16th October 2015 by Nigerian Tribune

nigeria’s most informative newspaper no 16,350

FRIDAY, 16 OCTOBER, 2015

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NEMA recovers 2 bodies as bus plunges into Ogun River

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FG probes NNPC, NPA for remitting naira instead of dollar —P34

•Pregnant woman, 7 children —P6 missing in Delta flood

Nigeria difficult to administer —Gowon

n150

Fayose to Buhari: Prosecute Yobe REC over alleged N15m bribe —P6 •Says 'then we will know you are serious about corruption fight' —P6

More trouble for Amaechi •APC, PDP battle over his ministerial nomination •Senate will screen him, others on Tuesday —Spokesman •Sokoto senator submits petition against nominee

From left, Chief Arthur Mbanefo, General Yakubu Gowon, Ambassador (Dr) Olatokunbo Awolowo Dosumu, Reverend (Mrs) Omotola Oyediran and Professor Olu Akinkugbe, at the Ikenne residence of the Awolowos, on Thursday.

—P34

From left, Right Reverend Bolanle Gbonigi, Ambassador (Dr) Awolowo Dosumu, Reverend (Mrs) Oyediran and former vice president, Dr Alex Ekwueme, at the Ikenne residence of the Awolowos, on Thursday.

Obalufe, Ooni's second-in-command, dies Falae's abductors arraigned in court —P6

—P37

Friday, 16 October, 2015

CHIEF (MRS) HID AWOLOWO (1915-2015)

PHOTOS: Tommy Adegbite

9 1. From left, former head of state, General Yakubu Gowon; Ambassador (Dr) Olatokunbo Awolowo Dosumu, Reverend (Mrs) Tola Oyediran and Professor Olu Akinkugbe. 2. From left, General Gowon, Ambassador Awolowo Dosumu, Reverend (Mrs) Oyediran and Professor Funmi Soetan. 3. From left, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, Chief Arthur Mbanefo, General Gowon and Ambassador (Dr) Awolowo Dosumu. 4. From left, representative of the Obi of Onitsha, Mr Asaolu Olatomiwa; General Gowon, Ambassador (Dr) Awolowo Dosumu and Reverend (Mrs) Oyediran. 5. From left, General Gowon, Ambassador Awolowo Dosumu, Professor Olu Akinkugbe

and Prince Bola Ajibola. 6. A cross section of members of Awolowo Foundation. 7. From left, Justina Amu-Emoghene, Reverend (Mrs) Oyediran and Chief (Mrs) M.O. Amu. 8. From left, Ambassador (Dr) Awolowo Dosumu, Reverend (Mrs) Oyediran and Professor Soetan. 9. Cross section of Gospel Musicians Association of Nigeria, Ogun State chapter, with Reverend (Mrs) Oyediran and Ambassador (Dr) Awolowo Dosumu. 10. A cross section of the clergymen from Remo Anglican Diocese with Reverend (Mrs) Oyediran and Ambassador (Dr) Awolowo Dosumu.

Friday, 16 October, 2015

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Friday, 16 October, 2015

Nigeria difficult to administer —Gowon Olayinka Olukoya -Abeokuta

former head of state, General Yakubu Gowon, on Thursday, said Nigeria, being a country with multiple ethnic diversity and sectional interests, is difficult to administer. Gowon, while answering questions from newsmen in Ikenne, while on a condolence visit to the Awo-

lowo family, said Nigerians should exercise patience with their leaders. He urged Nigerians to make their demands known to government in order to improve things, saying he experienced difficult task in managing the country for three years. He said: “Whenever any government comes in, give it time to be able to really put things right. Nigeria is not an easy country to gov-

ern. “I can assure there are as many problems as there are Nigerians in the world, and everybody wants to do things in a particular way, in his own way and probably, in his own interest. “And you think of that, how are you are going to get all that put together and put things right? I think we have got to be patient and then, we have to cooperate with the government to do the

right thing. “Let me tell you this; it was not easy. When I became head of state, I hoped that three months, six months at most, we would be done. “But when you have problems in a nation, it is not easy to solve them overnight. So, you have always got to give time and you have got to be patient for leaders to be able to get things in order.”

Fayose to Buhari: Prosecute Yobe REC over alleged N15m bribe Sam Nwaoko -Ado Ekiti Governor Ayodele Fayose of Ekiti State has challenged President Muhammadu Buhari to prosecute the Yobe State Resident Commissioner Electoral (REC), Abu Zarma, who was alleged to have received N15 million bribe to influence the Yobe State governorship election. The governor said “it is only when that is done that the president’s fight against corruption can enjoy the needed credibility.” According to Fayose, who spoke in a statement by Lere Olayinka, his assistant on Public Communication and New Media, “if nothing is done on a case as clear as that of the REC, Nigerians can as well kiss President Buhari’s anti-corruption fight goodbye.” Fayose said it was “worrisome that despite that details of the two bank accounts of the REC, which showed that N15 million was lodged into his accounts a few days to the April 11 election, was admitted as evidence by the Governorship Election Petition Tribunal in the state, the REC has not been charged to court.” He said: “It is on record that two officials of Diamond Bank Plc and Zenith Bank Plc, tendered exhibits confirming the payment of N15 million into the REC’s accounts by the Aide-deCamp (ADC) to Yobe State governor, Ibrahim Gaidam, Assistant Superintendent of Police, Zakari Deba. “The ADC allegedly paid N8 million into the Diamond Bank account of the INEC REC and N7 million into his Zenith Bank accounts on April 8, 2015, three days before the governorship election. As at the time the N8 million was paid into the Diamond Bank account, only N28, 000 was in the account. “Why then is the Yobe INEC REC not being tried yet? Why has he not been charged to court? “If the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is foot-dragging on the arraignment of the INEC REC and the governor’s ADC, why hasn’t President Buhari directed the Police to

commence the prosecution? “Therefore, in the spirit of President Buhari’s fight against corruption, the Yobe State INEC REC and the ADC that paid the bribe into

his bank accounts should be charged to court without further delay. This is more so that there are credible evidence(s) lending credence to the fact that the

REC actually took bribe to influence the Yobe election. “This is also important so as to further sanitise the electoral system for more credible elections.

Buhari's govt will rid Nigeria of impunity, corruption —Dogara Jacob Segun Olatunji and Kolawole Daniel -Abuja Speaker of the House of Representatives, on Thursday, solicited support for the ongoing efforts by President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration to rid Nigeria of impunity, corruption and abuse of office by political office holders. Dogara gave the charge at the 40th anniversary retreat of Public Complaints Commission (PCC) with the theme: “Repositioning the Ombudsman for better performance,” held in Abuja, called for increased funding of the commission. The Speaker also stressed the need for the commission to play major role in the anti-graft crusade by checkmating abuse of administrative procedures of government and judiciary, noted that PCC played very critical role in enthroning a just and humane soci-

ety, where no man was oppressed. He said: “The commission has a big role to play in the anti-corruption policies and measures of the present government to ensure that the change promised Nigerian’s take place. The truth is that the PCC’s mandate is so structured that it is perhaps the only government agency with statutory authority to check abuse of administrative procedures of government, including the judiciary. “Its mandate is not restricted to the public sector. It has jurisdiction to hear grievances even against companies in the private sector,” Dogara noted. According to him, the commission “is one of the few Federal Government agencies that has direct constitutional protection to investigate matters concerning, not only the Federal Government and its

entities, but also that those of the states and local governments. “In order words, the principles of federalism which respects autonomy of states and local governments in the constitutional scheme of things, is inapplicable to the PCC.” He added that “the 1999 Constitution adopted the position of the 1979 Constitution, by including it in S.315(5) provides that nothing in the 1999 Constitution shall invalidate the PCC Act and that the provisions of the enactment shall continue to apply. “It further provides that the provisions of the Act shall not be altered or repealed except in accordance with the provisions of S.9(2) of the Constitution, which deals with the mode of amending or altering provisions of the Constitution itself. A stringent process indeed,” he noted.

NEMA recovers 2 bodies as bus plunges into Ogun River Olalekan Olabulo -Lagos Two bodies were, on Thursday evening, recovered from an incident which involved an 18-seater bus which plunged into the Arun River, along SagamuBenin-Ore Road. Though the number of the occupants was yet to be ascertained as at Thursday evening, the bus had fallen into the water since Wednesday evening. Nigerian Tribune gathered that the bus was on its way to Ore from Sagamu, when it skidded off the road and fell into the river. Spokesperson of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Ibrahim Farinloye, while confirming the incident to

the Nigerian Tribune, stated that there were no signs to suggest that there were many occupants in the bus. He stated that the two bodies and the bus had been recovered with no traces of belongings of any other occupant of the vehicle. He, however, stated that rescue operations would continue until it had been confirmed that the two occupants were the only victims of the accident . Farinloye, in a text message to the Nigerian Tribune, said: “A report has just reached NEMA that an 18-seater bus plunged into Arun River at Ogbere, after Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, since yesterday.” Farinloye added that

“NEMA, in partnership with the Ogun State government, Ijebu East Local Government, Federal Road Safety Corps and police, have mobilised local divers, who know the terrain well, to commence recovery of the victims.” NEMA South-West spokesperson later told the Nigerian Tribune, that “two bodies have been recovered. The bus has also been recovered too.” He also said that “there was no bag or other belonging of any passenger in the bus to suggest that there were many passengers in the bus.” It will be recalled that over 20 people, who were on their way to a wedding programme, died on the same spot about three years ago.

Obalufe of Iremo, next in command to Ooni of Ife, is dead Oluwole Ige -Osogbo THE Obalufe of Iremo, who also doubles as the Prime Minister of Ile-Ife, Oba Solomon Folorunso Omisakin, is dead. By the virtue of his traditional position in the ancient town, he was the head of Ife kingmakers and next in rank to the Ooni of Ife. Nigerian Tribune authoritatively gathered that Omisakin, aged 83, slumped this morning, around 9.40 a.m. and was subsequently rushed to Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital (OAUTHC), Ile-Ife, where he eventually died. Credible source informed Nigerian Tribune that he had been battling with an undisclosed ailment even before the demise of late Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade, on July 28. According to the source, “he even underwent a surgery before the death of Oba Sijuwade. He was just recuperating when the late Ooni died. After the surgery, he

was okay, though he looked frail, but he had been managing his health since then. As an old man, I think his ailment had to do with his old age.” However, top palace source in Ile-Ife, told Nigerian Tribune that the death of Obalufe may prolong the process of selection of new Ooni of Ife, following the critical role Obalufe plays in the laid down procedures for the vacant stool. The source hinted that “traditionally, the Obalufe of Iremo is saddled with the responsibility of pronouncing the new Ooni-designate and also present him to the people of Ile-Ife and Osun State government.” Confirming the death of Oba Omisakin, chairman, Eleyele Landlords’ Association in Ile-Ife, where Obalufe built his house, Chief Elijah Adeyele, said “it is true, Obalufe has passed on this morning. I am just coming from his house to condole with his family.”

Pregnant woman, 7 children missing in Delta flood NEMA rates Delta high in flood management Alphonsus Agborh -Asaba A pregnant woman and seven children have been reported missing in Utchi, Ndokwa East Local Government Area of Delta State, as a result of flood. Chairman of the local government, Mrs Nkechi Chukwura, who disclosed this to reporters shortly after a stakeholders’ meeting on flood in Asaba, on Thursday, said the victims were on River Niger, coming from Anambra State and that their boat capsized, following rising of the flood that had threatened several communities along the coastline. Also speaking, President-General of Utchi clan, Prince Igwe Nzekwe, regretted that people of Utchi had to travel to Ogbaru, in Anambra State, before accessing their communities, adding that several crops and farmlands had already been destroyed, while the palace of the King of Adai in the area, had been washed off. He said there was a total disconnection between the political class and the communities, and as a result, the communities were not getting anything from the government. Meanwhile, as flood continues to wreak havoc in coastal communities, Delta State has been adjudged the only state in the SouthSouth region that has a concerted plan to mitigate the

effect of the flood. Zonal coordinator of National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) in the zone, Mr Benjamin Ogene, disclosed this at the interactive meeting. The meeting, which was convened by the state special committee on flood, with theme: “Improving synergy on the management of 2015 predicted flood” was to enable communities and the government exchange views on how to tackle the flood menace. Mr Ogene said management of flood could only be effective if all the stakeholders in the fold collaborated well, stressing that presently, there was competition among them, emphasising that the collaboration would prevent waste, improve donors’ support and increase optimal use of resources. Earlier, the state deputy governor, Kingsley Otuaro, expressed joy that the state distress calls on the flood had received commendable response. He said a lot was being done by the committee to provide relief materials to victims, even as “we intend to have an internally displaced persons (IDP) camp in Burutu.” Most of the speakers, including traditional rulers and community leaders, were of the view that construction of drainages will reduce the rate of flooding in the environment.

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Friday, 16 October, 2015

Gowon, Obafemi Awolowo Foundation BoT, Akinkugbe pay tributes to HID Awolowo Olayinka Olukoya -Abeokuta

ormer head of state, General Yakubu Gowon, has joined thousands of Nigerians in paying glowing tributes to the late Yeye Oodua of Yorubaland, Chief (Mrs) HID Awolowo, describing her as a great woman of faith. Gowon, on Thursday, led other Board of Trustees (BoT) members of the Obafemi Awolowo Foundation on a condolence visit to the Ikenne home of the Awolowos, over the passage of the matriarch of the dynasty. He recalled the role Mama played in convincing the sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, to serve in his government as the vice chairman and Minister of Finance in the Executive Council, saying “we pleaded with Mama and she was the one who encouraged Papa to accept that invitation and so, for that, we ever remain grateful to her for what she did.” Gowon noted that the success story of Chief Awolowo would be incomplete without recognising the supportive role of Mama throughout the political travails of her husband, adding that the deceased was exceptionally kind to her government. The former military head of state said Mama’s role in ensuring the survival of Nigeria as a nation was tremendous and for allowing her husband to contribute his quota to national development. Gowon said: “God used me to bring him back. What people may not know; it was through Mama I was able to get the services of Papa Awolowo to join the government at that time and to be the vice chairman of our Executive Council and the Minister for Finance and you all knew what he did to ensure that we were able to survive as a nation during those two and half years of crisis in Nigeria. “Mama’s contributions really have been tremendous and I will always thank her for that, because if we had not approached her to prevail on Papa to join the government, probably he may not have, but he then accepted and he did exceptionally well and may God bless him and may God bless his soul. “Mama, as we can see, has been exceptionally good in everything she did. She was with Papa throughout his political period. She was there in thick and thin, in good and bad times and certainly her advice, love and care made sure Papa was

able to do what he needed to do. “She was a wonderful woman. She did not only look after Papa, certainly, she looked after the children. I think all of you would remember how Mama unfortunately lost a few of her children and you can imagine a mother’s pain in losing her children. She continued to survive and was able to look after those who are alive and who are really important personalities in our country. Therefore, we are here to pay condolence to this family over this great loss. “We were hoping for the 100 years celebration. The last time I met Mama, I was telling her she must make that 100, so that we can dance a centenary “owambe.” Yes, she said if the good Lord have it. Unfortunately, that is not so. And so, we are really sad that she had to go, but she reached a very ripe age of 99. Well, it’s only a few days to the 100, but I think to the nearest whole number, it is 100 and we’ll make sure that on that birthday, we are there to say goodbye to her and to wish her rest in the Lord.” Oladipo Professor Akinkugbe, in his short remarks, said Mama Awolowo played a major role in ensuring the establishment of Obafemi Awolowo Foundation, which is a platform for dialogue and national discourse, in building a strong and virile nation. Akinkugbe said Mama Awolowo, by all consent, was a mother of the nation and prayed that the family would be able to sustain the legacy. He described the deceased as a warm, hospitable, caring and compassionate woman. “Mama, by common con-

sent, was a mother of the nation. Mama’s qualities are extolled in different directions. She was a caring, industrious and compassionate fellow. Both Papa and Mama are two noble Nigerians,” he added. Others on the delegation were former judge of the World Court, Prince Bola Ajibola, Afenifere chieftains, Chief Ayo Adebanjo and Sir Olaniwun Ajayi, among others. Responding, Ambassador Awolowo Dosumu, promised that the family would continue to sustain the legacies left behind by their parents, while she appreciated the contributions and zeal of all the BoT members in promoting the legacy. She explained that the visit was on the instance of Gowon and thanked him for his unique interest in the Awolowo family. Awolowo Dosumu said: “If the Foundation can survive till today, it is because these people seated here believed in what Papa did— his legacy. They are committed not only to ensure that the legacy survived, but to promote it. The Foundation has decided to set up HID Awolowo Foundation under the auspices of Obafemi Awolowo Foundation.” In her remarks, Reverend Oyediran eulogised the contributions of her parents in unifying the country, promising that the family would not disappoint Nigerians. “I appreciated the Foundation for identifying with our family. It is impossible to separate Papa from Mama. They both worked hard and made sacrifices to ensure that Nigeria remained one. In times of their tribulations, they remained one. There are many lessons to learn from them. Mama was a rock of Gilbratar to Papa, a very

faithful and loving mother. All of us are custodians of the legacies,” she said. Also, the Southern Nigeria People’s Assembly, also poured torrents of tributes on Mama Awolowo. Those on the delegation were former vice president, Chief Alex Ekwuweme, foremost Ijaw national leader, Chief Edwin Clark,, represented by Air Commodore Idongesit Nkanga (retd), Bishop Bolanle Gbonigi, former governor of Anambra State, Chukwuemeka Ezeife. Others were Senators Femi Okurounmu, Anthony Adefuye, Professor Tunde Adeniran, Dr Kunle

Olajide, Princess Olabisi Sangodoyin, Chief (Mrs) Bola Doherty, Ambassador Yemi Farounbi, Mr Yinka Odumakin, Chief Abiola Ogundokun and many others. For Bishop Gbonigi, Mama Awolowo lived a life of dedication, while describing her as a “humble, friendly, jovial and accommodating person. She was a committed Christian and we need to learn from her examples.” Clark, in his own submission, said that Nigerians would miss Mama’s contributions to national development.

“Mama lived an excellent life. She died as a noble woman. She was a reservoir of knowledge. “Mama should tell Papa that his works and words are still relevant in today’s Nigeria. She should tell him that his foot soldiers are working hard to achieve all his dreams,” he noted. Others on the visit were staff and students of Tender Touch College, Festac, Lagos, League of Imams and Alfas of Remoland, members of the Celestial Church of Christ worldwide. The CCC conducted a service of songs in honour of Mama Awolowo.

Mama Awolowo was mother of the nation — Omonayajo-Davis By Gbenga Olumide Oyo State Patron and Community Policing Ambassador, Elder Oladipo Omonayajo-Davis, has described Mama Hannah Idowu Dideolu Awolowo as the mother of the nation. Elder Omonayajo-Davis said this when he paid a condolence visit to the Tribune House, Imalefalafia, OkeAdo, Ibadan, over the death of Mama Awolowo, on Wednesday. According to him, “our

Mama was a reference point in political history, humanity and the Christian faith. She witnessed many things both positive and negative, but due to her shock absorber, she was able to surmount them. “I still remember when our leader, Papa Obafemi Awolowo, died. Those who were against him when he was alive were accommodated by Mama when they visited Ikenne, because she had a large heart. I hope the children will toe that line.” Speaking about his rela-

tionship with Awolowo family, Elder Omonayajo-Davis said he became a follower of Papa Awolowo in 1957 and during the preparation for the 1959 general election and was appointed as the Publicity Secretary of the Youth Wing of Action Group (AG) in Jos. He further said that his contributions to the growth of Action Group in Jos and the entire Middle-Belt earned him the position of Provincial Finance Officer of the party in Jos.

Nigerian Tribune

Friday, 16 October, 2015

Lagosmetro

Friday, 16 October, 2015

Nigerian Tribune

Edited By

Lanre Adewole

olanreade@yahoo.com

0811 695 4647

How my husband, mum were stabbed to death — Fadipe’s wife

sis. We are not sending any of the finger prints and all other sundry investigations overseas for analysis; we are going to conduct them here in Nigeria. “We are coming out with the results soon and we promise to bring the perpetrators to book,’’ he said.

The AIG added that members of the public should ensure that they divulged useful information to the police to enable them avert such incidents. “We implore members of the public to help the police, I am sure the people that carried out this plan would

have planned it somewhere. It could have been in a drinking joint. If someone had called on the Commissioner of Police that some people are planning a suspicious act somewhere, they would have been rounded up and arrested. “We are in the ember

months and as people want to celebrate Christmas, many want to enjoy the Christmas through unlawful means,’’ he said. Hassan added that the Marine Police could not have accessed the carnal that was used by the robbers because of its location.

So, I asked my 17-year-old boy, Folahanmi, to go and switch off the generator. Five minutes after he left, I heard him shouting, “my daddy, my daddy, there is thief in the house,” Mrs Fadipe narrated. The widow further told the Justice Atinuke Ipaye of an Ikeja High court that the accused, Oluwaseun Oladapo chased his son to the living room, having stabbed him. “He (the accused) was shouting that somebody was going to die that night. I was scared and hid behind my husband. He said the house is surrounded by other members of his gang. He also demanded for N500, 000 but we kept on begging him. “My husband asked me to bring the envelope in his trouser which contained money but the defendant slapped my son. At that point, all of us got angry and pushed him. Immediately he stabbed my mother, son and sister. He also stabbed my husband with the knife which cut my husband’s neck. “At that time, the Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC) people entered and overpowered him. We took my husband to the hospital some minutes before 12:00 a.m. but he died some minutes past 1:00 a.m. My mother died two weeks after she heard of my husband’s

Some Lagos residents on Thursday complained about the poor services of the waste managers in the metropolis. The residents informed the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos that evacuation of refuse was delayed with no reason adduced by the waste collectors. However, some who live in Surulere expressed satisfaction with their performance. Mr Chibuzor Dike, a resident at Alakuko in Iyana Ipaja, said the waste managers were not effective and regular in evacuation of waste since the middle of the year. “I have noticed that the waste collectors are no more effective the way they were

some couple of months back. The refuse is so huge and this is not healthy for any community. “They don’t come regularly as they should and they don’t bother to give reason for the delay. I suggest the new administration should take action to solve the issue,’’ Dike said. Mr Kehinde Lawson, who resides at Lawanson in Ikate/ Itire Local Government, also complained of irregular services by the waste managers in the area. Lawson disclosed that the waste collectors stayed away for more than three weeks before coming to evacuate accumulated refuse. “We really don’t know

what is going on in the state. Since the last dispensation, we are yet to experience good change in Lagos. We don’t have access to anyone

to complain to and the local government cannot offer assistance on any issue. “We have urged the state government to improve on

collection of waste and ensure that those who are in charge are carrying out their duties to protect our environment,’’ he said.

AyomideOwonibiOdekanyin The widow of the late human rights lawyer, Kunle Fadipe, Mrs Kemi Fadipe, on Thursday gave a vivid account of how her husband and mother were murdered. Narrating the incident, Mrs Fadipe said the incident happened on July 3, 2014 at 10.00 p.m. after the deceased returned home late from office. “After his meal, he retired into his room and my sons went to their room adjacent to his room. My sister, Abiola Owolabi, who worked with him in the chambers, lived with us. My mother who came for an eye surgery was also at home with us. The generating set was on because there was no light.

Gazikiyya road at Badiyya, Lagos State undergoing reconstruction, on Thursday. PHOTO: NAN

Fingerprints from FESTAC banks robbery for analysis in Nigeria —AIG

he Nigeria Police have said that the finger prints it lifted from the scene of Tuesday’s robbery in two banks in FESTAC Town, Lagos would be analysed in the country. Mr Bala Hassan, the Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG), Zone 2 Command, made the assertion when he visited the robbery scene on Thursday. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that robbers numbering 40 robbed Access and Diamond banks on 4th Avenue in FESTAC TOWN, an incident where a stray bullet killed a mother and her child in their apartment. Hassan, who spoke with newsmen at the robbery scene, said that a forensic laboratory was recently opened for such investigations, stressing that the perpetrators of the act must be arrested. “An office had just been opened at the order of the Inspector-General of Police (IG), Solomon Arase for forensic reports and analy-

Waste managers providing poor services —Lagos residents cry out

death.” Abiola, who is Mrs Fadipe’s sister, was also a victim because she worked in the deceased’s chambers. She also told the court that the accused stabbed the deceased on several parts of his body. She added that effort by members of the family to

overpower the accused by hitting him on the head with various objects was not successful as the accused was too powerful. “He was very strong and had strength of 10 persons,” she said. The matter was adjourned till November 18, 2015 for continuation of trial.

Ejigbo sodomy: Controversy over

video evidence Lanre Adewole A Lagos High Court has fixed November 11 and 12 for ruling on whether the prosecution in the Ejigbo torture incident would be allowed to tender video evidence as exhibit. Judge Oluwatoyin Ipaye said she would take a decision on whether the evidence complied with the Evidence Act. Ten people were charged with torture, attempted murder, and sodomy of three women at Oba Morufu International Market in Ejigbo, a Lagos suburb, in February 2013. The defendants are accused of stripping the victims naked, rubbing pepper on, and inserting sticks into their genitals after claiming they stole pepper. They were also accused of obtaining N50, 000 from a relative of the victims on the claim that it would be used to repay the traders whose wares were allegedly stolen. On Wednesday, a prosecution witness, Assistant Superintendent of Police Bassey Uket, who was led in evidence by Idowu Alakija, the Director of Public Prosecution, tendered before the court a compact disc con-

taining the video of how the incident occurred. Mr Uket said that although the incident took place on February 11, 2013, it was not reported to the relevant authority until December of the same year, after the video had gone viral on the internet. The defendants are facing a 19-count charge bordering on conspiracy, attempted murder, sexual assault, maliciously administering poison, obtaining money by false pretences and deprivation of liberty.

A housewife who allegedly poured hot water on her pregnant neighbour has been granted bail by a Lagos Chief Magistrate’s Court, sitting in Yaba. Oluwatoyin Oyagoke, who allegedly poured hot water on her pregnant neighbour, Mrs Rukayat Salami Osuolale caused her serious burns which resulted in the victim

needing emergency care in the General Hospital. The court presided by Magistrate D. A. Erinle granted bail to the mother of two after she changed her plea, on Wednesday. The defendant had earlier pleaded guilty to an attempted murder preferred against her by the police when she was first arraigned before the court on Monday, and the matter was slated for

review of the facts and sentence. But the resumed hearing of the trial on Thursday, the defendant who was weeping profusely, pleaded with the court to enable her to change plea. She informed the court she ignorantly pleaded guilty to the charge when arraigned because she has never been to court. Consequently, the presiding

magistrate ordered that the charge be read to her, for her plea to be re-taken. She pleaded not guilty to the charge after it was re-read to her. Upon her not guilty plea, she was admitted to bail in the sum of N300, 000.00, with two sureties in the same sum. The magistrate also ordered that the sureties must not be teachers but preferably civil

Court remands 2 over N2 billion fraud Lanre Adewole A Lagos High Court sitting at Igbosere has remanded two accused persons over an alleged N2 billion fraud. They were arraigned by

the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, (EFCC), on Wednesday. The accused are David Nwachukwu and Frank Okeke alonside two companies, Haulage Oil and Gas

Alfa buys stolen phones from us —Arrested suspects Olalekan Olabulo Two members of a gang, whose members have confessed to have stolen about 70 phones this year, and identified their buyer simply as an Alfa who owns a shop at Boundary area in Ajegunle have been arrested by the police. The suspects, Ufoma Asakpa, 22, and Augustine Omedo, 20, were a few days ago arrested by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) around Abule Oja in Yaba area of the state.

