want the resolution of the national conference implemented?

I want restructuring of the federation to be a high priority of the Nigerian government.

Adebayo

and deserves the best share of whatever this country has to offer. So, beginning at home, we were talking restructuring. It has always been part of Nigeria’s history from the beginning.

There was a rush...let’s get independence first. We’ll sort all that out. We’ve never sorted it out to the full till today. So, there must be agitation. All nations are teaching us everyday. The United Kingdom is not a federation. They’ve restructured to

I have not been very happy with what the president said about the last conference.

The issue that is involved, more than anything else, is restructuring and a balanced federation.

the level that the Welsh, the Irish and the Scots have self determination. They are not dominated by the English. It came to a point the Scots had to decide if they wanted to walk out.

The British decided to get out of the Euro system. They are now reconsidering. It’s a matter of choice for each people where they belong and the role they play in government or who rules them. So, restructuring is crucial. That’s part of what we fought for.

I was secretary of the National Reformation Movement. And what the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) was about is restructuring of Nigeria. Until Nigeria is restructured, we won’t have democracy as it should be. So, that must be taken into consideration, and addressed.

That’s one area where I have not been very happy with what the president has said about the last conference. The issue that is involved, more than anything else, is restructuring and a balanced federation, a federation in which every unit is satisfied that it is having the best possible for it.

Still talking about restructuring, which area do you have in mind, as many are looking at it from political

Since your tenure as Communication Minister, things have changed. What areas would you want improvement in what we have now?

Things are bound to change. I built on what I inherited. And I ensured that we did the best we possibly could to get the result that was anticipated. And those who took over when I left have continued in ways that they perceived to be the best. There are several organisations in and outside government, including yourselves, who determine some of the things that are done. I think, generally, we’ve done quite well in areas of communication. At one time, Nigeria was one of the fastest growing telecoms nations in the world. We had that pride at one time.

We can’t retain that position forever. And things have improved. There are areas where there’s room for improvement but I am sure those who are in charge are addressing that.

One of the security challenges now is that of the Niger Delta Avengers.

Do you see it as part of nationalist agitation, or how do you think government can handle the situation?

It will be presumptuous for me to think I can offer a solution from under the roof of my own home here. Those who are confronting the situation know what it is. In one respect, we are fortunate that a military man is in charge of government now, and he would have a perception that is different from those of us who do not know about warfare. Also, he is surrounded by politicians. So, it’s not as if he’s lacking ideas as to what might be the solution.

That’s why we are talking about the need for restructuring. People want restructuring. People want reconsideration of the way the resources are deployed or the proceeds of national resources are deployed.

And they should be given what they want.

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news

Thursday, 14 July, 2016

Nigerian Tribune

Solving PDP’s problems requires tact —Makarfi Leon Usigbe and Jacob Segun Olatunji - Abuja

B

ASKING in the euphoria of the court judgement which conferred legitimacy on his committee, Chairman of the National Caretaker Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Ahmed Makarfi, has said that resolving the problems of the par-

ty would require tact rather than open arguments over its internal disagreement.

Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday while receiving members of the NorthWest Zonal Executives of the party, who came to endorse his leadership, he said he would prefer a situation where aggrieved members locked themselves into a room, quarrel and resolve their differenc-

es rather than crying out in public.

Addressing the delegation, he said: “I assure you that we will work very hard to do the needful. We will have to be a bit tactical by not talking too much.

“So, we are not sleeping.

We will deliver and we will deliver to the satisfaction of PDP men and women wherever they are in this country.”

While welcoming the July 4, 2016 Federal High Court judgement which validated the decision of the National Convention to dissolve the National Working Committee led by Senator Ali Sheriff, the party boss stated that he had not foreclosed the window for peaceful dialogue with the Sheriff faction.

According to him, even though all major legal in-

terventions have been determined in favour of the decisions of the May 21, 2016 Port Harcourt national convention, the job has not yet finished.

He said: “We give gratitude to God Almighty for bringing us so far. On the legal front, all major determinations have been made positively in favour of the decision taken by the national convention.

“That is not to say that the job is finished. In the past, I have said severally that the path of peace and reconciliation is the best path.

“Litigation can resolve issues on legal grounds but between brothers and sisters, it is best you go beyond that and create a forum for reconciliation between your brothers and sisters so that we all move together.

“We will never foreclose that window even if the le-

gal issue terminate at this stage. If the legal issue continues, we will not foreclose the window of reconciliation,” Makarfi assured.

Leader of the delegation and PDP National Vice Chairman (North-West), Ambassador Ibrahim Musa Kazaure, explained in his address that the purpose of the visit was to declare support of the PDP NorthWest zone to the caretaker committee.

“The entire North-West zone is behind you and hereby identify with your leadership as the only option to save the PDP,” Kazaure stated.

He observed that from Makarfi’s antecedents as a two-term state governor and senator, he has the wherewithal to pull the party through its difficult times and restore it to a formidable political structure.

Oshiomhole not fair to Edo North —Ize-Iyamu Banji Aluko - Benin City

President of the National Association of Yoruba Descendants in North America, Akin Bolu Omodele and one other member of the executive, presenting a cultural gift to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, during the monarch’s visit to the US recently, ahead the 16th Yoruba World Summit, holding in Ibadan.

APC to inaugurate campaign for Edo election Saturday THE All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo will inaugurate campaign for the Sept 10 governorship election in the State on Saturday July 16.

Governor Adams Oshiomhole announced this on Wednesday at a stake holders meeting in Government House in Benin.

He urged all party members to turn up en masse for the event which would take

place at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium.

He urged the party members to ensure that development issues were brought to the centre of political contestation.

He noted that the full import of continuity was to ensure that the same philosophy of bringing development to the state as well as the unity of the state was

not in doubt.

He assured that the party would not take anything for granted but would campaign across the nook and cranny of the state.

He also assured that there was no contestation between the National Chairman of the party, Chief Odigie Oyegun and himself over the choice of the party’s standard bearer in the state.

Edo guber ticket: Obey court ruling, Sheriff tells INEC Jacob Segun Olatunji and Leon Usigbe - Abuja CLAIMANT to the office of national chairman of Peoples Democratic Party, Senator Ali Modu Sheriff, has dispelled the claims that Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) rejected the name of Honourable Mathew Idurioyekemwen as the party’s candidate for Edo governorship election.

Sheriff-led faction of the PDP had submitted the name of Idurioyekemwen to INEC, but the commission reported on Tuesday that it accepted the name of Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu of the Senator Ahmed Makarfi-led national caretaker committee of the party.Sheriff, who stated this in Abuja yesterday while receiving members of the South-South

Young Professionals for Good Governance who paid him solidarity visit, urged INEC to respect the ruling of a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja which barred it from recognising any candidate for the Edo and Ondo states governorship elections other than those from him.

Sheriff, who spoke through his Deputy National Chairman, Dr Cairo Ojuogboh, said “I want to dispel this rumour making the round that INEC has rejected our gubernatorial candidate in the forthcoming election in Edo State and accepted another candidate submitted to it by another group, this is not true, it is all rumour.

“Abuja Federal High Court ruled that INEC should only accept candidate for Ondo and Edo governorship elections from Sheriff. PDP is

one and there is no faction in PDP as we speak. INEC has not communicated to us, we urged our members in Edo State to remain calm,” he said.

While stating that the Federal High Court in PortHarcourt was not superior to the one in Abuja, Sheriff urged INEC to obey the court ruling by reversing itself in favour of the name he presented to the commission.

Sheriff also urged Honourable Matthew Idurioyekemwen to go ahead with his campaign vigorously, saying that he was sure that PDP would win the state at the poll.

While speaking, the leader of the delegation, Honourable Rexben Ebede, stated that the solidarity visit became necessary in order to show their support.

He explained that the strength of leadership was to know imperfection and have the will to correct it.

He said he would do what he could for the benefit of the people and pass on what he could to his successor.

The governor urged all the party members to ensure regular attendance at party meetings as there was the need to live by positive examples.

Deputy Governor Pius Odubu said he was back for good and would join forces with the APC standard bearer to ensure victory for the party come Sept 10.

PEOPLES Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Edo State, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, has described as inhuman the concentration of developmental projects in small section in Edo North senatorial district of the state, promising to treat every community equally if elected into office.

Ize-Iyamu said it was an act of wickedness that there is no functional health facility in the entire Etsako East Local Government Area and that the existing health facilities in the council had been abandoned by the state government.

Ize-Iyamu, who spoke in Agenebode, Etsako East Local Government Area, when he took his campaign to the area, said a community such as Agenebode that is situated at the bank of the River Niger, ought to be a tourist centre and a rich commercial hub.

He regretted that the only tertiary institution in the Agenebode, the College of Agriculture, Agenebode, has been neglected.

He said the local government voted for Governor Oshiomhole and his party in the past but got nothing back from him, pointing out that the state government has failed to make use of the agricultural potentials and the mineral resources in the council to develop it and create employment.

He assured that he would create a scheme that will tap the rich human and natural resources in the area so as to make their women and youths exploit and explore their proximity to the River Niger.

Also speaking, Edo State PDP chairman, Dan Orbih, regretted that Governor Oshiomhole’s Iyamho community has been the beneficiary of virtually all the projects undertaken in the Edo North area by Oshiomhole’s administration.

Edo NURTW faction denies Ize-Iyamu’s endorsement Banji Aluko - Benin City A factional chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) in Edo State, Comrade Odion Olaye, has described as misleading reports that the union has endorsed the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, in the forthcoming September 10 governorship election in the state.

He called on Edo State Commissioner of Police, Chris Ezike, to arrest one Mr Warriman Erhengbo, for allegedly using the name of

the NURTW to play politics and for impersonating him.

He said the union was solidly behind the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Mr Godwin Obaseki, in the forthcoming election.

He said, “I was just sworn in last month as chairman of NURTW in the state and I have my certificate right here in my office. I was sworn in by the national president, Alhaji Najin Usman Yasin, with the General Secretary, Comrade Clement Wesco, in attendance.

“I was shocked when we read about somebody saying NURTW is supporting Ize-Iyamu. I know Er-

hengbo as a security man in Egor. If that impostor wants to play politics, he should play it somewhere else.

“We have said it before now that we are backing the APC-led government in the state because they have impacted positively on the lives of our people. We are backing Godwin Obaseki for governorship.

“It is also not true that the state government banned our association. We are working in collaboration with Road Employers Association in rural areas.

We have a 40/60 per cent agreement. “

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news

Thursday, 14 July, 2016

Court revokes NERC’s increase in electricity tariff

•Reps ask FG to halt planned 100% increment in tariff •No consideration for 100% tariff increase —NERC Ayomide Owonibi Odekanyin, Jacob Segun Olatunji and Kolawole Daniel, Adetola Bademosi, Sanya Adejokun and Soji-Eze Fagbemi

A

FEDERAL High Court in Lagos, on Wednesday, annulled the increment in electricity tariff announced by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).

Justice Mohammed Idris while delivering judgment in a suit filed by a human rights lawyer, Mr Toluwani Yemi Adebiyi, to challenge the increment, described NERC’s action as procedurally ultra vires, irrational, irregular and illegal.

The court relied on Sections 31, 32 and 76 of the Electricity Power Sector Reform Act (EPSRA) 2005, in deciding the substantive suit held that, NERC acted outside the

powers conferred on it by the Act and failed to follow the prescribed procedure.

“The court is also of the view that NERC has not shown that it acted in due obedience to the prescribed procedures and that there is no evidence that NERC complied with Section 76(6) (7) and (9) of the EPSRA Act, the Judge held.

“It is clear from the affidavit evidence that the increase in tariff was done

by NERC in defiance of the order of this court made on May 28, 2015 which directed parties in the case to maintain the status quo,” the Judge further ruled..

Consequently, the court held that the tariff increase from July 1, 2015 was done in breach of the status quo order.

“NERC’s action, was therefore, clearly hasty, reckless and irresponsible.

This country is in a democracy where the rule of law shall prevail over impunity or whimsical desires. Anything in the contrary will be an invitation to anarchy. It is the law that what is done officially must be done in accordance to the law. Investors are free to do business in Nigeria but they shall abide by the law of this country.

“Nigeria is not a Kangaroo State. Nigeria is not a Banana Republic. It is intolerant and extremely dangerous for any branch of the Executive to create a posture it may not obey certain orders of the court.

That is tantamount to Executive recklessness which will lead to lawlessness,” Justice Idris held.

