24th November 2016

NIGERIA’S MOST INFORMATIVE NEWSPAPER NO 16,640 THURSDAY, 24 NOVEMBER, 2016 www.tribuneonlineng.com

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Ondo: Jubilation as Jegede returns on PDP ticket Nigerian Tribune

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—P2,3,29

•Appeal Court says, 'the lower court was in grievous error when it ordered the publication of the name of Jimoh Ibrahim' •I remain the candidate, says Ibrahim •INEC recognises Jegede, says election holds Saturday

HID's posthumous birthday service holds tomorrow —P5

Supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in Ondo election, Mr Eyitayo Jegede, jubilating across the streets of Akure, after the Appeal Court judgment, on Wednesday. PHOTO: HAKEEM GBADAMOSI

OBJ to Buhari: Clear the mess, —P5 let's move forward

“We cannot continue to do the same thing and expect things to change. ...Once you are on seat, you have to clear the mess and put the nation on the path of rectitude, development and progress, leaving no group or section out of your plan, programme and policy and efforts.”

Buhari to present Fire razes 20 rooms —P7 2017 budget Dec 1 Senators condemn MTEF in Yabatech •As over unrealistic projections —P5

Eulogies for Olaniwun Ajayi at Afenifere tributes day —P30,31

TODAY'S SPECIAL

Many ways locust beans can benefit your health —P26

ASUU's demand for N248bn earned allowance can't be met —FG —P10

2 news Ondo: Jubilation as Jegede returns on PDP ticket

Thursday, 24 November, 2016

•Appeal Court orders INEC to pay him damages From Akeem Gbadamosi and Sunday Ejike

T

HERE was jubilation across Ondo State on Wednesday, as the Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja declared Eyitayo Jegede as the rightful candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the Ondo governorship election slated for Saturday.

Prior to the declaration, there was apprehension in the camp of Jegede before the news filtered into town. However, the campaign office of the PDP candidate erupted with jubilation immediately he was declared as candidate by the judges.

Major towns across the three senatorial districts: Ondo City, Igbokoda, Okitipupa and Owo, Ikare, also witnessed their own share of the jubilation, with supporters trooping to the streets to celebrate the favourable court ruling.

The appellate court, in another judgment, also recognised the Senator Ahmed Mohammed Markafi-led caretaker committee as the national executive of the PDP, having set aside the October 29, 2016 judgment of Justice Okon Abang of a Federal High Court in Abuja, which declined to recognise them as national officers of the party.

The three-member panel of Justices of the Court of Appeal, presided over by Justice Ibrahim Saulawa, vacated Justice Abang’s judgment which directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to recognise Jimoh Ibrahim of the Senator Ali Modu-Sheriff-led faction of the party as PDP’s governorship candidate for the election.

Justice Abang had, in his judgment, warned the electoral body against accepting any candidate nominated by the Markafi-led national caretaker committee of the party.

Acting on the strength of the order, INEC, promptly removed Jegede’s name from the list of candidates for the election and replaced it with that of Jimoh Ibrahim.

It will be recalled that whereas Jegede emerged from primaries that was sanctioned by the Markarfi-led NWC of the PDP, Ibrahim, on the other hand, secured his ticket from the Modu-Sheriff faction of the party.

However, the appeal court panel, in its verdict on Wednesday, held that Justice Abang’s refusal to grant fair hearing to Jegede “rendered the entire proceedings before his court a nullity.”

According to Justice Saulawa, “Indeed, it is obvious from the records that the appellant’s name had been duly published as the governorship candidate of the 11th

respondent (PDP) for the November 26 Ondo governorship election.

“The lower court was in grievous error when it ordered the publication of the name of Jimoh Ibrahim. The decision of the lower court was in total breach of the provision of Section 36 of the 1999 constitution, which forbade any court from denying fair hearing to a party likely to be affected by a final decision of the court,” adding that the action of the court violated the legal doctrine of audi altarem partem (hear from the other side).

“The tenets of natural Justice entails that a party ought to be heard prior to determination of case against them,” the court held The appellate court also faulted Justice Abang for ordering INEC to “immediately” recognise Jimoh Ibrahim, who was never a party in the

suit that culminated to both the June 29 and October 14 judgments.

“The court below had no jurisdictional competence to make such order. I have no restriction in the circumstance in resolving the second issue equally in favour of the appellant.”

The court held that Justice Abang “unilaterally” raised issues that were not included by the plaintiffs, an action, it said, amounted to “a violent attitudinal disposition to the rule of law.”

Besides, the court held that the primaies that was conducted by the state chapter of the PDP loyal to ModuSheriff, which produced Mr Jimoh, was a nullity, stressing that the law was very clear on which organ of a party should conduct governorship primary elections.

“It is worth reiterating at this point that any primary

election by the state chapter of a party, be it the PDP or any other party, is undoubtedly, in the eye of the law, an illegal contraption that carries with it no legal or equitable right at all. It is, in its entirety, a nullity,” the appellate court held.

Prior to delivery of the judgment, Justice Saulawa had said the panel was at a time “subjected to a very intimidating treatment by counsel for the first to ninth respondents.

“Most regrettably, the respondents have deemed it expedient to shoot themselves on the foot. Instead of adhering to the wise counsel of the court to file brief within the time limit, even the extra day that was granted to them, they refused to do so.

“The consequences of the respondents’ failure to file their brief by virtue of Order 18 of the Court of Appeal Rules is very obvious

and we have made it clear in our judgment,” he said, and noted that instead of filing their brief of argument, the respondents insisted that the appellate court had lost its jurisdiction to entertain Jegede’s suit by virtue of the appeal they lodged at the Supreme Court.

“I have most critically appraised the preliminary objection by counsel for the respondents, Beluolisa Nwofor and I found that it is most grossly lacking in merit and it is accordingly dismissed,” the court held Having dealt with the preliminary objection of the respondents, the court proceeded to determine the appeal, filed by Jegede on November 11, which raised seven issues for determination on its merit.

The issues included whether it was proper for the high court to order INEC to jet-

People Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate, Mr Eyitayo Jegede, addressing journalists after the Court of Appeal ruled in his favour, in Abuja, on Wednesday. PHOTO: SUNDAY OSUNRAYI.

INEC recognises Jegede, says election holds Saturday Jacob Segun Olatunji -Abuja

THE Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reinstated Mr Eyitayo Jegede as the authentic candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the Saturday ‘governorship election in Ondo State.

In a statement made available to newsmen in Abuja last night by its secretary, Mrs Augusta Ojakwu, the commission stated that the action was “in compliance with the judgment delivered today, Wednesday, 23rd November 2016 by the Court at Appeal, Abuja Division.”

According to the statement, “the Independent National Electoral Commission hereby declares that Mr Eyltatyo Jegede (SAN) is now the candidate of the PDP for the Ondo State governorship election scheduled for Saturday.”

INEC recalled that in com-

pliance with the order given by the Federal High Court, Abuja division, on Friday, October 14, 2016 (re-affirmed on October 27, 2016), the commission named Mr Jimoh Ibrahim as the PDP candidate for the governorship election.

It, however, pointed that “with today’s judgment by the Court of Appeal, the commission hereby recorgises Mr Jegede as the candidate of the PDP for the said election.”

The commission appealed to the people of 0ndo State “to come out and exercise

their franchise on the election day in a peaceful manner and urged all the political parties and their candidates participating in the election to play by the rules and cooperate with it, to ensure the smooth conduct at the election.”

I remain PDP guber candidate —Jimoh Ibrahim MR Jimoh Ibrahim, on Wednesday, faulted the verdict of the Court of Appeal, which nullified the order given by Justice Okon Abang of the Abuja High Court, replacing Eyitayo Jegede with his name as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the Ondo governorship election on Saturday.

Ibrahim said the judgment given by Justice Saulawa, which nullified the proceedings of October 14 when Justice Abang ruled in his (Ibrahim’s) favour, was

without consequential order and, therefore, not binding on him.

Addressing pressmen after the ruling, Jimoh Ibrahim simply described the Appeal Court ruling as “one day ruling,” adding that the Supreme Court would sit on the same case today.

“I have read the decision of the Court of Appeal delivered today (yesterday) without a consequential order,” an unruffled Ibrahim said.

“The ruling failed to specifically say that my name should be substituted by

INEC. Since there is no consequential order directing INEC to do so, the judgment is, therefore, not binding on me and INEC cannot remove my name and as such, I remain PDP candidate for Saturday’s election.

“But we are optimistic that we have nothing to lose as the Supreme Court sits on same case tomorrow (today).

We shall get justice at the Supreme Court and if PDP wins Saturday’s election, we shall have our four-year mandate to rule Ondo State.

tison Jegede’s name after he had already been nominated by the PDP and his name published.

Jegede’s counsel, Chief Wole Olanipekun, had argued that the high court lacked jurisdiction to determine who should be the candidate of a political party.

Relying on decided caselaw in Lado vs CPC, Olanipekun stressed that the issue of nomination of candidates for an election was a domestic affair of a political party which no court had the jurisdiction to meddle into.

The appellate court, in its judgment, held that Jegede was denied fair hearing by the lower court and consequently resolved all the seven issues in Jegede’s favour.

The court held that, “There is no gain saying that this appeal is grossly meritorious and is hereby allowed.”

Consequently, the threemember panel of Justices of the Court of Appeal set aside Justice Abang’s judgment and recognised Senators Makarfi and Obi as the chairman and secretary of the National Caretaker Committee of the PDP. Justice George Mbaba, who read the lead judgment, held that the court had no power to make an order, either against or in favour of a party who is not in a matter.

“The entire processes filed by the first to ninth respondents was, in my view a fraud and intended to defraud the appellants,” the court held.

“I set aside the most fraudulent judgment of the lower court, having braeched the appellants’ right to fair hearing,” the presiding justice held in his judgment.

The court awarded a cost of N100,000 against the respondents to be paid to the appellants.

Immediately the judgment was delivered, in Akure, there was procession of crowd from the Eyitayo campaign office in Ijapo area of Akure, through the ever-busy Oba Adesida/Oyemekun Road, causing gridlock in the capital city.

The wife of the governor of the state, Mrs Olukemi Mimiko, whose convoy ran into the jubilant crowd at the popular Oja Oba market, failed to hold her emotions as she and her entourage joined them in celebrating the restored mandate of Jegede.

Mrs Mimiko openly identified with the people, carrying posters of Jegede and urging the people to remain resolute and focused towards winning Saturday’s election.

Some market women hurriedly closed their shops and joined the procession while some state workers abandoned offices to join in the celebration.

The Jimoh Ibrahim camContinues pg3

3 news

Thursday, 24 November, 2016

Ondo poll: IGP orders robust security, deploys additional personnel Chris Agbambu -Abuja

THE Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Ibrahim Idris, has directed that robust and elaborate security arrangement be implemented in Ondo State, to ensure peaceful, credible, free and fair governorship election on November 26.

To that effect, a Deputy Inspector General of Police has been deployed in the state and will be assisted by an Assistant Inspector General of Police and three commissioners of police for each senatorial district, to coordinate security operations and supervise deployment of security personnel for the election.

Also, to ensure adequate security and safety of life and property before, during and after the election, the IGP has approved deployment of additional 26,000 conventional police personnel (five policemen per polling unit), 2,000 Mobile Police Force (PMF), 10 cells of Counter Terrorism Unit, Special Protection Unit, Anti Bomb Squad (EOD), Marine Police, conventional policemen, Armament Units, personnel from FCIID and FIIB and sniffer dogs section and mounted troops.

Others included 20 police gunboats, three patrol surveillance helicopters, 12 additional Armoured Person-

nel Carriers and 300 police patrol vehicles.

Other security and safety agencies who are members of Inter Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) in the state have also been deployed to complement the police during the election.

A statement from Force headquarters noted that police personnel deployed for the election were under strict instructions to be polite and civil, but firm in the discharge of their duties.

It said they were to provide adequate security for the electorate, INEC staff, election materials, election observers and other individuals and bodies that had statutory roles in the conduct of the election at the polling booths, collation centres and INEC offices throughout the period of the

election.