Housewife who poured hot water on neighbour changes plea, granted bail AyomideOwonibiOdekanyin

Rickety police vehicle being towed away on Lagos road. Can the Police combat crime with this kind of vehicle? Photo: Sylvester Okoruwa

servants in the Lagos State ministries or Local government, who must have landed properties within the court’s jurisdiction. She also ordered that the sureties must show to court evidence of three years tax payment to Lagos State government, and have their addresses verified. The matter has been adjourned till January 27, 2015, for trial.

The arrested suspects had invaded a mobile phone shop, where they stole three mobile phones and were escaping, when the policemen arrested them. According to the Commander of the RRS, Assistant Commissioner of Police, ACP Olatunji Disu, “Our policemen who were on patrol routine around Yaba axis got a distress call from their victims informing them that there were thieves who just robbed them of their valuables. The suspects were caught while attempting to mount a motorcycle popularly known as Okada. “Upon completion of our preliminary investigation, we discovered that the two suspects specialised in stealing phones and other valuable items under the pretence of buying products from any shop they visited.” The suspect in their confession to the police said that they disguised as customers to penetrate their target shops to steal phones, money and female bags.

One of the suspects, Augustine said, “I was a secondary school drop-out. My parents took me to my brother’s shop to learn how to repair generator but I couldn’t endure the period of apprenticeship. While looking for ways to earn quick money, I met my partner who introduced this act of stealing to me. I joined him about 10 months ago and police have never caught us before now.” Augustine regrettably said, “I have regretted my actions for taking to stealing for survival. It was devil who pushed me into it.” Ufoma narrating how they were nabbed by the RRS said, “When I entered the shop, I said I wanted to buy a sachet of water and rice that was when I saw a phone while charging. I took the phone and switched it off immediately. We had successfully stolen those phones, when we suddenly saw RRS men chasing us. As we were about to mount motorcycle, we were crossed down and arrested.”

Limited and Franviok Limited. They were docked before Justice R.I.B. Adebiyi on a 14-count charge bordering on conspiracy to steal, stealing and fraudulent diversion of funds. The duo was remanded in the commission’s custody. The accused persons were alleged to have failed to remit rentals of over N2 billion to the petitioner, Lecon Financial Services Limited. Some of the counts in the charges read: “David Nwachukwu, Frank Okeke, Haulage Oil and Gas Limited and Franviok Limited sometime between January, 2013 and December, 2013 in Lagos within the Jurisdiction

of this Honourable Court, with a dishonest intent converted to your own use the sum of N197,776,420 (One Hundred and Ninety Seven Million, Seven Hundred and Seventy Six Thousand, Four Hundred and Twenty Naira) which sum forms part of rentals accrued to Leasing Company of Nigeria Limited (Now LECON Financial Services Limited) from the use of their trucks to provide haulage services for Eterna Oil Plc. Justice R.I.B. Adebiyi adjourned the case till October 20, 2015 for hearing of the bail application and ordered the accused persons be remanded in the EFCC custody.

Driver, conductor docked for stealing Bidemi Olowofela Two men, Dare Akpabieku and Sunday Idowu have been arraigned before a Lagos Chief Magistrate Court sitting in Ebute-Metta Lagos over alleged stealing. Akpabieku, a conductor and Idowu, a driver who both have no fixed address were accused of stealing from one Alex Ekocha, after burgling his car. It was gathered that the car they burgled was one Ford space wagon car with registration number TA 01 LND. They were also alleged to have stolen a gold chain val-

ued N8, 000, a bottle of perfume worth N5000, FCMB and Diamond bank ATM cards, Cheque books, combat shorts and a polo shirt valued N2, 500, office keys and one bag valued at N4,000. They both pleaded not guilty. The presiding magistrate, Mrs B Folarin Williams thereby admitted the two defendants to bail in the sum of N50, 000.00 each with two responsible sureties each in the like sum. The magistrate thereafter adjourned the case till November 10th, 2015 for mention.

businessnews

Friday, 16 October, 2015

Nigerian Tribune

NNPC opens fresh bid for OPA contract

OlatundeDodondawa-Lagos

OLLOWING the controversies that trailed Offshore Processing Arrangements (OPA) and its eventual cancellation, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has opened fresh bid rounds for the contracts. The Corporation received 101 tenders from Nigerian and multi-national companies competing for the contracts. Speaking at the flag-off of the exercise on Thursday, the Group Managing Director of the NNPC, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, noted that the Corporation has taken the pain to make the process leading up to the award open to public scrutiny to demonstrate that NNPC has nothing to hide. According to him, “At the end of this exercise, we must be able to engage companies that are known to everybody and not shrouded in mysteries. We must have terms that are very transparent and comparative to terms anywhere else in the world where OPA are being done.” He said that while the Corporation was working assiduously to ensure that the refineries are restreamed to optimal levels, the NNPC would in the interim maximize the OPAs in such a way as to secure the best deals possible for Nigeria. “I hope that we should be able to build in futuristic growth patterns in the new deal. We should be able to come up with companies that have solid investments in Nigeria because this is not just a trading issue,” he said. Commenting on the exercise, Mrs. Murjanatu Gamawa, representative of the Executive Secretary, Nigerian Extractive Indus-

try Transparency Initiative (NEITI) commended the NNPC for the giant step taken towards transparency and accountability. Managing Director, Pipe-

lines and Products Marketing Company (PPMC) Limited, a subsidiary of the NNPC, Mrs. Esther Nnamdi-Ogbue, stated that the essence of the exercise is to

IN order to stop ambiguity in the valuation of assets meant for privatisation, the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) and the Estate Surveyors and Valuers Registration Board of Nigeria (ESVARBON), have pledged to collaborate with one other. Receiving the executive members of ESVARBON, led by its Chairman, Elder Williams O. Odudu , the BPE Director General, Mr Benjamin Ezra Dikki, described enterprise valuation as a contentious issue in the privatisation and commercialization

that this was the first time NEITI would be invited to witness a bid process at the NNPC, noting that it was a clear indication that NNPC takes transparency and in-

tegrity issues seriously. The NNPC said it will allocate a dedicated volume of crude oil for refining at offshore locations in exchange for petroleum products at pre-agreed yield pattern.

Richardson Oil & Gas restates commitment to work safety

From left, the moderator, Alero Edu; General Manager, Independent Power Projects, Lanre Opakunle; CEO Cement, Lafarge Africa Plc, Adepeju Adebajo, and Director Ready Mix Operations, Lafarge Africa Plc, during the Build Safe event in Lagos, on Thursday.

Dorman Long, INTELS to launch FPSO fabrication facility in Nigeria Dorman Long Engineering Nigeria Limited and INTELS Nigeria Limited have announced a partnership to launch a state-ofthe-art fabrication facility based in Onne Port, Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The partnership is a significant development for international oil companies (IOCs) operating in the Gulf of Guinea as large scale and complex steel fabrication will now be offered in Nigeria from the new purpose-built facility, the companies said in a statement on Thursday. According to the partners, this will be the first time a floating production storage offloading (FPSO) units will have access to fabrication and related ser-

vices from facilities built specifically for that purpose alongside their operations in the Gulf of Guinea region. More broadly, the facility will be equipped to serve the needs of West Africa’s oil and gas, power, and telecoms industries, as well as heavy industries. The facility will include a 17,500m2 covered workshop featuring among others CNC plasma cutting machines, plate rolling plate edge bevelling machines, oxy-fuel track cutting machines, pipe cutting & edge bevelling machines and portable Oxy-fuel Cutting Machines There will also be 300 ton hydraulic press brakes, plate edge milling ma-

BPE pledges collaboration with estate surveyors and valuers on asset valuation Gbola Subair-Abuja

provide a level playing field for all industry players and to cut- off middle men who have been exploiting the system. Mrs. Gamawa observed

programme of the Federal Government as it was not a precise science and is influenced by the perspectives of the reviewer. The DG, who noted that the reports of estate valuers have greatly assisted in giving credibility to the enterprise valuation, said in the light of the contention of enterprise valuation, the bureau, was ever willing to collaborate with any organisation that would assist in enhancing credibility to the valuation of public assets. Dikki commended the board for producing a standard template to guide the production of valuation re-

ports and pledged the willingness of the Bureau to collaborate with the Board. He noted that with the template put in place by the board, there would no longer be ambiguity in valuation of public assets before privatisation as all grey areas have been taken cares of. The DG said enterprise valuation is the heart of privatization and that any effort to reduce ambiguity on the subject-matter is appreciated, adding that the Bureau is now properly guided not to deal with surveyors who are not on the register of the Board.

chines, dished end forming machines, 50ton/m2 Quayside Heavy Lift Load – out facility, open fabrication areas of 86,000m2, with further outside fabrication areas available as required, blasting and painting workshop, covered secured warehousing and maintenance workshop and steel stocking area. Speaking on the partnership, Dr. Timi AustenPeters, Chairman of Dor-

man Long, said: “The oil and gas industry has long needed such facilities closer to their West Africa operations. As a company, we are pleased to be part of such a significant development for the industry and the region. “This is also an important development for Nigeria – it will mean significant job creation, skills and technology transfer, and capacity building. We are investing in Nigeria, for Nigeria.”

NESG: Dangote enjoins FG, states to build roads with cement The need for the federal and state governments across the federations to embrace the use of concrete roads as against bitumen roads was again re-echoed on Wednesday at the ongoing Nigeria Economic Summit Group (NESG) by an Executive Director in the Dangote Group, Mansur Ahmed, who insisted that, using concrete roads is a choice that Nigeria must make. Ahmed, who represented the President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, at the event said: “For Nigeria to achieve its long desired infrastructural development, it must embrace the use of concrete for road construction and other construction works.” His comment is against the backdrop of the theme of the Summit: “Tough Choices: Achieving Competitiveness, Inclusive Growth and Sustainabil-

ity.” Noting that Asphalt was no longer in vogue, he said concrete roads made more economic sense for a country like Nigeria, as the use of Asphalt has left the roads in deplorable conditions. He said the construction of concrete road is faster and can last for half a century compare to Asphalt. Ahmed also revealed that concrete roads are 20 per cent cheaper to build. He further said: “… in the construction of concrete roads, the cement raw materials are readily available while Asphalt is imported into the country” It will be recalled that the Chairman of Dangote Cement, Aliko Dangote, recently in Lagos also pleaded with the Federal Government to urgently consider the use of concrete roads in the country.

Richardson Oil and Gas Limited has restated its commitment to ensure safety in work places through provision of integrated Health, Safety, Security and Environmental (HSSE) consulting services. Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Akin Osuntoki who stated this at the 7th edition of PSRG-Richardson HSSE forum, in Lagos on Wednesday noted that safety in the work place is germane to excellent workers’ productivity. He noted that part of efforts by the company to ensure adherence to safety at work is the annual PSRGRichardson HSSE forum which started in 2009 and which has been adding value to diverse participants. This year’s forum tagged: “HSSE Management and Practice: A focus on Behavioural Safety” was attended by industry experts from diverse fields. The forum provides a platform for stakeholders, major players and practitioners in various sectors such as Oil and Gas, Construction, Manufacturing, Telecommunications and Security to meet and analyse HSSE issues and also relate it with international best practices. While explaining the theme of the forum, he said behavioural safety is a process that creates a safety partnership between management and employees that continually focuses people’s attention and actions on theirs and others’ daily safety-conscious behaviour. “Safety culture is not only shown in the general state of the premises and conditions of the machinery but in the attitudes and behaviours of the employees towards safety”, he added. According to him, the issues of Health, Safety, Security and Environment have been integrated into daily operational systems, as HSSE has gone beyond being a departmental concern and are now part of the functions of management as well.

businessnews NESG presents report to Buhari 11

he National Economic Summit Group (NESG), the organiser of the Nigerian Economic Summit (NES), on Thursday presented the report of the 21st NES to President Muhammadu Buhari. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the Chairman of NESG, Mr Kyari Bukar, presented the 100-page report to Buhari at the closing of the summit in Abuja. The report was received by Mr Babachir Lawal, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation on behalf of President Buhari. Lawal, who spoke on sustainable solutions for peace and threats to human security, said that economy and security were inseparable. He said that Federal Government was doing its best to address the security challenges in the North-East and to create employment for the youth in the zone. He, however, urged all sectors of the economy to be involved in re-building the zone. The secretary recalled that those in the zone had lost all their means of livelihood. “I am from the zone and I have to tell you that my people did not harvest any food last year as a result of insurgency. “Insurgency has also affected education and youth development. Our youths have been deprived of education for almost six years. “ Also, I will like to let you know that before the problem of insurgency, 90 per cent of youths in the zone were not employed,” he said. Dr Tayo Aduloju of Institute of Workforce Develop-

ment said, at the plenary on security matters, that the impact of environmental problems had become driver of conflicts and insecurity. Aduloju said that the impacts of climate and business practices such as oil exploration and offshore deep-water

trawling had increasingly become drivers of conflict and they poised real threats to human security. “These practices cause human displacements, high inequality, imbalance in social benefits, fragility, resentment and latent or actual conflict,

resulting in significant decrease in economic productivity. “It therefore goes without saying that there is an urgent need for concerted solutions to threat of human security in Nigeria,” he said. Some experts who spoke

at the session called for huge investment in youth development through vocational and formal skill. They also recommended long term investment for women and youths to enhance inclusive growth and sustainable development.

From left, Chairman, Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), Kyari Bukar; former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Professor Ibrahim Gambari and President, Growing Business Foundation, Dr Ndidi Nnoli-Edozien, at close of the 21st Nigerian Economic Summit, in Abuja, on Thursday. PHOTO: NAN

Q3: UBA earns N247.2bn, records 44% profit increase United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, on Thursday, released its nine months unaudited financial results for 2015 showing a 44 per cent rise in profit after tax to N48.6 billion and a 17 per cent rise in gross earnings to N247.2 billion. The third quarter results also show Net Operating Income (NOI) recorded a strong 21 per cent growth to N167.4 billion. The cost to income ratio remained

within management’s guidance of 65 per cent, compared to 68.7 per cent in the corresponding period of 2014, as UBA continued to focus on improving operational efficiencies to deliver superior return to its shareholders. In other indices, the bank closed the third quarter with total assets of N2.87 trillion, loan book of N1.01 trillion and a deposit base of N2.18 trillion.

“We have continued to sustain our financial performance in 2015, leveraging our unique pan-African platform and the strength of our committed work force in gaining competitive edge in the market place” said Phillips Oduoza, the Group Managing Director/CEO, UBA Plc. He also attributed the impressive performance of the bank to enhanced balance sheet efficiency and improv-

FCMB, Peugeot launch customer friendly auto acquisition scheme First City Monument Bank Limited (FCMB) Limited and Peugeot Automobile Nigeria (PAN) have launched an auto finance and acquisition scheme. FCMB made this known on Thursday in a statement, saying it was part of its efforts to help individuals, employees of organisations, corporate bodies and institutions within the public and private sectors to become car owners in convenient manner. Under the scheme, which was unveiled on Thursday, in Abuja, qualified customers of FCMB would be able to own a brand new Peugeot at affordable prices under a monthly repayment plan up to five years. Speaking at the launch of the alliance, the Regional Director, Abuja and North of FCMB, Lukman Mustapha, said the partnership was a value-added consumer loan offering aimed

Friday, 16 October, 2015

at expanding the scope of vehicle ownership in the country. “We have designed this scheme to enhance the lifestyle of our existing and potential customers through discounted pricing, flexible repayment

and other benefits associated with it,” he said. Also commenting on the auto finance alliance, FCMB’s Divisional Head, Retail Banking, Olu Akanmu, explained that apart from the flexible and convenient repayment plans, the

scheme offers many more benefits. Among these are free vehicle registration and tracking, three-year extended vehicle maintenance service, discounted insurance premium and discounted interest rate.

Nigeria among leading nations in telecom industry —NCC PROFESSOR Umar Danbatta, the Executive ViceChairman, Nigerian Communications Commission ((NCC), said that Nigeria was one of the countries taking the lead in development of the telecom industries development in the world. Danbatta made this known in his key note address read by Ms Funola Akiode, Director, Licensing and Authorisation, NCC, at the Abuja International ICT Conference and Expo 2015. “Nigeria is not left out of

the centre of development and growth of voice and data services. ‘’At some point, in less than a year ago, Nigeria was rated as the fastest growing telecom market for five consecutive years. “The growth of 2G to 3G and ongoing into 4G is not the preserve of the developed world, with the broadband taking the centre stage, Nigeria is not left out. “It is now easy to transfer funds from the comfort of your homes and offices,

online shoppings, locally and internationally are now made available with the availability of telecom infrastructure,” Danbatta said. He said that the telecom industry had brought a lot of innovations in the banking and finance industries. Earlier, Mr Tony Ejikenoye, President, Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ABUCCIMA), in his address of welcome, said that ICT constituted a potent driver of socioeconomic development in emerging economies.

ing extraction of value from the bank’s channels. “We have also maintained our discipline on how, where and with whom we do business and I am happy with the results, as reflected in our earnings and asset quality” said Oduoza. In the period under review, UBA maintained a Non-Performing Loan ratio of 2.1 per cent and 0.6 per cent cost of risk. Highlighting some of the significant achievements in the third quarter, the Oduoza disclosed that UBA led a consortium of local banks to facilitate a USD1.2 billion syndicated facility for the National Oil Company in Nigeria, NNPC. Also speaking on the results, the Group CFO, Ugo Nwaghodoh, noted that the bank’s entrepreneurial persistence continues to yield results as the Group increasingly extracts synergy opportunities across its African network. “Our business in Africa, excluding Nigeria, contributed a quarter of our profit after tax in the period; a resounding benefit of our geographic diversification,” said Nwaghodoh. He explained that the Group’s balance sheet remained strong, with a 20 per cent capital adequacy ratio and 49 per cent liquidity ratio, noting that UBA will continue to balance the quest for earnings and growth, with the best sustainability principles.

CPC says DStv obstructing investigations •Storms office to enforce consumer rights

The Consumer Protection Council has accused the Digital Satellite Television (DStv) of the obstruction of the ongoing investigation into the operations of the company, based on alleged infringement on consumer rights. The CPC, therefore, on Thursday, “stormed” the Lagos office of the paymedia outfit to carry out an enforcement exercise, in line with relevant sections of the council’s enabling law, according to a statement from the council. The CPC said the enforcement exercise, led by the council’s Director of Legal Services, Emmanuel Ataguba, was carried out to ensure that ongoing investigations into complaints of alleged subscribers’ rights abuse reached a desirable conclusion. The CPC, in line with one of its mandates to provide redress for consumer abuse, commenced investigations into the operations of DStv based on a barrage of complaints of alleged consumer rights violations against the company, the council said in the statement. The CPC said it took the step in accordance with Section 15 of the organisation’s enabling law which empowers it to “open and examine whilst on the premises any container or package” which could help the course of its investigation as well as “examine any book, document or other records found on the premises” that may contain any information relevant to the enforcement of its Act. “The CPC commenced investigative sittings into the operations of Multichoice Nigeria, the franchise owners of DStv on Friday, July 31, 2015. This followed a barrage of consumer complaints alleging wide-range abuse of subscribers’ rights. These include poor quality of service such as incessant disruption of service without compensation, wrongful disconnection of service during subsisting subscriptions, decoder swap irregularities and poor redress mechanism and customer service. “The inaugural sitting provided a four-man DStv team the opportunity to respond to questions from the CPC investigating panel, and was adjourned for the DStv team to provide more documents. Since then, subsequent sittings of the CPC investigating panel have suffered abrupt adjournments and disruptions at the instance of Multichoice Nigeria.

business

Friday, 16 October, 2015

Nigerian Tribune

daily summary (equities) for thursday, 15 OCTOBER, 2015

Friday, 16 October, 2015

OWEVER, before my release, I succeeded in writing, Thoughts on Nigerian Constitution (OUP, 1966), and in making copious notes for The People’s Republic and Strategy and Tactics of the People’s Republic of Nigerian which were published respectively by Oxford University Press (1968) and Macmillan (1970). With regard to the proposed doctoral thesis, I was only able to do a good deal of the research and make some notes, before I was obliged by public duties and legal practice to abandon it. A supervisor had already been appointed for me by the University of London. She is a woman who bears a man’s name. She is Peter Ady, a well-known development economist. According to her, her mother had confidently expected a baby boy, and had decided to name him Peter. But when the baby arrived, it was a girl, and that was she. As Miss Ady herself put it, “My mother is a stubborn woman; and in spite of my sex she gave me a boy’s name.” When I was still able to squeeze in some time for research on the thesis, I was invited by the University of Ibadan to deliver its 1972 Foundation Lecture. I based the theme of the lecture on some aspects of my proposed thesis. It was titled, “An Analysis of the Basic Causes and Remedies of Economic Backwardness.” Some of the university professors and lecturers who heard me thought that the theme of the lecture was provocative and somewhat unorthodox. As a result, I was invited by Professor Ojetunji Aboyade to defend the lecture at a Seminar specially organised for the purpose by the Departments of Economics and Social Science. I accepted the invitation, and successfully defended the lecture. In the course of answering a question, I disclosed to the Seminar that the lecture was an outline of some aspects of a doctoral thesis which I proposed to present to the London University. Physical development is not too difficult to cultivate and maintain. Intellectual development is very difficult to cultivate, and not at all easy to maintain. Because, once attained you must work constantly and diligently in order not only to keep your rating against mental evaporation, but also to widen your intellectual horizon. Both physical and intellectual developments demand grit, discipline, and will-power of a very high order. If you fail to keep a vigilant guard in each of these two, you will suffer, in the one case, physical disintegration to set in faster than the ageing process compels, and in the other, to permit the development of soul-personality appears the most difficult of all. Physical and mental exercises are tangible and perceptible, and the resultant developments equally so. But not so with exercises in and development of Soulpersonality. Here we are dealing in the metaphysical realm; the Realm of the Cosmic, and the Domain of God. It is not a dreadful realm, nor a fearful domain. Throughout my adult life, I have learnt about the development of the Soul-personality or, in common parlance, spiritual development. I have learnt and I know the cardinal tenets of the Christian faith. I know the Law and the Prophets. That is to say that love is the corner-stone of the universe both visible and invisible; and that I must love the Lord my God with all my heart and with all my might, and love my neighbour as myself. I know the golden rule which enjoins that I should do unto others what I would like them to do unto me. We all know these cardinal tenets. Yet is it not the knowledge but the practice of them in our day-to-day activities that matters. Let us, however, be assured that we will not be able to practice them to any worthwhile extent unless we first of all strive to overcome the tyrannies of the flesh and the unruly despotism of the subjective mind. Fortunately, these abstract virtues can be denominated in practical terms. I regard the eight stated hereunder as major items among them. 1. Desire for naked power. 2. Greed or inordinate desire for possessions. 3. Sexual transgression, promiscuity, and excess. 4. Gluttony and consumption of alcohol. 5. Desire for revenge.

With

Ebenezer Babatope

0805-500-1735 (SMS ONLY PLEASE)

Behind the bars by Papa Awo (9)

•Chief Obafemi Awolowo

At Calabar, as was my wont, I set to work to continue my cultivation and maintenance of the opposites of these eight items through meditation, affirmations, and prayer. They are: 1. Desire for beneficial power; 2. Desire for possessions by genuine and legitimate efforts; 3. Sexual continence; 4. Education and enlightenment; 5. Moderation in food, and total abstinence from alcohol; 6. Desire to overlook errors, mistakes, weaknesses, and to forgive deliberate wrongs even when, in Shelley’s words, they are “darker than death or night”; and It is dangerous to suppress a negative feeling or bad habit. It is better to recognise it, and to cultivate its opposite virtue through meditation, affirmations, and

It is an assignment which is enjoined on every one of us by our Maker, both for time and eternity.

prayer. In addition to meditation, affirmations, and prayer, we must strive to act the virtues we meditate upon, affirm, and pray for. We will not succeed at first, but we must persevere until we breathe our last. And that was precisely what I had been doing before I went to Calabar, what I had done at Calabar, and what I still do today. It is an assignment which is enjoined on every one of us by our Maker, both for time and eternity. In the course of my exercise, I gave myself written Codes of Conduct: three of them – a Code of Personal Discipline, a Code of Social Discipline, and a Code of Political Discipline. In this connection, it is pertinent to observe, in passing, that it is comparatively easy to be saintly in isolation or asceticism when one is free from the buffetings of life and from irritating and sometimes tantalizing social and political interactions. Under an affliction of these things, tolerance is strained, and the temptation to retaliate is more often than not irresistible. There were times when I entertained the untenable thought that partisan politics and Christianity are incompatible. One is always terribly puzzled and feels at a disadvantage, when one is faced with blatant vilifications, denigration, barefaced false accusations, wicked attempts on one’s very life, and the like, and at the same time feels an inner urge to observe and adhere to the tenets of one’s faith. However, as I said, at Calabar, I drew up Codes of Conduct for myself for my daily observance after my release from prison. I had already incorporated extracts from the Political Code in Thoughts On Nigerian Constitution on pages 114 to 119. The Social Code is not relevant for reproduction here. But the Code of Personal Discipline is, and here it is. TO BE CONTINUED EBINO TOPSY – 0805-500-1735 (SMS ONLY PLEASE).

Friday, 16 October, 2015

LETTERS TO THE

editor

Letters to the editor should be sent to letterstribune@yahoo.com or by sms to 08055001747 or 08054005323. It MUST be accompanied by the full name and address of the writer.

Middle East: We are at risk of a third world war

HE crisis in the Middle East may not be ending soon, as new cases of attacks, bombings, killings and air raids are being recorded everyday. The civil war in Syria, which began in 2011 with the aim of ousting the dictator, Bashir al-Assad, has taken another dimension, and it is capable of leading to third world war. Already, different militaries are battling in the weary country, with the latest being Russia, which

Fulani herdsmen and Yoruba victims FOR several years now, Fulani herdsmen have been attacking Yoruba people in the South West. These herdsmen kill innocent people, while allowing their cattles to destroy farmcrops. It is after the abduction of Chief Olu Falae that we now know we have a huge problem on our hand. I know there are lawabiding herdsmen, but some of them are also criminals. I think there is the need for the South West members of the National Assembly to come together to adopt a bill that will ban nomadic grazing. If anybody has cattles, he should confine them to a grazing reserve, and not move from the North down to the South in a bid to feed the cattles. Many people have lost their lives to these criminal herdsmen, and if noting is done to stop these people, then it will be wise to call on farmers in the rural areas to defend their lives and farmlands with every means possible. There is one thing about this life, no individual or group has a monopoly of violence, and when a goat is chased to a wall, it turns back to face the attacker. •Dr Alalade, Ilorin.