“NERC is hereby directed to reverse to the status quo and the commission is hereby restrained from further increasing electric-

ity tariff except it complies strictly with the relevant provisions of the EPSRA,” he ruled. The sum of N50, 000 was awarded in favour of the plaintiff.

He also sought an order restraining NERC from foisting compulsory service charge on pre-paid meters not until “the meters are designed to read charges per second of consumption and not a flat rate of service not rendered or power not used.”

Also, the House of Representatives, on Wednesday, kicked against the plans by the Federal Government to hike electricity tariff by 100 per cent and demanded that the increase should be put on hold for now.

This followed the unanimous adoption of a motion under matters of urgent public importance moved Honourable Aliyu Madaki, at the plenary on Wednes-

From left, Director, Primewaterview, Mr Dele Agekameh; President, National Association of Women Journalist (NAWOJ), Mrs Ify Omowole; chairman, Primewaterview holdings, Prince Tunji Ogunwusi; Lagos State Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) chairman, Mr Deji Elumoye; another Director, Mr Eric Balogun and the Group Managing Director, Primewaterview holdings, Mrs Morola Olabisi Babalola, during the groundbreaking ceremony of Pen Jewel City, Abaren, Ogun State, on Wednesday. PHOTO: TOMMY ADEGBITE.

NTI commences SMASE Cycle III, 2nd Cohort national training THE National Teachers’ Institute (NTI) has commenced two-week training for Mathematics and science subjects teachers in the country.

The teachers, drawn from Abia, Ebonyi, Ekiti, Oyo and Yobe states, would participate in the training, which is the third phase for the second set of teachers, under the Strengthening Mathematics and Science Education (SMASE) Nigeria Project.

Declaring the Cycle III second Cohort Training Open, the Director-General and Chief Executive of the National Teachers’ Institute, Dr Aminu Ladan Sharehu, said the institute would continue to strive to ensure that the teachers received the best of training.

He said this was why the institute always improved on facilities put in place at the SMASE National INSECT

Centre, just as he charged participants to cascade the knowledge gained to local trainers who would, in turn, transfer the knowledge to teachers in all schools.

“I sincerely believe that the Cycles one and two trainings

afforded you the opportunity to develop positive attitude towards the teaching of Mathematics and science subjects and also prepared you to be better teachers through the ASEI-PDSI approach,” he said.

The NTI DG commended the contributions and efforts of other stakeholders, particularly States’ Universal Basic Education Boards, for always making available their counterpart funds and teachers.

Anambra: 3 die, landlord, 3 others injured as 2-storey building collapses Suzy Oruya - Onitsha

A two-storey building under construction at Ikenga Ndiagu Village in Ogidi, Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, on Tuesday, at 4: 30 p.m, collapsed, leaving three persons dead, while four others sustained varying degrees of injury.

According to an eyewitness, the bodies of the casualties in the tragic incident had been deposited at

Iyi-Enu Mission Hospital morgue, adding that three others in critical condition are at the intensive care of the hospital.

As of press time on Wednesday, sources told newsmen that a rescue team was still combing the area of the incident for victims who were either dead or alive.

The source also disclosed to newsmen that the landlord of the collapsed building that had reached second

floor, who was inspecting work on the second floor of the building when the incident occurred, had been arrested by the police because the building had no approved government plan.

Efforts to reach the Divisional Police Officer at Ogidi, on phone, Hassan Musa, proved abortive.

However, a senior police officer who preferred anonymity, confirmed the incident, saying investigation into the incident was ongoing.

day.

While moving the motion, Madaki stated that the plan by DISCOS to increase electricity tariff from N24 to N50 per kilowatt for residential consumers, was not in the interest of Nigerians at this point in time.

He expressed worry that epileptic and erratic power supply by distribution companies had persisted and affected both households and commercial activities.

Madaki insisted that the planned new tariff would amount to disobedience of an injunction by the Federal High Court, Lagos, restraining NERC from any increase in electricity tariff.

While contributing, the Majority Leader, Honourable Femi Gbajabiamila said there was the need to review the sale of DISCOS to private individuals in the national interest.

Gbajabiamila lamented that the companies lacked financial and infrastructural capacity to deliver quality services to Nigerians.

In his ruling, the Speaker, House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara referred the matter to the ad hoc committee to investigate the sale of power assets.

The committee was also mandated to investigate if the rationale behind the last increase in electricity tariff by DISCOS was commensurate with their investment in the power sector.

Reacting, the NERC, on Wednesday, reiterated that the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) was not contemplating any increase in electricity tariff.

The Commission in a statement issued in Abuja, by the Head of media unit, Michael Faloseyi, said the clarification was coming on the heels of reports speculating that NERC is considering applications from electricity distribution companies requesting for 100 per cent increase in electricity tariff.

Also, the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) in a related statement signed by its Director, Regulatory and Stakeholders Relations, Mr Abimbola Odubiyi, advised customers to disregard any insinuations regarding planned increase in tariff.

Meanwhile, President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, (NLC), Comrade Ayuba Wabba, describing the ruling as a landmark judgment, in a statement on Wednesday, urged the NERC and the DISCOs to obey the court ruling and revert to the old rates immediately.

No secret recruitment in Fire Service —Spokesman Clement Idoko - Abuja THE Controller-General of the Federal Fire Service, Mr Anebi Joseph Garba, has dismissed alleged secret recruitment into the service, describing the widely circulated rumour as unfounded.

Garba in statement signed

by Assistant Controller, Corporate Services, Mr Elechi Collins and made available to journalists in Abuja, on Wednesday, advised job seekers to disregard any such information on recruitment.

“The attention of the Controller-General, Federal Fire Service, Anebi Joseph Garba has been drawn to the rumour that there is ongoing recruitment exercise in the organisation.

“The alleged recruitment is not only false but unfounded and can never be as there is a process the service must go through to actualise recruitment exercise if given the go ahead by the necessary authorities.

He, however, warned the general public, particularly the youth, to be careful and vigilant not to fall victim of fraudsters. “Therefore, we are using this platform to caution the general public and the youth in particular to be careful with whom they are dealing with, lest they be caught in the web and fall prey to criminals who are bent on tarnishing the agency’s image, by swindling unsuspected youths in the said non-existence job recruitment,” he said.

Journalists task govt on fiscal responsibility commission Yinka Oladoyinbo - Lokoja

MEDIA practitioners in Kogi State, on Wednesday, tasked the state government to urgently establish a Fiscal Responsibility Commission in the state, to serve as monitoring guide for its financial activities.

They also charged the state Assembly, over the enactment of relevant legislative laws for the enforcement of sanctions against misuse and misapplication of public funds.

These views were contained in a communique issued at the end of a oneday sensitisation workshop organised by the Kogi State Public Sector Governance Reform and Development Project, (KGPSGRD) for journalists, at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) secretariat in Lokoja.

The journalists in their communiqué also called on the state government and good governance agencies to ensure that campaign on the reform of good governance was extended to the grassroots.

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Thursday, 14 July, 2016

My 10 years on the throne —Oba Awobajo

Today July 14, 2016, Alaiyeluwa Oba Abib Amos Awobajo, Limeri of Awa Ijebu in Ijebu North Local Government of Ogun State clocks 10 years on the throne. He speaks on his achievements, challenges and other issues. Excerpts:

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ABIYESI, what are you doing to bring Awa indigenes in the Diaspora back home for the development of the town?

When I became the Limeri of Awa-Ijebu ten years ago, the town was very backward, but we thank God that today with the cooperation of my townspeople, especially the Chiefs who stood behind me, Awa town is a community to reckon with in Ogun State and Nigeria in general.

As a monarch, my primary objective is to unite all sons and daughters of Awa, home and abroad. For instance, I used to encourage my subjects, home and abroad to erect a building at Awa to be able to draw them back home, recently I went to one of my subject’s house warming (America-based).

I personally went there to bless the place to give inspiration to others. When the celebrant wanted to talk, he said ‘Kabiyesi is the architect of these buildings.’ I was surprised to hear that. He quickly replied that he was encouraged to come back home due to better security in the town with the Divisional Police Station at Awa-Ijebu made possible by the Kabiyesi. To further build on the initial success, I have been organising a special Day (AWA DAY ANNIVERSARY) to draw the indigenes to Awa to know each other better.To encourage further development, plots of land are allocated to willing buyers, both indigenes and non-indigenes at a highly subsidised rate.

You have been on the throne for 10 years, what are your major achievements so far?

God has used me as an Oba of the town and permanent member of Ogun State council of Obas to elevate Awa community. To start with, I started by building the most beautiful houses of worship in the annals of Cherubim and Seraphim Movement Church, AYO NI O (Jesus Palace). It has 1000 capacity, an all marble church edifice, the best in any part of the country and beyond, from my personal purse.

I’m committed to health service delivery for my subjects by providing free eye treatment, glasses and surgical operation where necessary. I built the Oba Limeri’s Market, a five day market. I also facilitated the creation of Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) centre at Obanta Comprehensive High School, Awa, which now serves as Examination Town Centre for the whole of Ijebu North Local government Area, catering for Ijebu-Igbo, Ago-Iwoye, Mamu, Oru and Ilaporu towns before it was change to Computer Based Test (C.B.T). I further built a new Ultra- Modern and befitting police station worth millions of naira to ensure adequate security and safety of lives and properties. In fact, Awa-Ijebu has perhaps the most beautiful modern Police station in Nigeria as attested to by police officers themselves. I facilitated the approval of a Divisional Police Headquarters at AwaIjebu to stem the tide of armed robbery attacks along Ijebu-Ode/Ibadan axis road and donation of van for security patrol by Otunba Femi Adelaja.

Further, I facilitated the approval of a National Open University (NOUN) AwaIjebu Community Study Center and it is the first town in the whole of Nigeria to host a NOUN Centre.

I also introduced community meetings in the mode of Village Square meetings. I initiated this to enable people make their inputs into community development and to at the same time, afford my administration the

opportunity to feel the pulse and yearnings of my subjects.

How was your childhood like?

I was born in AwaIjebu over sixty years ago to the family of late Pa Busari Awobajo, alias Aleelo tiko leyin Ogba and Princess A. Awobajo, first ruling house of Awa-Town. After my primary school, education, I followed my late elder brother, Alhaji Abdul-Rasaki Awobajo to Kaduna to learned printing. After my graduation, I worked with New Nigerian Newspaper, Kaduna for 11 years and 3 months. I voluntarily resigned and established Abibcom Nigeria Limited in Kaduna. I came back to Ibadan in the year 2000 after 30 years sojourn in Kaduna and due to incessant religious war. As God will have it, in year 2005 my community called me to be their monarch which I initially declined. Later, the persuasion was too much here and there, home and abroad. Glory be to God Almighty I eventually became the Limeri of Awa-Ijebu on December 2, 2005 and eventually installed and given staff of office on July 14, 2006.

In your ten years reign, you must have seen the good, the bad and the ugly; what have been your challenges as a traditional ruler?

The challenges I have is that people are never truthful. I have seen that a vast majority of our people are never truthful. What I think we should all do is to have fear of God. Coming back to the issue of challenges, it is just a legal tussle from my opponents. I was never at a police station in my life, talk less of a court. Imagine an oba standing in a witness box, but I thank my God, the truth prevailed after about five years of legal tussle and I won on June 14, 2011.

My happiest day was the day I was crowned as the Limeri of Awa-Ijebu my saddest day was the day I lost my elder brother, Alhaji Abdul-Rasak - Awobajo BorokinniAdini of Ijebuland.

What does Kabiyesi need from the state government?

That Ilisan/Ago-Iwoye road should be addressed because going through IjebuOde to Abeokuta or Lagos is too tedious.

They should consider the plight of Olabisi Onabanjo University students. To be sincere, the Amosun Administration is doing well and we should join hands with him to give more dividends of democracy. With tremendous achievement all the indigenes and non indigenes of the state can boast a capital city that’s superb. Kudos to the Governor, Ibikunle Amosun the presence of the government is been felt in all the three senatorial districts. But Mr Governor, it is now time to move to rural areas. We the people of the state should pay our taxes. Likewise I personally fill all the potholes within Awa community with my personal efforts. We should all continue to contribute our quota, government can’t do it alone.

A lot of people look up to you as a role model, what would be your advice to your people?

They should persevere, through the guidance of Almighty God, all would be well.

They should not give way to the Doubting Thomas Syndrome. They should be determined, focused and have integrity. God would show them the way out. They should not give up, I believe God has used some of us as a case study for the next generation; they should not lose faith.