“All 28 participating political parties and their leaderships, traditional rulers, community leaders, parents and guardians are advised to warn and prevail on their members, supporters, subjects, children and wards to

Hakeem Gbadamosi -Akure

AHEAD Saturday’s election in Ondo State, people with disabilities have been urged to go out to participate in the election, in order to exercise their voting rights.

Executive Director, Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD), David Anyaele, who made this call in Akure, the Ondo State capital, during a press conference, tagged: “Leave no One behind: Disability Votes Count,” said the barriers that made it

paign Office at Oyemekun was under lock and key, while the flag of the PDP in front of the office had been removed and security operatives at the office had vacated, turning the place to a ghost of itself, while the office of the Biyi Poroye, the PDP-led chairman in the state was also deserted.

Social activities in the state, however, picked up as most drinking joints in Akure came to life, people left their various offices and retired to drinking joints declaring surplus.

In his reaction to the verdict and message to the people of the state, Jegede appreciated the people of the state for their support and prayers during his travails.

“There is no doubt that the past few weeks have been very challenging and trying times for us as we contended with anti-democratic and evil forces who tried to subvert the will of God and the mandate the people freely given to us.

“It was a tortuous journey that tested our faith in God and our conviction in the refreshingly different days ahead of us as we were taunted and harassed by hired propagandist, while we tenaciously forged ahead,

difficult for people with disabilities to participate in electoral processes must be removed.

According to him, people with disabilities had been marginalised from participating in electoral processes in the past, saying “polling units are not always physically accessible to those that are unable to walk or have impaired walking.

“The placement of ballot boxes on high tables or other inaccessible location also made it difficult for PWD

Ondo election: Absence of judge stalls hearing in suit challenging Akeredolu’s candidature THE absence of Justice Nnamdi Dimgba has stalled hearing in a suit challenging the candidature of Rotimi Akeredolu as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate in Saturday’s governorship election in Ondo State.

Dr Olusegun Abraham, a stalwart of the APC in Ondo, filed the suit at the Federal High Court, Abuja, on the

we submitted our grievances to the court despite the contraband and manipulation of those who are opposed to democracy.

“We insisted we would explore all legal means in our avowed belief in the rule of law and judiciary. Today, our mouth is filled with laughter and heart with praise, our resilience paid off and our conviction to this doggedness of purpose has made our case another judicial precedence in the country.

“We are grateful to the judiciary for remaining the bastion of democratic process and refusing to be blackmailed, brow beaten and intimidated by those who do not mean well for our state and nation.

“Now, we are set to roll out the drum, not of war, but of God’s faithfulness and sound it loud to our adversaries that the will of God and the desire of the people shall prevail.

Our faith and conviction in this project has continued to grow stronger by the day instead of waning.

“Our acceptability and friendship on the rise and has not diminished. The bond with our people is now made stronger. For us, there is no looking back, we remain resolute and focused in our

found violating the Electoral Act or indulging in any criminal conduct capable of causing violence during the election.

“The Inspector General of Police, therefore, assures the electorate, the contestants and all law-abiding

citizens in Ondo State of adequate security throughout the election. He enjoins them to cooperate with the police personnel in the discharge of their duties. Security details are warned to desist from escorts,” the statement said.

People with disabilities to monitor voting exercise

ground that the process that produced Akeredolu was illegal.

Abraham alleged that the process that produced the defendant as the governorship candidate was not in conformity with the law.

He also joined the APC national chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as

Ondo: Jubilation as Jegede returns on PDP ticket Continued from pg2

be law abiding and not allow themselves to be used to cause disturbance or disruption of the election/ electoral process anywhere in the state.

“The full weight of the law will be applied on any person or group of persons

desire to bring development, progress and prosperity to our people.

“This is our article of faith.

We dedicate this victory to God almighty and the generality of the people. We urge our people to maximally utilise the few remaining days before the polls to consolidate on our door to door campaign across the state,” he said.

The PDP commended the people of the state and members of the party for their loyalty and thanked God for the outcome of the ruling so far.

A statement issued by the publicity director of the party, Ayo Fadaka, said “we use this opportunity to appreciate the President of the Court of Appeal and the judges who sat on the matter for being professional and dedicated to their callings. We also thank the Supreme Court judges who also sat on this case and did justice in the most dispassionate manner.

“We, indeed, confirm that the judiciary asserted itself and firmly did justice.

We ask those our members that were led astray by the band of fifth columnists to return back to the party and also to the media to abandon those agent provocateurs whose only goal is to destroy the party,” it said.

defendants.

The suit is also seeking an interim order to restrain the APC from parading Akeredolu as its governorship candidate, and to restrain Akeredolu from parading himself as such, pending the determination of the motion.

At the resumed sitting on Wednesday, officials of the court informed parties to the suit that the judge was ill and unable to attend the day’s sitting.

Consequently, lawyers representing both parties picked December 6 as the next adjourned date for hearing of the case.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that Justice Dimgba, at the last sitting on November 10, had adjourned hearing of other motions in the suit till November 23.

voters, especially those on wheel chairs to cast their ballot on election day,” he said.

Anyaele, however, said the Ondo State election would be the first election where PWD would participate actively, not just as voters, but as election observers.

Speaking during the press conference, Executive Director, Inclusive Friends Association, (IPA) Grace Jerry, said the CCD, IFA and Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) had deployed a samplebased election methodology observation to be used during the election.

Jerry explained that accredited PWD observers would observe physical accessibility of polling units for PWD voters, access to electoral day information and the participation of PWD in election process.

She commended the Ondo State Resident Electoral

Ondo guber: AD condemns harassment of members Christian Okeke -Abuja

AHEAD Saturday’s governorship election in Ondo State, the Alliance for Democracy (AD), on Wednesday, condemned in strong terms, what it described as plot by desperate politicians to use security agents to harass, detain and frustrate their opponents, particularly its members.

It cautioned voters in the

Public opinion poll on election fraudulent —APC THE All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State has described the report of a recent public opinion poll on the forthcoming governorship election in the state as fraudulent and misleading.

The APC said the report of the poll, which was widely reported in a national newspaper, was purportedly conducted by an unknown company in Lagos.

Its publicity secretary, Mr Abayomi Adesanya, in a statement in Akure, on Wednesday, said the result of the poll reported in the newspaper of November 19, with the caption: “Opinion poll tips Oke to win,” was an attempt to mislead the public.

Adesanya said the news-

Commissioner (REC), Segun Agbaje, for approving and allowing members of the PWD as election observers The NDI Country Director, Mr Jasper Veen, confirmed that the accessibility audit was the first of its kind in the whole world, pointing out that the one conducted in Morocco was supervised by people without disabilities.

National commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professsor Anthonia Simbine, who led other two national commissioners to the event, noted that the PWDs was first raised during the Edo State election.

Simbine stated that the commission was looking forward to receiving assessment reports from the Edo and Ondo state elections, declaring that there were some constitutional constraints to whatever INEC could do to improve on their inclusiveness as voters.

paper failed to provide the details of the organisation that allegedly conducted the “fake opinion poll.”

“It was fictitious as there was no opinion poll conducted anywhere in Ondo State as reported by the newspaper.

“It is not the true reflection of the wishes of Ondo State people, but the opinion of a few individuals who are promoters and financiers of the Alliance for Democracy (AD) candidate, Chief Olusola Oke. “It is the people of Ondo State that will decide who will be their next governor and not subjective opinion poll or prediction done in Lagos to justify the huge financial investment of some people,” he said.

state that its candidate, Olusola Oke, was the only candidate that would fulfill his campaign promises and deliver dividends of democracy to the long-suffering masses.

It also urged them to come out en-masse and vote for him.

The party said the citizens of the state should take their destiny in their hands and vote for a credible, peopleoriented candidate with clear vision and mission to rescue the state from poor leadership and reactionary forces that impoverished them.

In a statement by its national auditor, Ishmail Ayodele, the party urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure free, fair, credible and acceptable election by also providing a level-playing field to all the political parties participating in the poll.

It called on security agents to be awake to their constitutional responsibilities and ensure a violence-free election.

It said: “A vote for AD is a vote for progress, development, transparency, equity and better life. Ondo State people desire and deserve a strong democratic leadership to steer the state to the path of economic growth, wealth creation, infrastructural development and employment.

4

Thursday, 24 November, 2016

5 news OBJ to Buhari: Clear the mess, let us move forward Thursday, 24 November, 2016

Akin Adewakun - Lagos

F

ORMER president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, on Wednesday, lashed out at President Muhammadu Buhari, asking him to stop dwelling on the past and concentrate on clearing the mess he inherited.

Obasanjo, delivering the keynote address at the First Akintola Williams Annual Lecture, objected to the repeated lumping of the country’s three previous administrations (including the one Obasanjo led) together and then accusing them of misgovernance.

“It is easier to win an election than to right the wrongs of a badly fouled situation.

When you are outside, what you see and know are nothing compared with the reality.

“And yet once you are on seat, you have to clear the mess and put the nation on the path of rectitude, development and progress, leaving no group or section out of your plan, programme and policy and efforts. The longer it takes, the more intractable the problem may become.

“Now that we have had change because the actors and the situation needed to be changed, let us move forward to have progress through a comprehensive economic policy and pro-

gramme that is intellectually, strategically and philosophically based,” he said.

Obasanjo noted that “President Buhari has always expressed concern for the plight of the common people but that concern must be translated to workable and result-oriented socioeconomic policy and programme that will turn the economy round at the shortest time possible. We cannot continue to do the same thing and expect things to change. That will be a miracle which normally doesn’t happen in normal national economies. We have people inside and outside who can be brought together to help device the right economic policy and programme to get us out of the pit before we fall over the precipice into a dark cave. Economy requires a great element of trust to get it out of the doldrums let alone out of negativity. That trust and confidence has to be created.

The former president vehemently opposed the plans

by President Buhari to take about $30 billion loan, expressing the belief that going for a huge loan under any guise was inadvisable and it would amount to going the line of soft option, which would come to haunt the country in future.

“Adhocracy is not the answer but cold, hard headed

planning that evinces confidence and trust. Economy neither obeys orders nor does it work according to wishes. It must be worked upon with all factors considered and most stakeholders involved.

“The investors, domestic and foreign, are no fools and they know what is going on with the management of the economy, including the foreign exchange and they are not amused. The Central Bank must be restored to its independence and integrity. We must be careful and watchful of the danger of shortermism.

“Short-term may be the enemy of medium and long term. We must also make allowance for the lessons that most of us in democratic dispensation have learned and which the present administration seems to be just learning.

“I am sure that such a comprehensive policy and programme (that will move Nigeria forward) will not support borrowing $30 billion in less than three years.

It will give us the short, medium and long-term picture,” he said.

The former president repeated his position about the National Assembly which, he said, stinks to high heavens and the Nigerian military, which he also said needed to be purged.

HID Awolowo’s posthumous birthday holds tomorrow

By Dare Adekanmbi

A posthumous thanksgiving service to mark the birthday of the matriarch of the Awolowo Dynasty, Chief (Mrs) HID Awolowo, will hold tomorrow, November 25.

The birthday, which will be celebrated with a Holy Communion service, will be held at Efunyela hall in Ikenne Remo, Ogun State home of the Awolowos, at 9.00 a.m.

HID Awolowo, who joined the saints-triumphant on September 19, 2015, about

68 days to his Centenary birthday, was born in Ikenne Remo on November 25, 1915.

All roads lead to Ikenne as political disciples of the sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, members of the intelligentsia, industrialists, friends and associates of the family congregate to honour the sage’s Jewel of Inestimable Value.

In addition to God and a Spartan discipline, HID, it will be recalled, was the third leg of the tripod upon which the sage hinged his successes

and triumphs.

As part of programmes to perpetuate her cherished memories, a not-for-profit and non-partisan organisation, named the HID Awolowo Foundation, under the auspices of the Obafemi Awolowo Foundation, was inaugurated in September.

The Foundation, which serves as an independent research and advocacy institute, propagates “the ideals of Yeye Oodua HID Awolowo, whose place in the political history of Nigeria is assured.”