Tajudeen

has gone in to assist the Assad regime. It is the fall-out of the ongoing war that created several terrorist groups, including the Islamic State (IS), which has been accused of committing atrocities in both Syria and Iraq. This fundamentalist group has killed many innocent civilians and destroyed many historical cultural heritages. One of those heritages is the Temple of Baal and the artifacts shattered in Palmyra and some other ancient cities in the country. The extremist group wants to create a State where Islamic laws and principles as against the secular ones will be used. Also, the political unrest in the Middle Eastern countries like Syria, Yemen, West Bank , among others, has renewed the old age feud between the United States of America and Russia, with each

country nurturing different hidden agenda inimical to the peaceful coexistence and development of the country. These two global powers were among the major actors in the second world. Now, the Arab world has be-

come a battleground for the imperialists to exhibit cruelly their anti-people arsenal. Russia is backing the al-Assad government which America is aiming to topple. Now, if the wars continue in the Middle East, dif-

ferent countries will go in, and it may lead to another world war. However, to ensure a safer world, global super powers should not turn the Middle East into a proxy war zone. I think President Al-Assad

Using education to solve Nigeria’s problems NIGERIA is definitely facing many problems today, but we are not looking at how we can use education to solving them. Let us take unemployment for example. The lack of jobs for youths is what is fuelling crime in the country. We have many graduates who are unemployed, and they need to keep body and soul together. This is what is bringing about the rise in crime. Our education system should be patterned after that of Germany.

In Germany, technical and vocational skills are more valued, while the opposite is what we have in Nigeria. We are more after obtaining degress than getting the skills we need to earn a living. If we are more into degrees, then there is the need for the government to restructure our educational system in such a way that we will have degree qualifications in carpentry, tailoring, hair dressing, among others. With this, many gradu-

ates will leave school with skills that will make them employers of labour. I am, therefore, using this opportunity to reach out to whoever will be appointed as the minister of education to look into this area. He may even need to travel to Germany to study how the system runs effectively there. We really need to develop in this country. •Idayat Kassim, Surulere, Lagos.

should step down and allow the formation of another government based on consensus. The US and Russia too need to sheath their swords and embrace peace. •Timothy Faboade, OAU, Ile-Ife.

Towards tackling FGM in Nigeria THERE is a bill in the National Assembly criminalising female genital mutilation. Unfortunately, this archaic, unholy and unhealthy tradition is still being practised in some parts of the country. Female circumcision is an invasive and painful surgical operation of female genital parts performed without anaesthesia on girl -child before puberty. Also, an adult female who ‘escaped’ the painful operation during childhood, may be forcefully circumcised before marriage. The need for global campaign against this negative act is due to the health danger it poses to the victims, which is severe pains caused by lack of application of anaesthesia, excessive bleeding, transmission of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) due to unsterilised instruments, shock and even death if the bleeding couldn’t be controlled. Intensive awareness campaign and enforcement against this ugly act by doctors, health workers, human rights activists and every concerned humanitarian group to stop the perpetrators of this infringement on female rights is very imperative. The media also has a huge role to play in this; the media must continue to sensitise the public on the dangers of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) •Adikwu Ebo Samuel, Abuja.

editorial

Friday, 16 October, 2015

Nigerian Tribune

The dismissal of DSS cadets

ECENTLY, sixty cadet officers undergoing training at the State Services Academy, Lagos, were dismissed via a letter dated 4 September, 2015, signed by one Mr. G.K. Mohammed on behalf of Mr. Lawal Musa Daura, the Director General of the Department of State Services. Although no reasons were given for the terminations that took immediate effect, media accounts claimed that they were dismissed for not meeting the basic entry requirements into the service. A screening was ordered by the service’s leadership following reports of anomalies that trailed their recruitment. The screening showed that the dismissed trainees did not meet the minimum service entry requirements including academic qualifications and physical fitness. It was also found that they were selected through “the back door” with undue influence of senior officials in the service who facilitated their recruitment into the DSS. The dismissed officers, who were part of about 430 personnel participating in the Cadet Officers Basic Course 28 of 2014 codenamed COBC28/2014, were expected to graduate as Senior Intelligence Officers after training. They joined the training programme in December 2014 and were expected to graduate on 1 October, 2015. Indeed, the officers were due for commissioning into the service as Senior Intelligence Officers (SIO) on October 26, 2015. Thus, they were served letters of dismissal about 30 days to the end of their 10-month training. What this implied is that they were rounding off the training programme when they were dismissed. The training at the academy, consists of practical experience at state commands of the DSS, exposure to sophisticated intelligence procedures and use of high calibre weapons, detonation of bombs and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). The training also involved foreign travels. The dismissed cadets have petitioned the Senate and the Human Rights Commission through their counsel, Clarence Yakubu Chambers. They alleged that their dismissal was unfair and that some of them were humiliated before then and during the screening process. They alleged that some women among the cadets were taken to a hall, asked to strip naked and were thoroughly searched for tattoos before being given dismissal letters. The process was described as traumatic, and amounted

to a violation of their fundamental human rights. Several issues arise from this event. The first is that DSS has problems with its recruitment policy. Given the sensitive and dangerous nature of the organisation’s duties, this is unacceptable. The organisation must therefore investigate the incident more systematically and make its findings public. It must provide convincing explanation to the dismissed cadets and the Nigerian public that the dismissals were justified. Second, that the DSS could not effectively manage recruitment is a mark of severe organisational weakness. This weakness probably explains former President Goodluck Jonathan’s declaration that Boko Haram had penetrated his government. With such weak recruitment arrangement, it is easy for it to be infiltrated by criminals, terrorists and spies from other countries. This portends grave danger for the nation’s security, especially intelligence gathering. Poor intelligence gathering has been a major bane of the counter-terrorism operation in the north east. Third, given that this cadets have acquired dangerous skills that they can make available to those who are willing to pay, dismissing them amounts to unleashing them on society. They could put their skills at the service of terrorists or criminals. In the context of rabid unemployment, they may be tempted to take to crime. With such skills they remain a danger to the public if not gainfully employed. Fourth, Nigeria has invested resources on these “cadets”. There must be some ways through which their skills could be put at the service of the country. The DSS must explore ways and means of redeploying them to service security. This could be done in conjunction with other security outfits in the public or private sectors. Fifth, the DSS must be cautious in its dealings with its trainees regarding their fundamental human rights. This is particularly so when anomalies are being investigated. There must be fair hearing and respect for the dignity of the individual. Lastly, we call on the Senate and the Human Rights Commission that have received the complaints of the “cadets” to carry out a timely and thorough investigation of the matter. It is in the interest of the public and the DSS to ensure that justice is done and future occurrence of such untoward situation is prevented.

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opinion Celebrating Kogi’s human capital development profile 20

Friday, 16 October, 2015

By Isah Ismail

HEN Kogi State was created in August 1991, there were over 27,000 civil servants that migrated from the old Kwara and Benue states. Of these were about 60 professionals and less than 10 non-professionals deployed as pioneer staff of the Government Printing Department in Lokoja. Of the nearly 70 employees of the Government Printing Department then, only about 7 of them were left in active service as of July 2015. Today the story has changed as 40 indigenes of Kogi State, including professional printers with robust industry experience have been employed to man the printing department which has been fully equipped to handle all government printing and even to receive commercial printing offers. This followed a proposal to the state Governor, Captain Idris Wada by the Commissioner for Information Hajiya Zainab Suleiman Okino whose leadership in the state ministry of information has resulted in a quantum leap in the affairs of the ministry hitherto regarded as moribund by civil servants and derided being posted there. The story is told of how a permanent Secretary was posted to the ministry of information and he never sat down for one day until he was posted out. Then, it could only be punishment for one to be posted to a ‘dry ministry’ like the ministry of information. The story of the State Printing Department is one of many that can be found in nearly every Ministry, Department and Agency where purposeful leadership has culminated in the rising profile of human capital development amidst dwindling financial resources of the state government. For example, there was the case of Benjamin Ogbodo who was a freelancer with the Graphic Newspaper for 9 years; Komolafe Aina, an auxiliary staff of Radio Kogi in Egbe; Innocent Yakubu, a first class graduate of electrical engineering. All three have been given full employment by the state government after their cases were presented to the government in response to vacancies at the Graphic newspaper and the state broadcasting corporation respectively. At the state Radio, there were people that had served as ad hoc staff for over

ten years before being offered employment by the present administration. YAD4KOGI Perhaps one of the most significant quick win of the Kogi state government under Capt. Idris Wada was the launch of the Youth Advancement and Development Programme christened YAD4KOGI. This youth empowerment programme was a frontal response to the negative phenomena of youth restiveness and thuggery in the state at the time. Through the programme, the Wada administration demonstrated uncommon capacity to redirect the capacity of otherwise wayward young people to productive engagements that have now given them a lifeline and a path to success in different facets of life. According to the Special Adviser to the Governor on Youth and Women development, Dr (Mrs) Temitope Sinkaiye, “once in every quarter we take up to 1000 youth to the Asaya Camp in Kabba for the programme aimed at addressing youth unemployment, mould their character to be disciplined and to be self-reliant and contribute to the growth of the society.” Many of the participants who have today become net employers of labour received training in different forms of trade and entrepreneurship and they have either been absorbed into the public works departments or presented with financial grants and starter packs for their businesses of choice. So far, over 10,000 people are said to have been trained under this programme.

KOICA The present administration also completed and inaugurated what has been described as the most modern vocational and technological training institute in Nigeria. The Nigeria-Korea Friendship Institute of Vocational Training and Advanced Technology, a joint project by the Korea International Cooperation Agency(KOICA) and the Kogi State Government, is seen as a game changer in technical and vocation educational training (TVET) in Nigeria. Speaking at the commissioning ceremony in Lokoja, the State Governor, Captain Idris Wada described the NigeriaKorea Friendship Institute of Vocational and Advanced Technology as a model for technical and technological training that is equipped to produce the best technical manpower to support industrial revolution in Kogi State, Nigeria and indeed the whole of Africa. The Governor who noted that the institute will broaden the technological skills of the youths in electrical engineering, automobile engineering, welding and fabrication, and information and communication technology said the successful completion of the project was the result of the political will and commitment of the government based on the understanding of the value of the project to the people of Kogi State. In a remark, the Principal of the Institute, Mr. Arome Gabriel noted that several indigenes of the state were sent to South Korea for training and industrial placements, preparatory to their engagement as instructors at the institute. He assured that the institute is now ready to take in its first of students in National Innovative Diploma upon accreditation by the National Board for Technical Education later this year. WOMEN EMPOWERMENT As part of efforts to enhance the welfare of women, the ministry of women affairs embarked on the distribution of empowerment kits and equipment to women in the 21 Local Government Areas in the state. The state also partnered with the Nestle PLC to distribute seed line to women to open gardens in their residential homes in order to meet immediate basic agricultural needs of the family. •Ismail sent this article from Kogi State.

Diaspora Nigerians and their parents’ agony By Bisi Olawunmi

FOR Nigerians in the Diaspora and their parents at home, the centre is no longer holding and things are falling apart. Many Diaspora Nigerians are lost in ‘paradise’ and their parents at home are marooned in agony. It is becoming a case of success turning sour, of unanticipated outcomes of what initially was a glamorous venture. The current dilemma of Diaspora Nigerians and their parents had not manifested at the beginning. In earlier times, the 1950s and 60s, it was a pride to have your child studying/living abroad - in ‘Ilu Oyinbo’ – the White man’s land - which then was mainly a reference to Britain, the initial destination of most Nigerians in search of the Golden Fleece. But it was just for the duration of their study and they generally returned home immediately on graduation. In Nigeria, at that time, life was good. The returning graduate had a pick of prestigious jobs in the civil service. That period, one cannot really talk of Diaspora Nigerians. That was then. Fast forward to the 1980s and 1990s, and you experience a different Nigeria where life was hard and nasty. Going abroad still remained prestigious, but there was the undertone of escape from the harsh economic realities. It was a conscious effort by parents to give their children options. Older generation of graduates from Britain sent their British born children back to the Queen’s country. A new foreign destination gained popularity – now, much of the movement was westwards, to the new El Dorado, the United States of America, and the focus of this presentation. Thousands of Nigerian youths sought university education in the U.S. and stayed back on graduation, getting sucked into the make-belief, promoted as The American Dream. Many of these students are now mature adults, raising their own families and practically disconnected from their native Nigerian roots, having spent the greater part of their lives in the Diaspora. Many left home as teenagers or in their early 20s and literally got bowled over by America’s glitz. Their parents, who were then mostly in their 40s and 50s, with financial clout and physical strength to visit regularly, are now ageing, even if many still have the financial ability, and are no longer enthusiastic in making unreciprocated visits

to their children. On their part, many of the children are not interested in visiting Nigeria, primarily because of the ugly stories of widespread violent crime and pervasive lawlessness. This perception makes Diaspora Nigerians in the U.S. wonder at my eagerness to return to Nigeria within three weeks each time I visit America. They are often amazed at my attitude that even if Nigeria is a jungle, it is still home. One must, however, concede to them that whatever might be the downside of living abroad, especially in the U.S., it is still basically an orderly society and violent crime is not as widespread. In his column in The Nation newspaper of October 1, 2015 titled : ‘Nigerian Diaspora families’ Prof. Jide Osuntokun, all of whose children are in the U.S., wrote about how demanding it is for him to visit them due to challenges of ageing and his adult children’s unwillingness to visit Nigeria. This typifies the lamentation of many home based parents. The former Nigerian ambassador to Germany said: “It is not very easy for me to get along with a situation where all my children are living abroad … In my case, I have to travel thousands of miles annually to see my children and their families at considerable cost to me physically and financially … My children and their spouses all work making it impossible when visiting to be catered for appropriately”. This is the frustration many parents face that even when visiting, at considerable cost, diaspora children often do not have the luxury of time to share company with them. As a foreign correspondent in Washington D.C. between 1985 and 1989, I had to create time, at great inconvenience, to show many visiting Nigerians round the city because their hosts were tied to tight work schedules. Elite parents like Prof. Osuntokun who can afford to visit their diaspora children are lucky. The agony is most grave for other less

privileged parents many of who never saw their diaspora children till they died. The pain, for parents of diaspora Nigerians, is felt most at festive periods – Eid-el- Kabir (Ileya), Christmas and New Year – when other parents receive their children and grandchildren for the celebrations. Material inducements have not swayed diaspora children to return home or even to visit. There is the case of a retired, wealthy Lagosian, with all his children in the U.S. who offered his diaspora medical doctor son a big duplex in the swank area of Surulere, Lagos to run his hospital, if he relocated. The son rejected the offer. Father and mother used to travel annually to see the children but at a point, the father stopped visiting when none of the children reciprocated their gesture. There was another who tried to lure his son home to come and take possession of his considerable landed property. The son declined, advising the father to bequeath them to charity!! A situation where many diaspora Nigerians are not married and others divorced, resulting mainly from the assertiveness of women with higher earning power, compounds parents’ agony. Not all parents of diaspora Nigerians are in lamentation. A few have their children visiting, occasionally. Many are compensated with remittances from their diaspora children which make life comfortable for them and other siblings. The $20 billion annual remittance by diaspora Nigerians offers lifeline to many families. Nigerians in the U.S work long, tedious hours and given the rigorous tax regime of IRS (Internal Revenue Service) and high cost of living, those sending remittances home are making a great sacrifice. And there are ageing, homesick diaspora Nigerians, generally fathers, many of who migrated under the U.S. visa lottery that are also in lamentation. While their parents are in agony at home, they are stranded in ‘paradise’ because their American born or naturalised children do not want to return home with them. They are stuck. The common refrain is: Hey, dad, you want to return to your country, good luck. Nigeria, to them, is their fathers’ country, not theirs! •Dr. Bisi Olawunmi is a Senior Lecturer at Bowen University, Iwo, Osun State and former Washington Correspondent of the News Agency of Nigeria. (NAN) Email: olawunmibisi@yahoo.com

Friday, 16 October, 2015

fridaytreat

Nigerian Tribune

Rotimi Ige rotimiige@yahoo.com 0811 695 4636

Darey

goes ‘Naked’ in new album >>INSIDE<<

How 21-year-old won brand new car in Ibadan Gulder Ultimate Chase

2face’s biography for public presentation on October 20

Music Business 101

Tips for music business success

Fun In Enugu, as Orijin storms Coal City Ali Baba, Dayo Amusa mesmerise Helen Paul’s students By Seyi Sokoya

T was an electrifying atmosphere in Enugu, when Orijin, from the stables of Guinness Nigeria, hosted the city to an exquisite party at the prestigious De dome indoor centre, Enugu. Spiced with lots of music and entertainment, famous disc jockey, DJ Neptune got guest grooving, while rave of the moment, Patoranking ensured the esteemed guests got nothing less than a spectacular performance with his superb rendition of ‘Alubarika’, Girlie o ‘remix’ and the latest club song ‘My woman’. The Enugu party is in line with the five city tour slated by the brand to herald its Orijin’s Orijinal Nite parties across the cities. In the next coming weeks, the party train will move Port Harcourt, Abuja, Oshogbo and Markudi. In addition to providing consumers with unforgettable experiences across the country, Orijin continues to satisfy numerous consumers across the Nigerian market.

ACE stand-up comedian, Ali Baba, Bayo Bankole and Yoruba actress cum producer, Dayo Amusa, were some of the personalities that added spice and glamour to the inaugural convocation ceremony of the Helen Paul Theatre and Film Academy, HPTFA, last weekend. During the event which commenced with a Glo-inspired green carpet, students of the institution dazzled the crowd with the scintillating presentation of ‘Life Burial’, a stage play written by Helen Paul. ‘Life Burial,’ according to Helen, is a story of repeated betrayal of love, endless forgiveness and a covetous girl in search of a life of the society’s high class. “It is only important that theater is used to correct the ills of the society. ‘Life Burial’, though a little altered from the way it has been written by me, portrays all of those issues. The Bretchian style has been used in the directorial approach with little elements of realism altogether to aid the understanding of the play.” The cast of the play include Olowofela

Johnson, Ntoka Francis, Rafiu Okiri, Mercy Ndubuisi, David Okunola, Obiazi Onyemechi, Aduke Oladapo and Christopher Isibor to mention a few. Ali Baba, who was thrilled by the performance, promised to sponsor the second public presentation of the play at the Terra Kulture in December, a kind gesture that was greeted with loud cheers from the audience. Helen said ‘Life Burial’ is inspired by happenstances at a burial ceremony she was contracted to anchor somewhere in Ibadan, southwest Nigeria, some years ago. The event was heralded by a lot of side attractions, which included a novelty football match between students of HPTFA and their counterparts at the Lagos State University’s Theatre-Arts Department. “The whole idea is to give them (the students) a memorable experience. Let them have fun and at the same time learn from the A-list entertainers who were on ground to give them career talk and also share success tips with them,” the Globacom ambassador enthused.

fridaytreat

Friday, 16 October, 2015

Nigerian Tribune

How 21-year-old won brand new car in Ibadan Gulder Ultimate Chase

The contestants queuing for registration

The contestants ready to race

Off they go!

Some were not so fast

Some needed assistance...

The search for the treasure map was intense

The lucky ones rushed to the gate keeper

Only one, Charles Ozoalor, found the ‘Golden box’

Charles receiving the keys to a brand new car from top officials from Nigerian Breweries

By Rotimi Ige

HE Gulder Ultimate Chase competition for fans and youths, which is currently been held at various cities across Nigeria, landed in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital last Saturday. The event, tagged ‘Ultimate promo’ has been rewarding thousands of Nigerians in the last few weeks with the luckiest, in every state, smiling home with brand new cars. As early as 7 a.m, the Lekan Salami stadium was besieged by hopefuls who thronged the venue in search of fortune. From Friday Treat findings, many even came from other states, as far as Enugu, Niger and Abuja, among other states. That was the experience of Ndubisi Uchendu, an undergraduate of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, studying Electronics and Computer engineering, who came all the way from Awka to contest the Ultimate Chase in Ibadan, having lost out in the Enugu and Port Harcourt trials. In a chat with Friday Treat, he said, ‘I contested the Gulder Ultimate Search last year but couldn’t scale through the auditions. At that time, we were even having exams in my school but as I was determined to win theN10 million naira, I chose to attend the auditions instead. At the auditions, my inexperience cost me dearly. I tried my best but I lost out. As God would have it, I was still able to rewrite my exams and I passed. However, I was not deterred because I always believe that I am a winner. So, when I heard that the Gulder Ultimate promo was holding this year, I was overjoyed. I have contested at Enugu and Port Harcourt and failed

Charles in his new car to win the ultimate prize. I have learnt from my mistakes and I am now in Ibadan to try my luck”. Asked how he would feel if he didn’t win, he replied, “Benin is next abi? Then I will be there again to try to win. I will not stop till I win that car”. At the end of the Ibadan trials, where contestants were tested for endurance by running/walking from the Lekan Salami Stadium to the Trans-Amusement Park, Agbowo, Charles Ozoalor from Enugu State, not Ndubisi won the ultimate prize of the Hyundai Elantra car. Contestants in the Ibadan leg of the Gulder Ultimate Chase had to run to the Trans Amusement Park, after which they would retrieve two different scrolls from 500 boxes. They had to choose between getting the instant gift items and forfeiting the opportunity of winning the brand new Hyundai Elantra or opting for the opportunity of winning the car and waiving their ownership of the gift items found in the boxes. Charles emerged winner in Ibadan, after hotly contesting the Enugu and Port Harcourt trials. According to the 21-year-old law undergraduate of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, he was a box away from

the ultimate prize in Enugu and Port Harcourt, but had kept training under harsh conditions in order to prepare himself for Ibadan. According to him, “I got to the final stages in both Enugu and Port Harcourt but somehow, I missed the box with the car key. From there, I resolved to try Ibadan. My parents were very supportive. When I informed them of my proposed trip to Ibadan, they prayed for me and encouraged me to do more to win. To the glory of God, here I am with the car key”. When questioned about the secret of his success, he said, “I usually jog every morning as a form of exercise so running far distances is no bother to me. My determination also fuelled my ambition to win the ultimate prize in Ibadan. I travelled to Ibadan from Enugu two days before the event and made sure that I jogged long distances in the sun to prepare myself. I am happy that my perseverance paid off”. Also speaking on what he intends to do with the car, he said, ”My father is a lecturer and my mum is a teacher. My siblings are mostly working and we have a pool of about three cars at home. So, this car is mine to rock campus with. However, whenever they need to use it, I will give it to them”. Charles’s testimony, according to those who witnessed the competition, was one of determination and perseverance, core values of Gulder. After competing in Enugu and in Port Harcourt and failing, his determination to succeed brought him to Ibadan where his dreams were realised. The Ibadan leg of the competition brings the total number of cars already won by lucky consumers to six, with nine more still up for grabs in Nigeria’s biggest National Consumer Promotion.

Friday, 16 October, 2015

society

...celebrating the people

@ 60th Birthday bash of Alhaja (Mrs) Dayo Buluro

The chairman of the occasion, Dr Taofiq Salisu (left) and Senator Gbenga Kaka.

Celebrant flaked by her children and grandchildren; Omolara, Abisola, Funmi, Pappy and Damilola to cut the cake.

The celebrant, Alhaja Dayo Buluro, assisted by her husband, Alhaji Abiodun Buluro to cut From left, First Registrar NIPR, Dr Adekunle Salu, Alhaja Taibat her birthday cake. Adetona and Mrs Adewumi Adesanya.

From left, Alhaja Amidat Anifowoshe, Mrs Toyin Balogun, celebrantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mother, Alhaja Aminat Balogun and Mr Kunle Balogun.

Mr Wale Balogun and Mr Adeniyi Balogun.

Nigerian Tribune

For Booking, contact Alaba Igbaroola alabaadewale01@gmail.com 08155975474

Friday, 16 October, 2015

Darey goes ‘Naked’ in new album

fridaytreat By Toyin Adeniji

2face’s biography for public presentation on October 20 THE story of Innocent ‘2face’ Idibia’, the biography of Nigerian pop icon 2face will finally be released on Tuesday October 20, 2015. The book launch, according to NET publisher and Idibia’s former publicist, Ayeni Adekunle, will hold at Terra Kulture, in Lagos. The 460-paged book will contain a wide range of materials on Idibia’s life and times, including accounts from his mother, his wife, siblings, colleagues and mentors. It will also contain selected lyrics and discography, as well as editorial materials dating as far back as 2005. The biography, done in commemoration of the singer’s 40th birthday, is a first-of-its-kind for any pop star in Idibia’s category, and the first by any contemporary Nigerian media platform. Fully funded and edited by NET News, owners of Newsroom, Thenetng, Orin, NECLiveand Star, the biography is part of the NET Book Series, a dedicated project to document an important era in Nigeria’s creative industry. ‘It’s the first of many’, Ayeni says. Already confirmed for Idibia’s book launch are the duo of Tee A and Ali Baba who will serve as event host and book reviewer respectively. The event will also feature a live conversation between book editor Ayeni Adekunle and 2face Idibia. In an emotional tribute to be featured in the book, Idibia’s wife Annie writes ‘Innocent is an extraordinary being. I remember when we were so young. He was 24, I was 15.

And I still see the same man when I look at him…’ Journalist, Olumide Iyanda who pens the foreword says of the singer: ‘…he never rose to a level he could not sustain. Many have come and gone since year 2000. But 2face is still setting an agenda for what and entertainer should look and sound like. He is proof that patience and true love pays.’ The man who gave him his first gig, Edi Lawani, describes 2face as a ‘multi-dimensional man whose life defies definite analysis. He is an immensely blessed person, almost unfairly gifted…’ And confirming the character trait many already attest to, his manager Efe Omorogbe says ‘he’s never said something to me that I found to be untrue. People often suggest that he is gullible and easy to manipulate. But they have no clue. It’s hard to get him to do what he isn’t sold on- make no mistake; the frail-looking, happy-go-lucky, ‘unserious’ guy can be tough as nails when he chooses to be…’ Idibia himself, in a rare interview published in the book says ‘I come from a poor background. Poor in the sense of money, not in spirit…’ The 2face Idibia biography is the second instalment in NET’s Book Series, following the publication of Chris Ihidero’s ‘Wanderings of a Rapidly Degenerating Mind’ earlier this year. The book project is projected to replace the company’s weekly print newspaper which has in recent times been epileptic and is already scheduled to go off the stands later this month.