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Thursday, 14 July, 2016

Halliburton: I stand by my claim on Aisha Buhari —Fayose As lawyer replies president’s wife Sam Nwaoko - Ado Ekiti

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OVERNOR Ayo Fayose of Ekiti State has said that he stands by his claim on Mrs Aisha Buhari.

This came in reaction to a statement in the media on Wednesday, in which the American government was said to have said they had no information to provide on the president’s wife.

A statement by the government, on Wednesday, quoted the counsel for Governor Fayose, Chief Mike Ozekhome, to have “replied the wife of President Muhammadu Buhari, Aisha, through her counsel, Mary Ekpere & Co, justifying the governor’s claim that Aisha Buhari, was indeed, mentioned in the Halliburton scandal.”

The government statement said: “In the letter on July 8, 2016, Ozekhome affirmed that the statement made regarding the involvement of Aisha Buhari in the Halliburton scandal was “correct and justified in law, having regards to a court judgment convicting one Mr William Jefferson for bribery in the Halliburton case.”

According to the statement: “Counsel to the president’s wife ,had written a letter on June 22, 2016, to Governor Fayose, demanding a retraction of the governor’s statement that the president’s wife, was involved in the Halliburton scandal, threatening legal action if the retraction was not made within five days.”

However, Ozekhome said the statement of Governor Fayose was “correct and justified, having been factually premised on an existing court judgment.”

The letter read; “Our client has referred to us your letter on 22nd June, 2016, on alleged defamation of the character of your client, Her excellency, Mrs Aisha Buhari, the wife of President Buhari, with firm instructions to reply to and reject same in its entirety.

“Our client states and reaffirms categorically that the statement he made as regards the involvement of Aisha Buhari, in the Halliburton scandal, is correct and justified in law; having regards to a court judgement convicting one Mr William Jefferson for bribery in the Halliburton case.

“Therein, the name of the president’s wife featured conspicuously. On

page 22 of the said judgment, delivered by the United States District Court, Eastern District of Virginia, Alexandria Division, United States of America, in criminal No 1: 07CR209, the said Mr Jefferson was sentenced at 9.00 am on November 13, 2009, by Mark Lytle.

Your client, Aisha Buhari was specifically mentioned in the judgment. The judge referred to Exhibits 36-87 in the following words, for

clarification.

“See also government exhibits 36-87 (6/26/02 $170,000 wire transfer from account in Nigeria in the name of Aisha Buhari to an account in the name of The ANJ Group, LLC, identifying “William Jefferson” as Beneficiary)…

Given the age of the defendant, the severity of the sentence calculated by the probation office, the defendant’s frequent travel overseas and unexplained wire

transfers from overseas locations to financial accounts used by the defendant, the defendant cannot rebut the presumption at sentencing that he is a risk of flight.

On the immunity enjoyed by Governor Fayose against civil and criminal proceedings, the SAN said; “Your attention is also hereby drawn to Section 308 of the 1999Constitution, as altered, on the immunity enjoyed by our

client from civil or criminal proceedings for the period that he occupies the office of the governor of Ekiti State.

“You may, therefore, advise your client to wait until after October 16, 2018, when our client’s tenure expires. When that happens, we shall join issues with your client in a competent court of law, in the event that your client does not have a change of heart.”

From left, Senate Deputy Minority Whip, Senator Biodun Olujimi; Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki; Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, Honourable Mustapha Cisselo, Senate Deputy Leader, Senator Bala Ibn Na’allah and Senator Chukwuka Utazi, during a visit to the Senate President, in Abuja, on Wednesday.

Senators’ meeting not about Buhari’s impeachment —Wamakko FORMER governor of Sokoto State, Senator Aliyu Wamakko, has dismissed speculations alleging that some clandestine meetings, on plans to impeach President Muhammadu Buhari, were being held in his house.

In a statement he personally signed, on Wednesday, Wamakko said “to set the records straight, a meeting was only held in my residence towards finding amicable solution to the frosty relationship between the executive and legislature.

“We have observed the growing disharmony between the two arms and we resolved that finding amicable solution to the impasse will move the nation forward and give the president focus to pursue his change agenda.

“As a principled politician, I have no cause to scheme against the president and the party I campaigned for or the cause I believe in.

“Let me once again reiterate that we hold the president in high esteem, and we will do our best towards ensuring that there is cordial relationship and harmony between the two arms of government.”

Earlier, in a statement

signed by his media aide, Malam Abubakar Dangusau, in Sokoto, Wamakko had described the rumour as a dastardly and fallacious allegation as well as “obnoxious, unbecoming, lame and treacherous’’.

He declared that: “There was never a time that such a fictitious meeting was held to discuss such a weighty issue of the alleged plans to initiate impeachment processes of our dear

president at the senate.

“Such allegations by the online edition were indeed, too callous, defamatory, libellous and a bunch of deceitful lies.’’

Meanwhile, the All Progressives Congress (APC), said on Wednesday that the report that some senators were considering impeaching President Buhari was “laughable and a huge joke taken too far”.

Some senators, had on

Tuesday, threatened to move against the president, for his government’s decision to charge the senate president, Dr Bukola Saraki and his deputy, Ike Ekweremadu, for alleged forgery.

The APC said in a statement by its national secretary, Mala Buni, that the senators should not “allow political shenanigans becloud overall national interest.”

Corruption: S/West PDP condemns FG over selective clampdown on opposition leaders Hakeem Gbadamosi - Akure THE Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), South West zone, on Wednesday, criticised the Federal Government over its selective and deliberate clampdown on notable leaders of the opposition in the South West in its anti- graft crusade.

The leadership of the party in the zone said this in Akure, the Ondo State capital, during the inaugural meeting of the PDP South West executives, describing the deliberate witch-hunt of perceived opposition elements in the polity as an invitation to anarchy.

In a communique released at the end of the meeting, the party noted

that most of the opposition leaders arrested over corruption, were arrested without due process and advised President Muhammadu Buhari -led administration on the need for observance of the rule of law The meeting also called on the Federal Government to introduce and implement economic measures that will alleviate the suffering of the common man rather than dissipating energy on anti -corruption crusade.

Reading the communique, the national vice chairman (South West) of the party, Dr Eddy Olafeso, said: “The zonal executive committee of the South

West, reviews with alarm, the repressive policy of the President Buhari-led APC administration which manifest in the deliberate clampdown on notable leaders of the opposition in the South West, in most cases, without due process and therefore, advise President Buhari-led administration on the need for observance of the rule of law “The Federal Government must tackle the issue of unemployment, insurgency in the North East, Fulani herdsmen, economic crisis, inflation, infrastructural decay among other that have permeated every part of this country with prompt actions.”

OBJ to deliver UI School of Business lecture Saturday THE first in the series of eminent persons business lecture organised by the University of Ibadan School of Business (UISB) will be delivered by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, on Saturday, at the International Conference Centre of the university, at 11.00 a.m.

The lecture, tagged: “Agribusiness: Time to act is now”, is being organised in collaboration with the International Institute for Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Ibadan, a foremost world’s leading research partner in finding solutions to hunger, malnutrition and poverty.

It works with partners, such as the University of Ibadan, to enhance crop quality and productivity and generate wealth from agriculture.

Eminent personalities expected at event are the Oyo State governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, Chief Audu Ogheh, Minister of Agriculture; Professor Abel Idowu Olayinka, vice-chancellor of the university, Dr Nteranya Sanginga, Director General, IITA and other stakeholders in agribusiness.

Expected to be the flagship of business education scholarship in Nigeria, nay Africa, the university, established its School of Business as a special purpose vehicle for playing a tangible role towards the evolution of Nigeria as an economically prosperous nation.

This, it hopes will facilitate the country’s emergence as a politically stable and socially harmonious polity.

Man, 22, remanded in prison for defiling minor in Edo Banji Aluko - Benin City

AN Oredo Magistrate’s Court in Benin, the Edo State capital, has remanded in prison custody, a 22-yearold man, Osamudiamen Sylvester, for allegedly defiling a 10-year-old girl (names withheld).

The state counsel, Mrs Osasu Ewemade, told the court that the accused unlawfully had carnal knowledge of the 10-year-old girl on July 3, at No. 1, Ekhator Street, Off Siluko Road, Benin City.

She said the offence contravened section 218 of the criminal Code Cap. 48 Vol. ll laws of the defunct Bendel State of Nigeria 1976 as applicable in Edo State.

The accused, however, pleaded not guilty to the one-count charge The Chief Magistrate, Mrs Igho Braimoh, remanded the accused in Oko Prison, Benin, and adjourned the case till July 20, for hearing.

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Thursday, 14 July, 2016

Militants attack: Yoruba, Ijaw leaders call for community policing O layinka O lukoya - A beokuta

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EADERS of Yoruba Unity Forum and the Ijaw National Congress, on Wednesday, advocated community policing, in finding lasting solution to crime and criminality in the country.

They spoke against the backdrop of recent attacks on some communities in Lagos/Ogun states, leading to wanton destruction of lives and property.

Nigerian Tribune recalls that some communities in the axis were under attack by some people believed to be

militants in recent weeks, whereby many residents of the affected communities fled their homes for safety.

The leaders, who converged on the palace of the Akarigbo and paramount ruler of Remoland, Oba (Dr) Michael Adeniyi Sonariwo, in Sagamu, said the purpose of the parley was to rub minds with stakeholders in the area to ensure adequate peace among residents.

The Yoruba leaders under the umbrella of the Yoruba Unity Forum were led by Mr Yinka Odumakin while the Chairman of Bayelsa Elders Council, Chief

Francis Dokpola, led other notable leaders of Ijaw nation to the meeting.

Traditional rulers from Remoland including the Odofin of Isonyindo, Oba Muibi Samuel Gisanrin; the Alado of Ado, Sagamu, Oba Solagbade Tijani; the Onigbepa of Igbepa, Oba Samuel Dawodu and the Aminisan of Oko, Sagamu, Oba Mufutau Adeoye-Sanni, were also in attendance.

Also at the meeting were the Area Commander of Sagamu Division, Mr Ali Janga, other security agencies and the Agbekoyas.

Odumakin said the

forum, worried by the development in the Yoruba communities, set up a committee to liase with the communities where the incidents happened.

He said the parties considered it necessary to have an on the spot assessment of the situation and to deliberate on the way forward to forestall such occurrences in the nearest future.

Odumakin also added that the Ijaw leaders were in Sagamu to pay special condolences to the families of those who lost their dear ones through the traditional rulers.

He explained that the only

way out of this situation was for government to consider the option of state and community policing to deal with any kind of crimes.

“The consensus we have reached here today is that the perpetrators of the nefarious acts are criminal elements, who are going about disturbing the peace and killing people.

In his own remarks, Dokpola, said there was need for them to visit the Yoruba communities affected by the attacks.

“We felt we should come to the Yorubas when this thing happened. All of us have agreed that all the people behind these are not Ijaw people, but criminals. We support community policing wholeheartedly,” he added.

The Area Commander said the hoodlums should be invited for dialogue if such move would bring peace to the area.

Court sacks Ekiti monarch over improper selection process Sam Nwaoko - Ado-Ekiti

The bulletproof car intercepted by the Customs, Oyo/Osun command. PHOTO: OLUWATOYIN MALIK

Oyo/Osun Customs intercepts expired bags of rice, bulletproof SUV

By Oluwatoyin Malik THE danger daily faced by unsuspecting consumers of rice in Nigeria was exposed on Wednesday, by the Oyo/ Osun Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, when it displayed scores of smuggled expired bags of rice loaded in a DAF truck which it intercepted.

Also seized were a brand new bullet-proof Toyota Landcruiser Prado Sport Utility Vehicle which was smuggled into Nigeria without duty payment and 24 other used vehicles of different brands loaded with imported rice and general goods.

Showing the seizures to journalists at the area command headquarters in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Wednesday, the Area Comptroller, Mr Tolulope Ogunkua, listed them to include four Mercedes Benz trucks, two of which were loaded with bags of imported rice; a MAN truck loaded with bags of

rice; a Scania truck loaded with general goods and five Volkswagen Golf cars loaded with rice.

Others are a Lexus RX350 SUV, a Toyota Venza car, a Honda Civic car, a Nissan

Pick-up van, a Toyota Corolla car, a DAF truck, three Nissan Micra cars, a Toyota Avalon car, a Mazda bus and an Urvan bus.