Buhari to present 2017 budget Dec 1

•As senators condemn MTEF over unrealistic projections Taiwo Adisa and Ayodele Adesanmi -Abuja

IT emerged in the Senate on Wednesday that President Muhammadu Buhari will present the 2017 budget to the National Assembly on December 1.

Senate minority leader, Senator Godswill Akpabio, who gave out the information during a debate on the floor of the Senate, told his colleagues that the Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki, had confirmed that President Buhari would be presenting the new budget on December 1.

The development is coming on the heels of the decision by the Senate to debate

the 2017 to 2019 Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and the Fiscal Strategy Paper (FSS).

The document escaped the Senate’s hammer by the whiskers, even as the lawmakers declared that the document was full of “glaring shortcomings” and unrealistic projections.

Saraki, who asked that the document be referred to the Senate Committees on Appropriation and Finance, said the consideration of MTEF was a prerequisite for passage of the budget, adding that the committees on Finance and Appropriations were to organise a debate on the performance of the 2016 budget before the Senate

would take their report on the MTEF. He also agreed that the MTEF was full of unrealistic assumptions while he called on the senators to allow the Senate give it a second look at committee level.

“There is no doubt about the fact that these projections are not realistic. The Central Bank of Nigeria has said it is using N305 (to a dollar). There is no doubt as well that throughout this year, we did not achieve 2.2 million barrels per day; even in time of peace (in the oil rich Niger Delta), we have not achieved 2.5mbpd. How realistic is 2.2mbpd next Continues pg 36

He desribed the National Assembly as a den of corruption by a gang of unarmed robbers.

“The National Assembly cabal of today is worse than any cabal that anybody may find anywhere in our national governance system at any time. Members of the National Assembly pay themselves allowances for staff and offices they do not have or maintain.

“Once you are a member, you are co-opted and your mouth is stuffed with rottenness and corruption that you cannot opt out as you go home with not less than N15 million a month for a senator and N10 million a month for a member of the House of Representatives,” Obasanjo stressed.

He said, “by our constitution, the Revenue Mobilisation, Fiscal and Allocation Commission should be responsible for fixing the remunerations of the executive and the legislative arms of the government. Any salary, allowance or perquisite not recommended by the commission should not be budgeted for; but crooks and crocked that most of the members of the National Assembly are, they will try to find other ways which must be blocked.”

On the raid of judges homes by the State Security Services (SSS), the former president supported the action, saying the action was necessary to cleanse the judiciary.

“Three weeks before the first three judges were arrested for corruption, I was talking to a fairly senior retired public officer who put things this way, ‘The judiciary is gone, the National Assembly is gone, the military is sunk and the civil service was gone before them; God save Nigeria.’ I said a loud Amen,” Obasanjo said in the speech, entitled: “Nigeria Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow: Governance and Accountability.”

“Three weeks later, the process of saving the judiciary began. And if what I have gathered is anything to go by, there may be not less than two score of judicial officers that may have questions to answer. That will be salutary for the judiciary and for the nation.

“While one would not feel unconcerned for the method used, one should also ask if there was an alternative,” the former president said.

“In the absence of that alternative, we must all thank God for giving the president the wisdom, courage and audacity for giving the security agencies the leeway to act,” he said.

The former president said a drastic disease required a drastic treatment, adding that “when justice is only for sale and can only be purchased by the highest bidder,

impunity and anarchy would be the order of the day and no one would be safe.

“A drastic action was needed to save the situation, albeit one would have preferred an alternative that would serve the same purpose, if there was one. In the absence of that alternative, we must all thank God for giving the president the wisdom, courage and audacity for giving the security agencies the leeway to act. And where a mistake was made in the action taken, correction must take place with an apology, if necessary.

“The National Judicial Council (NJC) would not do anything as it was all inbreeding. As now contained in our constitution, the president of Nigeria cannot influence or make any appointment to the judiciary at the Court of Appeal or Supreme Court level.

“He can only transmit the decision of the NJC to the Senate, even where Senate confirmation is required. The Constitution which was heavily influenced by the judiciary ensured that,” he added.

The former president also lambasted the Nigerian lawyers, saying that there would be virtually no corrupt judge without being aided by a member of the bar.

“The Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, has the responsibility to clean up its own house and help with the cleaning of the judiciary.

“It is heartening though that some members of the NBA have recently called for

judicial reform. Such reform must be deep, comprehensive and entail constitutional amendments as appointment and disciplines of judges are concerned.

“May God continue to imbue the executive with the necessary wisdom and courage to clean the dirty stable of the judiciary and the bar for the progress and the image of our nation.

On the military, Obasanjo said “when the military is corrupt, it affects its fighting ability in many ways. Poor, used and inappropriate equipment and materials are purchased by the military for the military at the expense of the lives of fighting troops in the warfront.

“In some cases, nothing at all is purchased. How callous, for a General, an Air Marshal or a Naval Admiral to be so cruel and unpatriotic as to buy such inappropriate weapons, equipment, ammunition and materials for men facing the rigour and ruthlessness of an enemy force like the Boko Haram.

“It is more damnable for nothing to be bought and yet the money disappeared into their private personal pockets. I can only say to these officers that I am not proud of them, rather I am ashamed of them. Whether they are alive or dead, their family members should also be ashamed of them. And what is more, the blood of those men who died because of their nefarious and sordid acts and actions would be on their hands.

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Thursday, 24 November, 2016

Metro...

Nigerian Tribune

crime, security, court 40 Zamfara traders regain freedom Muhammad Sabiu - Kaduna

Governor AbdulAziz Yari of Zamfara State (middle); deputy governor, Alhaji Ibrahim Wakkala (by his right); Speaker of the House of Assembly, Alhaji Sanusi Rikiji (by his left); Emir of Dansadau, Alhaji Husaini Umar and other dignitaries with rescued people, who were kidnapped by bandits in Maru Local Government Area of the state, last week.

FORTY traders kidnappped by bandits at Magami market, in Gusau Local Government Area of Zamfara State, have regained their freedom.

In an elaborate ceremony held at the state Government House, Gusau, on Wednesday, chairman of the rescue mission, who is equally the state’s deputy governor, Ibrahim Wakkala, handed over the 40 abductees to the state governor, Alhaji AbdulAziz Yari.

An excited governor, who did not hide his feelings, told the gathering that he could now sleep for the first time since the incident happened.

Though he did not say

Scores injured as hoodlums clash in Oshodi Olalekan Olabulo - Lagos

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HERE was confusion between Tuesday night and early Wednesday as factions of social miscreants battled over territorial control in Bolade area of Oshodi, Lagos State.

More than 10 people were reportedly injured in the clash, which according to residents, started a long time ago between two popular urchins battling to control Bolade area of Oshodi.

Residents, according to Metro stated that not even the intervention of well-meaning residents of the state to share the territory between the two warlords has abated the situation.

It was gathered that the clash started Tuesday night, when a faction of hoodlums loyal to one of the gladiators in Oshodi, attacked the leader of the other gang.

The attack was said have resulted in a serious clash between the two factions, as broken bottles and other dangerous weapons were freely used by both gangs.

Metro gathered that residents of area were forced to scamper for safety as the two gangs took over the major streets around Brown and Igbeyinadun area of Oshodi.

A resident of the area, who spoke with the Metro on condition of anonymity, said

“it is actually a clash between two bosses, who were formally in the sane camp.

“A popular transport unionist in Oshodi lured one of the two warlords to his side and reportedly attempted to impose him on the other gang leader.

“They used to be together.

They used to collect money from traders and other people around Bolade area, as well as from drivers. They are very influential in not just this area, but the whole of Oshodi,” a resident of the area said.

He added that “some months ago, there was a serious clash between the two gangs, leading to the territory being divided between the duo, but enmity continued.”

It was gathered that the latest clash started around 7.45 p. m. on Tuesday,

when the leader of one of the gangs was injured by the other gang.

Metro also learnt that it was the timely intervention of policemen from the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Akinpelu Police Station and the Task Force which prevented further clash between the two gangs Tuesday night, as it was also gathered that

reprisal was again ignited early Wednesday and it took the intervention of soldiers from to put the situation under control.

“Both factions of the hoodlums had mobilised their members, who were throwing broken bottles and other dangerous weapons at each other when the soldiers intervened.

Some of the hoodlums

19-yr-old man arraigned for pushing passenger off BRT bus A 19-year-old man, Tunde Oluwatobi, who allegedly pushed a passenger out of a BRT bus, as well as stole his belongings, was on Tuesday arraigned before an Ogudu Magistrates’ Court in Lagos.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria

(NAN), the accused, of Jakande market, is facing a two-count charge of assault and stealing.

According to the prosecutor, Sergeant Lucky Ihiehie, the complainant came to the Ketu Police Station and reported that while boarding a BRT bus, the accused

Housekeeper allegedly uses employer’s credit card to buy goods online Ayomide Owonibi Odekanyin - Lagos FOR using his employer’s credit card to purchase goods worth N328,000 online, a 23-year-old housekeeper, Henry Iruma-Egana, was on Wednesday arraigned before Tinubu Magistrates’ Court in Lagos.

Iruma-Egana allegedly used Mr Godwin Okoh’s

faced the soldiers and threw broken bottles at them, creating serious confusion in the area before the situation was put under control,” a source added.

Efforts to get the reaction of the image maker in charge of the state police command, Dolapo Badmos failed, as calls to her mobile phone lines were not answered.

credit card on November 16 and used it to buy goods worth N328,000.

He allegedly used the credit card to pay for a home theatre, laptop and cell phone he purchased on Konga.com.

“Okoh received alert of withdrawal of N187,500, N68,000 and N73,000 respectively, on November 16 and 17, and then went to

his bank to report the withdrawals.

“The theft was traced to the accused,” the police said.

He, however, pleaded not guilty to the theft and the Magistrate, Mrs F.O. Ikobayo, remanded him in prison pending ruling his bail application.

She adjourned the case till November 30 for ruling.

assaulted him.

“While boarding a BRT bus at Ketu bus stop going to Ikorodu, the accused pushed him out of the bus and he fell on the road and sustained injuries on his face.

“When the complainant fell, the accused robbed him of his phone valued N25, 000 and a wallet containing 20 USD, which is an equivalent of N8000.”

The offences contravened Sections 171 and 285 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011.

The accused, however, pleaded not guilty and the magistrate, Mrs O. Sule-Amzat, admitted him to a bail of N20,000 with two sureties in like sum, who must each show evidence of tax payment.

The case was adjourned till December 12 for mention.

whether any ransom was paid, reliable source told Metro that the rescue committee had negotiated well to secure their release.

Governor Yari reiterated the resolve of his government to end banditry and kidnapping in no distant time.

He said those behind the the heinous crime would not go unpunished.

He then handed over the 40 traders to the Emir of Dansadau, Alhaji Hussaini Umar.

‘Fire destroyed N450m goods at Erisco Foods Warehouse’ GOODS worth about N450 million were destroyed in a fire that gutted Erisco Foods Limited warehouse in Lagos, Mr Tokunbo Agbede, the company’s General Manager said on Tuesday.

Agbede made the disclosure at a news conference in Lagos.

He disclosed that the cause of the fire which happened around 6.00 a.m. on Monday at the Eleganza warehouse of the company was yet to be ascertained.

He said that investigation into the incident was ongoing by the Nigeria Police and the Lagos State Fire Service.

“The fire is a colossal loss to the company at a time when we are trying to wind down production in Nigeria.

“The destruction of our raw materials will not have been much if government agencies had supported us with foreign exchange and favourable business environment.

“As it is, most of the raw materials were destroyed because they were lying in the warehouse unused with other tomato pastes that were yet to be sold,’’ Agbede said.

He urged regulatory agencies to support local manufacturers in a bid to stimulate the economic growth desired by government.

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Thursday, 24 November, 2016

Nigerian Tribune

Edited By Oluwatoyin Malik

08116954633, 08078891950 e-mail: tribunecrimedesk@gmail.com

YABATECH: Fire destroys 20 rooms in female hostel, academic activities suspended

Scene of the fire incident at Bakassi Female Hostel, Yaba College of Technology, on Wednesday, in Lagos. PHOTO: SYLVESTER OKORUWA

AN early morning inferno on Wednesday destroyed 20 rooms in a female hostel at the Yaba College of Technology in Lagos.