#DareyNaked: Sound Sultan, Waje, Gideon Okeke, Eldee, Ayo Makun, Linda Ejiofor, others share touching stories Following a week of nostalgia and memories on his social media pages, Darey posted a “Naked” photo of himself on Instagram, which quickly went viral and generated thousands of reactions. On the picture caption, he commented that being Naked is not just about nudity, but also about being honest, being vulnerable and being real. He urged his friends and fans to share their own #Naked stories and a number of Nigerian celebrities took up the challenge. See stories below: Waje “I remember one of my first stage performances as an artist, PK gardens Enugu. Peter and Paul were the headline acts, well, I had done a remake of their song Omoge mi and the crowd not knowing what this brothers were up to enjoyed screaming the lyrics back to them. Suddenly the music stopped and they introduced me to sing my version. Crowd was skeptical about cheering the WAJE girl till I opened my lungs the rest is history. My naked truth is that I was given an opportunity to lung out my voice and shout back my lyrics #darenaked” Linda Ejiofor “Fame comes a lot of expectations and perfection is one of them. Everyone believes your life is 100 per cent perfect because this job requires a smile every time the camera is turned on. But behind every famous “put together” celebrity is a vulnerable #Naked person. Take away the pretty clothes and we all have one thing in common. I’m just as human as you. Own your true self. You’re perfect in your imperfection” Gideon Okeke “The NAKED Truth is...if you ever believe you can or can’t... either ways, you’re right! My journey humbles me DAILY! From the “backside” of Lagos, all I had were DREAMS, a Box Television set and a Transistor radio. Those were my VISA and Air ticket to Eldorado. Today, the Grace of God confirms that your start off point doesn’t determine your future. I may never be able to divorce myself from my past, my inadequacies, my insecurities, my shortcomings. But dear child...those are the things that make me UNIQUE! I AM A STORY! I AM GOD’S TESTIMONY! I AM LARGE!” Ayo Makun “Sometimes I feel naked without my parents being around today. Though we were poor, but there was no giving up in making sure we got a proper training. Our nakedness they covered with character, sense of responsibility, peace and love. I wish they were here to reap the fruit of their labour. #DareyNaked”

MUSIC BUSINESS 101

Importance of working with genuine professionals in music business

T R&B superstar, Darey has dropped his long-awaited 5th studio album titled ‘Naked’. The album is a raw musical expression which strips away pretense and exposes the very depth of Darey’s musical essence and emotions. Featuring a smooth fusion of R&B, Afrobeat and Soul, the critically acclaimed album brings together stellar production work, deep and insightful musical arrangement and Darey’s signature vocals into one raw musical expression which strips away pretense and exposes the very depth of Darey’s musical essence and emotions. According to Darey, “From the start of this recording project, my plan was to create music that will connect with people on a deep personal level, stand the test of time and still be fun. The whole album is a journey that I hope my fans enjoy. Over the course of my career, I have recorded hundreds of songs but I can truthfully say that what I feel is the best music I have recorded in my life is on this album. “Naked” is more than just an album title. It encapsulates everything that I wanted this album to be about. I wanted my fans to get to know me and feel me in a very close and personal way. I feel that the music on this album brings out what I wanted it to and I can’t wait for my fans to get their hands on it.” The 13-track album features collaborations with Asa, Olamide and Soweto Gospel Choir with superb masterful production work from Oscar Heman-Ackah and some additional input from Cobhams Asuquo, Vtek and Dare Art Alade.

Rotimi Ige rotimiige@yahoo.com 0811 695 4636 twitter: @rotifizzle twitter: @fridaytreat

HE importance of working with professionals in the quest to succeed in the music business can never be overemphasised. If you want to see and go farther in the music business, you must learn to leverage on the knowledge, wisdom and experience of genuine music industry experts. The wisdom and experience that a music industry expert can bring into the career of a developing act can help such artiste/musician learn in months, what could take ten years of sweats, trial and error approach to know. For instance, having the wisdom and experience of a professional image consultant can help an artiste to quickly forge a brand identity that is compatible with the artiste’s career goals early in their career, because audience knows what they are seeing long before they know what they are hearing. Gaining mastery over your art or refining your musical and artistic talent is best achieved with the support of industry professionals. There is no great athlete without a great coach who not only helps to bring out, but to nurture and perfect the potential in the athlete into a masterpiece. I strongly believe that having a competent management team to nurture, groom and develop a talent early in its potential stage can greatly facilitate the metamorphosis process of a potential musical talent to a masterpiece. The beginning of every musical career is crucial as the foundation laid at that stage will determine the ultimate future destiny of the artiste. Many of the world’s greatest artistes/ musicians had great musical foundations laid by consummate professionals who nurtured them to become the legends they are today. Several of our celebrated and over-hyped artistes in the Nigerian music industry are still unrefined talents at best described as “superstars in a state of potential”. They are yet to become all that they can be musically and artistically speaking. We have seen at different times some of these celebrated artistes/musicians pale out of significance on international stages alongside other acts with superior global music industry standard exposure and grooming. This is major fallout of the digital do-it-yourself generation that prioritises the commoditisation of music over musical professionalism. There is more to the art of stage performance than what audience see. There is a science and art to the processes of developing stage presence; standing, sitting,

Artiste to watch By Blessing Obuaku

walking, dancing, microphone techniques, body gestures and confidence as seen and exuded on stage by world renowned artistes/musicians are learned and mastered. Hundreds of hours of practice under the supervision of relevant music industry experts were invested into the development of most legends of live music performance. The difference between the truly great international acts and our local acts is more than just talent; it is in the access they have to experts and professionals in the industry who helped them refined and groomed their talent for global success. Live music is the livewire of the new music economy. Without sounding too critical, there are very few acts in the Nigerian music industry that can really hold down and command a live performance like a real music professional. Sometimes, it is better listening to their CD recordings than witnessing them perform live on stage because they do not understand that there is a world of difference between a performance in a studio for a record, and the performance of the same recording in a live concert context. Having access to a live performance coach for instance, will help an artiste to know that a studio performance and a live performance are not the same. The live performance coach will help to re-arrange and re-interpret a studio recording for a live performance context in such a way that the artiste can re-present a familiar song in a fresh, inviting and unfamiliar manner to the delight of audience and fans who expects more than the value they get from listening to your CD in the comfort of their cars or home in a live concert. Another area in which I emphatically recommend for developing and established acts to work with experts, and never to compromise on or handle with levity is in the area of negotiating and signing agreements/contracts. The language of a contract or any legal document is to-

C.O Love

...As Sogigun turns 50

WHO is C O Love? I am fondly called C.O Love but my real name is Obuaku Cornelius Love. I am a native of Enugu State. I am a gospel artiste and a dynamic worship leader. So far, I have one album to my credit.

Do you get support from your parents? At the beginning, my parents were not in support of me choosing to do music professionally. But, at some point, they saw the passion I had for music, so they had no choice afterall. Today, they are my number one fans.

Early life and educational background? I grew up in Ogun State. I spent my childhood days in Abeokuta where I had both primary and secondary education. I am a graduate of sociology from the university of Ilorin, Kwara State. I also have diploma in musicology from Rivers of Life music school.

Your experience in the industry? I have served in churches as music director and as a worship leader. My experience has been beautiful, challenging and inspiring. Having to minister in worship concerts, in and outside my church setting. Seeing lives changed, saved, healed and transformed each time I stand to minister in music is my focus and has been my experience.

When and how did you first become interested in music? Also, how long have you been singing? I grew up from a church and a home where music is loved and appreciated. My mother was a member of the choir at our local church. I have been singing from childhood; from the children’s choir, youth choir, I was also in a group in my church at a time. My passion for music grew over the years and as a music director and worship leader, I decided to do music professionally eight years ago. Who are your role models? Firstly, God. But, I am inspired by other gospel artistes in Nigeria; Nathaniel Bassey, Eben, Frank Edward. Also, Mick stampley, Fred Hammond.

tally beyond the comprehension and interpretation of a non-legal layman. You need the services of an experienced entertainment lawyer and legal counsel before you negotiate or sign any agreement with anyone. Due to the harsh economic situation in the country and unrealistic expectations about the music business by young talents seeking fame, many talented acts have been cheated and their innocence and ignorance taken advantage of by unscrupulous elements in the music business who are out to profit at the expense of their unsuspecting victims. Working with the right legal professional early on in your music career can help fast-track your success while avoiding the many pitfalls along the music industry path. At the end of the day, what sets you apart and builds your legacy as a professional artiste/musician is the mastery of your art. True mastery is not attained without the support of professionals who have the experience, knowledge and expertise on the subject. No man can exist or succeed in isolation, we are all products of our cultural environment, everything we know is taught to us from the repertoire of collective human knowledge from birth till death. If you want to build a successful and sustainable career in the music business without having to toil, wander or fall about aimlessly, it pays to leverage on the expertise of relevant music industry professionals to build your dream career in the music business. Check the track-record of any professional in the music industry that you desire to work with, be sure that they have the requisite training, qualification, certification or experience required before engaging their services. One way to get relevant professionals to work with is through referrals from trusted sources. Building relationships and networking with music industry personalities can help connect you with relevant industry experts who can help you develop your music career.

Tell us about the response you got from your last album? The responses where beyond my expectation. They were a source of encouragement to me. I got an award in Abeokuta as best worship leader of the year 2014, I was also nominated at the Dove awards 2014 as best upcoming gospel act 2014. My song ‘Onikikoke’ also enjoyed air play on radio and television. What next are fans expecting from you? I am currently working on my second album. It has in it, collaborations with some top gospel artistes. I have already dropped a single track ‘You Alone’, which is currently enjoying air play in some radio stations, and on social media. I am also set to drop my new video and two more tracks before the year ends.

ONE of the versatile radio presenters in the southwest part of the country, Bisi Muraina Ajiboye, popularly called sogigun joined the golden age during the week. The Ora-Igbomina in Osun State born broadcaster used the occasion to appreciate the almighty Allah as he invited Islamic scholars to his residence to offer thanks and prayers to him for sparing his life in the last 50 years. Ajiboye, who is also into book writing and Corporate Master of Ceremony, is the immediate past chairman of the Freelance Boadcasters Association of Nigeria (FIBAN), Ondo State chapter and Director of Publicity, Association of Nigerian Author (ANA). Among the books that the erudite yoruba presenter has to his credits are Adunni Iyaloja, Alabi Onikoko, Lanleyin, Iru Eja, Ejika Ijoba (44 lessons of 2015 elections) and Ewu l’eniyan 2015. Sogigun hss also been recognised for his contributions to the growth of yoruba language with awards which include the Yoruba Eminent Award (Culture & Book) 2007, Amu-Asa Ile Yoruba (Yoruba Students Adeyemi College of Education, Ondo) 2012, Leadership Award (Citymovers magazine) 2012, Leadership Award (Premier Circle of Nigeria -Ibadan) 2009, Good Citizen of Nigeria (GCON), Bold magazine (2015).

Friday, 16 October, 2015

travelpulse&m.i.c.e

’Wale Olapade 08161235359 wale11g3@gmail.com Winner, Nmma, Tourism Reporter Of The Year

We need thinkers to develop our country, not Europeans —Prof Femi-Pearse

Professor of Medicine and distinguished entrepreneur, Deji Femi-Pearse, founder of the Whispering Palms, a resort centre in Badagry, Lagos State, in this interview with Olaronke Jaiyeola, speaks on his passion for and foray into the tourism industry away from hospital theatre and on the state of the nation. Excerpts:

eing a Professor of medicine from the University of Lagos, what spurred you into establishing a resort centre? In 1980, I was to be provost of the College of Medicine\LUTH Chief Medical Director and at that time, I became acting Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos. I was under a lot of pressure, running three jobs. It then became obvious I needed to have a retreat. I had always thought of having one and had told my wife that we must have a retreat for ourselves in a serene environment which should be close to nature—water and palms; and that stimulated me to search for land near water here in Badagry, which I had always loved. In 1981, I drove outside Lagos to look for such a land. We initially meant the resort for ourselves only, but later, decided to allow Nigerians share the wonderful experience of the centre with us and in 1985, it became a picnic place. The vision evolved and in 1990, we built the first 10room chalet, which had expanded over the years. Today, we have 102 rooms. Finally, having joggled my passion with my medical practice for the next 5-6 years, in 1999, I stopped practising medicine, because I needed to rest and I relocated permanently to Whispering Palms, where I live till date with my lovely wife. How supportive had your wife been to your vision? My wife had been supportive of my vision. In 1981, she did not see my craziness, but supported me. With her cooperation, we got to where we are today. You know if it were to be some women, they would see my decision to quit medicine for uncertainty as something crazy and would not have followed me. What’s your life philosophy? One has to work very hard and rest, so as to be able to do the work. One of the failures of Nigerian leaders is that they don’t rest. And without rest, there will be no invention, dream, innovation, thus leading to underdevelopment of the nation. If we had and appreciated leisure, a president or governor will come and relax here, have room to think and re-fire for governance at its best. From your experience, how will you rate tourism in Nigeria; how much acceptance has it got? Tourism in Nigeria, I must say, is a different business considering challenges this kind of business is faced with on a daily basis. These ranges from poor infrastructure, inadequate electricity supply, bad road network, inadequate/lack of water supply to insecurity. For example, a place like this (Whispering Palms) should be under police protection/surveillance, whereas it is the duty of the state to provide such. In other climes, such is in place, with the state itself protecting us. VIP police protection is a signal to corruption in Nigeria, which government should look into. It is a tragedy and disgrace. Tourism will grow when security becomes better; expatriates will feel safer to explore. When security is right, tourism will thrive. What are your dreams for Whispering Palms? I look forward to having kitchen farms, where we will grow carrot, cucumber, lettuce, vegetables to give visitors to adorn their meals; just same way we welcome our visitors here with coconut drinks. Also, we want to construct a walk way on the water, which definitely will be exciting for visitors. In addition, we are working on building an annex so as to serve more people as they come for retreat.

On the whole, it’s been a crazy project, but had given us lots of satisfaction, which is key to us. At 83, are you thinking of succession plans? Yes, I had already started the process, with my first daughter taking over. As we speak, she is in charge and there had been no regret whatsoever. We started the succession plan two years ago and she had been running things well, even in my absence (I was in the United States for some time). I wish other Nigerians in business could start thinking succession early in life. Succession should be at all chain levels. Consideration should be given to who succeeds who? Planning for succession will make African companies live longer; the place should run even in the event of death of its owner. Lack of succession plans help expatriates catch up with us.

Professor Femi-Pearse

How profitable is resort centre business? Profitability is hard to measure due to lack of infrastructure. The tragedy in Nigeria is that small businesses must have generators to run their businesses, but we thank God because this centre had been able to fund itself. The future should be bright, because Nigerians will always want to relax. More so, thinking comes from introspection and relaxation, in order to oil the brain power properly.

What’s your take on the state of the nation? Nigeria has remained backwards because because of corruption and stealing by public office holders. I believe eradication of corruption would be difficult, but it can be minimised, if our public office holders will stop abusing the fact that they are in public offices. Severe punishment should be for deviants, as governance is sacred. Previous governments had been supporting corruption because their had been no punishment for past offenders. It will be an overwhelming task for President Muhammadu Buhari, because corruption had become a culture. It’s way too deep, but government must also respond by punishing offenders. What is the philosophy of of our political parties? Chief Obafemi Awolowo, in his time, said free education for all at all levels. He had something to pronounce, but these ones have nothing to pronounce. Most of our leaders don’t want to think, let alone handle projects. Awo was a thinking leader; that was why he was able to handle all he did. We need thinkers to develop our country, not Europeans.

Ethiopian Airlines wins CAPA Airline of the Year Award THE largest, fastest growing and most profitable airline in Africa, Ethiopian Airlines, has won one of the top airline awards, the CAPA Airline of the Year Award, at the 2015 CAPA Aviation Awards for Excellence, held on October 7, 2015 in Helsinki as part of CAPA’s 2015 World Aviation Summit. CAPA - Centre for Aviation (formerly the Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation) is the leading provider of independent global expertise in aviation market intelligence, analysis and data services covering worldwide developments. The CAPA awards for Excellence are independently researched by CAPA and Heidrick & Struggles and selected by an independent International panel of judges. Ethiopian was selected by the judging panels for its ability to establish pan-African operations and thrive in an increasingly important emerging market; being the biggest standout strategically during the year and emerging as the leader in Africa with a pioneering strategy, which has the greatest impact on the development of the airline industry thereby establishing itself as a leader, providing a benchmark for others to follow. In his remarked at the award dinner, Mr Tewolde GebreMariam, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines said, “I am humbled to be honored with this prestigious award of CAPA Airline of the Year which is

a demonstration and recognition of our fast and continuous growth, outstanding performance and our Pan-African stance in bringing Africa together and closer to the world. “I wish to thank CAPA and the panel of judges for recognising our contribution in serving Africa and our contribution to the development of the African Aviation. The award goes, first and foremost, to the more than 9000 employees at Ethiopian who are working hard dayin and day-out and managed to make our beloved airline the leading, fast growing and the most profitable airline in Africa, despite the uniquely challenging operating environment prevailing in the continent. “It is also a testimony of the remarkable success of our Vision 2025 fast, profitable and sustainable growth strategy. The award is also a testimony of the success of our business model, which is the diversified aviation business and which will make Ethiopian the Leading Aviation Group in Africa by 2025. “We will continue our leadership in the African Aviation industry and connecting mother Africa with its major global trading centers. “We currently offer an extensive network, ideal connectivity options which guarantee the fastest and the shortest travel time between any destinations in the continent of Africa and to all 90+ of our global destinations as convenient as possible.”

Friday, 16 October, 2015 Group Politics Editor Taiwo Adisa - 08072000046 tai_adis@yahoo.com

The Senate on Tuesday commenced the screening of prospective ministers forwarded to the Chamber on September 30, breaking some conventions and traditions. From a slow, jerky and anxious point, the Senators appear to be settling in to the assignment at hand. Group Politics Editor, TAIWO ADISA, who has been monitoring the process, reports.

HEN he visited the Ikenne home of the Sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo to commiserate with the family on the demise of the matriarch, Chief HID Awolowo, in Ogun State, the President of the Senate, Bukola Saraki raised the expectations of Nigerians on the ongoing screening of prospective ministers. It was the Saturday preceding the Tuesday screening and Saraki clearly said that the procedure would not be business as usual. Before then, Senate spokesman, Dino Melaye, had also told Nigerians that the screening would jettison the bow and go culture and apply the thoroughness that Nigerians expect. He gave out all the other conditions that should be met in the screening process. Saraki had said: “It is not going to be business as usual. What I can assure you is that we will go with the constitution, the rules, we will put Nigeria first. The screening will be done with a high level of seriousness and what we are all about is our constitutional responsibility to ensure that we find people who are fit enough to be Ministers and particularly this time, to give President Buhari the support he requires. “It is not about who you like or who you don’t like and I want to assure Nigerian that will not be the basis, it will be based on the constitution and based on ability and our own assessment of capacity of the nominees to perform. And I assure you that individual differences would not be an issue at all, and we have spoken with senators and told them that. At this moment of time, we have made sure that as much as possible, we share with the public, we try to ensure that all we be covered live so that everybody can see, we will all be screening from our bedrooms and sitting rooms as well along with the senators. You’re rest assured that we will do a good job Nigerians would be proud of.” But as soon as Saraki spoke, discordant tunes started creeping in. first some senators granted media interviews to discredit the conditions spelt out by Dino Melaye in his media briefing on Thursday October 8. He had briefed newsmen in respect of the two hour-closed session the senators had that day ahead of the screening process. It was the first time the Senate would be showcasing a divided house in respect of a closed session. Closed sessions and executive sessions are usually the strongholds of the chamber, where issues are resolved quietly. The contents of the sessions are not to be divulged to non-senators and only the spokesman of the Senate is allowed to brief journalists on the agreed issues.

Saraki

The untold story behind ministerial screening

But the first shock find for watchers of the National Assembly was the discovery that a Principal Officer of the Senate, Senator Sola Adeyeye, in a newspaper interview dissociated himself from the submissions made on behalf of the chamber by Melaye. He also appeared on an NTA programme, Good Morning Nigeria, in which he further reinforced that position, insisting that the senate spokesman apparently lied. He insisted that there was no decision as to nominees securing the backing of at least two senators from their states before screening. Adeyeye had told a newspaper: “I was at the executive session. Senate didn’t take that decision. What l can tell you authoritatively is that Senate didn’t take that decision

that two or three senators must support a nominee before he can be confirmed. “What we only resolved was that it would be nice that nominees coming for screening should reach out to all senators, including those from their states, to sell themselves and put themselves forward to be confirmed. It was not decided that if two senators do not support a nominee he will not be confirmed. “All l can say is that you should speak to other senators to confirm what l am telling you. Go and speak to Senators Emmanuel Bwacha and Kabiru Marafa. They are honest people. Several senators have called me and said that such a decision was not taken. In fact, I also called the Senate President

It was the first time the Senate would be showcasing a divided house in respect of a closed session. Closed sessions and executive sessions are usually the strongholds of the chamber, where issues are resolved quietly. The contents of the sessions are not to be divulged to non-senators…’

to express my alarm at what I considered a misrepresentation of the deliberation and decision of the Senate. “By the way, a constituent informed me earlier this evening that Senator Melaye has subsequently modified the summary of our deliberation.” Another Senator Umaru Kurfi, who represents Katsina Central on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) said that while the convention is there that nominees must secure the backing of at least two of their Senators, lawmakers ought to rise above local politics. He said: “Yes, by convention, it is in the Senate rules. But we need to review them. All politics is local. Because some people are defeated in their local politics, they can bring it to the Senate. The fact that it is a convention does not mean we cannot ignore it. Nothing is permanent. Even the constitution, we amend it. So, the rule can change. Any rule of the Senate can change. Some people even amended Senate rules. If you are saying it is a convention, it can be changed. “As far as we are concerned, we can tell our colleagues that whatever can cause problem, we should do away with it. “Nobody said two senators must support you to be cleared. It is just like if you want to carry out an impeachment, you must have two-thirds. Whenever people want to bring local problem to the Senate, we will say no. That was not what we agreed. It is only what continues pg29

28 politics&policy

Fashola

As the nation awaits further confirmation of the remaining ministerial nominees, TUNDE BUSARI x-rays the pedigrees of some of the ministers-designate.

T was a case of different strokes for different ministerial nominees. The initial tick cloud that had hanged in the eye soon thawed like ice under tropical sun. Yet, it was no easy passage for some of the nominees as they were literally stretched beyond limit. For a number of the entire 18 nominees that were confirmed as ministers-designate by the Senate on Wednesday, they spent less than 20 minutes during screening. They were either asked to bow and go or to respond to harmless questions posed by a couple of senators. However, it was a different kettle of fish for a few other nominees, who were put on the spot for between 45 minutes and more than one hour a a couple of instances. One of these who fell into this category include former governor of Lagos State, Mr Babatunde Fashola (SAN), who was grilled for more than an hour, beginning from about 11.54 pm. Next was the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC)< Dr Ibe Kachikwu. Lieutenant General Abdulrahman Bello Dambazzau, who took his turn after Fashola, was equally subjected to seriously frilling that stretch over time. During the previous day, a former governor of Ekiti State, Dr Kayode Fayemi had spent about 45 minutes, whereas other nominees like Dr Ogbonnaya Onu, Senator Udoma Udo Udoma passed through screening less than 20 minutes and asked to bow and go. Having scaled the major hurdle of screening and confirmation by the Senate, President Muhammadu Buhari is expected to assign portfolios to the ministers-designate, an exercise which might not be immediate because the pending of other nominees for screening. Already, the political space is awash with speculations and permutations in respect of what, why and where the ministers-designate might be assigned as regards ministries. They will be required to act as a collective pivot in the policies and programmes of the present administration,

Onu

Friday, 16 October, 2015

Fayemi

Ngige

Between experience and youthfulness

which has relied on permanent secretaries to drive the machinery of government since May 29, 2015. Some of the ministers-designate include familiar names mostly within the political circle., while others look new. Their names evoke passion and hope in one hand and suspense in the other. Some names from the first batch of the 21 ministerial nominees already confirmed are: Ogbonnaya Onu From being the governor of old Abia State in 1992, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu has witnessed has witnessed a meteoric rise in his political career. Coming from a zone with the preponderance of loyalists to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), he had kept faith with the opposition All Npeoples Party (APP), now All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), even after a failed attempt to grab its presidential ticket. He rose to the position of the party’s national chairman, which is one of the principal partners in the APC. He once was quoted as saying: “I have always believed that we should not have a one-party system in the country and that is why I never changed and it is very difficult to be in the opposition particularly if you have risen to a certain level.” He holds a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Chemical Engineering from the Uni-

versity of California, Berkeley, California, USA. He taught at the University of Port Harcourt as the pioneer Head of the Department of Chemical Engineering among other positions in the university. He was the first executive governor of Abia State from February 1992 to December 1993 an office he brought tremendous charisma to.

Senator Chris Ngige Senator Chris Ngige was born in 1952. He was a trained medical doctor at the University of Nigeria, Nzukka in 1979. After his youth service, he entered the civil service until 1998 when he retired as a deputy director in the Federal Ministry of Health. From May 29, 2003 to March 17, 2006, Ngige was the governor of Anambra State under the People Democratic Party (PDP). He had a running battle with some influential members of the party, a development which cost the state its peace as he was kidnapped. He later dumped PDP and joined the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) under which platform he contested for the Senate seat for Anambra Central constituency in 2011. The late Director-General of National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Professor Dora Akunyili of the All Progressives Alliance (APGA) had a keen contest with

I have always believed that we should not have a one-party system in the country and that is why I never changed and it is very difficult to be in the opposition particularly if you have risen to a certain level.

him but Ngige triumphed with 69,765 votes against Akunyili’s 69, 292. Ngige failed to return to the senate at the 2015 elections as the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC). He was defeated by Hon. Uche Ekwunife of APGA. Regardless of his loss at polls, he still played a key role in selling the APC to the South East electorate. He organised a couple of meetings with leaders of the geo-political zone with a view to securing their support for President Muhammadu Buhari’s candidacy. Although he could not change the mind of the people, most of whom had long pledged their allegiance with the former President Goodluck Jonathan and PDP, his efforts are acknowledged and his political profile boosted among the progressive elements in all zones. Babatunde Raji Fashola The widely acclaimed sterling performance Babatunde Raji Fashola recorded between 2007 and 2015 as the Governor of Lagos State warmed him to the hearts of many including a section of the opposition parties. The recent news alleging that Fashola might not be as clean as he is perceived seems not to have removed his positive image in the memory of the public. Born in June 28, 1963 in Lagos, Fashola attended Birch Freeman High School and Igbobi College, both in Lagos State. He obtained a Bachelor of Law at the University of Benin after which he was called to bar in 1988. He was thereafter into private practice until the former Governor of Lagos State, Senator Bola Tinubu offered him an appointment as his Chief of Staff to the governor in 2003, a position he brilliantly held to the satisfaction of his principal. Against public expectation, Fashola emerged as the candidate of the then Action Congress and eventually won the 2007 governorship election to succeed Tinubu. He successfully handed over power to incumbent Governor continues pg30

29 politics&policy

Friday, 16 October, 2015

Ekweremadu

Adeyeye

Melaye

What manner of screening? continued from pg27

is written in the Bible or Quran that cannot be changed. Where we have problem is local politics and we try to say to our colleagues, drop it. This is not local politics. This is Senate.” Some other senators however have different views of the submissions made by Melaye. Former Senate spokesman, Enyinnaya Abaribe said on Channels Television on Tuesday that Melaye was actually not wrong. He said that his understanding was that his colleagues were thriving on misconstrued semantics, adding that there was no decision to jettison the convention of the Senate in the screening process, while also taking a holistic view of the process which is not encumbered by local politics. His view was supported by the lawmaker from Ondo, Yele Omogunwa (Ondo South), who stated also in a media interview that Melaye was right with the conditions reeled out during his media conference. He said: “It was a decision of the Senate. It was just a suggestion on a final note that anybody can ask a question. Melaye is not wrong that at least nominees should see their senators, not that it has been said anybody will be dropped. But they should see their senators for concurrence. The resolve is that they should see their senators and anybody can ask any question. It is germane that they see their senators.” With a Senate divided against itself, perhaps, there were alarms bells right from the word go. But Nigerians were really hopeful that a chamber that had handled this sort of assignment in the last 16 years cannot falter. Perhaps, as quick responses to the alarms that rang at the weekend, the senate called another executive session on Tuesday. It was a one hour meeting when Senators were said to have calmed fray nerves and agreed on the modalities for the screening taking off on the day. When the screening eventually took off, the Senate showed signs it would keep faith to the no “bow and go” posture and the decision to ensure thoroughness in the process as it took on the former Chief Whip,

Senator Udoma Udo Udoma. Usually, such nominees, who had served two terms in the senate between 1999 and 2007 were given the “bow and go” treatment in respect of the honour the chamber accords its own. But the president of the Senate fired the first salvo by asking questions from the former Senator. That encouraged Deputy Senate president Ike Ekweremadu to add two questions. He asked Udo Udoma what was his view on the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) and what would be his advice to the President on the report of the National Conference organised by the last administration. At that point, however, the Senate showed its vulnerability and failed to keep to its words. senators got rowdy and started shouting “Bow and Go.” Three times, the former Senator attempted to answer the questions but he was confronted on each occasion by the shouts of ‘bow and go.’ At a point, the nominee was confused and he asked the Senate president, what should I do? Saraki asked him to take a bow and go. The conduct of the Senate at that moment showcased an upside down reading of the essence of the screening and indeed a betrayal of screening procedures earlier highlighted by the chamber. Indeed, the Senate had started on a jerky note on Tuesday, refusing to follow the usual process of screening as laid down in the previous senates. Previously, the Senate had a tradition by which a nominee is introduced by senators from his constituency.