Condemning the activities of the smugglers, par-

ticularly those who brought in expired bags of rice, the Area Comptroller said that aside going against the law, importation of expired food items pose serious injury to the health of consumers.

Hundreds of traders storm Ibadan, appeal for truce in govt/NLC crisis

By Tunde Ogunesan WORRIED by the continuous absence from work and schools by angry workers in Oyo State in compliance with the ongoing strike called by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the traders in the state, under the banner of ‘concerned mothers’ stormed Ibadan, the state capital, with an appeal to the government and the workers to sheath their sword.

The mothers in their hundreds, from across the 33 local government areas of the state and notable markets in the city, stormed Iyaganku Press Centre of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), in a mass movement of uni-

fication of various groups of market women and passionately appealed to the workers to allow the renewed efforts of Governor Abiola Ajimobi’s administration to appease them to work.

And worried that the Monday’s resumption order of Ajimobi’s administration to the teachers and students could cause another drama, the mothers said it was high time the two parties returned to the negotiation table so as to safeguard the future of the pupils, whose continued stay at home could hamper their academic performance and future aspirations.

The women, who also stressed that an idle hand is a devil’s workshop, were

led by their leaders like the Iyaloja of Ibadanland, Mrs Labake Lawal, Iyadunni Lawal and Mrs Mutilade Adedeji, at the press conference at the Dapo Aderogba Hall, Iyaganku, Ibadan, begged Governor Ajimobi to be father to all stakeholders involved in the current labour/government/ students/teachers face off in the state.

They added that they have engaged the state government over the salary issue, saying the state government explained the financial status to them, which in turn made them to know the governor meant well for the welfare of all, but for the current financial status of the state.

THE High Court of Justice, Ikole Ekiti Division, has removed the Owa of Odo Ayedun Ekiti, Oba Ilesanmi Ajibade, over gross abuse of tradition in his selection process.

The court upheld the position canvassed by the claimant, Prince Adekunle Adeniyi that he remained the most appropriate person for the coveted seat, having participated in the selection process conducted by six kingmakers in the town.

Adeniyi, in the suit number HCL/12/09, filed at the Registry of the court on July 10, 2013, sought a declaration nullifying the selection of Oba Ajibade (15th respondent) and an order directing the governor of the state (10th respondent) to approve the nomination of the claimant.

Other reliefs sought include: a declaration that the appointments of the warrant chiefs (11th to 14th defendants) was illegal and an order setting aside the nomination of the 15th respondent (Oba Ajibade).

Joined in the suit as respondents were: Pastor Isaac Aluko (1st), Chief Aribisala(2nd), Chief Olu Areola (3rd), Chief Kayode Osho (4th), Chief Amos Jegede (5th) and Miss Oyenike Ojo (6th).

Others include: The Secretary, Ikole Local Government (7th), Special Adviser, Chieftaincy Matters (8th), Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice (9th), Governor of Ekiti State (10th), Mr Joseph Oluyi (11th), Mr Aderemi Akinola (12th), Mr Adeniyi Oluyi (13th), Mr Mike Farunmona( 14th) and Oba Ilesanmi Ajibade (15th respondent).

Ooni signs MoU with US company to construct $1.4bn technology hub in Ile-Ife Oluwole Ige - Osogbo THE Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a US based company, identified as SpringPort Technological Group, to build a technology, media city and agriculture incubation hub in the ancient town of Ile-Ife. The development came barely two weeks to the return of the Ooni from the USA where he had earlier visited to seek involvement of Africans in Diaspora in his peace and unity agenda and solicit their support for the continent on developmental projects in agriculture, tourism, infrastructure and youth development.

Nigerian Tribune gathered that with the MoU, the technological hub, worth $1.4bn in its first phase, is expected to facilitate massive employment of youths in Ile-Ife. After the MoU was signed, the start-up phase for master plan was to begin with investors in London and Asia.

Subsequently, the MoU would be presented to Elliot Jones representing Maya Angelo Foundation, Jason Harrison of Tredic Corporation, UK and some other American/Asian investors.

Army arrests fake officer in Ondo Hakeem Gbadamosi - Akure A suspected armed robber, Sunday Uwanle, who has been parading himself as a military officer, has been arrested by men of the 32 Artillery Brigade of the Nigerian Army in Akure, Ondo State capital.

The suspect, who was arrested in army uniform, was arrested around Oluwatuyi area of Akure by men of the brigade who were on routine patrol on Tuesday, while fighting.

Parading the 37-year-old suspect, who hailed from Kogi State, the Public Relations Officer of the Brigade, Captain Ojo Adelegan, said the suspect had been using the army uniform to terrorise the people of Akure and environs for a long time.

He said, “Our investigation revealed that the suspect had been involved in some of the armed robberies that had been happening in Ondo and some neighboring states, using the army uniform.

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Thursday, 14 July, 2016

Kuje community protests outrageous bills, epileptic power supply Some residents of Old NEPA Road in Kuje Area Council of the FCT, on Tuesday, protested epileptic power supply and outrageous billing of electricity consumers.

The protesters blocked the entrance to Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) office in Kuje and carried placards with the inscription “Stop giving us electricity bills without light.’’

The leader of the protesters, Mrs Princess Oge, told

the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that AEDC sends them electricity bills regularly without regular supply of electricity.

She said that AEDC had no reason billing consumers for the months of Febuary to June since there was complete power outage during the period.

“From February to June this year, there was no electricity in this area, yet we received electricity bills every month.

“In the interest of peace and harmonious relation, I call on

AEDC to cancel the bills since there was no supply of power within the period.

“We are also appealing to the government to come to our aid to address this problem to avoid fracas that may likely occur if this problem is not resolved,’’ she said.

The protesters vowed to resist payment of electricity from February to June and urged AEDC to reverse the charges.

Miss Blessing Eze, another protester, who spoke

to NAN, said the distribution of bills without power supply was not in the interest of the community.

YOUNG and elderly residents of Irede-Bishop Court Estate in Usi-Ekiti, Ido/Osi Local Government Area of Ekiti State, last Saturday, embarked on the repair of the major road linking their community with other

Robbery: Soko Estate residents cry for help

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ESIDENTS of Soko Estate in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State, have cried out to security agencies to deliver them

from incessant robbery attacks They said they now live in fear of armed gangs who attack and rob them with impunity at several bad spots on the road linking Jakpa and Airport Road in Effurun.

They had, therefore,

Epidemic looms in Sango over decomposing corpse tola adenubi-lagos

THERE is looming epidemic at Plaza Junction on Sango-Ijoko Road in Sango, Ogun State due to a decomposing body that had been left unattended to for almost a week now.

The stench from the decomposing body has raised concerns among residents of the area.

When Community News visited the area on Monday, the body had been demarcated by tyres to alert motorists of its presence.

Community News also observed that the body is without any form of clothing, raising the suspicion that it is the remains of an armed robber lynched by an angry mob.

According to a resident, Abdulahi Baraka, “we are finding it difficult to take a nap outside our homes in the evenings due to the stench coming from the decomposing body.

“The body has been there for the past two weeks and no local government official had paid attention to it. It is now decomposing and residents are at risk of epidemic.

“People have said it is the body of an armed robber, while others say it is the corpse of someone knocked down by a speeding vehicle. Whatever the case, we are using this medium to beg the local government authorities to come and remove it as its stench is killing us slowly.”

implored the Delta State government, the Nigeria Police and other security agencies to intensify security measures in the area.

The residents also urged the state government to urgently address the poor state of the road.

In a related development, an unidentified woman, on Sunday, lost her baby and vehicle as robbers snatched her car

with her baby inside at the robbery-prone area.

A witness, identified as Juliet, said the robbers acted swiftly to dispossess the victim of her vehicle.

Meanwhile, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Delta State Command, SP Celestina Kalu, could not be reached for reaction as of the time of filing this report.

towns in the state.

The road, which was hitherto impassable and overgrown with weed, was abandoned by the residents due to its bad state.

Bishop Isaac Olatunde Olubowale, Bishop of the Diocese of Ekiti Oke (Anglican Communion), who spoke with Community News during the exercise, said the community resolved to embark on selfhelp in order to make the area a better place to live.

“We decided to take the bull by the horn by resolving to repair of road because we are the users. In this regard, every member of the community contributed towards the execution of the project. You can see the elderly and young people engaging in direct labour.

“If you go through government record, the contract for this road must have been awarded, executed and even commissioned but you can see for yourself the status of the road.”

Also, Deaconess Victoria Ojo, a retired nurse, who is

He added that the gesture was also aimed at motivating the people and giving them a sense of belonging.

In his response, the Olugbon of Ile-Igbon in Lagelu local Government Area of Oyo State, Alhaji Kelani Oloyede, expressed the appreciation of the people of the community to the lawmaker.

The traditional ruler described Honourable Olatoye as a resilient person and silent achiever, who has demonstrated his commitment to the welfare of the downtrodden, stressing that they would con-

in the community for the Midwifery Service scheme said: “My assignment here is community service. So, I had to go round to the people in the community so that we can do something with renewed energy and determination in order to make the road passable. “ The road was impassable and we do record fatal motorcycle accident every now and then. I told the people we cannot continue to fold our arms and allow the bad condition of the road to disconnect us from other communities or send us away from our homes.

People donated materials for the project and they all came out to participate in its execution. So far so good, we have been able to do something, and hopefully very soon, we will take another step.

“We don’t want to wait on government anymore but if they can help us on the project, we will appreci-

ate it.”

Ogun govt takes ‘green’ project to communities chukwumaokparaocha-lagos RESIDENTS of Sagamu, Iperu, Ago-Iwoye and Owode-Egba all in Ogun State are set to play host to the state government’s “Green” initiative, which is part of the project lined up to increase the greenness of the environment through the planting of trees.

In order to achieve this, the state government said it had concluded plans to distribute free seedlings of certain species of trees

Lawmaker builds multimillion naira palace for Baale of Ile-Igbon A member of the House of Representatives representing Akinyele/Lagelu Federal Constituency in Oyo State, Honourable Temitope Olatoye, has built a multimillion naira palace for the Baale of Ile-Igbon.

Speaking at the commissioning of the palace recently, the lawmaker explained that the gesture was aimed at raising the status of Olugbon stool and show his commitment to the welfare of the people that elected him to represent them at the lower chamber of the National Assembly.

She said they would resist any attempt by AEDC to embark on disconnection in the area.

Community begins work on abandoned road in Usi-Ekiti

Chief Priest Benson Dube Omadeli, addressing the Acting Inspector General of Police, Ibrahim Idris and his entourage at Arunton, Ugborodo, Delta State, last weekend.

ebenezer adurokiya-warri

She said billing of consumers after several months of complete power outage was a violation of their right.

tinue to give his political career their support.

In a related development, the lawmaker, on Monday, laid the foundation of an ultra modern glass hall for the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) Ibadan station, while on Tuesday, about 150 people were given free healthcare and eye glasses in Ona-Ara Local Government Area.

According to him, the gesture will be followed by a massive empowerment programme for the people of the state among other laudable projects to be executed through his foundation.

such as Teak, Gmelina and others to individuals and residents of the state When completed, the treeplanting project is expected to help enhance the aesthetics of the state and make it a member of the group of states championing the growing of trees.

The state Commissioner for Forestry, Chief Kolawole Lawal, made this known while addressing stakeholders during an official visit to Sagamu, Iperu, Ago-Iwoye and OwodeEgba forest ranges.

Chief Lawal said planting of trees was crucial in sustaining the eco-system by mitigating the effects of climate change which can adversely affect human lives. He added that tree planting has economic importance.

He said government had resolved to encourage private bodies and individuals on tree planting across the state, calling on the people to key into the tree planting programme by applying for free tree seedlings in the Ministry of Forestry.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chairman, Ogun State Association of Processed Wood Producers and Marketers, Chief Adetola Dosumu, appealed to the state government to consider creating a forest reserve Remo axis to revive the moribund sawmills in the area.

37

Thursday, 14 July, 2016

foreig naffairs with seyi gesinde

08116954632 foreignnewseditor@gmail.com

Theresa May becomes UK PM as David Cameron resigns

F

ormer Home Secretary, Theresa May has become the new Prime Minster of the United Kingdom.

Theresa May was asked to form a government by the Queen of England, following the resignation of David Cameron after the UK’s vote to leave the European Union.

Standing in front of 10 Downing Street, Theresa May addressed the cameras for the first time as prime minister just a few moments

Over 40s ‘have more babies’ than under 20s

New UK PM Theresa May shakes hand with the Queen of England. PHOTO: CNN

ago. With her husband Philip by her side, she said the Queen had asked her to form a government “and I accepted.”