News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that fire broke out at a wing of the top floor of the Bakassi female hostel in the school.

It was gathered that the inferno started at about 5.20 a. m. when the school generator was switched on after a power outage.

NAN gathered that three students sustained injuries as a result of commotion that ensued when the inferno started.

The injured students were rushed to the Federal Medical Centre, Yaba and the General Hospital, Randle Avenue, Surulere, Lagos.

128 policemen killed in 3 months —IGP

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HE Inspector-General of Police, ( IGP), Mr Ibrahim Idris, said 128 policemen had lost their lives to activities of criminals in various parts of the country in the last three months, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports.

Idris said this in a statement issued by the Force’s spokesman, Deputy Commissioner of Police Don Awunah, in Abuja, on Wednesday.

“In the past three months, the Force has lost 128 personnel in various parts of the country due to activities of undesirable elements in our communities.

“These line of duty resultant deaths, occasioned by unwarranted attacks by religious bigots, bandits, hoodlums and militants must be reversed and the trend halted,” he said.

Awunah also said disturbing was the wanton

destruction of police infrastructure and public assets.

“The recent cases in Dankamoji village in Maradun Local Government Area of Zamfara State; Abagana in Anambra State and in Okrika waterways

in Rivers State, where personnel were killed, arms carted away, structures and equipment destroyed are cases in point,” he said.

He said the IGP regretted the loss of these personnel in the course of their national duty and condoled

with their families.

The police spokesman said Idris assured them of the Force’s support to cushion the effects of this irreparable loss.

“The IGP urges the officers not to relent or be distracted in our collective

will to serve this country, the costly challenges notwithstanding.

He advised Nigerians to continue to render the police the desired support and assistance to enable them to provide adequate security to Nigerians.

Cattle breeders adopt oath taking to check rustling, other vices in Nasarawa THE Nasarawa State chapter of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) says it has adopted traditional method of “oath taking” in tackling cattle rustling, robbery and other criminal acts among its members.

Chairman of the association, Alhaji Mohammed Hussaini, stated this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lafia, on Tuesday.

“We adopted a traditional method to control cattle rustling, robbery and kidnapping involving members, whereby all herdsmen

in every community are made to take an oath by eating kolanuts after chanting some incantations and the method is yielding positive results.

“Cattle rustlers, robbers and kidnappers do not fear God, so begging them to stop their evil acts because of God would amount to waste of time and effort, hence the adoption of oath taking.

“We have traditionalists that specialise in administering the oath to members as a way of controlling social vices and criminalities, and the nemesis for violators is almost immediate,“ Hus-

saini said.

He said the initiative would complement the efforts of conventional security agencies at tackling security challenges involving the union’s members.

The chairman said many members of the association who belonged to criminal gangs and perpetrated various crimes had repented and denounced their membership of such syndicates.

He said the association would not shield criminal elements and promised to expose anyone caught or discovered to be involved in any criminality to the law enforcement agencies.

Meanwhile, the Nasarawa State Chapter of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has setup a Peace and Security Committee comprising more than 2,000 people in the state.

Alhaji Mohammed Hussaini, the chairman of the association, disclosed this in an interview with NAN on Tuesday in Lafia.

According to Hussaini, the committee was to checkmate bad elements among the herdsmen and reports their activities to the leaders of the Fulanis in the state for onward report to the law enforcement agencies.

Dr Ismail Badmus, the Head of Department of the Fire Service in the school, confirmed the incident.

He told NAN that no life was lost, but that some students were injured and taken to government hospitals for treatment.

“The incident happened at Bakassi Female hostel which is a two-wing twostorey building. It was the top floor of one of the two wings of the hostel.

“There was no life lost, but there were some injuries.

“We lost a lot of students’ items like laptops, phones, books and mattresses. You know it is residential hostel; many combustibles are there, which readily catch fire,’’ Ismail told NAN. He said the fire was combated with the combined efforts of the college’s fire service department, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, Lagos State Fire Service and the State Response Unit.

Meanwhile, authorities of the college have suspended all academic activities till further notice, following the fire outbreak.

Rector of the college, Dr Margaret Ladipo, called on the college community to remain calm, promising that the management would find ways of soothing the pains caused by the accident.

“Sequel to the unfortunate fire incident at the Bakassi hostel early this morning, the management has suspended all academic activities till further notice.

“By this notice, all examinations and lectures, especially scheduled for today, have been put on hold while the college attends to the exigency.

“The management regrets the misguided and outright falsehood on the social media and calls to certain radio stations that there was no water on campus to put out the fire,’’ Ladipo said in a statement issued by Mr Charles Oni, the Head of Public Relations Unit.

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south-westnews

Oyo govt, UI, FRIN, IAR&T to partner in showcasing history

By Wale Akinselure

O

YO State government is set to partner with institutions and establishments renowned for their statuses of being first in the history of the state.

The state government’s tourism initiative is tagged “Pacesetter-tourism.”

This initiative, according to the Commissioner for Information, Culture and Technology, Mr Toye Arulogun, is part of plans to promote cultural tourism, heritage of the state and ensure that the coming generation has a sense of history.

This formed the core of the recent interaction between the ministry and representatives of the University of Ibadan, Nigerian Television Authority, Liberty Stadium, University College Hospital, Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria, Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria (FRIN), Institute of

MICHAEL

I, formerly Michael Kelvin Martins now MAKANJUOLA OLUWATOYIN SEYE. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Agricultural Research and Training (IAR&T), National Commission for Museums and Monuments, and Adeoyo Maternity Teaching Hospital.

He added that the collaboration would see the exploration of the potentials of the state and encourage many Nigerians to experience the many historical firsts in the history of the state.

For the implementation of the plan, Arulogun hinted of the setting up of requisite committees, noting that the institutions had been

tasked to send a brief of the institution to the state government.

Representatives of the different institutions assured of collaboration with the state government to enable it carry out its planned documentation of the firsts.

Speaking, representative of the University of Ibadan (UI), Professor Gbolagade Lamidi, said that the institution was ready to collaborate with the state government and play a crucial role in providing the needed data.

Thursday, 24 November, 2016

Nigerian Tribune

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Thursday, 24 November, 2016

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news

Thursday, 24 November, 2016

ASUU’s demand for N284bn earned allowance can’t be met — FG

Excludes University Endowment Fund from TSA FEC okays 67 new vehicles for FRSC •LASU lecturers resume work LeonUsigbe–Abuja,withAgency report

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HE Federal Government on Wednesday said it had thrashed out seven out of eight demands put forward by members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), hoping that ongoing talks will lead to the resolution of outstanding disagreement.

ASUU has only just ended a one-week warning strike called to press home their demands.

Briefing State House on the outcome of Wednesday’s meeting of the Federal Executive Council (FEC), at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Minister of Labour and Productivity, Chris Ngige, con-

firmed that the meeting presided over by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo deliberated on the issue.

FEC also approved the contract for the purchase of 40 operational pick-up vans, from Innoson Automobiles, Nnewi, Anambra State and 27 cars from Peugeot Assembly plant, in Kaduna, for use by the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).

Ngige explained that government would not be able to meet ASUU demand for payment of the outstanding N284 billion Earned Allowance, because of the present recession in the country, but had agreed to exclude university endowment funds from the Treasury Single Account (TSA).

He said government cannot exempt the universities from the TSA, because the account was meant to ensure accountability in public accounting system.

However, he said both parties have resolved to continue talks on how best to resolve the ongoing differences on this and meet again next week.

Speaking on the vehicles approved for the FRSC, Ngige revealed that the 40 Innoson double-cabin pickups would cost N299 million, while the 27 Peugeot patrol cars would be N164.9 million.

According to him, the contract was influenced by the need to encourage local industries.

He added that FEC was awaiting another request for the purchase of specialised vehicles, such as ambulances and towing vans for the FRSC. Also on the agenda of the meeting was a review of the nation’s economic performance, following the Third Quarter Report released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), which indicated that the country was still in recession.

Minister of Budget and National Planning, Udoma Udo Udoma, who spoke on this, said the performance of the non-oil sector during the period was encouraging.

He expressed the belief that the oil sector performance would improved in

By Aramide Shanu

the fourth quarter, with the measures government has put in place.

Meanwhile, Lecturers at the Lagos State University (LASU) resumed work on Wednesday, after the expiration of the one-week nationwide warning strike declared by (ASUU).

Dr Isaac Oyewunmi, the Chairman, LASU chapter of ASUU, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos that the resumption of work followed the directives of the ASUU national body.

“We have all resumed today (Wednesday) as directed by the national body because the one week strike elapsed on Tuesday by 11.59 p.m.”

According to him, academic activities had returned and would continue, until there was a contrary directive from the national body.

The chairman said the next line of action would be determined by the union’s national body, after it meets to review the outcome of the warning strike.

Buhari hails Okoro’s World Bank appointment •Ogwumike too

From right, Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo; Secretary to the Goverment of the Fedration (SGF), Mr Babachir David Lawal; Chief of Staff, Mallam Abba Kyari and the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs Winifred Oyo-Ita, during the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, in Abuja, on Wednesday.

Lagos cancels monthly environmental sanitation day Bola Badmus - Lagos

LAGOS State government on Wednesday announced termination of the monthly environmental sanitation exercise, which hitherto held for three hours on the last Saturday of every month.

The state government said this, in a statement by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Steve Ayorinde.

The statement disclosed that the decision to cancel the monthly exercise, followed a resolution arrived at Wednesday’s Executive Council meeting, which approved the need for a robust review of the environmental laws and procedures in the state, in order to meet the present day challenges and to promote a clean and healthy environment.

The government noted that considering the present economic situation in the country, it was no longer appropriate to restrict movement of people for three hours in a mega city like

Lagos, at a time they should be pursuing commercial and entrepreneurial activities.

According to government, in the last two decades, Lagos has grown exponentially into a mega city with the attendant, huge environmental problems associated with managing a population of over 20 million people.

But sadly, the environmental laws, policies and procedures being practised in the state had not been able to match the phenomenal growth and the dream of a 24-hour economy, hence the need for the reform.

Ayorinde said the state government was not unaware of a recent Court of

Appeal judgment, contending that the thrust of the fresh initiatives, among others, was to promote holistic and modern solutions to the unique environmental challenges confronting the state, while encouraging citizens to voluntarily partner with government, to achieve the desired goals.

FG warns Discos, says it will only pay verified electricity debts Adetola Bademosi-Abuja

THE Federal Government (FG) has warned electricity distribution companies Discos that it would only pay verified outstanding electricity debts consumed by Ministries Departments and Agencies (MDAs) and would not succumb to blackmails from the Discos.

The Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Mr Babatunde Fashola, gave the warning at the opening session of the 10th Monthly Meeting, with Power Sector Operators in Uyo, Akwa

Ibom State.

Fashola, who was reacting to advertorials placed on behalf of the Discos, by the Association of Nigerian Electricity Distribution Companies (ANED), advised the Discos to pursue the debt issue in their capacities as Distribution Companies and not under the aegis of any association.

He described the advertorials titled; “MDA debts not yet paid” with other sidelines such as “MDA pay your debts so that we can serve Nigerians better”, as a blackmail against

the Federal Government.

He pointed out that, although the Constitution guaranteed freedom of association, the privatisation exercise that led to the transfer of the Distribution assets of power was not held between the Federal Government and any association, but 11 individual companies.

He explained that the advertorials failed to tell Nigerians the whole truth about the debts, pointing out that the DisCos had so far failed to provide details of such debts for verification.

YFBS empower more youths

PRESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari has congratulated a Nigerian- Ms Sandie Okoro- of World Bank, on her recent appointment as the Senior Vice President and General Counsel, World Bank Group.

The President extended the same felicitations to Ms Nnemkadi Ogwunike, on her record breaking achievements in the United States Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) League.