The senators express their approval and disapproval as the case may be and either recommend him for senate confirmation or restate their objection. But on Tuesday, the Senate was silent on that tradition, as the Senate President proceeded to recognize senators at random to ask questions. The rush to get some of the nominees off the hook however affected the quality of the screening on the first day of screening. The senators refused to allow Chief Audu Ogbeh to share his experience leading to his removal from the chairmanship of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) under the administration of Chief Olusegun Obasanjo. By repeatedly shouting “bow and go” at a point while he was answering the questions posed to him, Chief Ogbeh could not get to answer two key questions. One was whether he was forced to resign as PDP Chairman and how he would assess the wallet policy introduced by the former Minister of Agriculture under President Goodluck Jonathan, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina. In the same manner, Hajia Amina Mohammed was also stopped in her tracks as she was unable to answer questions relating to the alleged lopsidedness in the management of the special grants when she headed the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) office in the administration of the late President Umaru Yar’Adua and President Jonathan. By and large, however, the Senate still managed to bring out some good bites from the likes of Senator Udo Udoma, in his ini-

The lawmakers, at the closed session, saw the tradition of allowing senators introduce the nominees from their states and the convention of securing the backing of at least two senators from a nominee’s state of origin as a double-edged sword.

tial remarks, Chief Audu Ogbeh, through his answers to the first questions posed to him and from Lieutenant General Abdurahman Dambazzau (retd), as well as Dr. Osagie Ehanire. For instance, Udo Udoma said that Nigeria’s economy needs to henceforth grow at 30 percent annually to be able to cater for its people. Ogbeh said that the growing population means that the country must be able to feed its people and develop agriculture. Dambazzau talked of ensuring that the country benefits from the opportunities provided by the United Nations funding capabilities in managing the soldiers involved in the fight against insurgency. He made some proposals on the defence policy and the need for periodic review, while Ehanire declared that the question of wrong diagnosis in our hospitals could be handled through collective efforts in handling complicated cases. He also talked about how to handle incessant industrial actions by workers in the health sector. By Wednesday, however, the Senate had possibly reviewed its procedures. The rowdiness had been addressed largely and the undue shouts of ‘bow and go’ to interrupt nominees even while answering questions from senators was no longer there. But while the screening became a lot stable on Wednesday, the camaraderie that the senate usually guarantees to Senators and nominees from their states of origin was not there. No senator was allowed to introduce the nominee from his state as the lawmakers just went into the usual question and answer without such preliminaries. Sources in the Senate said that the lawmakers, at the closed session, saw the tradition of allowing senators introduce the nominees from their states and the convention of securing the backing of at least two senators from a nominee’s state of origin as a double-edged sword. A senator said that at the Tuesday’s closed session, the senators decided to sidestep the convention so as to prevent a situation where senators from a state controlled by opposition parties are not allowed to block the nominees purely as a result of political considerations.

30 politics&policy

Friday, 16 October, 2015

A mixture of familiar names and new ones continued from pg28

Akinwumi Ambode on May 29, 2015. Chief Audu Ogbe Chief Audu Ogbeh, 68, was born in Idoma in Benue State. He graduated from Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria and Toulouse University, France. He later lectured at ABU and Murtala College of Art, Science and Technology. Ogbeh started his politics career in 1979 as deputy speaker of Benue State House of Assembly. He was the minister of Communication and later minister of steel development in the second republic. Following the military coup that aborted the second republic, Ogbeh was one of the political office holders sent to prison by the military regime headed by the then Major General Muhammadu Buhari. Ogbeh returned to the public view when he participated at the Constitution Confab convoked by the late General Sani Abacha regime in 1995. Between 2001 and 2015, he was the chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Owing to his disagreement with former President Olusegun Obasanjo, he left PDP and joined the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), a party which fused with others to become APC. He served APC as the chairman of the manifestoes drafting committee. Dr Kayode Fayemi Despite his loss of his re-election bid as governor of Ekiti State in 2014, Dr Kayode Fayemi is still a political force to reckon with. This was evident in his emergence as chairman of the presidential primary elections committee which conducted the elections from which President Muhammadu Buhari won the ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC). He is a native of Isan-Ekiti in Oye local government council of Ekiti State. He attended Christ’s School, Ado Ekiti and later studied History, Politics and International Relations from the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife and Universities of Lagos respectively. He has a Doctorate degree in War Studies from the University of London, specializing in civil-military relations. He was an activist and a foremost protagonist of revalidation of June 12 election annulled by General Ibrahim Babangida. His role as the founder of the popular Radio Kudrat boosted his anti-democracy status in international community. Fayemi returned to Nigeria after the return of civil rule and became director of the Centre for Democracy and Development, a research and training institute. He was also a lecturer both at home and offshore. He was the main technical adviser to Nigeria’s Human Rights Violations Investigation Commission popularly known as Oputa Panel. He also was a member of the Presidential Implementation Committee on Security Sector Reform, NEPAD and the Millennium Development Goals. Senator Udoma Udo Udoma Udoma Udo Udoma is a former member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) under which he was elected Senator for the Akwa-Ibom South constituency of AkwaIbom State in 1999. He served in committees on Public Accounts, Judiciary, Banking & Currency, Science & technology, Privatization and Drug & Narcotics. Udoma, who was reelected in 2003 and in 2010, was chairman of the Governing Board of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Emmanuel Ibe Kachikwu

Ogbeh

Mohammed

seven of the available nine prizes. He also holds the LLM Harvard Distinction and was best graduate in 1980 with specialisation in Energy, Petroleum Law and Investment. Kachikwu set a record with a Ph.D/SJD Harvard Distinction, specialising in Petroleum and Investment Law Strategy after completing his doctoral thesis in a record time. To his credit is more than 30 years experience in policy- making positions in petroleum industry including; General Counsel/ Legal Adviser, Texaco Nigeria and Texaco Overseas Petroleum Co (1984 -1994); General Counsel/Secretary, Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited (2001); Executive Director, ExxonMobil Group of Companies (2003). From 2009 till date, he is the Executive Vice Chairman/General Counsel, ExxonMobil Companies in Nigeria and Oversight Counsel, ExxonMobil Companies in Africa. He has also authored several law books including the best seller – Nigerian Foreign Investment Law and Policy. It is on record that Kachikwu influenced over $10 billion investment from ExxonMobil Group into Nigeria and other African countries. In addition, he set major policy planks on, government relationship, investment policy and corporate governance for ExxonMobil in Africa and member of many highly influential policy and investment teams for ExxonMobil Corporation. Lai Mohammed Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the national publicity secretary of the APC, who hails from Kwara State, is a lawyer and businessman and had served in many capacities in the corporate world. He is also a fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) and worked as Public Relations Officer for almost 10 years with the Nigerian Airport Authority, now Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN). In October 2002, Mohammed was the governorship candidate of the once vibrant Alliance for Democracy in 2003. He was among the ministers-designate that was accorded the privilege of bow and go tradition during screening by the Senate.

Udoma

Dambazzau

It is on record that Kachikwu influenced over $10 billion investment from ExxonMobil Group into Nigeria and other African countries.

Emmanuel Kachikwu, 58, hails from Onicha-Ugbo in Aniocha North local government council of Delta State. He is a First Class Graduate of Law from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka and the Nigerian Law

School. A doctor of Law, he graduated with distinctions from the University of Nigeria Nsukka, and emerged as the best graduating student from the Law School, winning

Dambazzau Abdulrahman Bello Dambazau is a retired Nigerian Army Lieutenant General who served as Chief of Army Staff (COAS) between 2008 and 2010. He attended the famous Barewa College, Zaria, before proceeding to the Nigerian Defence Academy Kaduna as a member of the 17 Regular Combatant Course. He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant into the Infantry Corps of the Nigerian Army in June 1977. In 1979, Dambazau attended the US Army Military Police School and later obtained a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Kent State University in 1982 and a PhD in Criminology from University of Keele in 1989.[2] He served as a military police officer, Aide De Camp to the Chief of Army Staff (1979), commanded military police units and served as a Special Investigator (1984-1985). Dambazau was Registrar of the Nigerian Defence Academy from 1993 to 1999. He also served as Chief Instructor, Support Weapon Wing of the Infantry Centre and School from 1999 to 2001 and later as Directing Staff at the National War College from 2004 to 2006.[1] From 20072008 he served as General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2nd Division, Ibadan. He was appointed Chief of Army Staff in 2008 by President Umaru Yar Adua.

Friday, 16 October, 2015

hers

Editor: Yemisi Aofolaju yemiaofolaju@yahoo.com 08055001741

‘Cake making for me is a ministry’

A trained Physiologist and Social Worker, Olubukola Salako, Chief Executive Officer of Bakers House, a baking outfit noted for cakes and sugar craft in this interview with MONICA TAIWO speaks on how she developed her baking passion into entrepreneurship, why she decided to forgo paid job, the joy she derives in impacting this skills on the younger generation among other sundry issues.

hen did you start Bakers House and what motivated you? About 30 years ago, it started as a hobby in 1985. I love to bake, my mother is a baker, and she was into wedding gowns and cakes. I used to help her; there I developed the interest. I didn’t plan to become a baker. I planned to pick up a job after my university education. What did you study in the university? I attended the University of Ibadan and I studied Human Physiology for my first degree and Social Work for my Masters degree. When I finished my first degree, I got married and I had to join my husband in Niger State. When we got there, I had a problem getting employment because of indigeneship. My husband was lecturing at the College of Education then, so I said since I didn’t have a job, I started baking. My husband made business cards for me, and a small banner in front of the house and people started trickling in. I started commercial baking in Minna; it was not too profitable then because it isn’t in their culture, most people that came to bake then were from the South here. I wasn’t making much, but because it was something I loved doing, I kept doing it. By the time we came back to Ibadan, it still remained a hobby for me. At a watch-night service, the Lord told me not to look for employment that what I had in my hand was my rod of Moses. I called my friends who were used to coming for free cakes that if they wanted free cakes, they should come within two weeks and after that they would have to pay. They complied and since then they have been paying good money. At a stage, I felt I needed to do more because at times when I needed to make flowers, the paste I knew how to use would not give me what I needed. I decided to go for training in Lagos because I was determined to learn more from the best. Since then, I have had several opportunities to attend training workshops outside the country. I later had an opportunity to apply for a job in one of the health institutions. It was then that I discovered that the basic pay is the cost of one of my wedding cakes. Putting everything together, I concluded that I would have my time to myself and still make enough money

to keep body and soul together and also support my family. Are you fulfilled doing this? Yes, I’m fulfilled . What gives me a lot of fulfillment is seeing a lot of young ladies getting something that they could live on. I discovered that somehow I could impact them with skills and a sense of purpose. I have taught over 40 graduates in cake making and sugarcraft. It is obvious cake issue is more than a passion for you. You got it from your mum, has any of your children taken after you? Cake making is more than a passion for me; it is more like a ministry. My first daughter has taken well after me. At the beginning, she wasn’t too interested. I kept looking at her as a girl, who I believe should have a skill, so I told her that even if she was not going to do this as business, I want her to do

Cake making is more than a passion for me; it is more like a ministry.

heartcopy

My daughter’s attitude hurts to the bone marrow! <P34 SHARE-A-burden

My mother-inlaw has become a thorn in the flesh!

Olubukola Salako

By the time she came back, she was it for herself so that when she grows up good in baking and other aspects, all I and have kids, she won’t have to spend money buying birthday cakes for them. did was to perfect what she learnt. AnImmediately she finished her Senior Continues on pg32 Secondary School, waiting for her results and admission, I sent her to one of my trainees who is al- thekitchen ready well established in Lagos; to help me train her properly in cake making and sugarcraft.

32 hersay

Friday, 16 October, 2015

ur growing up makes or mars our true self, if not well nurtured while growing when you are not allowed freedom of expression a false or codependent self emerges , then we begin to live our lives from a victim’s stance and experience difficulties in resolving emotional traumas. The gradual accumulations of unfinished mental and emotional business will lead to chronic anxiety, fear, confusion, emptiness and unhappiness. False self and negative ego are particularly common among children and adults who grew up from troubled families, they develop chronic physical or mental illness, rigidity ,” please note everyone that was mistreated or abused as a child face a lot of challenges in life. No one really knows how many people grow up with a healthy amount and quality of love, guidance and others five to 20 per cent have a lovely and a healthy background meaning that 80 to 95 per cent of people lack love, guidance and nurturing If you as an adult answer all these questions it means you were trained wrongly 1. Do you seek approval and affirmation ? 2. Do you fail to recognise your accomplishments ? 3. Do you fear criticism ? 4. Do you over extend yourself ? 5. Have you had proplem with your own compulsive behonour ? 6. Do you have need for perfection ? 7. Are you uneasy when your life is going smoothly ? 8. Do you feel more alive in the midst of crises? 9. Do you care for others easily, yet find it difficult to care for yourself ?

Parenting The host of Straight Talk!

With Olufunke Adetuberu

08023242389

What’s your background like? 10. Do you isolate yourself from other people? 11. Do you respond with anxiety to authority figures and angry people? 12. Do you feel that individuals and society in general are taking advantage of you ? 13. Do you have trouble with intimate relationships? 14. Do you attract and seek people who tend to be compulsive ? 15. Do you cling to relationships because you are afraid of being alone ?

16. Do you mistrust your own feelings and the feelings expressed by others 17. Do you find it difficult to express your emotions ? 18. Do you fear any of the following? -losing control ? -your own feelings ? -conflict and criticism ? -being rejected or abandoned ? -being a failure ? 19. Is it difficult for you to relax and have fun? 20. Do you find yourself compulsively

The gradual accumulations of unfinished mental and emotional business will lead to chronic anxiety, fear, confusion, emptiness and unhappiness.

cryonmenow@yahoo.com

eating, working, drinking, using drugs or seeking excitement? 21. Have you tried counselling or psychotherapy and yet felt that something is wrong or missing ? 22. Do you frequently feel numbo, empty, or sad ? 23. Is it hard for you to trust others ? 24. Do you have over developed sence of responsibility ? 25. Do you feel lack of fulfilment in life ? Both personally and in your work ? 26. Do you have the feelings of guilt , inadequacy or low self esteem ? 27. Do you have a tendency towards having chronic fatigue, aches and pains? 28. Do you find it difficult to visit your parents for more than few minutes or for few hours ? 29. Are you uncertain to reply when people ask you about your feeling ? 30. Have you ever wondered if you might have been mistreated, abused or neglected as a child ? 31. Do you find it difficult to ask what you want from others? If you answer “occasionally “ “often “ or usually “ in any of these questions, you have a lot to deal because of the residue of the “baggage of bad parenting.” Kindly send an email to cryonmenow@yahoo.com

‘Don’t ever subsidise or try to improvise’ Continued from pg31

other thing I think motivated her later was the fact that she eventually saw some of her friends in school coming to us to pay to learn; When she got to the university she baked birthday cakes and other celebration cakes for her friends. When she was going for the youth service, one of the ways I encouraged her was that I bought all she would need for business. At the orientation camp, she helped in training others in cake making. She made a cake for her flat mate and since they knew she could bake, there is no stopping for cake orders. How do you see the place of entrepreneurship now? Entrepreneurship is the core of our economy. It comprises of both large a n d s m a l l s c a l e e n t e r p r i s e s . M o re people get involved with small scale businesses and when you sum up the impact of several small scale businesses, they contribute more to the economy, which gives them a pride of place in nation building. Entrepreneurship in our society needs a lot of attention by the government. I see entrepreneurship taking a centre stage in employment in the country. How would you encourage the younger generation, especially women to get something doing because with happenings in the country apart from the fact that there are no readymade jobs a woman has to support her husband? The problem with most of our women

is that they lack motivation. One thing I love to tell women is; love yourselves. If you love yourself, you would not want to be so dependent on someone else especially your husband, the man has enough weight to carry, so for your own image or self esteem, your psyche, you need to have something worthwhile doing, both for yourself, your husband and children. I want women to take their destiny in their hands, to take care of their future and pick up a skill. I have discovered that women are good in handy work; whether it is jewelry, or hat making and what have you. I advise them to pick up what they have passion for because inside every woman is an artist. Do not leave room for mediocrity because the world is getting more competitive. If you pick up a skill, perfect it. You are so passionate about cakes and sugarcraft. Which is more important; the inside of the cake or the decoration?

One thing I love to tell women is; love yourselves. If you love yourself, you would not want to be so dependent on someone else.

I will say both; you cannot do one without the other. It is a good cake that is worth decorating. When people see your cake decoration and say whao! When they taste it and cannot say whao! Then you are not good. Both should be good. You must concentrate on baking good cakes, and the inside must be good. For your standard how long will it take anyone to learn the rudiments of baking and decoration? It takes an average of three months, if the person has the time and is also a fast learner. By the time the person has spent a month in baking he or she should be very good in baking. You must have made a lot of cakes and decorations, which one was the most challenging? The cake I love to call the Abuja cake was the most challenging. It is a replica of Catherine Middleton’s wedding cake. We had 21 cakes in all. I still remember well, it had lots of flora work on it. If a client could trust you enough to call you from Abuja to bring a cake and she wants the exact you won’t want to make any mistake. It took me three months; a whole month to make the flora work; then allowed it dry. We then went into baking which took a longer time then the covering. I later went to Abuja to complete my job. What is the best way to bake and how do you get the best of your recipe? To get the best out of your recipe,

you need to follow it strictly. Don’t ever subsidise or try to improvise. Follow your recipe strictly and learn to use the best of raw materials. We have a problem with raw materials in Nigeria, because we don’t have good standard most of the raw materials we use are not standardised. The brand of butter we have today may be different from the one we will get next week. Already, you are used to the brand and so you have to start working on another brand and you know that if you cream your batter for two hours you have the best out of your batter, when you get back to the market you find out that the brand is no longer in the market. So we have a problem of consistency with the raw materials. The cake world is yet to have flour industry targeted towards cake making, so we have to learn to be pragmatic and keep adjusting to the different products we find in the market. As a Social Worker you know you have to strike a balance between the home and the job, sometimes when you are busy, how do you handle this? I think the Nigerian woman has to priortise now, if we want to have the next generation that we can hand over to. We should take a look inwards, go back home and reorganise. For me, the spate of immorality is too high. Considering this, women should go back to see what we are doing wrong. There must be a better way of training the children; the only way is for the mother to create time for them. The hand that rocks the cradle rules the world.

Friday, 16 October, 2015

news

Friday, 16 October, 2015

More trouble for Amaechi

•APC, PDP battle over his ministerial nomination •Senate will screen him, others on Tuesday —Spokesman •Saraki writes Buhari over cleared ministers Taiwo Adisa and Ayodele Adesanmi -Abuja

enators of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and their counterparts in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) were locked in battle on Thursday, over the planned screening of former governor of Rivers State, Chief Rotimi Amaechi as a minister-nominee of the Federal Government. Plots and counter-plots between senators of the rival parties have occasioned the

delay in screening of the former governor so far. Sources in the National Assembly confirmed a spirited move to stop Amaechi, mainly being coordinated by senators of the PDP and some forces outside the Senate. It was gathered that some forces in the South-South had vowed to stop Amaechi from becoming a minister, based on perceived sins he committed before now. The sources were said to have infiltrated a number of senators, including some

senators of the APC. It was gathered that a sharp division had emerged among senators of the APC and PDP, even in the Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, handling the petition against Amaechi. The cracks was said to have informed the delay in the committee submitting its report. Sources, however, said that senators of the APC were around Amaechi on Wednesday night, to secure a huge reprieve for him.

It was gathered that Amaechi had to move round the key legislators on Wednesday, including lobbying Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki, to his side. As at Thursday, however, the PDP plotters against Amaechi were said to have returned to the drawing board, following the discovery of the intention of the APC to make his clearance a party affair. Senate spokesman, Dino Melaye, said in an interaction with newsmen in the Senate, on Thursday, that the sen-

'Kachikwu has vindicated Diezani by upholding her policies' Media Consultant to Mrs Diezani Alison-Madueke, Mr Clem Aguiyi, has commended the Senate for televising live, screening of minister-nominees, as the truth about Alison-Madueke’s legacy as Petroleum Minister is beginning to emerge, despite the conspiracy to diminish her sterling accomplishments on the altar of politics. In a release made available to media houses in Abuja, soon after the screening of Dr Emmanuel Ibe Kachikwu, Mr Aguiyi observed that the brilliant performance of the current Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Dr Kachukwu, during the Senate’s screening, validated almost all the policies and actions championed and taken by the former minister, which included unbundling of the NNPC to make it operate like a private company, introduction of stringent internal audit control mechanism, the PIB Bill, concern over the sustainability of the subsidy regime and shutting down of

non-performing refineries. It will be recalled that Dr Kachukwu, while reacting to questions by senators, re-echoed the reforms and footprints of Mrs Alison-Madueke. He subscribed to the unbundling of NNPC into a private sector, while noting that there would be no removal of subsidy until palliatives were put in place. Kachikwu also disclosed that with the non-passage of Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB), Nigeria was losing $15 billion yearly. Mr Aguiyi noted that Mrs Alison-Madueke, single-handedly championed the PIB, which was designed to make NNPC more responsive and accountable, but eventually the passage of the bill was frustrated by both domestic and external forces, some of whom today are after the former minister. Kachukwu also told the Senate that he would continue to seek solutions even without the passage of the bill, using existing laws

which was exactly what Mrs resorted Alison-Madueke to throughout her tenure as Petroleum Minister. Mr Aguiyi further commended Dr Kachukwu for speaking from the courage of his conviction, because his averred plans to distribute free cylinders to every home with gas stations closer to homes, was in line with Alison-Madueke’s stimulation of gas-based industrialisation. Mr Aguiyi also noted that Mrs Alison-Madueke, besides midwifing the PIB, also championed the introduction of local content in the oil sector and pushed for the adoption of the Nigerian Content Development Bill into law as a major priority. It became one of the very first acts of policy reform that was introduced in the infancy of the administration. Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Bill (2010) was the first of its kind in Nigeria and the first in West Africa. A specific agency then was created— Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board

FG probes NNPC, NPA for remitting naira instead of dollar Leon Usigbe - Abuja THE Federal Government has began the probe of some of its revenue generating agencies remitting revenues in naira, rather than in United States dollars, in which they are paid. Some of the agencies under the new spotlight are the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA). The issue formed part of the agenda of the meeting of the National Economic Council (NEC), presided over by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Thursday. Addressing State House correspondents after the meeting, the Cross River State governor, Ben Ayade, joined by three of his coun-

terparts from Sokoto, Taraba and Ondo states, said the NEC was briefed by the Central Bank of Nigeria governor, Godwin Emiefele, on the disturbing development. He said: “A brief report on the FGN agencies remitting dollar revenues in naira into the Federation Account, was also given by the CBN governor. “He said investigations are ongoing. “Such agencies include, but not limited to NNPC, NIMASA and NPA. “Some of the agencies were already undergoing a separate probe instituted by NEC through its Governor Adams Oshiomhole-led ad hoc committee on remittances by the agencies into the federation account.” Ayade said NEC was informed by Emefiele, that the excess crude account had hit $2.2 billion as at October 15.

On the provisional loans to states based on collateralisation of the excess crude account, the governors stated that the CBN boss told them that 27 states had made request for the N10 billion facility that was being processed. According to him, the affected states, had accordingly been advised to complete all necessary documentations to that effect. He added: “It should be recalled at this point in time that not all states have indicated interest on this ECA collaterised loan.” Ayade revealed that Osinbajo had assured them that state governments which incurred expenses on behalf of the Federal Government, especially on roads maintenance, which had followed the right processesand procedures in incurring such expenditure, would soon be reimbursed.

(NCDMB), charged with the responsibility of continuously developing opportunities for Nigerians. Today, the results of the implementation of this act are obviously seen. It has resulted in the creation of more than 300,000 direct and indirect jobs. People’s individual lives and the lives of communities around the country, have changed completely, as a result of their involvements in a sector, which hitherto, was a great mystery to all. According to Mr Aguiyi, the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Bill (2010), championed by Mrs Madueke, was the first of its kind in Nigeria and the first in West Africa. A specific agency then was created NCDMB, charged with the responsibility of continuously developing opportunities for Nigerians. In addition, the level of participation of Nigerians in oil and gas contracts, for exploration and production of hydrocarbon resources increased from less than 10 per cent to over 70 per cent. He noted that over $200 billion worth of procurements and nearly $10 billion worth of research and development project, hitherto monopolised by foreign interests, as well as technical services, valued at nearly $80 billion worth of engineering works were retained in the country. Under her initiative, Nigerians, for the first time, also made critical infrastructure investments, such as marine vessels, petroleum jetties and depots to the extent that over 50 per cent of vessels operating in Nigeria were owned by Nigerian indigenes. According to Mr Aguiyi, the nation cannot simply wish away the fact that as Petroleum Minister, Mrs Alison- Madueke made giant strides, as she laid down solid foundations and made achievements that could be built upon by the current and future administration.

ators would screen Amaechi next week Tuesday. He also said the senators would screen the remaining 18 nominees on Tuesday and Wednesday, while also confirming the cleared nominees on Wednesday. The senators had suspended the screening of nominees on Thursday, as a result of the intense battle over Amaechi and the failure of the Public Petitions Committee to submit its report. However, speaking to newsmen on Thursday, Melaye said: “We are going to screen nine of them on Tuesday and the remaining nine on Wednesday. The confirmation of all the nominees would be taken on Wednesday.” He allayed fears over the fate of Amaechi, saying the nominee would be among the 18 nominees to be dealt with on Tuesday. Speaking on Amaechi’s case, Melaye said: “The committee has a one line report that the matter is in court and that in compliance with our laid down rules and regulations that any case that is undergoing judicial remedy cannot be discussed and that we have distanced ourselves from it and the report will be presented on Tuesday by the grace of God and I assure Nigerians that Amaechi, by the grace of God, will be screened on Tuesday.” Many of the nominees were seen trooping to the office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters (Senate), Senator Ita Enang, to submit their documents. Also, on Thursday, Sen-

ator Ibrahim Gobir, (Sokoto East), submitted a petition against the nomination of Ms Aisha Abubakar, whose nomination was unveiled in the Senate, on Tuesday. Gobir, who presented the petition against Abubakar in the Senate, said his people were demanding the replacement of Abubakar and demanding “her replacement with a more competent person.” Saraki referred the petition to the Senator Sam Anyanwu-led Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petition. He mandated the committee to take necessary legislative action on the petition and submit its report before the screening next week. In another development, Senate President, Dr Saraki, in an unprecedented move wrote President Muhammadu Buhari about the 18 cleared ministers on Thursday. Saraki’s media office, in a statement confirming the letter, said Saraki had formally communicated the confirmation 18 ministers to Buhari. Saraki, in the letter sent through Enang, informed Buhari that the Senate had found the18 of his 36 nominees worthy of appointment as minister. The letter stated that the nominees, having gone through Senate confirmation hearing, had been found suitable to occupy the office of ministers of the Federal Republic, as provided for in Section 147 (2) of the Constitution as amended.