The 59-year-old politician paid tribute to her predecessor, David Cameron, who resigned earlier today, saying: “I follow in the footsteps of a great modern prime minister” and praising his work for social justice, CNN reported.

May pointed out that the official name of her party

is the Conservative and Unionist Party “and that word, ‘unionist’ is very important to me.”

She spoke of the “precious, precious bond” between England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Echoing a speech she made earlier in the week, before the leadership contest came to an abrupt halt, she pledged to “make Britain a country that works for everyone.”

Addressing those who feel they are “just managing” to get by, she said: “I know

you’re working around the clock. I know you’re doing your best. And I know that sometimes life can be a struggle ... We will do everything we can to give you more control over your lives.”

She said her government -- as yet unannounced -would “Listen not to the mighty, but you ... Prioritise not the wealthy, but you.”

May wrapped up her first address to the nation saying that Britain “face(s) a time of great national change ... we will rise to the challenge.

South China Sea: China has right to set up air defence zone – Official A senior Chinese official has said China has the right to set up an air defence zone over territory it claims in the South China Sea. The statement from Vice-Foreign Minister Liu Zhenmin comes a day after an international tribunal said there was no legal basis for China’s claims.

China has overlapping claims with other countries to reefs and islands across almost all of the South China Sea. It has already said it will ignore the tribunal’s findings, BBC said.

President Xi Jinping has

said China’s “territorial sovereignty and marine rights” in the seas will not be affected by the ruling “in any way”.

The Permanent Court of

Chinese President XI Jinping

Arbitration in The Hague on Tuesday ruled against China in a case brought by the Philippines.

It said China had violated the Philippines’ sovereign rights and had caused “severe harm to the coral reef environment” by building artificial islands.

I n government paper on the tribunal’s f i n d i n g s

other NEWS

France closes missions in Turkey over security fears France has temporarily shut down its embassy in the Turkish capital Ankara and its consulate in Istanbul, citing security reasons.

“The Embassy of France in Ankara, as well as the Consulate-General in Istanbul, will be closed from Wednesday July 13, 1pm (10:00 GMT), until further notice,” the embassy said in a statement on Wednesday.

Al Jezzeera reported that the announcement came a day after France scrapped

Bastille Day - or French National Day - receptions at these missions on security grounds.

French consul to Istanbul Muriel Domenach wrote

Security alert in front of the French Consulate-General in Istanbul. PHOTO: EPA

on Twitter the events in all three cities had been cancelled “for security reasons”, and that France was in touch with the Turkish authorities.

The Istanbul consulate had also sent an email message to French citizens in Turkey saying there had been “concurring information of a serious threat against the organisation of the July 14 celebrations in Turkey”.

It said the decision had been taken in coordination with the Turkish authorities.

which was released on Wednesday, China reiterated its claims over the land and maritime territory.

Introducing the paper, Mr Liu told reporters that China would establish an Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ) over the South China Sea “if our security is being threatened”.

China set up an ADIZ over similarly disputed territory in the East China Sea in 2013, requiring all aircraft passing through it to follow certain rules, file flight plans and identify themselves.

Women over 40 are having more babies than the under 20s for the first time in nearly 70 years, official figures for England and Wales show.

The Office for National Statistics data showed there were 697,852 live births in 2015.

There were 15.2 births per 1,000 women aged over 40, compared with just 14.5 per 1,000 women in their teens.

The last time the over 40s had the higher fertility rate was in 1947, in the wake of WWII. According to BBC, the figures show two key trends in who is having children and when in England and Wales.

The teenage pregnancy rate has been in long-term

decline and has more than halved from the 33 births per 1,000 teenagers in 1990.

Meanwhile, pregnancies have soared in older age groups from 5.3 per 1,000 in 1990.

The average age of having a child is now 30.3 - a figure that has been increasing since 1975.

Advances in fertility treatment as well as more women in higher education and attitudes around the importance of a career and the rising costs of childbearing are behind the rise, the ONS says.

Liz McLaren, head of vital statistics outputs at the ONS, said: “The trend for women to have babies at older ages continued in 2015.

Turkey PM Yildirim hints at mending ties with Syria Turkey has said it wants to develop good ties with Syria - in an apparent reversal of its policy towards its warstricken neighbour.

Turkey has long said the only solution for regional peace would be for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to go.

But Turkish PM Binali Yildirim insisted good ties with Syria were needed “for the fight against terrorism” and for stability in the region.

Turkey has recently moved to end rifts with both Russia and Israel.

Separately, French diplomatic missions in

Turkey are cancelling their Bastille Day celebrations on 14 July for “security reasons”, the consulate general in Istanbul has said.

Turkey-Syria diplomatic ties were severed after the Syrian conflict began in 2011 and Turkey has since argued that only Mr Assad’s departure could bring stability.

But Mr Yildirim said in comments broadcast live on television: “It is our greatest and irrevocable goal: developing good relations with Syria and Iraq, and all our neighbours that surround the Mediterranean and the Black Sea.

Turkish PM Binali Yildirim. PHOTO: AFP

Amnesty: Hundreds abducted, tortured in Egypt Hundreds of Egyptians have been abducted and tortured by the country’s security services as part of a clampdown on dissent since early 2015, according to Amnesty International.

A report released on Wednesday by the United K-based rights watchdog revealed a trend of disappearances at the handsingdom of the state, targeting students, political ac-

tivists and protesters, including children as young as 14.

“Enforced disappearance has become a key instru-

Egyptian securities on guard. PHOTO: EPA

ment of state policy in Egypt. Anyone who dares to speak out is at risk,” said Philip Luther, Amnesty’s Middle East and North Africa director.

In a statement on its official Facebook page on Wednesday, the Egyptian foreign ministry dismissed Amnesty’s report, describing the group as “biased” and “driven by political agendas”.

38

tribunepools

DR. J.K POOLS– 07039275802 (27xx 28) 6-20- 21- 32-33.

In week 50 i got several congratulatory messages.

This week is sure messages will repeat itself – despite the shock result played this Aussie season.

Now, in order to redeem my past glory of the late forties (40‘s ) am pleased to inform you that i have discovered another confirmed winning system to user you to U.K Pools season next month- in the forthcoming U.K pools season to confirm my real name as DR.J.K Pools of the 40‘s in the sporting OBSERVER, Now stakers pick two bankers from 6 – 20- 21- 32- 33 and add to the above bracket games.

Good luck says DR.J.K POOLS.

LUCKY MAN

08054352685 (05XBK8)

IT’S N2000 MTN CARD FOR 3 SURE DRAWS The snare is broken all our fans are now free to win before the end of summer pools win something good before the end of summer pools the fantastic English season is around win well before the arrival of English season a word is enough for the wise 5XBK8.

THE LILLIES 08086944309 (47 JACKPOT X)

Happy days are here again end the Aussie Season with big Jackpot at hand big Jackpot is assured with our 3 Jackpot XS send N1,500 MTN card you must get out of poverty with our 3 Jackpot XS winning is wonderful win now 47 Jackpot X your last draw on Coupon.

MISTER – DRAW 08030415683

W–Adelaide to hold Adelaide blue Eagles plus 2 super draws cost N2000 MTN card. Call us now and win big fortune on pools winning is assured.

INNOCENT NAP= 08095602590 (28 NAP 29XXX)

4. Special Draws N6, 000 Wk 48 purple key. 23x 16x 26x 36x= 4/4 4. Special Draws N6, 000 Wk 52 purple key 24x 2x 6x 26x= 4/4 4. Special Draws N6, 000 Wk 01 brown Key Nap Nap Nap Nap= 4/4 2. Special Draws N3000 Wk 48 purple No 26x 36x Pair 16x 34x 2. Special Draws N3000 Wk 52 purple No 2x 6x Pair 23f 24x 2. Special Draws N3000 Wk 01 brown No Nap Nap Pair Nap Nap Time to win pool this wk 01 Brown Key every puple colour bank whittlesea. R at home on top of the Bar to draws wk 52 purple no 24X 24X 24X Plus 3 others cost N6, 000 Wk 52 No 2x 6x 24x 26x Wk 01 No Nap Nap Nap Nap two Bankers cost N3000 Key. Werribee.C at home on top of the bar meeting letter. B. Bank Werribee. C to draw wk 01 No 28.

28 plus 3 others cost N6,000.

AKIN MR AKIN – 07067202291 06 MUST 28

ANNUAL WEEK 02 reference to week 01 2015, 2016, 2017 newly released winning instruction from AUSTRALIA. Your ace compiler and the chairman of 2 experts in one (Akin - Naps). Felicitate with wise stakers from their patronage over the years and sure win in the next 3 weeks to usher you to 2016/17 U.K Season Week 02’2015 and 2016 – SYDNEY. UTD at HOME NO 6 – Ballarat R.d. to pair Sydney Utd position in week to draw in week 01 and other 3 sure/ gazetted NAPS. Our new contact is our winning PRIDE. Lets celebrate you. = N35,000 = Goodluck

MR BILLY – 08034970970.

AGAIN BANK 07 OR 32 and 2 others Week 1 – number 07 or 32 must draw with other 2 bankers that is due for at least 3/4 again . still # 5,000= Delay is dangerous, act fast now.

SUCCESS NAP – 07069009601(12xx11)

A.LEICHHARDT AWAY NO 1 WIN – NAP. Apia leichhardt away NO.1 . is scheduled for 2 times winning project in 2016 Assuie. Remember our week 48 FIXWD WIN on the above KEY Nap, its now your time to win provided you missed the week 48 WIN. Week 48 – 17X 26X 39XXX - 16X 17X. Week 01 - X X X - 11X 12X. PAIR -2dates of play in week 01 to formed a formidable pair in week 48 and dates of play in week 01 . Congrats - N25,000 = free for all.

SIR MICHAEL NAP

35 PAIR 36 (09091874579)

Congratulation as last week 52 release got 6XX, 24XX, 32XX 3/3 plus the pair 4XX,48F matching 4/5.

Meanwhile another 3/3 and 4/5 this week cost just N15,000.00 call for acct no or mode of payment.

VIC DESTINY SHINE AGAIN!!!

PAIR 16X bet 36X (09099813819) Week 1 Nap Nap = 3/3 “A MUST” Last week 52 got 4xx 6xx 26xx/32x 42f = 4 over 5 for winning pleasure of all Muslims subscribe fans and other subscribers, CONGRATULATIONS. This week 1 Nap must draw again cost price is N20, 000 with 100% guarantee. Call 09099813819 for full details Best of luck to all pool lovers.

NIGERIAN TRIBUNE POOLS PAGE

THE WINNERS CHOICE GET A COPY AND WIN

PLEIAD DE MAXWELL – 09099968585.

MORELAND – WERRIBEE. C

Congratulations to all our clients, our week 01 Nap is a sure as day break. Moreland to Werribee. C in Victoria Premier Leagea is your draw spot. Blacktown S and Blacktown C pally Sydney and Manly Utd. West Australia recorded its first ever winning of 3 draws on Bayswater, Cockburn and Perth Glory. Draws is now likely at the region and likely at Perth, Sorrento, Stirling L and Subiaco. South Aussie was not favoured for draws last week expect sure draws at Ab. Eagle, Ad comets, Adelaide U and South Hobart is sure for a least draw.

Contact De Maxwell draw clinic for your sure win after discharged. TOKEN MANAGER.

FAITHFUL INTERVENTION – 07082899957 (28XX 24).

BOUNTIFUL WINNING HARVEST AT FAITH MISSION ON ANNUAL WEEK 01 STATING OF NEW COUNTING SEASON = SINCE 2013 TO DATE. WEEK 01 – ANNUAL WIN. 2013 – 12X 20X 32XXX - 24X 28F 2014 - 01X 29X 34XXX - 24X 28 2015 – 06X 20X 46XXX - 24X 28 2016 - X X X - 28XX 24 NOTE = 5 YEARS OF 8/8 draws only 2014 record 7 draws.

Use your good faith to win again with the above Annual week 01 draw management as directed by our overseas Managers = N50,000. FAITH MISSION.

OBINYAN ASSURES STAKERS ON SPECIAL RELEASE

The guru of pools compilation and computation in Africa and Chairman/Managing Director of Kings and George group of forecast papers. Prince Willy Ehi Obinyan said he was now poised for more action from this week, to enable all stakers to have a fulfilled winning experience to commensurate his birthday.