The two congratulatory messages were contained in a statement, signed by the President’s Senior Special Assistant on Foreign Affairs and Diaspora, Hon Abike Dabiri-Erewa, in Abuja.

To Okoro, the President described her track record in the legal banking business as impressive, this he noted, has brought a rekindled hope that Nigerians in the Diaspora given the right atmosphere are professionally excellent.

Buhari said having followed her excellent track records in making Nigeria proud as a nation, “there is no doubt in my mind that the sky is your beginning.”

In the same vein, Buhari said Nigeria received the victory of Nnemkadi Ogwunike, as the 2016 Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the WNBA League, with utmost pride and deep sense of appreciation to the country.

YOUTH For Better Society (YFBS), in Ibadan, has organised a workshop and vocational training recently, on interlocking, bead making, Kampala shoe and bag, among others.

This is to empower more youths, in order to face any challenge that may come their way and make life easy for them.

Mr Aransi Adewale, who is the state coordinator, has said that “we contribute positively towards the objective, by transforming lives of an individual and the wider communities.

“Our objectives are to develop the immense potentials of the youth for total growth and development, also to prepare selected trained for self development and corruption free minded members of their immediate society.

“The mission of this organisation is to reduce the level of social vices, caused by unemployment and political disengagement and to orientate the level of campaigning for integrity of our people, to ensure development in our dear state,” he said.

FRSC to submit proposal for review of drivers licence fees —Boboye

FEDERAL Road Safety Commission (FRSC) says it will submit a proposal to the Joint Task Board of the commission, for a review of the drivers’ licence fees due to exchange rate.

According to The News agency of Nigeria (NAN), Dr Boboye Oyeyemi, the Corps Marshal, made this known on Wednesday, at the capacity building workshop for Sector Heads of Drivers Licence Centres, in Abuja.

Oyeyemi said that the review was necessitated by the prevailing foreign exchange and capacity; hence, the corps was considering forwarding a submission for the price review, because the system could not continue running this way.

He said that since the introduction of the national drivers licence, it had undergone different metamorphosis.

“It went from the national drivers’ licence, to enhanced drivers licence, to customised drivers licence, to what we have today,’’ he said.

The corps marshal said that the road task made it compulsory for all drivers, to either renew their licences or go for the fresh ones.

He said that with the joint task board decision, the validity had been increased from three to five years, with options of either renewing for three years with N6,350 or five years with N10,350 respectively.

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businessnews

Thursday, 24 November, 2016

FG considers privatisation of transmission company Olatunde Dodondawa - Lagos

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HERE are strong indications that the federal government may soon privatize the transmission company on Nigeria (TCN).

The Minister of Works, Power and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola, said

Ambode commends Nigerian Breweries at 70 THE Lagos State governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, has commended Nigerian Breweries Plc. for its commitment to the economic prosperity of the state and the nation.

Ambode, who was on a courtesy visit to the company on Tuesday, charged the management to remain focused on excellent business practices and outstanding corporate governance.

He congratulated the company on its 70th anniversary and emphasized that the company has been part of the development of Lagos since the creation of the state fifty years ago.

“In the last fifty years, you have contributed to the growth and development of Lagos State. We are happy you have been part of the success story of this state,” he said.

Ambode highlighted the company’s contribution towards job creation through direct and indirect employment of Lagosians. He also praised the company for being a responsible corporate citizen, adding that it has done more than any other company in terms of corporate social responsibility in the state.

The governor pledged continuous co-operation and partnership between the state and Nigerian Breweries Plc.

the federal government is already looking to privatise the TCN. Fashola who was represented by acting Chairman and CEO, Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Anthony Akah, stated this on Wednesday at the ongoing West Africa Power Industry Convention in Lagos.

According to him, “the government’s move to involve private sector the transmission phase of the sector, is being driven by non availability of funds to drive development in the power sector. The government can no longer handle funding of the power sector

alone. That is why we are now looking towards involving private sector in transmission. This will help in raising fund for the sector.”

After privatisation of the sector, TCN was concessioned to Canadian company, Manitoba. However, the company was accused of lacking expertise in handling the sector hence, it was again taken over by the government.

Fashola also said the government will explore other clean sources of energy in order to bridge the gap in electricity supply in the country. He also said Nigeria’s current power mix is lopsided with 80 per cent of

power being generated from gas.

Earlier in the week, the FG called on the World Bank, International Monetary Fund (IMF), African Development Bank (AfDB), United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and others, to invest in energy sector.

According to Fashola who made the call, government wanted investment in the generation, distribution and transmission sectors of the industry.

He said the funding gap in the sector was wide and required investments to improve electricity supply.

Fashola said the sector

From left: Henk Mymenga, Technical Director, Nigerian Breweries Plc; Chief Kola Jamodu, Chairman, Nigerian Breweries Plc and Lagos State governor, Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos, during the governor’s visit to the company and the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on “One Lagos Fiesta,” on Tuesday.

TCN receives 218 stranded electricity equipment containers Olatunde Dodondawa - Lagos EFFORTS at boosting power supply received another feat on Wednesday as the management of Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) took delivery of 218 stranded electricity equipment in Apapa which has been laying fallow at the port for over eight years.

Receiving the consignment at the Duncan Termi-

nal in Apapa, the Minister of Power, Works and Housing , Mr Babatunde Raji Fashola, said the equipment would go a long way to improve power supply in Lagos.

Fashola who was represented by Dr Atiku Abubakar, CEO, TCN, said that 77 containers were cleared from Duncan terminal while 114 containers will be cleared in other terminals.

He said that this was part

of the Federal Government’s effort in ensuring that all stranded electricity equipment at the port get accelerated clearance and waiver to guarantee stable power supply in the country.

He said that the management will ensure that the consignments were moved immediately to the site for commencement of pending works.

According to him, “in

Diamond Bank launches high interest yielding savings plan DIAMOND Bank, on Wednesday, said it has opened a window of money management opportunity that enables parents and guardians plan and save for the future of their children through a simplified and high interest yielding target savings plan.

The financial product, known as Diamond Future “does not only enable parents to save but also to teach their children to develop healthy savings habit and

has huge investible propositions, which only bigger corporations have the capacity to meet, adding that the sector has the capacity to provide returns on investment for any company that invests in it.

He said the government was striving to provide an enabling environment through its policies to guarantee adequate returns on investment.

“Without doubt, bad environment is a problem, which the government is trying to address. It is obvious that the power sector has huge potential, which can only be realised with the right environment.

build prudent expenditure profile and diverse investment portfolio,” the bank said in a statement.

According to the bank, the product was created and launched into the market in 2014 but now refreshed to help parents meet set savings targets for their children and easily accomplish their future financial goals and needs with excitement.

Information about the financial product on the Bank’s website reveal that

it is a savings account designed for children between ages 0-17 years, and offers a well guided and structured plan with the opportunity of earning high interest rates.

The plan is known as Diamond Future Target Savings Plan.

The bank’s chief spokesperson, Chioma Afe, said a major reason for creating the product is to instill in children the value and dignity of starting early to chart healthy financial course in

life, and also deepen financial inclusion by integrating the children into the banking community.

“We want young people to know that Diamond Bank is not just for adults, Diamond Bank is your Bank too. We have worked hard to be the bank that understands the financial needs of parents and their children and to provide the right products and support to help them save to achieve their dreams,” he said.

president’s effort to give stable power supply to every Nigerian, he has graciously approved the disbursement of fund for the clearing of stranded containers containing power equipment and materials at various terminals so as to imp[rove power delivery to every Nigerians.

“I want to appreciate the effort of the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Prof Yemi Osinbajo, for his support in the actualization of clearing these stranded containers. A lot of hard work has been put into negotiation for the release of these power materials due to the accrued demurrage as a result of the suspension of the issuance of import duty exemption certificate, for some period in 2014.”

The minister said that it is expected that the shipping companies and the terminal operators will be supportive of this administration and cooperate with the ministry of power in its effort to move other power project containers at their various terminal to project sites.

Stock market halts 8-day loss, as Sterling Bank leads gainers Kehinde AkinseindeJayeoba - Lagos THE Nigerian Equities market recovered from an eightday losing streak as market indices grew by 0.22 percent on Tuesday.

The Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) All Share Index added 55.66 points to settle at 25,517.00 points in contrast to 0.17 points lost previously to close at 25,262.28 points.

Investors gained N19.2 billion as market capitalisation rose to N8.784 trillion, compared to a loss of N14.99 billion recorded on Tuesday when market capitalization fell to N8.764 trillion.

Consequently, Year-toDate losses reduced, to settle at -10.91 per cent, whilst volume traded appreciated by 37 percent to settle at 165.7 million units, valued at N1.126 billion and exchanged in 2,484 deals.

Market Breadth turned positive, as investors’ sentiment improved following price appreciation in 19 stocks against losses recorded in 11 stocks.

15 ships grounded at Delta ports in 6 months —Group Tola Adenubi - Lagos A group called the Shipping Trade Group (STG) based in Warri, Delta State has raised the alarm over the dilapidated condition of the Delta Ports channel in Warri, Delta State, stating that no fewer than 15 vessels have been grounded in the port channel in the past six months.

In a letter signed by its President, Ackerman Thilo and Secretary, Obioma Ochulor, and addressed to the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Hadiza Bala Usman, the group said the breakwater at Escravos “is now completely submerged”, thereby destroying the buffer between the ocean and the river channel.

The letter which was made available to newsmen on Wednesday added that the situation at the Escravos breakwater creates room for siltation and negatively impacts on the port channel, restricting the draft to a maximum of five metres.

“More than 15 vessels have gone aground at the Escravos entrance since June this year with its attendant demurrages, man hour loss, hiring of tugboats, and damages to ship propeller,” the group declared.

12

businessnews

Thursday, 24 November, 2016

Inflation rates, non-performing loans to increase —Expert

T

HE retention of Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) at 14 per cent will increase inflation rate and the banking sector non -performing loans (NPLs) profile,’’ some financial experts said on Wednesday.

They told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos that the retention of MPR was not in the best interest of the country, saying that it would escalate the inflation rate.

The experts spoke on the outcome of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting held on Nov. 21 and 22 in Abuja. NAN reports that the MPC at the meeting retained the interest rate at 14 per cent and also retained the Cash Reserve Requirement (CRR) at 22.5 per cent.

NAN reports that the liquidity ratio was also retained at 30 per cent.

In his remarks, Dr Glenn Prince-Abbi, the Executive Consultant/Chief Executive Officer, Espera Global Corporation, said that the decision to retain all the key indicators was worrisome.

According to him, it will increase inflation rate and worsen the present economic recession.

Prince-Abbi said that reduction in the interest rate would improve the cost of doing business and boost companies profitability.

He said that the headline inflation which was already at a ceiling breaking of 18.33 per cent would remain or even worsen with the MPC decision.

“The action of the MPC to retain all the key indicators is worrisome.

“It does appear to me that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) believes ever so strongly that no form of actions on adjusting monetary policy instruments is needed to work in synch with the ongoing fiscal policy propositions by the government,” he said.

Prince-Abbi wondered how the nation’s economy could get out of recession with high interest rate that determines the cost of money used in the production process.

“How can we depend strictly and solely on fiscal policies to make the necessary adjustments and keep sacrosanct and untouchable fundamental monetary instruments,” he queried.

According to him, the high interest rate regime which is retained has not allowed any form of reduction in the costs that producers are already contending with.

Prince-Abbi said that

the monetary policy instruments alone could not engender or trigger economic growth, but could only contribute to stifling growth and worsening unemployment.

He said that high interest

rate regimes, as part of the monetary policy engineering, were adopted by the national economies partly to check over-supply when such arises.

“This stringent policy of high interest rate tends to

be a cautionary measure taken by the CBN without examining the easing a lower interest rate would tend to allow for producers and all the actors within real sector within the economy.”

From left: Partner, Tax and Regulatory Services, Deloitte Nigeria, Yomi Olugbenro; Executive Chairman, Lagos State Internal Revenue Services (LIRS), Ayo Subair; Executive Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Babatunde Fowler and President, Nigerian Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (NASME), Degun Agboade, during a Public-Private Dialogue on Tax Regulatory Policy Framework for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in Nigeria, organised by Deloitte Nigeria, held on Tuesday, in Lagos. Photo: Sylvester Okoruwa.