Friday, 16 October, 2015

arewa

Femi Olukunle Co-ordinating Editor 08158610216

Berom youths task Buhari on insecurity in Plateau Isaac Shobayo - Jos

Brigadier General Benson Akinroluyo (fifth left), representing General Officer Commanding, 3rd Armoured Division, Rukuba, Jos, Major General Hassan Umar, during the presentation of items to the Plateau State Orphanage Home and Rehabilitation Centre, recently.

NATIONAL Body of Berom Youth Moulders (BYM), in Plateau State, has called on President Muhammadu Buhari to take proactive steps towards curbing persistent killings orchestrated by Fulani herdsmen in Riyom, Barkin-Ladi and recently in Mangu Local Government Areas of the state. The group, in a statement signed by its National President, Rws Chuwang Choji, pledged its loyalty to Buhari’s administration and pleaded with the president to break his long silence on the perpetual killings of innocent people

Represented by the Garrison Commander of the division, Brigadier General Benson Akinroluyo, Umar said: “The alarming rate of poverty in our society and the undesirable circumstances that surround many individuals , particularly

the orphans and those that are suffering from one form of perpetual health deformity or the other, call for passionate concern from the relevant government authorities, corporate organisations and well-meaning individuals”.

“It is not true that my kinsmen are leaving. Kaduna has provided a safe haven for my kinsmen.

Some have not travelled to their towns and villages for years”, he declared.

GOC presents food, gifts to Plateau orphanage home Isaac Shobayo - Jos

ROM all indications, most of the orphanage homes in Plateau State, in recent times, are getting less attention following the existence of various Internally Displaced Camps (IDPS) which dot every nook and cranny of the state, especially the state capital. Attention is being shifted to the IDPs as a result of the urgent needs of the displaced people. Arewa investigations in Plateau State revealed that most of the orphanage homes are presently finding it difficult to survive in terms of basic amenities. A staff of one of such homes in Jos South Local Government Area of the state, who spoke with Arewa on condition of anonymity, said orphanage homes were being neglected these days compared to what it used to be in the past. “Attention is being shifted to the various IDPs camps due to the influx of Boko Haram victims from the North Eastern part of the country. We are not saying it is wrong to take care of them, but attention should not be completely taken away from the orphans who also need the support of individuals and philanthropic organisations”, she said. Findings further revealed that patronage of orphanage homes has reduced drastically, but a cross section of those who spoke with Arewa implored various Nigerians, especially public spirited organisations and individuals, to always consider the plight of the orphans in various homes. Recently, the General Officer Commanding, 3rd Armoured

Division, Rukuba, Jos Major General Hassan Umar, donated food items to the Plateau State Orphanage Home and Rehabilitation Centre, in Jos, calling on indigenes of the state to learn to tolerate and live in peace with one another .

‘Igbos are happy in Kaduna’ Muhammad Sabiu - Kaduna IGWE Sylvanus Eneke, the Eze Igbo of Kaduna, has described Kaduna as a safe haven for the Igbos and he said his kinsmen would continue to support any policy that would bring peace to the state. He made this known during the celebration of the New Yam festival which attracted thousands of Igbo men and women to Kaduna. The traditional ruler contended that his kinsmen had lived in Kaduna for many years and many had built houses, business empires and even married in Kaduna. According to him, this wouldn’t have been possible without the cooperation and support of the host community. “We are living in harmony with the host communities. The government has provided the enabling environment for us to strive.

CREW Igwe Sylvanus Aneke, Eze Igbo, Kaduna, carrying out rites to mark the beginning of the New Yam festival in Kaduna.

Security: Vigilante trains 4,000 members in Kaduna Muhammad Sabiu - Kaduna THE Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN) has trained 4,000 members in Kaduna as part of its determination to help in tackling the various security challenges facing the state. The members of the group, who received specialised training by security experts, were camped at the NYSC orientation camp, km 18,

in the state and as well take stringent measures to curb the menace. BYM condemned recent attacks in a Kudunung village in Mangu Local Government Area and refuted claims in some quarters that the attack was carried out by the Beroms, adding that it was repulsive that the media reported the contrary, portraying the ever armless Berom on the offensive by accusing them of attacking Kadunung Community. Parts of the statement read: “The government must not pretend ignorance of the unrestrained behaviour of these Fulani herdsmen who have jeopardized the peaceful co-existence of the entire country, and so we call on the President of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari, to break his long silence on these killings by taking stringent measures to curb the menace of insecurity in Plateau. “We have been lamenting a lot over the quest to take over our cherished heritage by the Fulani herdsmen whom we accommodated out of goodwill, gave our land to free for grazing, gave out our daughters/ sister in marriage to, yet all we receive from them is the direct opposite of our benevolence and no one seems to hearken to our perpetual cries as the willful destruction of our lives and property prevails unabated, thus rendering us homeless and also leading to total collapse of religious and socio-economic activities in Berom land. “It is expedient to mention that four villages in Foron and Fan Districts of Barkin Ladi Local Government Areas of Plateau State were simultaneously attacked by Fulani herdsmen on Sunday 13th of September 2015, at about 21;30 hours where over Fifteen natives (Berom) were gruesomely killed, Thirty houses, including a church were razed by these bloodthirsty human beings.

Abuja/Kaduna Highway. Speaking at the end of the five-day training exercise, the Commander General of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN), Alhaji Usman Mohammed Jahun, remarked that the 4,000 trainees sponsored their training themselves. According to him, it is time governments, at both the federal and state levels, began to engage his

members in tackling the security challenges facing the country. He declared: “If our members were carried along, the long battle with the Boko Haram insurgents, cattle rustlers would be over by now. “Our members live with the people and they know the terrain very well and can offer intelligence information as well as take part in crushing the insurgents.

Sabiu Muhammed - Kaduna 08067698878 mohsabiu@yahoo.com Isaac Shobayo - Jos 08037032359 shobayo.isaac@gmail.com Biola Azeez – Kwara State 08034276889 biolababes@gmail.com Saliu Gbadamosi – Bauchi 08052150868 ayebavi2001@yahoo.com Yinka Oladoyinbo —Lokoja 08033506541 James Bwala – Borno / Yobe 08069596659 jamesbwala97@gmail.com

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Friday, 16 October, 2015

Tell Nigerians state of our economy, PDP tasks APC

•Says economy sliding into recession •Ready to beg Nigerians to regain power again Jacob Segun Olatunji and Leon Usigbe -Abuja

he Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), on Thursday, raised the alarm over state of the nation's economy, challenging the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led Federal Government to come out straight with Nigerians on the state of the economy. Acting national chairman of the party, Prince Uche Secondus, raised the alarm, on Thursday, while speaking at the 67th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the party, in Abuja, declaring that Nigerians deserved to know the true position of the nation's economy, which he said “is gradually sliding into recession.” According to him, “it appears that the lack of an economic direction and remedial actions from the government is having a debilitating effect on the economy. “Jobs are being lost and small businesses are closing shops as a result of lack of constructive economic engagement from the APC government. Nigerians cannot continue like this, they deserve to know the truth,” he lamented. While highlighting the various steps being taken to review the PDP and make it a vibrant opposition to ensure good governance in the country, Secondus declared “the vibrancy of our communication strategy has been able to highlight certain abuses of the electoral act by security agencies orchestrated against our party’s candidates with Tribunal cases. “We use this opportunity to reiterate our call on the security agencies to desist from these abuses in the interest of the sustenance of our democratic system. “We are determined to provide Nigerians credible opposition by regularly evaluating the policies of the ruling government,” he assured. According to him, “in this regard, we have called the attention of Nigerians to the selective implementation of the ordinarily commendable anti-corruption fight. It will be morally repugnant to target PDP members, while seemingly protecting APC members. All we are calling for is an equal and fair treatment of all Nigerians under the law. “Government should prevent the slide of our dear country into a police state by controlling some of the brazen acts of the security agencies against state institutions as exemplified in the invasion of the Akwa Ibom Government House by some officers of the DSS.” On efforts being made to rebuild the party and

ensure its eventual return to power come 2019, he said “we have come to a critical juncture in the life of our dear party and the NWC under my leadership is determined to drive the process of reinvention that would ultimately return the party’s lost glory. He said the NWC set a PDP Post -Election Review Committee, headed by the Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu, who had come up with a lot of recommendations, which would make the party regained its lost glory. According to him, “against this background, the NWC

believes that a thorough implementation of the roadmap is the panacea to the challenges confronting the party. Now that the report is before NEC, the process of consultation has started. “We have adopted the recommendations of the Ike Ekweremadu-led committee as a veritable roadmap for this process of rejuvenation and we call on all to give it their support. “There are far-reaching recommendations that touch on the soul of the party and her potential to re-invent itself.”

The highlights, he said were as follows: Sanctity of the zoning principle of the Party, Biometric Membership Registration, Introduction of Direct Primaries (to guarantee internal democracy) and Reconciliation. He disclosed that the NWC had already kick-started the implementation of the PDP Biometric Membership Registration which the NEC approved in 2010. The Ekweremadu report had reiterated the importance of this policy in opening up the party and returning it fully to the grassroots among many other advantages it

carries. According to him, “the zoning principle enshrined in our constitution is another fundamental element to be pursued in this reform roadmap. “In accordance with the recommendation of the committee, we have made a pronouncement that the party’s presidential candidate would be zoned to northern Nigeria for the 2019 general election. While soliciting the support of all the members of the party towards the rebuilding of the party for the future, Secondus said “our party has witnessed challenging times

after our disappointing loss in the last elections. “We moved from pain, despair, soul-searching and now by the grace of the Almighty God, we have started the process of rebuilding confidence in ourselves for a brighter future for the Party,” he stated. In his remarks, Senator Ekweremadu declared that PDP remained a party to beat in the county and that the party was ready to apologise to Nigerians for the mistakes of the past if the need be for it to return to power come 2019, to rescue Nigerians from misrule of the APC.

Mimiko questions Buhari's election As Ekweremadu hails judiciary for resisting pressure on election petitions Leon Usigbe and Jacob Segun Olatunji -Abuja CHAIRMAN of the Peoples Democratic Party Governors Forum (PDPGF) and governor of Ondo State, Olusegun Mimiko, has lashed out at those who continue to rubbish the legacy of the former president, Dr Goodluck Jonathan, despite his decision to willingly hand over power to the opposition party. Speaking at the 67th National Executive Committee (NEC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abuja, on Thursday, he observed that Jonathan voluntarily surrendered power for the sake of the survival of the country, even though the election was not as free and fair as being claimed. He said after a thorough scientific and forensic analysis had been done, the truth about the election should be clear for all to see. He said: “I also want to use this opportunity to thank the former president and remind us that it is also very important that for those who seek to rubbish his legacy and rubbish everything he represents, that if there had been no Nigeria, there will be no government to rubbish Jonathan. “We thank God for the sacrifice he made. You all know that given the option, many PDP people would have wanted to contest that election, because the fact that he had admitted or conceded victory does not mean that that election was one of the best we have ever had in this country. “And I am sure that in the fullness of time, after a deep forensic analysis is done of our 2015 election, all the deficiencies and irregularities will come to the surface. “It is important for us to emphasise it, so that the present government will know that that mandate which has been given to them now should be handled with all caution, responsibil-

ity and fear of God,” he declared. Speaking, Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu, congratulated the judiciary for what he said was their refusal to be intimidated in the face of intimidation over election petition cases, in which he said attempts were made to deny PDP members of justice. “That is the only way democracy will survive in our land, because the judiciary must be independent, fair and just to all concerned. So, I commend them for being true to their profession,” he said. He observed that the PDP had emerged from its shock,

which followed its loss of the last general election, saying Nigerians must be told that as a party, the PDP gave its best to the country. Deputy Senate President spoke about the achievement of PDP in office, saying: “We changed the face of telecommunications in Nigeria. Our telecommunications is perhaps the best in Africa. Thanks to the PDP government. We started the fight against corruption when we set up EFCC and ICPC. It is to the credit of PDP government over the last 16 years. “We pioneered an unprecedented debt forgiveness for this country. It never happened anywhere in

Africa. That is why we are beginning to talk about the few number we have new in terms of debt. Prior to this, it was a huge debt and the PDP negotiated the debt forgiveness. “We changed the face of democracy. For the first time, an African willingly surrendered power after what we considered to be a controversial election and today, we are peaceful as a country. “We changed our electoral processes and we have today, perhaps one of the best electoral process in Africa. Thanks to the PDP government. “So, what we expect the

APC to do is to build on the success of the PDP. And if they don't do that and if they don't do it to the satisfaction of Nigerians by 2019, we will be back. “We will be back because we deserve to be back and we will be back energised, determined and refreshed to give Nigerians the best of governance. “We are willing to admit out mistakes and we are willing to make amends. We are prepared to apologise when we have to apologise, but Nigerians must remember that PDP had laid the foundation of our democracy and will continue to nurture it,” he declared.

Rice importation: Senate summons Customs boss, Hameed Ali Taiwo Adisa and Ayodele Adesanmi -Abuja The Senate, on Thursday, summoned the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Colonel Hameed Ali, for ordering the removal of rice from import restriction list and legalising its importation through land borders. Ali is to appear before the Senate's ad hoc Committee on Import Duty Waivers to explain reasons behind his action, which the Senate said was beyond his responsibilities as the Comptroller-General of the Customs. Senators, who debated a motion, submitted by Senator Adamu Aliero, which raised concerns about lifting of the ban on rice importation, said the order to ban rice importation was a presidential order, which was said to have been issued since 2011. Aliero, who represents the All Progressives Congress (APC) from Kebbi Central Senatorial District, in a motion sponsored with 28 others, asked the Senate to investigate the order to lift ban on rice importation. In the motion entitled: “The dangers posed by the removal of rice from im-

port restriction list and the re-introduction of import duty payment at land borders,” Aliero said lifting the ban placed on rice import through land borders by the Customs boss would be counter-productive to the gains already made from the ban placed on the commodity within the last four years. He said the latest action by the Customs was due to the service’s woeful failure to man the borders, collect the right import duties on the product and thereby, safeguard local producers of rice. He also informed that Nigeria was presently the largest importer of rice in the world and that the Ministry

of Agriculture had projected that the demand for rice would continue to rise from the current level of five million metric tons to 36 metric tons by 2050. He added that: “It is in the light of this scary data that the Federal Government of Nigeria has put in place various measures meant to encourage private sector investment in rice production processing and mailing.” According to him, the ban on rice imports through land borders had to a very great extent, reduced cross-border smuggling, which he noted would be escalated if the Customs boss’ recent policy statement was not reversed.

Supporting the motion, Senator Shehu Sani, said: “Rice importation is not good for our economy. We cannot afford to continue enriching rice farmers in Thailand, India, China etc, and impoverishing our own farmers. But Senator Kabiru Marafa opposed the motion, saying whether rice was banned or not, smugglers would always find a way in bringing it into the country. Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki, who ruled on the motion, said policy reversal could be detrimental to investment and refer the matter to the ad hoc committee on import waivers.

Boko Haram: Again, multiple explosions rock Maiduguri James Bwala -Maiduguri Multiple explosions, Thursday evening, rocked Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, causing residents to flee for safety. Residents in Molai said the first explosion occurred in a mosque, killing all worshippers, while the second occurred during the rescue of the first victims, killing many more. Residents of Molai, who spoke to Nigerian Tribune,

said many corpses were being rushed to Molai General Hospital. According to residents, the situation was very bad, with human parts everywhere. There is no much detail for now, however, as some residents were calling relations to find out the direction of the explosion, in order to prepare for any eventuality. The first explosion was heard around 6.20 p.m, followed by several other explo-

sions, leading to serious confusion. It will be recalled that Boko Haram insurgents hit Ajilari Cross on Tuesday, killing over 20 people and injuring many. Residents feared that the end to insurgency in Borno may not be too soon, as government, according to residents, was not doing well enough to assure the people of its determination to end the carnage by the Islamic sect in the North-East.

news Abductors of Falae arraigned in court

Hakeem Gbadamosi - Akure

IVE suspected kidnappers of the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Chief Olu Falae, were on Thursday docked at the Akure High Court, Ondo State. Three of the suspects admitted sharing from the N5million ransom collected by the syndicate for the release of Chief Falae, saying they received N100,000 each from their leader who is still at large. The suspected kidnappers: Abubakar Auta, Bello Jannu, Umaru Ibarahim, Masahudu Muhammed and Idris Lawal were docked for kidnapping, conspiracy and armed robbery. The accused persons, who are all Fulani herdsmen, claimed not to understand English Language while the court had to sought for the assistance of an interpreter who is a

Friday, 16 October, 2015

security operative, Bassey Victor. However, the Judge, Justice Rotimi Olamide, ordered all the accused to be remanded in prison custody till November 10 for hearing of the case. The suspected kidnappers were arraigned on five-count charge of procuring or counselling another for the purpose of kidnapping and abducting, aiding and abetting, contrary to Section 2 of anti kidnapping and anti ab-

duction law of Ondo State, 2010. The charges reads: “That you, Abubakar Auta, Bello Jannu, Umaru Ibarahim, Masahudu Muhammed, Idris Lawal and others now at large, on or about Monday 21st September, 2015 at Kajola/Eyinala Community in Akure Judicial Division did give information for the purpose of kidnapping and abducting Chief Samuel Oluyemi Falae. “Abubakar Auta, Bello

Jannu, Umaru Ibarahim, Masahudu Muhammed and Idris Lawal, and others now at large, on or about Monday 21st September, 2015 at Kajola/Eyinala Community in Akure Judicial Division did aid the kidnapping and abduction of Chief Samuel Oluyemi Falae.” The police agent who spoke on condition of anonymity explained that the wrapper of a commercial bank from Akure, the Ondo State capital, which

was used to pay the ransom for the release of Falae gave Auta out and will be used as part of exhibits against the accused. The accused person who spoke with newsmen before they were arraigned confessed to be behind the kidnap of the former SGF and received ransom before releasing the politician. The fourth suspect, Masahudu Muhammed, declined to tell newsmen how much he collected from the ransom.

53-year-old man kills mother in Jos Isaac Shobayo - Jos THE entire Jenta Magoro community in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State was thrown into mourning and confusion on Thursday when a 53-year-old man suddenly went berserk and killed his 75 years old mother with a machete. Nigerian Tribune learnt that the man, identified as Grabot Indi, sneaked into his mother’s room at about 5:30a.m. on Thursday and locked the door before descending on the old woman who was still in bed. He inflicted several machete cuts on her until she dropped dead. According to eyewitness, having satisfied that the woman was dead, the man opened the door and threatened to kill anyone who attempted to stop him from escaping and in the process injured two persons who dared him. The people in the neighbourhood said Grabot, who is into drugs and other dangerous substances, had serious disagreement with his mother to the extent that people within the vicinity had to intervene to stop him from beating his aged mother. When contacted, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Abuh Emmanuel, who confirmed the incident, said the man killed his aged mother over a minor disagreement.

National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) 2014 Batch ‘C’ corps members during their passing out parade in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, on Thursday. PHOTO: NAN.

Suspected killers of former FUTA VC plead ‘not guilty’ Hakeem Gbadamosi - Akure TWO suspected killers of the former Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), Professor Albert Ilemobade; Daniel Ita Effiom and Olayemi Bamitale, were on Thursday ar-

raigned before an Akure High court in Ondo State capital, charged for conspiracy and murder. The two suspects who had earlier confessed to the crime, however pleaded not guilty to the threecount charge preferred against them while the

counsel to the two suspects, Abdulrahman Yusuf, did not apply for their bail but opted for the trial. According to the statement filed by the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), Mrs Adeyemi Tuki, the two accused were charged with conspiracy

3 corps members die in Kano, 188 get service extension in Nasarawa FromKolaOyelere,Ademola AdegbiteandAlphonsusAgborh KANO State Coordinator, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Mr Abdullahi Yusuf Baba, has said that the state NYSC lost three corps members during the service year, while 22 others would repeat the service. This was just as the state governor, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, said the corps members contributed immensely to the socioeconomic development of the state. The coordinator made the statement on Thursday in Kano, during the passing out parade (POP) of Batch C corps members, held at the Immigration Training

School, Kano. Meanwhile, the NYSC in Nasarawa State, on Thursday, gave one week service extension to 188 corps members for committing various offences during their service year. The state Coordinator, Mrs Christy Ubah, who also announced that about 1,683 corps members successfully completed their service, made this known during an interview with newsmen in her office in Lafia, the state capital. In Kebbit State, 29 corps members of the Batch C were sanctioned for violating rules of the scheme. The state Coordinator, NYSC, Mr Olawale Ebenezer, made this known on

Thursday, while addressing the Batch C corps members in the state, at the passing out ceremony. Meanwhile, seven corps members are to repeat their service, while 20 others got extension of service year in Akwa Ibom, Mrs Ngozi Chukwuka, the state coordinator of the scheme, has disclosed. In Ebonyi, 30 corps members got service extension as a punitive measure for violating regulations governing the scheme. The NYSC Coordinator in the state, Mrs Gladys Mbachi, made the disclosure in an interview with newsmen in Abakaliki, during the passing out parade ceremony of the corps members.

to commit murder contrary to Section 324 code, cap 37 Vol 1, laws of Ondo State of Nigeria, 2006. The particulars of the offence stated “that Ita Effiom and Olayemi Bamitale on about 21st of June, 2015 at No 1, Ikere Street, Ijapo Estate, Akure, in the judicial division, conspired to murder one Professor Albert Adeoye Ilemobade. The accused were also charged with murder contrary to Section 319 of the criminal code, Vol 1, laws of Ondo State. In the particulars of offence, the accused were said to have murdered the late vice chancellor by strangulating him to death. Ita Effiom and Bamitale were also charged with robbery contrary to Section 1(2) (b) of the Robbery and Firearms (Special Provisions) act, Cap R11 laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004. The particulars of the offence stated that the accused while using personal violence did rob the late Professor Ilemobade of his Toyota RAV 4, laptop, iPad and a sum of N7,000.00.

Police warn okada riders against carrying two passengers By Oluwatoyin Malik IN the face of several reports of criminals using motorbikes for robbery operations, the Oyo State Police Command has said that motorcycle operators who carry more than a passenger on the pillion seat will be arrested and subsequently prosecuted. According to a statement issued and signed by the state Police Public Relations Officer, Adekunle Ajisebutu, a Deputy Superintendent of Police, the restriction would cover all motorcyclists, farepaying or not. The police command disclosed that its action became necessary following intelligence report at its disposal, couple with the recent arrest of some criminals who used the method in their operations. It warned members of the public using motorcycles for private or commercial purposes to desist from going against the order, saying that it had commenced an intensive stop-andsearch to enforce the order.

Self-accounting bill, a welcome development –Ex-lawmaker By Olakunle Taiwo A former chairman parliamentary caucus and honourable member who represented Iseyin\Itesiwaju Constituency at the seventh Oyo State House of Assembly, Honourable Fatai Adetunji Salam, has lauded the eighth Assembly members for looking inward at the instance of a recently presented bill, ‘self accounting bill’. Adetunji, in a statement, said the bill would bring about good service delivery in the field of legislative duties. “It is a good initiative that will bring about turnaround service delivery in the area of legislative duties and other services as it relates to House of Assembly as an arm of government that deserves autonomy of its own. “I know the bill is a radical step to safe the entire Oyo State from aged long challenges affecting performance of the lawmakers in the state. The bill that has passed through the committee stage should be given critical, genuine and objective vetting so that the purpose and essence will not be defeated at the implementation stage,” he said.

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40 news

Friday, 16 October, 2015

Benue accesses N28bn bailout, commences payment Yinka Oladoyinbo- Lokoja & CHRISTIAN OKEKE ABUJA

T last, reprieve has come the way of workers in Benue State, following the government’s announcement that it has been able to access the much awaited bailout funds from the Central Bank of Nigeria(CBN). According to the statement issued by Senior Special Assistant on Media to the state governor, Mr Tereve Kase, the governor, Chief Samuel Ortom, had directed payment of the backlog of salaries to workers of the state immediately. The N28 billion bailout is expected to settle the arrears of three months salaries owed workers by the state, covering February, March and April, which was said to have been released with N15.5billion meant for local government workers and N12.5billion for state workers. The media aide said that the governor, however, had set up a committee to handle the disbursement of the funds to workers without delay. The committee, according to him, is headed by the deputy governor, Mr Benson Abounu with Secretary

NSCDC to monitor oil pipelines with drones Oluwole Ige - Osogbo

THE Assistant Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Mr Jacob Amujare Oladapo, on Thursday, disclosed that the agency would soon commence the monitoring of the nation’s pipelines with drones to check the activities of oil thieves and vandals. He maintained that the agency would not spare any effort to tackle unscrupulous individuals who are hell bent on stealing crude oil or refined oil by rupturing oil pipelines located in various communities. Oladapo, who spoke during an interview with journalists in Osogbo, said the Federal Government had approved the recommendation of the NSCDC to monitor oil pipelines with drones in principle, stressing that “we are up to the task whenever this new approach is operational.” According to him, “we firstly made the recommendation to the former administration of President Goodluck Jonathan, but we didn’t go through it then. However, the present administration of President Muhammadu Buhari has approved it in principle.”

to the State Government, Mr Targema Takema and the state Head of Service, Adaikwu Inwata as members. Other members of the

committee are the state Commissioner for Finance, representatives of academic and non-academic staff unions of the state-owned tertiary institutions, as well as

representatives of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Benue State chapters. The statement added

that the governor urged the committee to ensure that the payment and all matters relating to the backlog of workers’ salaries are effectively addressed.