African’s No 1 Bookmaker made this known to Tribune Pools Editor, he also promised to put smiles on the faces of the stakers, he therefore advised them to get copies if his fortune paper Pools Telegraph, Zeter Pools Guild, Murphy Sports, Shoot Pointers, New Dream and Final Result. Watch out for his special Aussie 2016 release.

ZENITH IS BACK FOR GOOD -08146879314 (35XX 34) 24X 27X 30 XXX04X= 4/4= 34XX 35X.

On Annual 2015/2016 week 52 additional & mathematical W/N WK.52-2015- 18+6= 24+ 6 = 30XXX – 18 X 24X 30XXX WK: 52- 2016 – 24+ 3 =27+3 = 30XXX – 24X 27X 30XXX Alternate – BANKER – 2015 and 2016 = 04xx04xx on repeated annual 8draws.

PERTH GLORY – AWAY 34 and LAMBTOM .J reference to week 52‘ 2015 and week 01 ‘2016 of 8draws.

The above statement is subjected to confirmation from your records. Our previous winning record is enough again to assure your winning chances. N50, 000= REAL

SUNDERLAND SYSTEM= 09038460009= (20 NAP 21)

4 Bankers N6, 000 Wk 51 No 17x 18f 19x 29x Pair 49x 48f 4 Bankers N6, 000 Wk 51 No 6x 24x 26x 32x with 2x 6 4. Bankers N6, 000 Wk 01 No Nap Nap Nap Pair Nap Nap Two Bankers N6, 000 Wk 51 No 17x 19x Pair 47x 48f Two Bankers N6, 000 Wk 52 No 24x 26x Pair 2x 6x Two Bankers N6, 000 Wk 01 No Nap Nap Pair 1. 2 End of Aussie season release Sunderland system 4 special draws this week 01 Brown cost N6, 000 two Bankers cost N3000 winner membership group A. Hurry up to get your copy today. Send MTN Card= 09038460009

OLA – CITY SET FOR U.K (08085005634, 08140575314)

U.K. WIZARD KEY TO PERFORM WONDERS. Week 1 pairs 20XXX 24XXX

The compiler of Ola – City International and publisher of U.K. Wizard key for 2016/2017 English Season cost N30,000 cash assures his fans of good performance from week 5 of English Season with Arsenal Vs Liverpool at No 1 to open the full English Season. Interested stakers to pay N30,000 cash to First Bank Plc in the name of OLAFENWA R. OLA – CITY Account Number 3033318854 you will received the key in week 4 because the key will start working in week 5.

Week 1 pairs 20XX 24XX for one X on Saturday.

ACHIEVER INTER. (08034097902). 31XX 32

Congratulations to all our numerous customers, members and who bought our Aussie 2016 systems booklet which has been working wonderfull well, has been promised to dish out naked draws in our system booklet. We carefully set aside Wks 50, 51, 52 and wk 01 to enable you win enough money to get you ready for the U – K 2016/2017, season congratulation Wk ‘47’, system No ‘1’ inside booklet: Coupon Red colour first letter opened sougherland at ausey XX, MAITHAM at ausy XX, and count 4 down xx… making 3 live drs. With nos:- 16xx, 23xx & 39xx score 3/3 with system no ‘3’. Will be seething again in wk 52 inside booklet. There is another powerful systems free in week 01 & 02.

It contains ‘5’ original Authentic life systems plus 3 life draws & 4 games for 3 drews in Wk 01 & Wk 02 inside booklet. Call for details (31XX 32)

AMUKO & ASSOCIATES CONFIRMED WIN AGAIN. 07014686970 – MONARO . P. WIN.

3 TIMES IN 2016 ASSUIE WIN WITH MONARO.P at HOME 49.

Sure 3 times win – in week 47, 51, and 02.

Week – 47- 12x 20x 49xxx – 46/47x Week – 51 – 19x 26x 44xxx – 26x/27.

Week – 02 – x x x 29/30.

Scheduled Nap for the 3weeks Bonus 1st alphabet of Monaro P. minus 49 – to pair game under. i.e – week 47- MONARO P vs C= 49-3=46X47 a draw. N50,000 ONLY. BE – PREPARED.

FORTUNE DONOR DONATES 01XX 02 (08099111828)

Aussie Season continues to show its true colour with only 7 Draws last week with an abandoned match on No 30XX. Try as we can, punters are enjoined to pick a draw from coupon Nos 01 & 02 this weekend.

Add the pair to our IBK and get your 2/3. Our IBK stills sells for N1, 500.00; 2 Draws cost N3,000.00 and 3 Draws cost only N10,000.00. Be a winner always!

FREE WIN AT IKECHUKWU NAPS -08168157259 01X 06 X 28X 32X31XX35X

Congratulation s our soft landing is sure again.

3weeks Aussie 2016 start with the above pathfinder Nap against our weeks 02, 9 and 03 fixed Naps.

Note- The implication is high but we have you in mind and wanted to boost your finance against next week (02) Naps cost N100,000 (NOT NEGOTIABLE ) = Flat rate. Pls win with the above games.

3 direct Nap from the above sure win permutation cost #10,000 .call & win. Congrats.

MAGIC KINGDOM – 08056753098/07085060512 NAP – 07X 08X 09XXX – PAIR 21X 24

Congratulations our week 1 Brown colored coupon with reference to our KEY is for 3weeks operation in weeks 2 and 3 cost N10, 000.

Payment to Balogun Adesina Kamoru. F.C.M.Bank No 0279550010, Wema Bank no 0206965116 or G.T. Bank no 0115505082.

OUR KEY BOOKLET is still out for sales cost N100, 000 = Don’t be a doubting Thomas.

Call for details. Goodluck.

JOSEPH INITIATIVE AGAIN - 08167278061 (20X21) 02 X 06X 26XXX FREE GIFT 24X 32X.

Congratulations to all our week 52 winners and all winners that reedemed their pledges.

Another sure win this week with refrence on DANDENONG .C and BRUNSWICK.C Good refrence to week 51 ‘ 2014 – expect same number of draws or mins ONE (1).

Good market sell itself .imply maturity and take a wise step.

Week 51 – 2014- 02x 22x 34x 38xxx – 16xxx. DANDENONG C. And BRUNSWICK.C .XXX MUST. N50,000- FOR New clients.(ONLY).

WEEK 52 XRAY

7 draws and one Abadoned match No 30xx. The only goaless draw in week 52. Many promoter paid on 8 draws and our Pools page compilers did incredibly well on 2 bankers & one banker series many pair were recorded last week despite the shocking 8 draws on board, that added to our Readers winning dividends. BRAVO to our compilers. Joseph initiave, Mrs Henry and Sunderland top of 2 bankers series with Mister Draw and George on one banker account. Our pair Experts proved their worth & fulfilled their promises, Hope Naps, Luckyman, Alumin System, Dandenong, Mr Billy, Triple Spice, Innocent, Peter, Donohill, New information and Zenith Int. Naps. Contacts, our reliable and other Pools page compilers promised good account of winning this week again.

Embrace & Appreciate them Aussie draws is always scarce. Goodluck

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

Thursday, 14 - 20 July, 2016 MODUPE NAP (08033566694) 1/16/24 for 2 draws

Wining galore at Modupe Nap. Call for details. Goodluck.

DANDENOKG.C.SYSTEM

09038460009 /09084916233 = (28xx29)

4. Special draws = 2016 Wk 51 No 9X 26X 40f 47x with 16Xf. 17x 4. Special draws = 2016. Wk 52 No 2x 6x 26x 32x with 18f 24x 4. Special draws = 2016. Wk 01 No Nap Nap Nap Nap with Nap Nap 4. Special draws = 2016. Wk 02 No Nap Nap Nap Nap with Nap Nap 4. special draws = 2016. Wk 03 No. NAP NAP NAP NAP with Nap Nap 4. Special draws 2016 wk 01 No. Nap Nap Nap with NAP NAP KEY: Every wk 52, Bank Niger No 18.

24. To draw plus, 3. Others cost N6,000 wk 52 2015 No 10x 30x 40x 46x with 18x 24x wk 52 = 2016 No 2x 6x 26x 32x with 18-24x following wk 01 to control 4. Special draws cost N6, 000 Wk 01 No NAP NAP NAP NAP 4/4.

Key: - Werribee. C. at home on top of the Bar meeting letter B. Bank Werribee C to draw wk 01 No 28. 28. 28. Plus.

3 other cost N6, 000.

SHADOW (2 PAIR 3) 08087670776

No event, No history. This week 01 history must repeat itself as shadow set to release 3 nap draws and 1 hot pair. I want everybody to win on pool staking this week 01, therefore send to me N1,500 MTN recharge card and laugh with your family on Saturday.

MID – WEEK GIVES 22/23 (08087176217)

We are happy to give out No’s 22/23 to all printers this week. The duos will surely supply a good drawn combine them with our IBK and have a good divided. Our IBK remains N1500.00; 2Drs cost N3000.00 and 3 sure draws sell for N10,000.00 on 08087176217. Best of luck.

SHORT - GUN(1 HOT 4) 08050614477/ 08168241902

The above pair is for you again to enjoy the week with other fixed draws which must play to launch us to another round of winning. The game costs N25,000.

Don’t be left out of this success, call today for further details.

HERITAGE NAP 08032428168 11, 15, 40, 43, 44

The game above must play this week to ensure that stakers have value for their money and prepare for Week 2 game which will cost #25,000. This game will put smiles on the stakers’ faces and make them millionaires.

Call today for details.

MADAM EMILIA ­– 08068523407

THE WINNERS CHOICE OF POOLS STAKERS.

FREE PAIRS FOR WEEK 01...

(28 PAIRS 31 ) OR (08 PAIR 11) We promise to give you the best till English season, so join the winning team and keep moving.. FOR MORE DETAILS CALL. ADDRESS: NO 110 Oke Ado, Ibadan, Oyo State.

Good lock and success.

CHARITY NAP

08054325929 (39 NAP 47)

Last week we gave out 13 as free banker and our last week released got 2XX 13PP 32XX – Alt = 24XX (scored 3/4). Congratulations to our fans and those who bought the Nap. This week is the continuity = 4/4. Don’t doubt our genuine.

Meanwhile Hamilton must draw. Call for the Nap details. Good – luck.

FLY EMIRATES -

08087104491(01 XX 31X)

BLACK TOWN S. – BALCATTA = 01 XX 31X. Balcatta Home 31 stationed 3draws for stakers winning delight. With reference to week 50.of 9 draws = 12X 32X 41XXX – 01 x 31f. congrats another winning week is here.

Call for your sure winning detailsN10,000.

SAM AYO – (29 xx 28) 08109152433

In spite of unfavorable result on last week matches all arrangement is now in place to put smile to our dear stakers faces.

Call for our super 3draws winning details.

VICTOR = NAP –

08126994034 (39 XX35)

Congratulations our long awaiting week is here starting of a new Era in pools – week 01 Nap on perfect winning instruction from Dr. JOB. WRIGHT . In Australia season on 3weeks to end 2016 Aussie season (39 FREE 35).

Starting fees N10, 000 = now good luck.

LABAEKA NAP –

08053303522 (6 MUST 32)

The above games is sure and other 2draws to start our 3weeks NAP. Call now for details.WIN.

GET A COPY AND WIN

WEEK 01 STATUS

SUNDAY MATCHES – 06, 09, 11,12, 14, 15, 18, 28, 42, 45, 46, 47,48.

EDITOR’S PLACE : 43X 44X

PORTUGAL

TWO BANKER WK 52 N3,000

X24X X32X WK 01 BROWN NAP NAP

COROATIA

TWO BANKER WK 52 N3,000 X02X X06X WK 01 BROWN NAP NAP

TURKEY

TWO BANKER WK 52 N3,000 F23F X24X WK 01 BROWN NAP NAP

SEND MTN CARD TO 09038633666

HOPE NAPS & CO - 08107128449 WIN-WIN-WIN. Congratulations, Hope Assure Fans, stakers and general public of 3 special draws WITHOUT FEAR in weeks 01 and 02 cost N20,000. Please, be sure of your winning. Call HOPE & NAPS. Just N20,000 only.

Bank NO 31X 39. Bank - 31xx 39. It’s a must win.

MODBURY BALCATTA WERRIBEE.C TWO BANKER WK 01 N3,000

TWO BANKER WK 01 N3,000

TWO BANKER WK 01 N3,000

WK 02 BLUE

WK 02 BLUE

WK 02 BLUE

NAP NAP

19 20

NAP NAP

NAP NAP

15 17

NAP NAP

NAP NAP

27 28

NAP NAP

SEND MTN CARD TO 08162705220 FAITHFUL INTERVENTION – 07082899957 (28XX 24).