$40m investment coming to end Apapa traffic —Bello Adesanya Adejokun - Abuja

T

HE Executive Secretary of Nigerian Shippers Council, Hassan Bello has disclosed that the National Freight Information and Transportation Hub (NAFITH) a consultant of the International Financial Organisation (IFO), has embarked $40 million to build terminals and switch port processes to automation, in bid to decongest Apapa port traffic jam.

Bello revealed this while hosting the Association of Transport and Aviation Correspondent Abuja Chapter (ATACAC) on Wednesday in Abuja. He added that, the Council has already acquired land in Kogi and Enugu states for the project.

The CEO stated that the investment is to create terminals away from the port “so that people who don’t have any business being at the port will not come to the port, this will drastically reduce traffic at Apapa port. The standard is to accommodate 1500 trucks at the port, but right now the port is accommodating over 5,000 trucks causing traffic jam.

Bello noted that the key to efficient port management is Automation which discourages human contact making physical presence less important thereby reducing the number of people at the port as

most of the works that now requires physical contact will be done electronically.

“If you go to the ports in developed countries, you will hardly come in contact with somebody because most of their cargo processes are done electronically, this explains why they don’t have traffic jam on the roads that leads to their ports” Bello explained.

He explained further that, the lands acquired by the Council in Kogi and Enugu State will be used to build truck centers where repairs will be carried out,

servicing, accommodation and other recreational activities to make the parks economic centers.

Bello emphasized that “there is every need to put the country’s ports in good shape so that these ports will be able to compete with ports in the developed nations. For instance, ports are no place for cargo storage, but it takes many days for some cargo to be offloaded in Nigerian ports, making it look like a storage facility, a practice automation will end” he noted.

He stated that if the country’s ports are properly

managed, they will contribute immensely to the nation’s GDP and also serve as economic drive that will create jobs for the growing population of youths in the country.

The Council was established in 1978 with the primary responsibility of protecting the interests of Nigerian Shippers. By this the Council is expected to do thorough provision of adequate and up-to date trade information to Nigerian importers and exporters as well as the international business and shipping community.

FG, states, LGs shared N420bn in October A total of N420 billion has been shared as Federal Allocation for the month of October 2016 by the Federal Government, State governments and Local Government Councils after the monthly meeting of the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) According to the figures released by Office of the Accountant General of the Federation, the gross statutory revenue of N238.716 billion received for the month was lower than the N279.746 billion received in the previous month by N 41.030 billion. Crude Oil export volume decreased while the average price of Crude Oil dropped, resulting in revenue loss of

about $51million in Federation export Sales.

Force Majeure was declared at Qua Iboe Terminal and the NGL lifting programmes with the Force Majeure at Forcados Terminal still in place.

Shut-in and Shut-down of Pipelines for repairs and maintenance due to attacks on delivery pipelines also contributed to the low revenue.

Also, there were decreases in volume of import duty and Companies Income Tax (CIT) while PPT and Oil Royalty recorded marginal increases.

The distributable Statutory Revenue for the month is N 203.952 billion. The sum of N 6.330

billion was refunded by NNPC to FGN. There is a proposed distribution of N 109.108 billion from Excess PPT Account. Also, exchange gain of N 37.319 billion is proposed for distribution.

This brings the total revenue distributable for the current month (including VAT) to N 420.000 billion.

Consequently, from Statutory revenue, Federal Government received N96.674 billion (52.68%); States received N49.035 billion (26.72%); Local Government Councils received N37.804 billion (20.60%); while the Oil Producing States received N13.548 billion as 13% derivation revenue.

Nigerian Tribune

Heritage Bank, PMAN launch exclusive biometric identity card

By Chima Nwokoji-Lagos

HERITAGE Bank Plc and the Performing Musicians Employers’ Association of Nigeria (PMAN) has launched an exclusive biometric identity card.

The card has accessibility, security, trust, convenience and cost effectiveness as key defining features of the new partnership between the bank and PMAN. A statement signed by Olusola Longe-Okenimkpe Divisional Head, Corporate Communications, Heritage Bank noted that the development which deepens an already existing relationship with the PMAN has led to the introduction of the PMAN Membership Biometric Identity Card (PMBIC).

The card according to the statement, is a multipurpose card specially designed for Nigerian artistes and allied operators in the entertainment industry, thus making Heritage Bank, Nigeria’s most innovative banking service provider, a pioneer in the biometric card services in the industry.

NCC adopts modern approaches in PR management —Danbatta

BY BODE ADEWUMI

THE Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has stated that the commission adopts modern professional approaches in Public Relations (PR)practices and stakeholder management processes.

The Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Professor Umar Garba Danbatta, stated this during the 4th Commonwealth Public Relations Congress which took place in Lagos on Wednesday.

He said the concept of developing a mutually beneficial relationship between the Commission and the public are put into practice.

“The Commission deploys appropriate tools, and professionals required for the realisation of the objectives of sustaining such healthy relationship.

“In the Strategic Management Plan 2013 – 2018 of the Commission, Stakeholder awareness and engagement feature very prominently as one of the key pillars set out in the list of major objectives of the plan. This indicates the appreciation of the PR implications of effective and result-orientated stakeholder management, “ he said.

13

editorial Edo’s new pension package for governors Thursday, 24 November, 2016

T

HE amended pension bill by the Edo State House of Assembly which proposes to bequeath N200 million and N100 million worth of houses respectively to the immediate past governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, and his deputy, Dr. Pius Odubu, as well as their predecessors, does not only smack of insensitivity on the part of the legislators, it also reeks of patent cronyism at its worst. The amendment of the previously existing law is a synonym for an upward review of the benefits accruing to the state’s former helmsmen. This is in addition to the full salaries and other perquisites that these former leaders are entitled to.

The perks of the former governors and their deputies, sans the new addition, already constitute a burden on the resources of the state because it is duty bound to cater for most of their needs for as long as they have breath in their nostrils. The state provides cars for them regularly, the state pays for their annual holiday in any part of the world with their spouse as well as four children; the state pays for their medical care anywhere in the world, the state also pays for their domestic staff, among other benefits.

Therefore, proposing this new addition at this austere time when civil servants are lamenting the erosion of the value of their income by inflation and the common people of the state are finding it extremely difficult to make ends meet without any intervention by the Assembly to prevail on the executive to cushion the effects of the recession on the people, shows that the legislators, nay the political class, are as distant from the yearnings of the people as the sun is from the earth.

Coming up with this amendment at this time is proof that the political elite are only interested in what benefits them and their friends. As far as they are concerned, the rest of the society can plunge into the nearest lake. Is lawmaking essentially for the benefit of the ruling class? Are the state legislators only to bother about the welfare of members of the political class at the expense of other members of the society? This tendency to place personal interest above that of the rest of the society shows that many of those who occupy leadership positions in the country know next to nothing about the essence of the offices they occupy.

Nigerian Tribune

Perhaps the legislators need to be reminded that they were voted into office by the people, not to be subservient to the executive, but to checkmate its excesses as well as make laws for the improvement of the society at large.

But a situation in which the legislature that is supposed to put a lid on executive frivolities is the one baiting the executive with indefensible perks is nothing but an outright dereliction of duty. By scaling up the benefits of these former state helmsmen at a time when the rest of the society is trapped in abject poverty and excruciating deprivations, the Edo Assembly has loudly exhibited its insensibility to the plight of the people.

What is the essence of the review of that bill at the moment? What purpose is it supposed to serve? What good will it foster in the state? What changes will it precipitate in the society? Is it the most important thing in the state at the moment? Will it take the state out of its current challenges? Will it improve life and living in the state? What would the state lose if this bill was not passed?

While the contributions of elected officers who served either at the state or the federal level creditably should be reasonably appreciated, we are at pains to come to terms with the fact that former governors who have been found wanting by the laws of the land will benefit from this exercise. For instance, Mr Lucky Igbninedion, the Edo State governor between 1999 and 2007 who was convicted of corrupt practices, will be a beneficiary of the pension package. Similarly, Professor Oserheimen Osunbor, who succeeded Igbinedion and was removed from office for electoral malpractice, will also enjoy the provisions of this amendment. What is the justification for allowing those who were found on the wrong side of the law to benefit from the same law?

Lawmaking is supposed to be for the good of the people. We are persuaded that it will be herculean for the Edo Assembly to say in good conscience that this newly amended bill is for the good of the people of the state. Consequently, this piece of legislation from the assembly is both contemptible and condemnable.

Therefore, we call on Governor Godwin Obaseki to demonstrate statesmanship and sensitivity to the signs of the times by withholding assent to the bill.

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Thursday, 24 November, 2016

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•Royalty on display! PHOTO: TOMMY ADEGBITE

Economy: Agenda for 2017

W

E just have a month left in this year, and we should start planning for next year. Already, economists are predicting a tougher 2017, and I hope that the managers of the Nigerian economy should focus on ensuring that the naira stabilises against major currencies of the world, particularly the dollar.

The fall in the price of crude oil has reduced the country’s earning power, and as such, there is less dollar for importers to buy goods from their foreign suppliers. So, we should be looking at how to earn more foreign exchange without relying solely on

oil. This is the solution to our problems.

Now, we should start producing what we consume at home. We should also fix the refineries so that we wouldn’t need to be ferrying huge dollars abroad to import petroleum products. I am also happy that in two years, the Dangote refinery will come on board, and this will bring an end to fuel importation in the country.

Again, those things which we can produce in the country should be banned from being imported. Apart from oil, rice importers also demand for forex, but why is it that we cannot produce rice in commercial quantities at

home? What we are doing by importing is that we are giving jobs to people in the producing countries, while our youths roam

the streets doing nothing.

Now, if we increase import tariffs on some items, it will encourage local production of such commodi-

leadership.

If those who were in power yesterday could be arrested to face charges on what they had perpetrated against the state, then this will sound a note of warning to future political office holders, and all Nigerians.

need to change our mentality for our country’s survival in 2017.

•James Oyibo, 08104543842

Celebrating with Tribune at 67 PERMIT me to felicitate with your widely read newspaper on the occasion of your 67th birthday celebration.

The Nigerian Tribune has, in no small measure, played a major role in stabilising democracy in our country, Nigeria, a role which it is still playing. The newspaper has also been uniting the Yoruba race through its yearly Odua programmes and

various Yoruba meetings.

The Awolowo family and all the staff have, in one way or the other, contributed immensely towards attaining this feat.

I am not only celebrating the Tribune at 67, but also celebrating Pa Obafemi Awolowo and Chief (Mrs) HID Awolowo for this great vision that is now yielding positive result which we are all enjoying.

Winning the war against corruption FREEDOM that money cannot buy should elude those who have mismanaged the wealth of this country.

It is now very clear that President Muhammadu Buhari is ready to enthrone justice and change in the national

ties. Nigerians should be encouraged to go for shoes and bags produced in Aba, instead of going for imported luxury goods. We

Now, what else does it take to achieve change in governance?

What corrupt public officials don’t know is that the more they build on false ground, the larger their destruction.

It is high time Nigerians began to accept that

money is not all things; we should change our orientation. We should work towards making this country a better place for ourselves and the future generation.

Femi Dada, 08183920427

I equally congratulate and appreciate the Editorin-Chief for making my voice to be heard by publishing my articles, thereby making me to contribute to the development of my

community and Nigeria as a whole.

Nigeria will definitely be great again.

•Oloyo Toyin, 09058130870

We need banks in Delta Poly, Ogwuashi Ukwu I want to appeal to commercial banks in the country to come and establish their branches inside the Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwuashi Ukwu.

I particularly want to call on the First and Union banks, which the majority of the students use, to come and site their branches in the school.

When students and staff want to use the bank or Automated Teller Machine (ATM), they, in most cases, spend several hours in the

bank due to the volume of customers.

It must be noted that we have just only two banks in Ogwashi Uku, and as a result, the whole town rely on just these two banks for their banking needs.

With this, students and academic staff compete with traders and other people in the town to assess banking services, thereby making one waste precious time in banking halls.