Minister-nominee denies electoral fraud A minister-nominee, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, awaiting screening and confirmation, has disclosed that some people are bent on scuttling his dream of

becoming a minster of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, through their propaganda against his nomination. Lokpobiri a Senator, who

represented, Baltesa West from 2011 to 2015, was among the last batch of the nominees sent to the Senate on Tuesday by President Muhammadu Buhari. He

described as untrue a newspaper report that he was arrested for alleged electoral fraud in 2011 by the Department of State Services ( DSS).

Ekiti State governor, Mr Ayodele Fayose, on top of a tractor, kicking off the second phase dualisation of Ado -Ikere road, on Thursday.

Adewole can turn around Health/ Education ministry —UI ASUU, SSANU BY Tunde Ogunesan

THE Staff unions of the University of Ibadan has commended Pr e s i d e n t Muhammadu Buhari for nominating the outgoing vice chancellor, Professor Isaac Adewole, as one of his ministers, saying Professor Adewole can replicate the developmental projects he put in place in the institution, which can turn around ministry of Health or Education. Professor Adewole’s tenure would lapse as the VC on November 30, 2015 after a meritorious positive turnaround and improving the ranking of the university in International community and infrastructure on campus. While reacting to the nomination of Professor Adewole, chairmen of Academic and Non-academic unions of University of Ibadan said, Adewole would do well if placed in the Education or Health ministry, but maintained that the outgoing VC was a good manager of men and resources. The chairman of the Academic Staff Union (ASUU),

Professor Olusegun Ajiboye said, the five-year tenure of Professor Adewole witnessed monumental achievements, saying though Adewole would deliver well in any ministry assigned to him, but he would prefer the nominee to be assigned to education ministry.

“The university grew in leaps and bounds. He was admired by both the staff and students. I am sure he is a potential asset to the country. He will surely deliver in any assignment given to him. I wish he is assigned to the Education Ministry.”

Professor Adewole was recently conferred with Doctor of Science degree by University of Sutherland, UK for his outstanding academic career and commitment to the promotion of medical screening and preventive medicine in Nigeria.

Fayose scores self high as wife donates classrooms to children’s home Peg number of your children to 4, Mrs Fayose counsels mothers Sam Nwaoko - Ado Ekiti

WIFE of Ekiti State governor, Feyisetan, has charged women who are on reproductive stage to peg the number of their children to a sizeable number, at most four. Mrs Fayose was speaking at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Ado Ekiti, while presenting cheques to some indigent patients. Apparently worried by the huge number of women in various parts of the state who had just delivered new babies but could not afford to pay medical bills, Mrs Fayose said womenmusttakeprecautionary measures by way of regulating the number of children they could conveniently taken care of.

“Let me use this opportunity to call on our medical personnel, including doctors and nurses, to educate our women on how to key in into family planning medical process.” Governor Ayo Fayose of Ekiti State, on Wednesday, scored his administration high in its first year and further sought the cooperation of the people of the state. Governor Fayose spoke in Iyin, ontheoccasionofthefoundationlaying ceremony of a block of classrooms at the Erelu Angela Adebayo Children’s Home in the community, initiated by his wife, Feyisetan, as part of the activities marking the first anniversary of the government. He donated N5million towards the project, which Mrs

Fayose explained was being funded through donations from friends and well-wishers. He also promised that he would ensure that a quality job was done with the project as well as the equipment of the classrooms with computer and other modern facilities to ensure quality education for the inmates of the home. Fayose listed projects such as the dualisation of Awedele Road, the construction of a new road from The Head to Bashiri, Petim -Tinuola Road, construction of new markets, dredging of streams and water channels across the state, construction of a women’s development centre among many others even with a lean purse.”

Ugwuanyi dissolves Post Primary School Management Board THE governor of Enugu state, Rt. Hon Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi has approved the dissolution of the Post Primary School Management Board (PPSMB), Enugu. This was contained in a statement made public from the office of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mr.Gabriel, O.C Ajah, yesterday. Consequently, the governor has also approved the reconstitution of the board with effect from 9th October, 2015, with Barrister Nestor Ezeme as its new chairman. According to the government statement, Mrs Favour Ugwuanyi will serve as the permanent secretary of the board, with Mr Obi Kama and Mr Clement Inyaba as members. There are two other members of the board classified as part-time members and they include Mrs. Veronica Ezeugwu, and Mrs. Obiageli Theresa Igwesi.

Lagos begins licensing of borehole drillers THE Lagos State Government, through the State Water Regulatory Commission, (LSWRC) is set to commence the licensing of all borehole drillers in accordance with the State Guidelines for Drinking Water Quality Regulations. Addressing members of the Association of Water, Well Drilling, Rig Owners and Practitioners (AWDROP) recently in a meeting in his office, the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Arc. Ahmed Kabiru Abdullahi, noted that there was need to have a database of all borehole drillers within the State, in order to intimate them of the content of the regulations guiding the State Water Sector, emphasising the need for those involved in borehole drilling to be professionals. He gave assurance that while government was ready to implement the Water Sector Law, it would first create sufficient awareness and enlightenment for all stakeholders to understand its implementation process as ignorance of the law would not be an excuse once enforcement commences.

Friday, 16 October, 2015 41 news Lagos Assembly confirms Anifowose, Ayorinde, others Med-View completes airlift as commissioners of 5,000 pilgrims Chukwuma Okparaocha And Racheal Adesokan-Lagos

HE Lagos State House of Assembly has confirmed the 37 cabinet nominees of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode of the state. The confirmation, which took place during plenary on Thursday, October 15, 2015 was preceded by the presentation of the report of the 15-man committee set up by the House penultimate week, to screen the nominees, which was presented by the chairman of the committee, Honourable Wasiu Sanni Eshinlokun. In presenting the report, Eshinlokun revealed that all the nominees were invited by the committee and that they all submitted copies of their CVs and certificates, which were thoroughly verified by the committee, which sat for one week from Monday 5

to Friday 9 October, 2015 at the Lateef Jakande Hall within the premises of the Assembly. The Speaker of the House, Rt. Honourable Mudashiru Obasa, subsequently ordered the Clerk of the House, Mr Segun Abiru, to send a letter to the governor, indicating that the nominees had been confirmed by the House. It will be recalled that the House had invited the nominees to appear before it on Tuesday, October 13, 2015, where they were requested to speak about

their background and their experiences with the committee. The confirmation followed the presentation and adoption of the reports of the Assembly’s 15-man Adhoc Screening Committee led by Mr Wasiu Esinlokun-Sanni (APC-Lagos Island 2) as the resolution of the House. The Majority Leader, Mr Sanai Agunbiade, moved for the adoption of the Committee’s reports and recommendations seeking approval of the nominees after the screening. The list of the approved

nominees was Mr Gbolahan Lawal, Dr Jide Idris, Mr Folarin Coker, Mr Seye Oladejo, Mr Ganiyu Johnson and Mr Babatunde Hunpe. Others were, Mrs Yetunde Onabule, Fela BankOlemoh, Mr Akinyemi Ashade, Mr Steve Ayorinde, Alhaja Uzamat Akinbile-Yusuf, Mr Kehinde Joseph, Professor Ademola Abass, Dr Akintola Benson, Dr Abdul-Hakeem Abdul-Lateef, Dr Mohammed Akinkunmi and Dr Babatunde Adejare. Dr Femi Onanuga, Dr Dayo Mobereola, Mr Ade-

bowale Akinsanya, Mr Wasiu Anifowoshe, Mrs Lola Akande, Mr Agboola Dabiri, Mr Ganiu Okanlomo-Sanni, and Mr Anofi Elegushi. The rest were: Mr Rotimi Ogunleye, Mrs Adebimpe Akinsola, Mr Femi Odubiyi, Alhaji Musiliu Folami, Mr Adeniji Kazeem, Mr Adeyemi, Mr Labinjo Toyin- Suarau, Mr Babatunde Durosinmi-Etti, Mr Deji Tinubu, Mrs Mudirat Giwanson and kehinde Bamigbetan. The lawmakers took turns to commend the committee for the job.

N627m scam: Rights Commission drills Mbu over alleged suspects’ torture Sunday Ejike - Abuja CONTROVERSIAL Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG), Mbu Joseph Mbu, on Thursday, appeared before the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) where he was drilled for hours, over a petition by a businessman, Alhaji Suleiman Yerima, that Mbu connived with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to detain him for 80 days. Yerima, in the petition alleged that he was subjected to torture over a N627 million business transaction belonging to a former first lady while he was detained in the custody of the EFCC. In a petition addressed to the executive secretary of the commission, dated June 9, 2015, Yerima alleged that AIG Mbu, who was until his new posting, was in charge of Zone 2, Lagos directed policemen under his jurisdiction to torture him and the managing director of his firm, Mr Uwem Antia over a Foreign Exchange (FOREX) business transaction. In a chilling account, the petitioner gave graphic details of how the policemen at Zone 2, led by DSP Ibrahim Dantoro, on the instruction of Mbu, forced their faces into buckets of water, pierced needle into Antia’s private part and inflicted life threatening injuries on his legs.

From left, Comedian Funny Bone, social commentator, Ms. Kemi Olunloyo, State Manager, Oyo 1, Globacom, Mr Tunji Omoworare; comedian Odogwu and another comedian, Bow Joint at the Ibadan edition of Globacom Laffta Fest on Sunday.

Glo takes Slide ‘n’ Bounce and Laffta Fest concerts to Awka, Ikorodu THE twin concerts of Glo “Slide ‘n’ Bounce” and Glo Laffta Fest will, this weekend, berth in the fledgling city of Awka, Anambra State capital and the bubbly city of Ikorodu in Lagos respectively. The musical Slide n Bounce show will hold on Friday, at Marble Ark

Hotels and event Centre, Enugu/Onitsha Express Road, while the company’s premium comedy show, Glo Laffta Fest will hold on Sunday, at Ikorodu Musical Village. A statement issued in Lagos on Tuesday by Globacom disclosed that for the Awka concert, music stars

such as Flavour, Wizkid, Korede Bello, Di’Ja and Bez will be on hand to entertain the residents of the city and its environs, with the sensational comedian and Nollywood star, Okey Bakassi as the anchor man. For Laffta Fest, Globacom has lined up top comedians like Bovi, Okey Bakassi,

Ibadan erupts in laughter at Glo Laffta Fest The 3,500 capacity hall of Jogor Centre, Ibadan literally burst at the seams last Sunday, as Globacom hosted its flagship comedy show, Laffta Fest in the ancient city. The city witnessed a huge turnout of subscribers which is the trademark of all Glo shows ever hosted in the city as subscribers and other fun-seeking residents were treated to an evening of an unending laughter and fun with ace comedians like Julius Agwu, Bovi, Still Ringing, Odogwu, Bow Joint, Bash, Acapella and Seyi Law taking them on a journey of mirth. Subscribers trooped out

massively to relish the fun associated with the Glo Laffta Fest, a comedy show rated as the funniest ever in the nation’s showbiz as early as 2pm when they began to arrive in droves and taking photographs with one another before the large Glo backdrop. As they took their seats and waited anxiously for the commencement of the show, DJ Spinall ensured there was no dull moment as popular beats wafted from his juke box. Local comedians within the Ibadan metropolis made a good showing as they whetted the appetite of the audience as prelude to the main

performances of the evening. Ace comedian, Bovi, who anchored the show, was at his stage best as he spiced the introduction of the line up of comedians with his own variety of comedy and jocular nuances. One after the other, the comedians took their time to engage the audience, majority of who were in stitches with each joke from the comedians. The icing on the evening of comedy and laughter came with the first musical interlude from God win exponent, Korede Bello, whose appearance on stage elicited an unprecedented cheer from the audience.

Senator, Bash, Gandoki, Buchi, Acapella, Still Ringing and Omo Baba while Di’ja, Korede Bello and Omawumi will serenade the audience with some of Nigeria’s biggest music hits. According to the statement, Glo ambassadors, Mr Ibu and Mama G, both Nollywood stars, will be in Awka to add more side attractions to the show, “which promises to be a full bouquet of entertainment, music and dance. “...the staging of Laffta Fest in Ikorodu, just a week after we anchored our concert in the same city is a confirmation of our avowed resolve to keep on delighting our subscribers in the area,” the statement added. The statement added that Awka is the first city in the South East geopolitical zone to host the second edition of the Glo Slide & Bounce. We value and appreciate the loyalty of Anambra subscribers. We will further add to the excitement by organising Laffta Fest in the next couple of weeks in Awka.

back to Nigeria

Shola Adekola - Lagos MED View Airlines, on Thursday, airlifted back to the country the last batch of the over 5,000 pilgrims allocated to it for this year’s holy pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia. The development came just as the managing director of the airline, Alhaji Muneer Bankole, commiserated with families of the pilgrims who lost their lives to the stampede in Saudi Arabia during the 2015 Hajj. The 221 pilgrims who were the last batch to be airlifted back by MedView were flown into the country through the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) via Port Harcourt airport in an aircraft marked “Abeke” which touched down by 12 noon. In a message to the families of the dead pilgrims, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and state governments on arrival at the airport, Alhaji Bankole prayed God to give them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

Glo Dance with Peter: Voting begins tomorrow By Rotimi Ige

TELECOMS firm, Globacom has announced that voting shall begin tomorrow to choose among the 30 dancers who made it to the finals in the Dance with Peter reality TV show sponsored by Globacom. The votes will determine who proceeds to the next stage of the show. The dancers are currently in the Academy and are scheduled to perform in this week’s episode of the show. Contestants with the lowest scores will be put up for eviction by the show judges after which the public will decide those to exit the show. According to Globacom, voting lines will open from 8.p.m. on Saturday and close at 12 midnight on Monday. Globacom has also released the stage names and codes of the 30 contestants who are in the finals. They are Prince (501), Manasseh (502), Da Octopus (503), Ambrose Tjark (504), Fearless (505), Weezy (506), G-Xtreme (507), MOD (508), Snipes (509) and Bobby Blankson (510).

42 islamicnews

Friday, 16 October, 2015

Saudi rejects sharing of hajj administration with other Muslim nations

From left, secretary, Alhaji A. K. Duroromo; Imam, Alhaji Najeemdeen Adeyemi; vice chairman, Alhaji A. S. Lawal, Mr Kamorudeen Adebayo, Mr Shuaib Adekunle and other members of Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, Gada, Odo-Ona, Ibadan branch, during the last Eid-al Adha celebrations.

Hijrah 1437: Muslim groups demand holiday for Islamic New Year

OME Islamic groups have reiterated their call on the federal and state governments to declare Muharram 1, the first day of the Islamic Hijrah year, as public holiday. The groups, in separate Hijrah 1437 AH messages, said such a declaration would be in line with the rule of law, fairness and justice to Muslims in the country. The groups are the Muslim Community of Oyo State (MUSCOYS), Muslim Consultative Forum (MCF), Muslim Media Practitioners of Nigeria (MMPN), Obafemi Awolowo University Muslim Graduates Association (UNIFEMGA) and Movement for Islamic Culture Awareness (MICA), Bodija Muslim Youth Forum (BOMYOF), National Council of Muslim Youth Organisations (NACOMYO) and Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC). Others are the Muslim Students Society of Nige-

ria (MSSN), Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Nigeria (FOMWAN), Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN) and Islamic Media Awareness Forum (IMAF). In its message, signed by the chairman, Alhaji Kunle Sanni and secretary, Mursiq Siyanbade, MUSCOYS called on Governor Ishaq Abiola Ajimobi to emulate his Osun State counterpart, Mr Rauf Aregbesola, by declaring a Hijrah holiday in Oyo State. The community also implored Muslims to jettison bad behaviours and embrace ways of life that are in line with the dictates of Islam. MCF, in its own statement signed by its coordinator, Malam Idris Usman, urged the Federal Government to give recognition to Muslims’ New Year in the interest of fairness and in consonance with the change mantra. Usman said such recognition would be in line with world practices and be fair

to the large population of Muslims in Nigeria. MMPN, in its statement signed by its chairman, Alhaji Abdur-Rahman Balogun, said declaring Muharram 1 public holiday would give Muslims a sense of belonging. The statement said Muharram 1 is equivalent to January 1, which is observed as a public holiday in Nigeria. “Muharram 1 is our own January 1. We want the federal and state governments to declare it as such in the interest of religious harmony in the country,” MMPN said. UNIFEMGA’s National President, Professor AbdulWahab Egbewole, in his message, called on governments at all levels to recognise the Hijrah calendar and use it side by side with the Gregorian calendar. He congratulated Muslims and non-Muslims alike for witnessing another new Islamic year and urged them

to reflect on their deeds and activities in the past year. In the same vein, MSSN commended state governors that have declared Muharram 1 as public holiday and urged the others and the Federal Government to follow suit. The body urged Muslim students to shun bad behaviours, excel in their studies and avoid being used by politicians for selfish interests. On its part, NACOMYO implored Muslims to rededicate themselves to the cause of building an egalitarian society and join hands with other citizens in moving the nation forward. NACOMYO’s National President, Alhaji Kamal’ddin Akintunde, emphasised that the task of making Nigeria a virile nation is a collective responsibility. Muslims in Nigeria joined other faithful worldwide to usher in the new Islamic year Hijrah 1437 AH on Wednesday, October 14.

JNI felicitates with the Ummah THE Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) has felicitated with the Nigerian Muslim Ummah and the world on the inception of 1437 AH, wishing them a prosperous new year. The organisation, in a statement by its Secretary-General, Dr Khalid Abubakar Aliyu, urged the Ummah to remain God fearing, steadfast and law abiding at all times. “Nigerian Muslims are also reminded not to end up the New Year in celebrations repugnant to Islamic tenets. They are urged also to observe the voluntary fastings of Tasu’a and ‘Ashoora, which the Prophet (SAW) strongly urges us to,” JNI said. It urged them to pray for peace and development in the country. “The Nigerian Muslim Um-

mah is urged to continuously seek Allah’s forgiveness, guidance and protection. Important qualities such as fear of Allah (SWT), peace and steadfastness should be introspectively adhered to. “Moreover, it should be

noted that as we felicitate with ourselves, we should bear in mind that the Hijrah year is a call to servitude to Allah, piety, commitment and positive change of oneself and sacrifice. It is also a duty to fellow human beings.

“We pray Allah the Oft-Forgiving and the Most Merciful to provide intervention to Muslim refugees throughout the world, restore peace and security to the whole world and Nigeria in particular,” the organisation said.

NACOMYO marks New Year in Ibadan on Sunday ACTIVITIES marking the commencement of a new Islamic calendar, Hijrah 1437, will climax on Sunday in Ibadan, Oyo State, at the Lekan Salami Sports Complex. The event, organised by the state chapter of the National Council of Muslim Youth Organisations (NACOMYO), according to a statement by the state coordinator, Alhaji Daud Afolabi, will feature Qur’an recitation, prayer for the

nation, lectures, goodwill messages and march past/ displays by schoolchildren and Islamic groups across the state. The state governor, Senator Ishaq Abiola Ajimobi, will be the chief host, while the prayer will be led by the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Shaykh Abdul Ganiy Abubakri Agbotomokekere. The Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Alhaj Daud Akinola, is the father of the

day, while the Seriki Musulumi of Yorubaland, Alhaji Yekini Adeojo, will be the chairman. The Balogun Mumini of Yorubaland, Omo-oba Rasheed Adesokan, will take the traditional salute. Muslim youth groups, representatives of Muslim communities, traditional rulers, title holders and top government functionaries, the statement said, are expected to grace the occasion.

SAUDI Prince, Turki al-Faisal, has rejected the idea of sharing the administration of the annual hajj pilgrimage with other Muslim nations, saying Riyadh considers it “a matter of sovereignty” and a “privilege.” The senior member of the Saudi royal family spoke to The Associated Press (AP) in the wake of mounting criticism of last month’s disastrous crush of pilgrims outside the holy city of Mecca, which killed over 1,400 people, according to an AP count. Saudi Arabia’s regional rival, Iran, which lost the largest number of pilgrims, has accused the kingdom of mismanagement and called for an independent body to oversee the hajj. Iran’s death toll of 465 is the highest announced by any country thus far. The Saudi royal family derives enormous prestige and legitimacy from being the caretakers of the hajj and Islam’s holiest sites in Mecca and Medina. King Salman, in line with past Saudi monarchs, holds the title of “Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques” in reference to the Grand Mosque in Mecca and the Prophet Muhammad’s first mosque ever built in Medina. Oversight of these holy places and the hajj “is a matter of sovereignty and privilege and service,” Prince Turki said. “The kingdom, over the years, having gotten over the awful times when pilgrims couldn’t guarantee their travels to the hajj in the old days and all the other factors of disease and crowds and housing and so on, we’ll not give up that privilege or that distinction of being the servants of the two holy places. “The people of Mecca are the ones who know best the territory of Mecca and you can’t take that away from the people of Mecca,” he said.

Arabic/Islamic teachers urge probe of hajj stampede Biola Azeez -Ilorin

THE Nigeria Association of Teachers of Arabic and Islamic Studies (NATAIS) has called on the Saudi Arabia authorities to carry out a thorough investigation into the immediate and remote causes of the stampede which claimed the lives of many pilgrims, including Nigerians. The association also urged the authorities to strengthen the mechanisms used for the hajj operations to prevent a recurrence. NATAIS, in a statement, in Ilorin, Kwara State, by its Assistant General Secretary (Publicity), Dr Moshood Jimba, commiserated with the Federal Government and the entire Muslim community in Nigeria over the death of the Nigerian Muslims during the stampede. “We regret in particular, the death of Professor Tijjani El-Miskeen, who was a prominent member of NATAIS and immediate past Director of Arabic Language Village in Nigeria, Borno State. “We pray Almighty Allah to grant all the departed souls Jannat Al-fridaos and give their families and friends the fortitude to bear the loss,” association said.

ADYAN honours late scholar with schools competition By Tunde Ogunesan

THE chairman of Ansar-Ud-Deen Youth Association of Nigeria (ADYAN), Ibadan (Oyo State) zone, Mr Moruff Mudasiru, has said that the annual Imam Zubair Inter School Quiz/Quranic Competition, the second edition of which was held last week at ADS Islamic Centre, Obafemi Awolowo Stadium Road, Oke-Ado, Ibadan, is aimed at immortalising the late state missioner of the society, Imam Yisau Zubair. Mudasiru said in his address at the event, organised by ADYAN, that Imam Zubair, who was the spiritual head of the society for about 33 years, was a role model and father to many who came in contact with him. According to him, the event was to immortalise “our late state missioner for his immense contributions to the propagation of Islam in Yorubaland and within AnsarUd-Deen in particular during his lifetime.”

43 news

Friday, 16 October, 2015

ICPC recovered N8.32bn in four years By Tunde Ogunesan

SSETS and cash totalling N8,032, 036, 535.70 have so far been recovered from some Nigerians who have been investigating from the sum of 4,299 petitions received by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences (ICPC) in the last four years. This was disclosed by executive member of the commission, Professor Olu Aina, on Thursday, during a one-day grassroots’ anticorruption advocacy and mobilisation for the SouthWest zone, at the Conference Centre, The Polytechnic, Ibadan. Professor Aina said the commission had received 4,299 petitions out of which 3,764 were referred for investigation, 899 were concluded while 170 cases were filed for prosecution.

He added that a total “value of seizures in cash and assets in the sum of N8, 032, 036, 535. 70 were recovered within the period.” Aina who stood in for the chairman of the commission, said it is not in any-

way interested in prosecuting people, but committed to enforcing its mandate of fighting corruption and mobilise Nigerians against corruption. According to him, the duties of the commissioners stated in Sec-

Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) Kogi State council, on Thursday, issued a 14-day ultimatum to the state government to resolve issues affecting them or else they would resort to protest across the state. The pensioners also asked the state government to include its members at the state and local government levels among beneficiaries of the N51 billion bailout being expected by the state. It will be recalled that harmonisation of pensions of retirees before the introduction of relativity and minimum wage in 2011 are among the demands of the pensioners. The state chairman of

gate and prosecute offenders, examine the system, practices and procedures of public establishment/ agencies in order to detect corruption prone procedure and review them, as well as educate the public

Oyo gives N1.7bn loans to entrepreneurs By Wale Akinselure Another set of select operators of Micro businesses and Small and Medium Enterprises in Oyo State, became beneficiaries of N1.7billion under the Oyo State Government/Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Micro Small Medium Enterprises Development Fund Scheme, on Thursday. Speaking at the Rollout of the revolving loans to the beneficiaries, in Ibadan, the Executive Secretary, Oyo State Bureau of

Investment Promotion and Public-Private-Partnership, Mr Yinka Fatoki, said 330 cooperative movements across the state, accessed N300 million while 200 women cooperatives were to receive N200 million. He stated further that the physically challenged entrepreneurs would get N50 million, while N120 million was earmarked for graduates of the state’s Enterprenuership Development Centre and Traders in conjunction with the Organised Private Sector, will

Kogi pensioners threaten protest over arrears YinkaOladoyinbo-Lokoja

tion 6 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000, which became operative with effect from June 13, 2000. These duties, Professor Aina disclosed, had led the commission to investi-

NUP, Mr Onu Abdullahi, while addressing newsmen in Lokoja, the state capital, hinted that the union also wanted the government to correct the ommission on the list of pensioners in the state from April. According to him, there was the need for government to urgently attend to the needs of members of the union before the end of October. Abdullahi said, “If the governmemt fails to meet with these demands, the union will have no option than to come out on the streets to stage a peaceful demonstration to the Government House, Lokoja to press for their demands.” He explained that the union had made several appeals to the state gov-

ernment over the issue of harmonisation of pensions of retirees and the need to pay the outstanding gratuities.

receive N1billion. Under this scheme, individual operators of micro businesses can access a maximum of N100,000 using trade associations. In addition, 10 shortlisted cooperative movements across the 33 local government areas in the state will each be allowed to access N1 million while 200 shortlisted women cooperatives can each get N1 million. The state government in August 2013, accessed the maximum CBN funds of N2 billion at two per cent interest rate for lending to entrepreneurs at nine per cent interest rate. It will be recalled that N300 million had earlier been loaned to trade associations in the state. Deputy Governor, Mr Alake Adeyemo urged the

beneficiaries to repay the loans, noting that the state was indebted to the CBN, which it said, would begin to deduct from source if was not paid as agreed. Noting that the funds revolved for six months, he urged the beneficiaries to be truthful to the terms of repayment and reciprocate the good gesture of government by doing business accordingly. Representative of the CBN, Mr Akinola Emmanuel, expressed the hope that the scheme would generate employment and create wealth. Nigerian Tribune gathered that the three microfinance banks to disburse funds to beneficiaries are Seedvest, Apex Trust and Seap Microfinance bank.

saturday, 17 OCTOBER, 2015

on ways to curb corruption, among others. “From experience, the commission realises that prevention through education and enlightenment is a cheap and effective means of achieving the goal of eradicating corruption, aadding that it had devised several means and strategies to do this. The Systems Study and Review of Personnel Cost carried out in MDAs by ICPC revealed huge sums of unspent balances in the accounts of MDAs. “Mopping up these unspent balances resulted in the deployment of the newly-introduced(GIFMIs) and (IPPIS) reported by the then Minister of Finance to have saved the nation over N100 billion in personal costs. Prior to the intervention of the ICPC, the legacy pension administration was chaotic, unwieldy and prone to corruption. “The commission discovered over N23 billion that was conveniently ‘lost’ in over 40 bank accounts. The money was reverted to the Pension account.”