Bountiful winning harvest at faith mission on annual week 01 stating of new counting season = since 2013 to date. Week 01 – annual win.N50K. BOX HILL WINNING SOLUTION. 08072974729. 2 WEEKS SURE WIN IN 2015/2016. Read our advert for details. N50,000.GOOD LUCK. JOSEPH INITIATIVE AGAIN - 08167278061 (20X21). DANDENONG C. & BRUNSWICK. C. in week 51, 2014 and week 01 2016. KEY. N50,000.

ISRAEL BAIL OUT - 09085712800. STAKERS’ SAVIOUR. CALL & WIN.

DRAW COMMANDER TWO BANKERS N3,000

WK 01 NAP NAP PAIR 20 21

WK 02 NAP NAP PAIR NAP NAP

WK 03 NAP NAP PAIR NAP NAP

BEST ENGLISH MAGIC TWO BANKERS N3,000

WK 01 NAP NAP PAIR 28 29

WK 02 NAP NAP PAIR NAP NAP

WK 03 NAP NAP PAIR NAP NAP

SEND MTN CARD TO 08095602590.

ALUMNI SYSTEM – 08154836338 (32XX31) 06X 24X 30XXX = ALT 27X 17F

EASTERN. L. and INGLEWOOD ON SAME DIGIT drew the above teams / numbers in week 52 as extracted from our 2016 Aussie winning directory, freshly served winning confident.

WEEK 51 and 01 – ASSURED WINNING FORMART PERTH. SC ON SORRENTO Week 51 – 17X 26X 44XX – PERTH 29X - 6drs Week 01 – X X X – PERTH/Sorrento = 31/32 Alumni week 01 winning statement with assurance cost N50,000 = Good luck.

NJOROGE MR ASSURANCE 08177474535

BUMPER HARVEST AT ASSURANCE PLACE IN WEEKS 51, 52 and 01.

WK 50-12X 21X =32XXX. Wk 51-17x 29x 47XXX WK 52-24X 27X 32XXX 24X. ANOTHER ASSURANCE WIN AGAIN ON ANNUAL WEEK 51 (2013 — 2016) WEEK 01, 2013= 06X 13X 24XXX 24X WEEK 01 2014= 14X 29X 34XXX 34X WEEK 01,2015= 19X 24X 44XXX 44X WEEK 01, 2016= X X X XXX At new Njoroge your winning is our pride. N50, 000. Goodluck!

39

tribunepools

KARMAK SUPER STAR – 08186673842

Bankers – 11X 12X 13XXX – 2draws Congrats our last week 2 bankers got it on 24X 24X. this is another golden assured week to all stakers on KEY – whenever Blacktown S meet Apia L. to produce 3 direct draws cost N7500 while permutation cost N6500 = All payment to Mr. S.B Odetolaa at IBTC Stanbic Bank no 0001361916. Goodluck

BOX HILL WINNING SOLUTION 08072974729

BOX HILL – 2 WEEKS SURE WIN IN 2015/2016.

Week 49 and 50 – 2015 Weeks 51 and 52 – 2016.

BOX HILL 24X 24X 24X 2015 XXX 6drs.

BOX HILL 17X 17X 17X 2015 XXX 5drs.

In weeks 49 and 51 – 2015/16 ——— 6drs In weeks 51 and 52 – 2015/16 ————8drs.

Weeks 51 ‘2015 and 52 ‘2016 – FNQ FC HEAT = 02 X 24 X 27XXX WEEKS 52 ‘2015 AND WEEK 01 – 2016 – WIN SURE NAP. Confirmed from your accurate records before you call. Draws are fetched via Authentic winning / fixed programme #50,000 = wise man CHOICE. Sorry our phone number was wrongly typed in our last week advert.

ONLY OUR REGULARS WON. The coast is clear now. Call & win and have SOLUTION to all your financial implications. N50,000 =

MADAM DE MADAM –

08023329191 21 MUST 28 = (28 - 21)

MMM. WIN – MADAMS WINNING PLACE Moreland – Murray at home approved our week 1 Nap as we did last week.

MMM at home gazetted settings control 3 Super Nap for July week 01 ‘2016 winning stanza.

Free pair on the 2 dates of play. For more detail call Mr Joshua for your winning advice. ‘CONGRATULATIONS’ N25,000.

HEADMASTER NAP – 08032747134

NAP – 01 X 24 X 31 XXX. Congrats the above free Nap starts our 3weeks end of Aussie 2016 sure win to 2016 /17 U.K season. Call for details and don’t be left out – Good luck .

MR LUCKY –(20MUST21).

07086378641 The key that

drew Dandenong.c. in week 48 and other 3 teams is set again to smooth stakers nerves on 3 special fixed draws for in well 01 . call for details.

DOSA (31 PAIR 32) 08072216644

Are you tired of staking coupon?

Please don’t be tired because pool staking is a contribution which you will collect your own this week 01 by the grace of God. Send N1, 500 MTN recharge card to Dosa and receive 3 good draws and a pair from him. You are a winner if you send to him.

YEWA GAMES – 07064660296 (11XX46)

All stakers are to rejoice this week as their lost will be recovered this week – 01 with 3 draw NAP and above sure pair. Call for details.

MRS HENRY 08170779623/ 08071554934 (21XX 26) Attention Attention Attention 26X 27X 32XXX The super 3 draws that made our clients Millionaires (Promoters in another trouble). PAY POINT.

Thursday, 14 - 20 July, 2016

NIGERIAN TRIBUNE POOLS PAGE

THE WINNERS CHOICE WISE STAKERS DELIGHT GET A COPY AND WIN.

M B A EXPERT = 08104694618 (01X 32)

COMPUTATION for this week 01 Brown colour coupon pools fixtures is again based on science of Numbers formula. Apart from week of play, the 2 dates of paly also favour N0 1 as BLACKtown & hots Apia Leichardt.

If past record is anything to go by the due of Numbers 01X 32 should oblige at least a draw. Years gone by the 2 nos played 1 – 1 and 3 – 3 score draws respect wisely. In the trio of Nos 4X 23X 44. Call OR text message for details.

NAZAR MASTER DECLARED BIGGER DIVIDEND

The leading pools company in Oyo State and environs, NAZAR Master Pools Company Limited, Ibadan has again been lauded for its role in charting a new course for the pools business.

This was disclosed to TRIBUNE POOLS in a statement from NAZAR Master made available during the week.

The pools company was lauded for its first class services to stakers, agents, collectors and other critical stakeholders, coupled with the promptness winnings are paid no matter the amount involved. Invest and win.

PROFF. PRAGMATISM -07036539499/09085276689 NAP – 26X 30X 33XXX PERM 31 – 34 SIX WEEKS JACKPOT WIN COST N100, 000 FREE Week 01 – KEY = ALBANY CREEK At NO. 7 Home under the Bar in week 48. Call for weeks 02, 03, 04 to 06 SURE NAPS – GOODLUCK.

TRIPLE OFFERS 21/22 (08035324990)

Current Aussie season is gradually nose-diving to a halt in the next few weeks, your indomitable Triple spice International is happy to give out 21/22 for a very good and sure draws on Saturday.

Add them to our 1 draw Bk and have your 2/3 .Our IBK still sells for #1,500.00; 2Drs cost #3,000.00; and 3 Drs cost #10,000.oo on 08035324990.

JACOBSON THE AUSSIE DIRECTOR – 07065292905

01XX 28X06 = KEY B, B & B No Authentic Information – No Winning.

BlACKTOWN HOME NO 1 and BLACKTOWN NO 6 BALLART RD AWAY 28 The ‘3’ Bees that controls our weeks 01, 02 and 03 SUPER NAP. No much talk we are known as stakers refuge Welcome to the refuge centre – N50,000 =

ADEOTI SYNDI CATE 07051327960

NAP: 08X, 10X, 12X. (32X29X PAIR) Adeoti syndicate of Nigeria coming back with 3 draws and a pair for 3 weeks operation, week’s 01-02-03.The above five games is for this week 01. I give you all FREE.“ After the result of the above five games send your money #20,000 cash each week to AHMED SHAFIRI A/C NOS 2001788431. Zenith Bank Ibadan.

M.T.N Card not accepted. For the payment. Thanks Good luck to you all.

HOPE NAPS & CO 08107128449 (31XX 39)

BANK ON NO 39 & NO 31 Wk 01 & 02 these are a blessing weeks in pool history to all stakers, fans & general public that promoter must pay you rejoice now. Call, hope Nap & pay to First Bank plc account no: 3088328923 in person of Mr. Gbadebo Stephen A. While the week releases will be sent to you phone (messages) please, be sure that your payment week 01 cost just N20,000 only while wk 2 N25,000. Confirm Bank No 31 & No 39, Bank No 39 & No 31, Bank No 31 & No 39. God bless. Bye.

GODWIN AUSSIE RESCUE – 08156829811 (21XX 31)

06 X 24 X 32 XXXX. Wvs B on NO 6. = THE 8TH Avenue sure Nap is irresistible to all winning desired stakers.

Weeks 52 and 01 – winning fixture .

Wvs B – AT HOME no 6 In weeks 52 and 01 1st home and away 1st letters on Nos 6 = W and B (2wks . Nap in weeks 52 & 01 respectively).

Get rescued with Godwin Nap. Stakers safe place call & win details is here. N35,000= good luck.

ATTENTION ALL COMPILERS, OUR POLICY ON NO ADVERT NO WRITE UP STILL IN PLACE — MANAGEMENT

BEST BARGAIN INTERNATIONAL 08092621480

31x, 34x, 43xxx.

All stakers are welcome to the start of a new era in pools forecasting with the game above which will click this Week 01 to deal with promoters who have been enjoying a free rein since the start of the Australian season. I have it on good authority from the Pools Panel that the game above is the start of a three week operation which will bring another four draws in Week 2 and Week 3. Week 2 and Week 3 games will cost N50, 000 each week and N80, 000 for the 2 weeks if you want to pay in advance.

Don’t doubt the game, as your winning is assured. Call 08092621480 for any clarification on the game and for further details.

PETER NAP

(18 PAIR 48) 08076546261 Congratulation to any wise stakers that will get my release this week as the setting that got 6XX, 24XX, 32XX 3/3 last week i.e wk 52, will get it again this week, 6XX, was published free, my weekly release cost just N25,000.00 pay to saving acct no: 3023114822 First Bank in person of Mr Onaolapo Peter G. Call on 08076546261 meanwhile 18 or 48.

MAC – ANTHONY BEAT WK 52 NAP = 3/3

(0806-904-8857)(5XX 31XX) Congrats! Congrats!! Congrats!!!

Cross-check our previous performance up to date. Wk 52 Nap drew 6X 26X 27X = 3/3 authentically plus free pain vice SMS 23f 32X = 4/5 correctly. Please get life change authentic 3/3 Nap draws available in wks 01, 02, 03 at just N20, 000 per week.

Payable at U.B.A - 2029382770, to Engr. Michael Akam. No agent!

WISDOM NAP – 07088103080 = 31 MUST 04

FNQ FC HEAT XXX – KEY WITTLESEA .A 24X. Week 01 ‘2014 – 14X 24X 32XXX – FNQ HEAT X14X Week 52 ‘2016 – 02X 24X 32XXX – FNQ HEAT X02X BLACKTOWN S VS APIA LEICHARDT NO 1 Controlled our 3 undisputed fixed matches and a pair on 04 and 3.

Week 01 starting of another first 3 weeks Nap cost N25, 000 now!

WINNER CODE 505= 08135637650= 1 NAP 2

U.K. SYSTEM TWO BANKERS N2000 WK 50 NO 14X 23X WK 51 NO 19X 47X WK 52 NO 21F 24X WK 01 NO NAP NAP Power x power two bankers N2000 wk 50 No lx 8x wk 51 No 17x 44x Wk 52 No 2x 6x wk 01 Nap Nap winner code 505 two bankers N2, 000 wk 50 No 21x 41xwk 51 No 17x 19x Wk 52 No 6x 26x wk 01 No Nap Nap ADESURE Nap two Bankers N2,000 wk 50 No. lx 2F wk 51 No 14f 24f Wk 52 No 32x 33f wk 01 No Nap Nap. Stkers try to get winner code 505 Two Bankers this wk 01 Brown cost N2, 000 cash winner code 505.