•Osodi Ngozi, 08160395854

opinion What’s really wrong with Nigeria?

15

Thursday, 24 November, 2016

By Yahaya Balogun

N

IGERIA is a beautiful nation inching into a state of dystopia. Can Nigeria really be redeemed? These are infinite questions begging for unending answers. The country is currently being plagued with so many generic sins and contradictions. The problems of Nigeria are intertwined: manmade and spiritual. While the pen-pushers in our midst try to lynch corruption, and the corrupt attitudes of our politicians, the plebeians are busy at the slightest provocation lynching and maiming themselves and the innocents with impudence and ignorance.

Poverty of mind has no credence for one’s level of education. Evil deeds to one another are a social norm in an Hobbesian state. The alleged lynching of a toddler or a minor for being what I call a ‘circumstantial juvenile’ in the Hobbesian state of Nigeria is the latest ugly news emanating from the beloved country. If the report is true, then it is yet another addition to the country’s plethora of sins.

Where is the mind of man? A terrible thing to waste! Who could have committed that heinous crime to a minor? An unfortunate child in an unfortunate country; and for what justifiable reason was he killed? It’s terribly sickening!

The Ibadan-Lagos Expressway, another death-trap, has just consumed some flourishing lives; avoidable accidents, a nauseating trademark on our famished roads! From Lagos to Abakaliki, from Oyo to Ogbomoso; from Ibadan to Ife, Kuje to Abuja, it’s the same story from the book of death on Nigerian roads. Nigerians should buckle up, the road ahead may be rough if the country continues to thread this path with the non-chalant attitude of the people.

In retrospect, billions of dollars, naira and other currencies are being unearthed and recovered from the rapists of a hapless nation, with an unending anguish of recession and hope in the midst of hopelessness. Has anyone been brought to justice to deter others? Your answer is as good as mine. Peruse the ridiculous salaries of our politicians in Abuja. What do they do to justify their stupendous earnings? A collection of corrupt and noisemakers making laws for a raped nation. I am sympathetic with President

Muhammadu Buhari as a lone fighter in an administration with the nomenclature of corrupt ‘men of yesterday’.

What actually are the problems with Nigeria? In his succinct preachments from his parchment: “The Trouble with Nigeria,” my mentor, late Professor Chinua Achebe, identifies our common problems in this book, while proffering solutions, but all the admonitions of Achebe have sunk to deaf ears. Some Nigerian citizens and their leaders have symbiotic relationships. Those at their mercy are the impoverished and the vulnerable people in the society. Who will save the country from perilous? A gnashing question!

Nigerians have penchant for other people’s affairs more than their own affairs. The just-concluded general election in the United States, which stunningly produced Donald Trump, has given us more clearer picture of the mindset of our people in Nigeria.

We have always cried more than the bereaved in any ugly situation and circumstance. President Barack Obama, whose ascension to office Nigerians celebrated with pomp and pageantry has now become our unrepentant enemy.

His inability to pay official visit to Nigeria has now become the country’s another conundrum. Obama may have justifiable reasons for not visiting Nigeria, the reasons that are best known to Washington. I am sure students

of international politics and diplomacy will research into that reasons and come up with an opinionated answers or inferences in near future.

Nigerian politicians have been nothing but disappointments to Africa and to our citizens. I beg to ask for Nigeria to henceforth be tagged as “a potentially giant country of Africa,” not “a giant of Africa” as being vaingloriously touted. A-giant-for-nothing-country?

We have all it takes to be as prosperous as the United States but our collective patrimony has been openly raped and mortgaged in recent years. Corruption has been the bane of the country’s progress. Sadly, Jesus Christ would have cancelled his visits to Nigeria several times if he had had such itineraries. Literally, Jesus Christ’s second coming is expected to rapturally consume all these ghouls in Nigeria in order to bring sanity to a bruised country.

Ijoba orun ku si dede. Omo Nigeria e yi pada kuro ninu ese, itanje ati pansaga, ki oore ofe ati irorun le wole towa pada wa!!! (the day of reckoning is imminent, Nigerians should repent and desist from deceits for prosperity to return to Nigeria).

Corruption and underdevelopment are intertwined. No nation can succeed under the tutelage of corrupt people.

Nigerians are masters at perfection of the art of corruption. It has become a norm. There is the hands of Esau in Nigerian pedestal of leadership and political fraternity.

Historically, when the autobiography and the history of Obama’s sterling records but tumultuous administration are written, his reasons for not visiting Nigeria will be revealed, debated and archived. We never can say never, Washington might change its mind for him to officially visit the country before his administration expires in January next year.

The bottom line is that, official visit or no official visit, Nigeria should re-organise its house first before expecting incorruptible administration from another country. Just like the United States, Nigeria has the inherent abilities to lead the world. We can still turn our graveyard or midnight to the dawn of a new era.

•Balogun lives in Arizona, USA.

Of varsities and the need to drive change

By Oludayo Tade

G

OVERNMENT policies in Nigeria are rarely informed by rigorous research. More often than not, it does appear that planning is done amid the near absence of hard facts. This aversion for information-based planning partly explains why most incumbent governments overturn the policies of their predecessors while introducing new and often conflicting policies. This practice is not costless as the masses bear the brunt of such policy inconsistencies. More disturbing however is the origin of the ideas driving these policies. For the most part indigenous researches are taken to be inferior to imported/expatriate evidences. These imported policies mostly are misfits due to the lack of proper grounding in the peculiar realities of the Nigerian context. The world over, successful countries are typically those that prioritize the researches from their universities and other research institutions. This they do by allocating sufficient funds to these institutions. In these countries, research outputs are not only critical drivers of their economies but also the harbinger of rapid transformation in technology, infrastructure and the like. Little wonder that our gluttonous politicians run to these places with our stolen money for holidays.

It is incontrovertible that we can neither grow nor develop without funding policy-inclined researches.

There is, therefore, a correlation between research outputs and economic transformation. Evidences of the societal functionality of this important nexus abound with Israel, China, USA, UK among others reaping the dividends from research.

The proponents of the “Change” mantra need to drive it beyond mere rhetoric by committing adequate funds to research. Developed countries base their policies on researches which proffer solutions to identified problems.

It is the same research that makes technologically advanced societies to develop products like phones with

‘torch-light’, rechargeable lanterns which become major consumption items for our own economy.

Through this, they rake in substantial foreign earnings into their countries. Another case in point is the fairly recent ‘Ebola’ episode.

Recall that it was easy to transport medical doctors infected with the deadly ‘Ebola’ back to Emory Hospital, USA, where they were treated. Of course, this was a specialized institution where huge financial resources had been invested into researching uncommon diseases.

To be factual, Nigeria in particular and Africa in general needs to fund research to understand its economies in order to be able to solve the seemingly intractable problems of insecurity, health, agricultural productivity, low ranking of universities, militancy and the rise in insurgent citizenship.

The foregoing and allied issues took center stage when leading African Development Economist and Vice Chancellor of University of Ghana, Legon, Professor Ernest Aryeetey delivered the 67th Interdisciplinary Discourse of the Postgraduate School, University of Ibadan on the topic “Developing Research Universities for Africa: Some New Approaches.”

He stressed the need for Nigeria and Africa to invest in university research in order to have globally competitive economies. He noted that low investment in research-focused universities accounts for why many African universities are lowly ranked and cannot be globally competitive. According to him, it is impractical to contemplate competing with Havard, Cambridge, London School of Economics and other top rated

universities if Nigeria, and Africa at large, is not ready to invest massively in boosting the research capacities of its Universities.

By implication, Africa must therefore consciously and concertedly develop research universities that will help in providing sound knowledge economy for its transformation and positive change. Professor Aryeetey averred that universities must specialize either in teaching or conducting research noting that not all universities should be combining teaching with research. He noted that African Universities must collaborate and carry out researches on problems facing the continent. He further noted that some progress is being made along this route with the formation of African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA).

To quote him verbatim, “Having research focused universities is important but expensive but the end product is total transformation and economic growth. Innovation comes from research which leads to transformation.

We need to pay more attention to research in Africa.

Our governments complain of low ranking universities and want us to compete globally but can they do what Harvard, Yale and Princeton universities are investing in Research? They must invest in Research to have their economies change and the continent can be competitive with the rest of the world.

We need to change the face of infrastructure in our universities and attract leading scholars through attractive incentives and train more faculties that can conduct transformational research. African problems are of different nature. Our problem is about low productivity in agriculture, health but we must conduct researches that will solve our own problems.

Since there is a strong and positive relationship between research outputs and economic growth, Nigeria and other African governments must fund research for the transformation of Africa.

•Dr Tade lives in Ibadan.

16

Thursday, 24 November, 2016 Femi Olukunle Co-ordinating Editor 08158610216

maka nd’igbo Peace necessary for development, says Ugwuanyi Jude Ossai - Enugu

G

OVERNOR Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has described the existence of peace as a necessary precondition for development in every society.

Ugwuanyi spoke while addressing the people of Igga community in UzoUwani Local Government Area who were in Government House, Enugu, on a peace march in support of their traditional ruler, Igwe Herbert Nwanosike Ukuta on Monday.

Emphasizing the importance of the virtues of tolerance and dialogue, he explained that the emergence of the traditional

ruler was consistent with the tenets of justice, adding that the choice was a

reflection of the people’s wishes.

Earlier in an address,

the President General of the town union, Mr Raphael Amuche, extolled Gover-

broad support he enjoyed.

“We are comfortable with him,” he said, drawing applause from the delegation. He also thanked the governor for his seal of approval and appealed for continued support for him.

Members of the huge delegation bore placards with messages such as “Igga Town Union Stands with You”, and “We Are for You.”

Security: Enugu govt donates land to police Jude Ossai - Enugu

Igga Autonomous community counter protest to Enugu State Government House in solidarity for his Royal Highness, Igwe Herbert Ukata Agbarakata III of Igga Ancient Kingdom Uzo-Uwani.

Obiano gives staff of office to new Ogidi monarch Suzy Oruya - Onitsha THE Governor of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano, has issued a certificate of recognition and staff of office to the new Igwe of Ogidi Community in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, Alexander Onyido, as the legitimate monarch of the community.

In his speech during the ceremony held at the Governor’s lodge Amawbia, Awka, Governor Obiano called on the Igwe to always carry every member of the community along and also have regard for the state government that recognises him as the Igwe.

The new Ogidi Community monarch, Igwe Alexander Onyido, thanked Obiano for recognising him as the new Igwe, saying that initially, it was Ogidi working for monarch, but now changed to monarch working for Ogidi, assuring the governor that by accepting the kingship of Ogidi, he would bring peace and harmony to the people of the community.

He said it was a new dawn in Ogidi because for the past nineteen years, the community had been under the control of state government.

nor Ugwuanyi’s democratic disposition as evident in his decision to grant audience to both parties to ensure that all voices were heard.

Amuche berated those he termed mischief-makers in the community, noting that their attempt to cause disaffection and to discredit their traditional ruler had failed because of the

Ogidi Community Monarch, Igwe Alex Onyido (fourth left) and the chiefs after receiving the certificate of recognition from Anambra Governor, Chief Willie Obiano, at the governor’s lodge, Amawbia, Awka.

THE Enugu State Government has handed over an expanse of land to the Nigeria Police Force for the establishment of a Mobile Police Squadron at Agu Ekwegbe in Igbo Etiti Local Government Area of the state.

Handing over the proposed site to the Commissioner of Police in charge of logistics and supplies (works), Force Headquarters, Abuja, CP Victor Oniofiok, the Special Adviser to the Enugu State Governor on Security Matters, Brigadier Gen. Fred Eze (rtd.), said that the idea of establishing the Mobile Police Squadron was conceived to enhance adequate security in the state.

Brigadier General Eze, who is also the Chairman of the Technical Committee for the handover of the site, disclosed that Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi expressly

approved the siting of the project in the state when the request was presented to him by the then state Commissioner of Police, Mr Emmanuel Ojukwu.

He added that the governor equally offered to extend his hand of fellowship towards the actualisation of the project.