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Future Nigerian presidents must undergo psychiatric test —General Alabi Isama (retd)

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Ogun Assembly approves N10bn infrastructural intervention fund The Ogun State Assembly has granted approval to the state government’s request to participate in the N10 billion special infrastructural development intervention fund to complete the ongoing projects embarked upon by the Senator Ibikunle Amosun government across the state. The assembly also called on the state government to ensure that all the 20 local government areas in the state, benefit from the projects. According to the Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun’s letter dated October 6, 2015, he said: “As a follow up to the Federal Government’s restructuring of Commercial Bank

loans/Salary Bailout Scheme, we hereby request for the resolution of the House of Assembly approving our participation in the Special Infrastructural Intervention Fund to the tune of N10 billion.” The approval was granted through a motion moved by the Majority Leader, Honourable Adeyinka Mafe, seconded by Honourable Olusesan Soyebo and supported by the Whole House. Earlier, while opening debate on the motion, Honourable Mafe explained that the funds would help in ensuring the completion of infrastructural projects to enhance the socio-economic development of the state.

How my role in Super Story saved a woman’s marriage

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It will be a big mistake to join Buhari’s cabinet with the usual attitude —TUC president

Obasanjo and I were very jolly friends, but now it’s a different story —Major-General Haruna (retd)

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‘Nine months after delivery, my menses not back!’ •What the doctor says.

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ISIS will be defeated if...

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747 plane engine snaps off in Iran flight, no injuries

— Mayor Mark Hall of Helena, United States

Mayor Mark R. Hall of Helena, Alabama, United States, is a seasoned professional with over 30 years experience in law enforcement, municipal operation, and corporate management. After serving as Helena’s Chief of Police and Commander of Investigations for the City of Pelham, supervising several successful high profile capital murder cases, he is now a member of FBI National Academy Associates and American College of Forensic Examiners, where he is certified in Homeland Security. In this e-interview with SEYI GESINDE, he expresses his personal views on how to solve the global security challenges and governments’ responsibilities to the people, among other issues. Excerpts:

here is an organised fight against ISIS to restore peace in Syria, but considering the Russian and Syrian partnership, and the US at the opposing side, do you see ISIS losing this battle? It is of course my hope that ISIL is defeated, but it seems that the efforts to do so have been complicated. My concern is for the preservation of life and peace for the good people of Syria. This is a tragic situation, peace and stability must be restored so that basic human rights can be guaranteed at every level to the Syrian people. I believe ISIL can and will be defeated, but the efforts need to be coordinated to do so. Considering the fact that the US is not directly in support of Syrian government and opposed to Russia given military support to its army, how will this be achieved without the US support? That is where I see the very obvious complications. At this point there is no way to predict the outcome. At the local level, we can only hope and encourage our federally elected officials, so that they will make the right decisions that will help the innocent and law abiding people who are caught in the middle of that terrifying struggle in Syria. How can the effort be coordinated? It is my opinion that the leaders must come together and seek to find a common goal. The preservation of life, eliminating any existing terrorist regime, halting destruction, bringing peace and restoring economic stability for the region should be important to everyone. With your experience as a police chief with direct relationship with FBI, what do

you think is responsible for this growing radicalisation of youths as terrorists? While serving in law enforcement it was easy to see that the leaders of radicalised organisations seek to grow their groups by preying on young impressionable minds. They recruit those that are from weak family and social relationships. Youth who may be looking to belong to something, they offer them things that they cannot obtain or do not have, whether it be love of a family or the basic necessities of survival. The terrorist and gang leaders may look for young people who are distraught or disconnected from normal social behaviour and offer them a chance to gain those things, once accepted they subscribe them to their doctrine of crime and hate for establishments. Now, bringing it down to Africa, there wasn’t serious local terror threats until in the last decade, when Islamist groups like Al-Shabaab in Kenya, And Boko Haram in Nigeria emerged. What do you think is responsible for their emergence? It appears to me that the radical Islamic groups have had the ability to act freely in their missions. A strong anti terror task force should have been in place long before their operations became as large as they have become. They would achieve results if the majority of the countries could ban together, share information and intelligence to combat the terrorist efforts. How can the terrorists be defeated? A long term systematic intelligence gathering effort along with the ability to initiate concentrate arrests and disruption to activities and the flow of the organisations funding is imperative if you are to defeat ter-

NEWS

rorism. I think it is obvious that you must find where and who is supplying money and weapons to the terrorist organisations on the back side of the operation, and cut that flow of resources while simultaneously attacking them on the front side to avert mass destruction plans to be successful in defeating their enterprise. On that note, it is believed that ISIS is one of the organisation opposing Assad’s government in Syria, and to ensure he is defeated, it is also believed in diplomatic circle that ISIS has been trained, funded, supported and armed by NATO countries, where US takes the lead. What do you say to this? I think if that were true then there is truly an issue deeper than we can fathom that must be addressed. As common everyday citizens we can only rely on the leaders of these powerful organisations, who must make hard and complicated choices, and pray that they are not purposely making decisions that allow

Leaders of radicalised organisations seek to grow their groups by preying on young impressionable minds. They recruit those that are from weak family and social relationships.

innocent people to be sacrificed for the sake of power. As a follow up to that, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Isreal, who are strong allies of US are believed to be strongly backing and funding ISIS, while Russia opposing the move and Turkey, who recently allowed Iraqi Kurds across borders to fight ISIS in Koban are receiving growing opposition from the West for supporting Syria, what about this? Again I am far from being an expert or having any thought on that, and have no idea about who has provided resources, but like all citizens, I am concerned and alarmed by what has and is transpiring in that region. Answers need to be found. Then looking at a country like Nigeria believed to be a rich country and the biggest economy in Africa, but which the global economic index says the wealth of the nation is not reflecting on the vast majority of its citizen, now as a politician, how can the people change this trend in leadership? As for Nigeria, look at our structure at the local levels, it works for us. Here in our town of about 17,000, we work hard to provide our citizens with services that provide security and stability at the local level, police, fire, clean water, and other services that lead to stability. I believe if you have a strong local government it will rise to the top. Having citizens deciding issues and be in control of government here in our area is the key to stability, safety and economic vitality. But as a successful security agent and professional, why Continues on pg 45

An engine of a Boeing 747 operated by Iran’s Mahan Air detached from the plane Thursday shortly after takeoff from Tehran, causing terror among passengers but no injuries, local media reported. According to AFP, the 747, with 300 passengers on board, was on a flight from the capital’s Mehrabad airport to Bandar Abbas in southern Iran when one of its engines crashed into a nearby field, forcing the jumbo to return and make an emergency landing. Iranian media and social networks carried pictures of the crashed engine. Iran desperately wants to upgrade its ageing fleet of 140 operating aircraft, hamstrung by nuclear-related and other sanctions which have also made spare parts difficult to source.

Security personnel dispatched to investigate the 12-year-old Australian terror suspect have pushed for stronger counterterrorism laws.

Australian 12-year-old ‘terror’ suspect investigated Australian police have revealed that a 12-year-old is on the radar of counterterrorism authorities as Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull urged closer cooperation with Muslim leaders to combat a growing “terror” threat. The warnings came on Thursday, just days after the federal government announced controversial plans to bolster its counterterror laws, Al Jazeera said. The 12-year-old boy was listed on a federal court order among a group of males that may have helped Farhad Jabar, 15, who shot a police employee in the back of the head in Sydney earlier this month while reportedly shouting Islamic slogans. “We’re shocked that a 12-year-old is on police radar for these types of matters,” Australian Federal Police Commissioner Andrew Colvin told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC).

foreig naffairs

Friday, 16 October, 2015

‘I defeated Obama halts US military previous Mayor withdrawal in Afghanistan who had been in office for 44 years’

Continued from pg 44

did you decide to go into politics? I had retired from law enforcement after 30 years and being only 47 years old at the time of retirement, it was then my intent to work in the private security field. I taught Criminal Justice at a technical school and I was Director of Security at two major facilities in Birmingham, before deciding to run for Mayor in the City where I had served as Chief of Police. I decided to get into politics at a time when I believed I could make a positive impact at the local level. I defeated the previous Mayor who had been in office for 44 years. I will soon run for election to a second term, which if elected would have me serve a total of eight years. Since I believe that leadership should be changed every two or three terms, a term is four years, I will not seek another term as Mayor after the completion of the second term. All through your public service years, how did your wife, an elementary school teacher, who would be more committed at home coped when you were not around? During my career I was frequently away either on an assignment or called out to investigate a crime. My wife who was an elementary school teacher was frequently alone and had to juggle her career to help raise our son. She handled the situation very well with help from family and friends. She never questioned the situation and was always there for me when needed. During your years in law enforcement, corporate management and municipal operation, what were the challenges you faced in human management? During my time as Supervisor and Chief of Police and Director of Corporate security I was involved in budgeting and personnel management. Managing employees and finding the right people for the job is a challenge and will always be just that. I have been very successful with people because I genuinely enjoy helping others to be successful. I find the saying, ‘treat people like you would want to be treated’ to be a very good rule to follow.

I would describe my leadership style as firm but fair and always compassionate toward individuals. I want to help everyone achieve their goals, which of course makes me successful in that process. Then, citing Nigeria’s example, with unresolved high profile murder cases, what do you think the police authorities are not getting right looking at how you handled such cases in the US as a police boss? While I have limited knowledge of the facts surrounding the unsolved homicides you refer to, I know firsthand that almost every case can have resolution if continued efforts are applied. In the US, what we refer to as cold cases may have special investigation units assigned specifically for continued efforts to solve those crimes. High profile crimes are most always assigned to the best and most highly skilled investigation units who have the resources to follow every lead. However, there are times where only conclusions can be drawn of every possible lead has been exhausted. Now, as the current mayor of Helena, what was the attraction that made you contest for the office, the immediate challenges being faced and how you are resolving them? My challenge after becoming Mayor in my City was to immediately look at funding, how it was applied and what resources were available to help improve services and improve the City’s infrastructure. The City was in a bit of a recession so we had to find a way to revitalise the local economy as well. Another challenge was to undertake a large improvement for our waste water treatment facility. The facility was in need of improvements due to environmental regulations that must be met to operate the facility without penalty form the government regulatory agencies. The projects first estimate was around 20 million which was a high price tag for a city of our size. Through much study and work with several engineers we successfully reduced that cost about eight million dollars, saving our citizens 12

million dollars in the process. As Mayor there are many, many new challenges, but the fact is that we have great freedom to do things to benefit our citizens, who are involved and have a voice in everything we do. What’s your advice to the government and the governed, especially the youths in the face of global economy downturn, unemployment and terror threats? My very simple advice to all in positions of government is to make decisions that work for the good of all. Creating a vibrant economy and boosting economic development that provides jobs and services for your citizens is key in reducing other social problems, criminal activity and even the illegal drug trade. If people have jobs and can provide for their families they are less likely to become involved in criminal activity and social unrest. Involve your citizens, at every level of government, allow them to participate in making decisions and make sure they are well informed about every facet of your day to day government operations. Providing for everyone’s safety and well being is also a huge key to success. Education and public safety is a priority to developing a safe and strong community. The local level of involvement is also a key to success for all communities. Leaders should be servants of the people and if you truly are a servant of the people, they will respond positively and be there to lend help and support when needed. On the subject of terrorism, the dismantling of terrorist organisations must be of the highest priority to all. It must be combated at all levels, from local government to the highest levels of government operations. Preservation of freedom, safety and peace is the only way we can survive in a civilised world. We must allow our intelligence agencies to be funded and staffed so that work freely and swiftly to combat illegal and murderous organisations so that the chaos they seek to bring does not affect our economy and the safety of the world’s most precious resource, our people.

he United States will halt its military withdrawal from Afghanistan and instead keep thousands of troops in the country through the end of his term in 2017, President Obama announced on Thursday, prolonging the American role in a war that has now stretched on for 14 years. In a brief statement from the Roosevelt Room in the White House, Mr. Obama said he did not support the idea of “endless war” but was convinced that a prolonged American presence in Afghanistan was vital to that country’s future and to the national security of the United States. “While America’s combat mission may be over, our commitment to Afghanistan and its people continues,” said Mr. Obama, flanked by Vice President Joseph R. Biden Jr. and his top military leaders. “I will not allow Afghanistan to be used as

safe havens to attack America again.” The current American force in Afghanistan of 9,800 troops will remain in place through most of 2016 under the administration’s revised plans, before dropping to about 5,500 at the end of next year or in early 2017, Mr. Obama said. He called it a “modest but meaningful expansion of our presence” in that country. The president, who has long sought to end America’s two wars before he leaves office, said he was not disappointed by the de-

A US soldier from Dragon Troop of the 3rd Calvary Regiment fires a Javelin missile system during a training exercise near operating base Gamberi in the Laghman province of Afghanistan. PHOTO: REUTERS.

cision. He said the administration had always understood the potential for adjustments in troop levels even as the miltary sought to withdraw troops from battle. But the announcement underscores the difficulty Mr. Obama has had in achieving one of the central promises of his presidency in both Afghanistan and Iraq. Mr. Obama conceded that despite more than a decade of fighting and training, Afghan forces are not fully up to the task of protecting their country.

Merkel: EU must work with Turkey on migrant crisis German Chancellor Angela Merkel has said that Europe must cooperate with Turkey to handle the migrant crisis; Western Europe’s biggest influx of asylum-seekers since World War Two. Speaking to Germany’s lower house of parliament on Thursday, she said Turkey is a key transit point for most migrants moving west. Merkel, as reported by VOA said Europe and Turkey must work together to improve conditions in the places where the migrants originate. Merkel is to attend a European Union leaders’ summit

German Chancellor Angela Merkel makes a statement during a session of the German lower house of parliament, the Bundestag, in Berlin, Germany, on Thursday. PHOTO: REUTERS.

in Brussels Thursday where they will discuss the migrant crisis. Last Saturday during talks with European Union partners, Greece pledged to open five migrant pro-

otherNEWS

cessing centers. Like Turkey, Greece is on the path for many migrants seeking to leave the Middle East and north Africa for better prospects in western Europe. Greece’s first so-called “hotspot” reception center is expected to open within days in Mitilini of the island of Lesbos. Last week, the United Nations Refugee Agency welcomed EU efforts to support frontline member states receiving large numbers of migrants, but warned states not to turn “hotspots” into “detention centers in disguise.”

Israel releases photo of Palestinian boy to refute Abbas claim Israel has released a photo of a Palestinian boy that Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas had claimed was executed by Israeli soldiers. The boy, 13-year-old Ahmed Mansara, was involved in a stabbing attack in Jerusalem on Monday that wounded two Israelis. Israeli officials said he is now in stable condition in an Israeli hospital. Acording to VOA, the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu released the photo of Mansara to media outlets Thursday in an apparent bid to refute Abbas’ claim. The Palestinian president said late Wednesday that Israeli security forces are executing Palestinian children in “cold blood, as they

did with Ahmed Mansara.” Netanyahu has accused Abbas of making provocative remarks that have incited the wave of Palestinian stabbings and shootings of Israelis in recent weeks. At least seven Israelis have been killed and many others injured. Thirtyone Palestinians have died in

Thirteen-yearold Ahmed Manasra, sits in his hospital bed at Hadassah hospital in Jerusalem in this handout picture released from the Israeli Government Press Office, on Thursday. PHOTO: REUTERS.

recent incidents. The Israeli photo showed Mansara awake and sitting up in a bed in a hospital in Jerusalem. He was one of two Palestinians who took part in Monday’s attack, which critically wounded another 13-year-boy and a young man.

46 communitynews

Friday, 16 October, 2015

Olukoyi wants subjects’ support as Osun-Ikoyi Festival begins

he Olukoyi of Ikoyi in Isokan Local Government Area of Osun State, Oba Yisau Bantale Otunla-Kodaolu I, has charged residents of the community to continue to give him their

support in order to make the community a better place to live. The Olukoyi gave the charge at a programme to herald this year’s Osun-Ikoyi Festival. Oba Otunla noted that a community can grow

only with the cooperation and support of residents. The traditional ruler, who described the annual festival as a cultural and traditional festival organised to remember the founder of the ancient

community, added that the festival is not for idol worshipping. “We are celebrating Osun-Ikoyi to remember our forebears who fought for the emergence of the ancient community and also to pray for the peo-

ple, local and state governments and Nigeria as a whole,” Olukoyi said. According to the monarch, the festival, which commenced on Wednesday, October 13, in a low-key platform, would continue on Friday with

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

gation, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend the culprits. He added that all relevant unions within the community were meeting on a daily basis on the issue. Also condemning the inci-

dents, the paramount ruler of Umurobara Okwunakuwa Uvuru, advised youths in the area to desist from taking drug and alcohol. He said Ndieze had been meeting with relevant security agencies over the issue

and that the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of the area had promised to do everything possible to arrest the perpetrators. Community News, however, learnt that normalcy is gradually return-

ing to the community, while security agents are keeping 24-hour vigil to ensure free movement of people and transaction of business, especially at the market.

Ifa night, while the festival proper is expected to hold on Sunday at Asejire River. Speaking with Community News, the Oosa and Aro to the Olukoyi, Chief Yekini Oyewumi and Chief Oladimeji Oladapo, congratulated the royal father for witnessing another festival. The chiefs charged residents of the community to celebrate the festival with love, urging them not to foment trouble during and after the celebration.

Monarch laments youth unemployment Biola Azeez-Ilorin

A traditional ruler, the Magaji Aare of Ilorin, Alhaji Aremu Zubair, has lamented the high rate of youth unemployment in his domain. He said engaging jobless youths in his domain had been his greatest challenge since he ascended the stool of his forebears a decade ago. He, however, said that despite the challenge, youth restivenens had been curtailed in his domain. The Magaji Aare spoke with journalists in Ilorin during a special prayer to mark the 10th anniversary of his ascension to the throne. He commended the state

government for creating jobs for the people of the state but stressed that government cannot do it alone. “The challenges are many; one of them is how do you cater for your people, especially unemployed youths? Sometimes the civil service in the state comes to the rescue, I thank God. But my main problem is how do I get job for these boys?” the Magaji Aare said. In his lecture, a renowned Islamic cleric, Sheik Sulyman Faruk Onikijipa, said the reign of the Magaji Aare had been peaceful. The cleric said the traditional ruler had achieved

a feat that no one thought was achievable in the community. Also in his lecture, Sheik Buhari Musa, said Idi-Ape

community had carved a niche for itself such that the history of Ilorin can never be complete without

a mention of the area. He advised those in positions of authority to be sensitive to the plight of the masses.

Group seeks Ahmed’s help for rainstorm victims biola azeez-ilorin

An appeal has gone to Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed of Kwara State to come to the aid of victims of rainstorm disaster in Okelele area of Ilorin, the state capital. The Ibagun Progressives, a developmental association, made the appeal in a statement in Ilorin. The association made the

appeal after inspection visits to the affected area. According to the statement jointly signed by Alhaji Kuranga Omomeji (chairman) and Barrister Isiaka Amode (publicity secretary), a total of 25 residential buildings were destroyed by the storm that accompanied last Sunday’s downpour.

The union said the timely intervention of the governor would be a great relief to the victims, most of whom are downtrodden. The union, however, thanked Governor Ahmed for his administration’s commitment to the wellbeing of the people of the state, irrespective of political leaning.

10th remembrance anniversary of late Olufolabi Olabimtan at State Hospital, Ilaro

HE family of Olabimtan has visited the State Hospital, Ilaro during the 10th year remembrance of Late Mr Olufolabi Olubintan, son of late Senator Afolabi Olabimtan. The family presented gifts like plastic chairs and toiletries to the management of the hospital. The Medical Director, Dr Babatunde Banuso appreciated the family of Olabimtan for gifts presented to the hospital and promised that the gifts will be distributed to the appropriate recipients in the hospital. The patients appreciated the family for the gifts presented to them.

Banuso; Head of Administration, Mr S. O. Ajayi; Deputy Head of Account Mrs O. O. Taiwo and ief Matron, Mrs F. M. Popoola

3 1. Mr Olaolu Olabimtan presenting the gift to the managmant of State Hospital with the family members. 2. From left, Chief Matron, Mrs M. A. Ogunbadejo; Medical Director, Dr Babatunde

3. From left; Mr Adepegba Adeyemi, Mr Kayode Salako Mr Olaolu Olabimtan, Prince Hammed Aderonmu and Mr Tunji Adeyemi 4. Cross section of the antenatal patients during their clinic section at the state hospital.

Friday, 16 October, 2015

CHIEF (MRS) HID AWOLOWO (1915-2015)

10 1. From left, Chief Arthur Mbanefo, General Yakubu Gowon, Ambassador (Dr) Olatokunbo Awolowo Dosumu and Reverend (Mrs) Tola Oyediran. 2. From left, Ambassador (Dr) Yemi Farounbi, Professor Tunde Adeniran, Comrade Yinka Odumakin and Honourable Taiwo Akeju. 3. From left, Mrs Abba Folawiyo, Ambassador (Dr) Farounbi, Professor Adeniran and Dr Doyin Abiola. 4. Cross section of member of CCC Ode Remo, with Reverend (Mrs) Oyediran and Ambassador (Dr) Awolowo Dosumu. 5. From left, General Yakubu Gowon, Ambassador (Dr) Awolowo Dosumu, Sir Olaniwun Ajayi and Chief Ayo Adebanjo.

PHOTOS: Tommy Adegbite

6. Reverend Canon Gboyega Babateju preseting letter of condolence to Reverend (Mrs) Oyediran and Ambassador (Dr) Awolowo Dosumu. 7. Cross section of TenderTouch Primary and Secondary School, Festac, Lagos, with General Gowon and Ambassador (Dr) Awolowo. 8. Cross section of the Southern Nigerian Peoples Assembly with Reverend (Mrs) Oyediran and Ambassador Awolowo Dosumu. 9. Cross section of Centre for Justice Mercy and Reconciliation at Ikenne with Reverend (Mrs) Oyediran and Amabssador (Dr) Awolowo Dosumu. 10. Cross section of the League of Imams and Alfas of Remoland with Reverend (Mrs) Oyediran and Amabssador (Dr) Awolowo Dosumu.

SIDELINES

no 16,350

Friday, 16 october, 2015

Pistorius to leave prison for house Tuesday Olympic and Paralympic athlete, Oscar Pistorius, jailed for killing his girlfriend, is to be freed from prison to house arrest next Tuesday, a South African parole board says. He was sentenced to five years in prison in 2014 after being found guilty of culpable homicide, or manslaughter. He shot Reeva Steenkamp through a locked bathroom door, but said he thought she was an intruder. The prosecution has appealed, saying he should instead be convicted of murder. That case is expected to be heard on November 3. Pistorius has spent 12 months in jail and will now spend the rest of his sentence under what is termed in South Africa “correctional supervision,” the parole board said. An earlier decision to release him in August was blocked by South Africa’s Justice Minister,

Michael Masutha, who said it had been made “prematurely”. At the time, Ms Steenkamp’s family had said that 10 months behind bars was “not enough”. Responding to Thursday’s decision, a lawyer speaking for the Steenkamp family said her parents had expected the early release even though they opposed it, adding that nothing could bring back their daughter. The Pistorius family have said they have received the news of his planned release, but are not making any further comment. During his house arrest, Pistorius is likely to face restrictions in terms of gun ownership and may have to continue getting psychotherapy.

Salami to captain Eagles against B/Faso For the first time in his national team career, Gbolahan Salami is expected to captain the Super Eagles when they face Burkina Faso in tomorrow’s African Nations Championship qualifier. Goal gathered that the powerful forward, was named skipper owing to his wealth of experience with the senior national team. “Gbolahan will wear the armband when Nigeria host Burkina Faso on Saturday,” the source told Goal. “He has experience and the ability to lead the rest of the squad now that the team is without a skipper.” Sharks’ Chima Akas was named Former Golden Eaglets coach, Alassistant captain for the game phonsus Dike has called for caution billed for the Adokiye Amiesia- in the team’s FIFA U-17 World Cup maka Stadium, Port Harcourt. opener against the United States of Salami has won 13 caps and America (USA) tomorrow. scored three goals for Nigeria The reigning world champions since making his debut in 2014. will open their defence title account The winner between Nigeria against the Yankees in the match and Burkina Faso will qualify for billed for the Estadio Pradaos Stathe 2016 CHAN billed for Rwan- dium in Santiago De Chile. da in January. Dike said though Eaglets have everything to overcome the Americans in the tournament first test clash, but the Nigerians should not for whatever reason underrate their opponents. “Of course, the first match against the United States of America (USA) is quite crucial to the overall performance in the championship. “However, considering the number of quality friendly matches the Golden Eaglets played prior to the Salami

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Chief Olusegun Obasanjo at a recent public event said he derived fun from insults heaped on him during his days as president, noting that nobody was arrested for poking fun at him through several cartoons and opinion materials which he has kept in his library. Hardly a surprise, given that Obasanjo himself is a master of the game, he gives as much as he takes.

Ighalo nominated for EPL award Says, I want to score against Arsenal W

Ighalo

atford striker, Odion Ighalo, has been shortlisted for the English Premier League Player of the Month award for September. Should he win, Ighalo would be the first Watford player to win the award in 20 years. Ighalo who has scored five goals in eight games helping the Hornets to maintain a 12th placed position in the English Premier League’s top half. The Super Eagles forward is to contend with Leicester City’s England striker, Jamie Vardy, Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper, Hugo Lloris, West Ham playmaker Dimitri Payet and Manchester United pair Anthony Martial and Daley Blind for the award. Ighalo is the top scorer in England with 21 goals this calendar year and has scored in five consecutive Premier League games, but has some way to go to match Alan Shearer’s record of scoring in nine games in a row in 1993. Ighalo is one of only 13 forwards in the EPL to get five or more clear-cut chances this season and

he boasts the best conversion rate among all of them. While Ighalo who scored against Cameroon last Sunday in a friendly in Belgium, praised Deeney’s work rate, even his skipper admits Ighalo is “naturally a better finisher” than him. Recall that Chinese second tier, Hebei China Fortune side offered £10m and a salary of around £50,000 per week for the former Udinese forward. “They offered me crazy money,” said Ighalo. “But I don’t think it is a good league for me. It is not always about the money.” Staying put already looks a smart move.Meanwhile, Ighalo says he hopes to score for Watford to beat Arsenal tomorrow in the English Premier League. “Our target is to try and play good football, defend well and take any opportunities that come our way to score goals. My target is to help my team play well and score goals,” Ighalo told AfricanFootball.com. “Arsenal are doing well at the moment, so it won’t be easy, but we hope for the three points.”

U-17 World Cup: Dike warns Eaglets commencement of the championship they must have gained the necessary confidence to face the US and any other opponents. “The US are good side and have moved very fast over the years in man power, equipment and technological development of their youth football programme. “That makes the team difficult and tough to challenge but the pedigree of Eaglets stand them out only that they must avoid complacency or underrating their USA opponents. “Eaglets must expect a highly determined and technical side which calls for carefulness but I know in the long run the Nigerians will triumph over the Americans,” the former Enugu Rangers and Nasarawa United coach told supersport.com.

Kelechi Nwakali, Eaglets’ captain

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. 16/10/2015.