IBUKUN OLU 070268398 Perm 1, 8, 9, 16, 22, 44

Readers Perm above 6 games for good 4 draws against weeks 2, 3, 4. Call 07026839837. The 3 Nap cost N5, 000.

PAIR 21XX AND 46XX

MRS. HENRY - 08170779623 & 08071554934.

Congratulation! Congratulation!! Congratulation!!!

On NOS 26XX 27XX 32XX which played 3/3.

KEY:- VALENTINE vs WESTON.W at No 49 open to previous week Bank on 26xx 27xx 32xx. The following week, Bank on BOXHILL and LAMBTON J. as pair. The president of PPA (MR ROBBINSON) promised that the celebration of his birthday will turn stakers to multi-millionaire. Wk 1 special three fixed draw cost N50,000 (Fifty thousand naira only).

CALL 08170779623 & 08071554934.

NOTE: Mrs. Henry has no representative. Wk. 1 release close by 4pm on Friday. Call her direct number & win. Thanks.

PROFF. PRAGMATISM - 07036539499/09085276689 SIX WEEKS JACKPOT. WEEK 01 FREE CASH. NAP - 26X- 30X- 33XXX PERM 31x34 Week 02 cost N100,000.

WEEK 01 KEY - ALBANY CREEK AT HOME NO 7, HOME UNDER THE BAR IN WK 48.

Call for wks 02, Wk 03, Wk 04 to Wk 06. GOOD LUCK. SOLOMON RESORT – 09091111800 (20 MUST 21) 02X 06X 26XXX- 22F.

Last week Brisbane.C Brisbane R. Baryswater gave us a big success while BRUNSWICK.C failled at 22 .

We promised to make all our client to forget them past loses with another majir winning sequence.C on DANDENONG on DANDENONG .t = 19x20.

2weeks fixed /gazetted/ scheduled Nap. In weeks 01 and 02 – WKS BUMPER WIN. Partnership with the wise Solomon of our time for sure win – (FORGET YOUR PAST) winners result centre N50,000 = Good luck.

National SWAN elects new executives Biola Azeez -Ilorin and nurudeen alimi

THE Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), on Wednesday elected officers who will steer the ship of the association for the next

three years.

All the new executives were returned unopposed during the delegates conference held at the NUJ Press Centre, Ilorin.

The new SWAN executive

council is headed by Honour Sirawoo who succeeds Mallam Saidu Abubakar, who completed a two-term tenure of office.

Other elected officers are messrs Wale Alabi (Secre-

tary General), Wale Joseph (Deputy Secretary General), Faruk Bello (Treasurer), Chigozie Chukwuleta (Financial Secretary), Adeboye Ajayi (Vice-President South-South), Ado Salisu

From left, President, Lawn Tennis Club, Mr. Rotimi Edu; Trustee, Mr Tunde Oremule; Chairman, Board of Trustees, Group Captain Ita David Ikpeme (rtd) and Chairman, Standard Group of Companies, Dr Ahmed Salaudeen, during the inauguration of the Club’s Gym, donated by Dr Salaudeen in Lagos, last weekend.

(Vice-President N/West), Abubakar Sadiq (VP N/ West), Damusa Mohammed (VP N/Central) and Edwin Bekom (VP S/South).

In his acceptance speech, the new SWAN President, Sirawoo, said the association is ready to partner professionals, administrators and other major stakeholders towards taking sports to greater heights in the country.

“In line with our objectives and commitment to the growth of sports, wealth creation and peace, we will partner sports professionals, administrators and lawyers to propose a private bill to be presented to the National Assembly for consideration and also visit President Muhammadu Buhari and the Minister of Sports, Barrister Solomon Dalung to share thoughts, lay our expertise and suggestions for the benefit of the country,” he said.

Sirawoo charged the Federal Government to come up with a strategic blueprint for the na-

tion’s sports development in order to demonstrate its seriousness.

He also advocated a reappraisal of the Act establishing the National Institute for Sports (NIS), with a view to upgrading the centre to a degree awarding institution in the country.

He said that such development would equip coaches and other sports professionals seeking knowledge, which he said would in turn benefit sports development in the country and beyond.

Sirawoo stated said that, “to facilitate the process of reaping effectively from thee trillions in the sports world, we recommend the establishment of a sports university with campuses and facilities located in areas peculiar to particular sports.

“This institution just like the Petroleum Training Institute, Law, Medical and Journalism schools will refine the raw sports talents abound in our land for a guaranteed market besides putting our youths off various vices”.

SIDELINES

NO 16,545

N150

THURSDAY, 14 JULY, 2016

“Sovereignty belongs to the people. It does not and cannot belong to their elected representatives. Indeed the Section 14(2) of the Constitution provides that sovereignty belongs to the people from whom the government through the Constitution derives its authority and power… the National Assembly cannot without full participation of the people consider or make fundamental changes in the structure of the country. Where large scale changes in the structure of the constitution, such as a change from Presidential to Parliamentary system, bicameral to unicameral legislature are contemplated or canvassed, then the people have a right to be heard on these questions. It is not for the National Assembly to accept or reject them on behalf of the people”.

L

AST week I addressed the need to subject the recommendations of the last constitutional conference to a referendum. I referred to numerous instances where referendums have been resorted to in other countries to arrive at crucial decisions. I am however aware that many hold the view that the national assembly is best positioned to bring about adoption of those recommendations in the form of amendments to the constitution. Indeed the then Senate Majority Leader, Senator Ndoma Egba in reaction to calls for a referendum posited that as the process of amendment of the Constitution as set out in the Constitution itself did not make a provision for the holding of a referendum, it would be unconstitutional to hold one. Therefore having held that there is no provision in the amendment procedure to call for a referendum the National Assembly proceeded to the states to seek views of Nigerians on such matters such as devolution of powers, state creation and police etc.

However As expected, no reference was made to critical and fundamental issues such as bi-camera or unicameral legislature, reduction in the numbers of house of assemblies, reduction or otherwise of the salaries and allowances of legislators payment of sitting allowances to legislators

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

Thirty-three people were said to have been hospitalised, after vomiting, urinating and twitching, early this week in Brooklyn, United States. The cause? They reportedly took “bad marijuana.” If we may ask, does supposedly ‘good marijuana’ make one less sick or vulnerable?

afeonthursday

aareafe@gmail.com

Report of national conference: Need for a referendum (3) instead of huge salaries etc.

SOVEREIGNTY BELONGS TO THE PEOPLE Firstly the position that the National Assembly should implement the recommendations is hinged on the mistaken belief that the Government of which the National Assembly is an integral part is sovereign thereby making the involvement of the people in the constitution making process absolutely unnecessary. Nothing can be farther from the truth. As I have already argued several times in this column, sovereignty belongs to the people. It does not and cannot belong to their elected representatives. Indeed the Section 14(2) of the Constitution provides that sovereignty belongs to the people from whom the government through the Constitution derives its authority and power.

The situation is akin to that of a manager who has been put in charge of the day to day administration of a building by the owners of the said building. The ability or power of the manager to administer the building in any manner will be determined by the agreement under which he was appointed manager. That agreement which may give him powers to make rules for the occupants of the building will never go as far as transferring ownership of the building to him. It will contain a clause stating who the owners are. That is just what Section 14(2) does.

Further to the above is the fact that the manager to whom the administration of the building has been delegated cannot take decisions which will be inimical to the title of the owners. Every decision he takes must be tailored towards protection

of the title and ownership status of his masters. He cannot for example unilaterally decide to turn a building of 4 flats of 3 bedrooms each into an apartment of 16 rooms of what is commonly called “face me I face you” rooms as this will obviously reduce the value of the property whilst at the same time increasing the strain on installed facilities and running up the cost of maintenance of the building. In a similar vein the National Assembly cannot without full participation of the people consider or make fundamental changes in the structure of the country. What has been entrusted to Government is a political and constitutional structure. Where large scale changes in the structure of the constitution, such as a change from Presidential to Parliamentary system, bicameral to unicameral legislature are contemplated or canvassed, then the people have a right to be heard on these questions. It is not for the National Assembly to accept or reject them on behalf of the people. It is not unconstitutional for a manager of a company or the representative of the owner of a building to request the owner of the building to decide on the best way forward.

It must still be pointed out that it is necessary to refer the issue to a referendum because the issue is beyond the National Assembly. The issue that is generally turned over to the people during election campaign is totally different from the issue at stake in the process of making a new Constitution. At the hearings organized by the National Assembly on amendment of the constitution, people turned out in thousands, only to answer questions put to them. Most of them who put up their

hands were not heard and in addition, they were expected to say yes or no to the questions drafted by the National Assembly. On the contrary, in referendum, every citizen is entitled to have his say during the ballot paper.

What is clear from the dismissal of the idea of a referendum or the convocation of a Sovereign National Conference is a mistaken belief that strict adherence to the law making procedure is all that is required to guarantee the promulgation of a true peoples constitution. However It is settled that it is not the procedure adopted in the passage of a law that will determine whether a law meets the aspirations of the people or not. What is at stake is the form of government that would adequately reposition this country to its past glory.

What is of utmost importance is the rediscovery by Government of the true purpose of Governance which is the just and efficient management of the country in a manner beneficial to the people which objective or purpose can only be achieved through a proper peoples’ Constitution.

What must never be forgotten is the dream and vision of the founding fathers of our country for a united and prosperous Nigeria which vision is best captured by the words of the late Alhaji Tafawa Balewa who in the course of the debate of the motion for independence in 1959 stated as follows: “I am confident that when we have our own citizenship, our own national flag, our own national anthem, we shall find the flame of national unity will burn bright and strong.”

No agreement with NNPC on $1.5m bond—NFF

Bangladesh set to hire shortlisted Eagles coach, Saintfiet

THE Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) has denied media reports that it has reached an agreement with the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) to foot the bill of the incoming Super Eagles coach.

Reports emanated a few days ago the NFF had secured a $1.5 million bond to take care of the salaries and allowances of whoever gets the nod as the next coach of the team.

Honourable Suleiman YahayaKwande, who is the Chairman of the NFF’s Media and Publicity Committee however, refuted the report saying no deal has been

ONE of the three shortlists for the Super Eagles job, Tom Saintfiet has been invited by the Bangladeshi Football Federation for talks about taking over their national team, a source has revealed to AfricanFootball.com “Tom Saintfiet is in Dhaka, the Bangladesh capital as we speak,” the source informed.

“He was invited by the BFF for talks about the possibility of becoming their new coach.”

Media reports in the South Asian country suggest the 43-year-old Belgian has already been appointed

agreed on with any corporate organisation.

“The story is the figment of the imagination of the writers. Nobody in the NFF or NNPC discussed the matter of salary of the Eagles’ coach and there is no iota of truth in it.

“Of course, we would be happy if the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation can come into Nigeria football, as we are trying to attract more corporate bodies into the game.

“But there has been no discussion between NFF and the NNPC over payment of the new Super Eagles’ head coach or technical

crew,” Suleiman stated.

The NFF has shortlisted three candidates-Salisu Yusuf, Belgian Tom Saintfiet and Frenchman Paul Le Guen for the Super Eagles’ job The technical and development committee of the NFF is expected to interview the trio on Monday, July 18 with the successful applicant presented to the NFF executive committee for ratification.

RESULTS

Federation Cup IfeanyiUbah 2

Katsina Utd 0

Enyimba

3 El-Kanemi

Rivers Utd

3 3SC

2 (pen)

Wolves

6

5 (pen)

Prime

1 (pen)

as their new coach, but when AfricanFootball.com reached out to him, he confirmed he has been invited for talks, but says he hasn’t agreed a deal with them.

“Yes, I am in Bangladesh and I have an offer from them and they are waiting for me to sign but I will wait for a decision by the Nigeria Football Federation,” Saintfiet stated.

Saintfiet was shortlisted last week by the NFF as Sunday Oliseh’s possible replacement, along with Salisu Yusuf and Frenchman Paul Le Guen.

Printed and Published by the African Newspapers of Nigeria PLC, Imalefalafia Street, Oke-Ado, Ibadan. E mail: editornigeriantribune@yahoo.com Website: www.tribuneonlineng.com MANAGING DIRECTOR / EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: EDWARD DICKSON. EDITOR: DEBO ABDULAI. All Correspondence to P.O. Box 78, Ibadan. ISSN 2712. ABC Member of the Audit Bureau of Circulation. 14/7/2016.