In his response, the representative of the Nigeria Police Force, CP Oniofiok, expressed appreciation to the state government and people of the area for donating the land for the proposed project, saying that the Inspector General of Police, Idris Ibrahim, would be in Enugu for the groundbreaking ceremony.

He assured the people that they would hear from the Police Force soon and called on them to continue to cooperate with the security agencies to curb crimes and guarantee peace and speedy development of the state.

Nsukka trade fair will boost Enugu’s economic growth —Ugwuanyi Jude Ossai - Enugu GOVERNOR Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has reiterated his administration’s commitment to support business ventures that would promote opportunities for both local and international businesses to expand the state’s economic potential.

Ugwuanyi spoke at the opening ceremony of the first Nsukka Trade Fair organised by the Nsukka Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NSCIMMA).

He said the fair, which was themed: “Promoting SMEs and Agriculture for National Recovery”, would provide the platform for the

identification and harnessing of business and investment opportunities in the state, especially in the areas of agriculture and agro-allied ventures and small and medium enterprises.

The governor also added that the event was consistent

with the administration’s policies to attract investment and create business opportunities for the state’s economic growth and quest for diversification of its economy.

He reassured the people of the state of his commitment to develop the entire state,

enjoining the people of Enugu West Senatorial district to organise a similar fair so that the three Senatorial districts would exploit the inherent benefits of trade fairs for the overall interest of the state.

Earlier in his address, the President of NSCIMMA, Dr

Basil Onugu, said that the mission of the association was to promote business and economic development in the state in general and Nsukka zone in particular in order to create wealth and jobs through entrepreneurship and innovation.

Illegal Bureau de Change: Soldiers, DSS arrest 15, recover millions of foreign currencies Suzy Oruya - Onitsha NO fewer than 15 persons were reportedly arrested at the Bureau de Change section of the Onitsha Main Market by a combined team of soldiers and the Department of State Security Service (DSS) for allegedly

operating illegal Bureau de Change in the market.

It was reported that the security operatives had, on a tip-off, stormed the market in the morning and made straight to the Bureau De Change section where some traders had, on seeing them, taken to their heels.

Shops were reportedly raided and foreign currencies were recovered from them.

It was learnt that the arrested suspects are currently cooling off at the Onitsha Army barracks.

A trader who pleaded anonymity expressed surprise

that the security operatives could storm the market in search of illegal Bureau de Change operators when there were thousands of them along the major roads and some strategic positions where even government officials patronised them.

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education

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

442 bag PhD at UI’s 68th Foundation Day ceremony Laolu Harolds

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total of 442 graduands were last Thursday awarded the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree at the 68th Foundation Day/convocation ceremony of the University of Ibadan – arguably the highest so far in a single year by any Nigerian university.

The graduands were from 11 faculties, two institutes and two centres. The award also included one graduand who bagged a Doctor of Medicine from the Faculty of Clinical Sciences.

The vice chancellor of the institution, Professor Abel Idowu Olayinka, who listed the achievements of the university in the past one year, particularly dwelt on the activities of the Career Development and Counseling Centre (CDCC), one of the major initiatives of his administration.

With the establishment of the CDCC, according to Olayinka, the university’s Careers and Counseling Unit of the Students’ Affairs Division has been upgraded to a directorate – and “it has hit the ground running.”

“As part of its statutory mandate, the

CDCC is exploring al avenues to support academic enhancement of students across the board,” he said.

A major part of the CDCC’s mandate, according to the vice chancellor, is to enhance the recruitment and placement quest of graduating and IT students.

He spoke of ongoing efforts to reach corporate organisations to conduct recruitment tests.

In this regard, he said there is an ongoing collaboration between the centre and the China Civil Engineering and Construction Company “in which a total of 73 final year students from the Departments of Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science and a few Master students from the Faculty of Law are being considered for enlistment in the company.”

24 applicants, he disclosed, have been selected to take up appointments with the construction company as trainees during their service year, and their appointments substantiated afterward.

Professor Olayinka spoke of the university’s commitment to strengthen its internalization drive, saying that the premier university currently has 274 international students.

Okebukola delivers TASUED’s 8th Convocation Lecture THE former Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission, Professor Peter Okebukola, will this Saturday, 26th November, 2016 deliver the 8th Convocation Lecture of Tai Solarin University of Education, Ijagun, Ogun State.

The lecture entitled ‘The Teacher We Want, the Teacher We Have: Bridging the Gap’, will be delivered under the chairmanship of Professor Adamu Abubakar Rasheed, the current executive secretary of the commission, will hold at the TETFUND 2012 Hall of the university by 12.00 noon.

The convocation ceremony, which will witness the award of higher degrees and diplomas, admission to first degrees and presentation of prizes, is a five-day event and will start on Thursday, 24 November, 2016 with the vice chancellor’s football finals.

Other activities lined up for the ceremony include cultural and exhibition day, convocation film show and special jumat service on Friday, 25 November, 2016.

The new University Senate Building will be inaugurated immediately after the convocation lecture by the executive secretary of TETFUND on Saturday, 26 November, 2016.

On Sunday, 27 November, there will be Christian interdenominational service at the TASUED Christian Chapel, Ijagun, by 10.00 a.m.

The convocation ceremony will climax the 5-day activities, coming up on Monday, 28 November, 2016 at the University Auditorium by 10.00 a.m prompt.

The Governor of Ogun State and Visitor to the University, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, will be the Special Guest of Honour at the ceremony.

From left, vice chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Abel Idowu Olayinka; Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, in a handshake with the Principal of the Orita Mefa Baptist Model College, Total Garden, Ibadan, Dr Tide Olalere, one of those who bagged a doctoral degree during the Foundation Day/convocation ceremony of the university last week Thursday. PHOTO: TOMMY ADEGBITE

McPherson University holds first convocation ceremony •I didn’t start as a First Class student – valedictorian

By Doyin Adeoye MCPHERSON University, a faith-based institution at Seriki Sotayo, Ogun State, on Saturday, November 19, graduated 40 students at its maiden convocation ceremony, with 19-year-old Sholola Temiloluwa Adunola of the Department of Accounting and Finance emerging the best graduating student.

No fewer than 40 pioneer students of the institution were awarded first degree in various disciplines.

In his remark, the vice chancellor of the university, Professor Adeniyi Agunbiade, said the university’s vision of building a people of excellence and integrity for service was reflected in the result of the Alpha Class, as 20 per cent of the class emerged with First Class, and about 97 per cent finished with honours.

This he attributed to a practice by the management, which he said had resulted in a healthy academic competition among the students.

“Right from inception of their studies in

2012, we initiated a practice of celebrating students with CGPA of 4.50 and above from all the colleges at the end of each academic session in a grand reception.

“This symbolic gesture has brought about a sort of healthy academic competition and rivalry resulting in the exceptional and excellent result as seen today.

“This set of 42 pioneering students was admitted into the university in 2012 and the fewness in number was deliberate, as it was partly an attempt to take off with very high standards as was evident.

“We are confident that this Alpha Class will defend these good grades they are graduating with, by the grace of God, and they will do our nation proud and add tremendous value to any establishment or organisation in which they may find themselves,” he said.

The university was founded by the Foursquare Gospel Church in 2012 to expand the church’s educational objective and to complement government’s efforts in producing highly skilled human resources.

Sholola Temiloluwa Adunola of the Department of Accounting and Finance, who

emerged as the best graduating student of the set with a CGPA of 4.81, said that the success was not prepared for.

“I feel very happy and honoured because I never really planned it; I just wanted to do my best and I thank God for crowning my effort.

“The logic is having focus and trusting God, because sometimes you will fail, but you shouldn’t let that put you down. I did not start as a First Class student, but I was motivated to be the best,” she said.

Speaking at the event, Ogun State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Mrs Modupe Mujota, who was represented by Mr Olubola Olakunle Aikulola, Director, Primary and Higher Education in the ministry, restated the ministry’s resolve to ensure that the citizens of the state are offered the best in terms of education.

The General Overseer of the church, Reverend Felix Meduoye, in his remarks, challenged the graduating students to be worthy champions and ambassadors of the university wherever they find themselves.

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Varsities should invest in research, innovation – former UNILAG VC Naza Okoli and Kasali Qudus - Lagos

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former vice chancellor of the University of Lagos, Professor Tolu Odugbemi, has urged relevant educational agencies to improve on the curricula of the country’s educational system with a view to making university graduates employers of labour, rather than job seekers.

Odugbemi spoke last week at the University of Lagos, during the unveiling of his book entitled ‘Experiences on Starting a New University in a Developing Country Setting, Nigeria’.

He described universities as cradles of innovation, saying there is a need to reconsider and rethink how to redirect and reshape universities to finding solutions to various challenges facing developing

countries.

He said, “It is unfortunate that technology in universities in developing countries is not directed at immediate challenges of making escalators or lifts function, getting simple

Airtel promotes reading culture, donates books to school AIRTEL Nigeria has donated over 1,000 books to students of one of its adopted schools as part of its ‘Reading for Leading’ campaign, an initiative to encourage the reading culture among students in primary schools across Nigeria.

The telco says that the ‘Reading for Leading’ initiative demonstrates its commitment to promote quality education and academic excellence in Nigeria, and also provides educational opportunities for the less privileged children.

The book donation exercise was held on Tuesday, November 15, 2016 at the St. John’s Primary School, Ijebu-Igbo, Ogun State, a school adopted by Airtel.

Speaking during the event, the head teacher of St. John’s Primary School, Mr. Adeniyi Odufoye, commended Airtel for its support to developing the educational sector, urging other corporate organisations to emulate the company.

“I sincerely hope that other corporate organizations will join Airtel in supporting education and providing opportunities for children.

“I must say that since Airtel adopted St. John’s Primary School in 2013, it has raised the standard of education here. And with this book donation, it becomes easier for children to take to a reading culture.”

Also speaking, an elated Surajudeen Sukuratu, a primary six student of St. John’s Primary School, said: “Airtel Nigeria, thank you very much for providing books for me and my friends. I promise to read it and also share it with my brothers and sisters.”

Registrar, National Examination Council (NECO) Professor Charles Uwakwe (right) and his wife Velantia (left) during the graduation ceremony of their daughter, Ginikachukwu (middle) held at the university of Ibadan recently.

means of transportation, finding alternative sources of energy and fabricating or upgrading tools to cool our homes and offices.

“Our universities should pay attention to researching into social and economic ills, hunger and ill health, dirty environment with heaps of garbage adding to ill health, atmospheric pollution and current trends in local and global climate.”

Professor Tolu Odugbemi advocated for background checks on potential management team, governing board members, and staff of universities.

Such a step, he said, would ensure that only qualified individuals are recruited, and not people who see universities in their localities as their ‘personal property’.

The book reviewer, Professor Ngozi Osarenren, who described the writer as a thoroughbred scholar, highlighted some of the suggestions recorded in the book for President Muhammadu Buhari, in the area of education.

“He (Odugbemi) observed that the education sector is marred by poor funding, ineptitude and sheer irresponsibility, urging the incoming adminis-

Pupils of Premiere Royale Int’l School, Ijapo, Akure, in collaboration with Gemstone Club, Akure chapter, during the Schools Makeover initiative organised to mark the International Philanthropy Day.

World Philanthropy Day: School children paint school in Akure PUPILS of Premiere Royale International School, Ijapo, Akure, in collaboration with Gemstone Club, Akure chapter, have painted a public primary school, Aratus Community Primary School, Oke-Aro, Akure.

The Schools Makeover initiative was organised

to mark the International Philanthropy Day. The headmistress of Aratus Community Primary School, Mrs Akinbobola, was thrilled by the gesture and thanked the young childrenturned painters who volunteered to paint her kindergarten classroom.

The Director of Studies

of Premiere Royale International School, Mrs Odunayo Iyiola-Afolabi, demonstrated to the children the importance and benefit of philanthropy.

The founder of the renovated school, Mr Omon Ogudo, welcomed the students and appreciated them for helping make the school colourful and

conducive for learning.

The pupils of Gemstone Club, Akure chapter, are mentored on a weekly basis by the chapter president, Mr Olufemi Iroko, on the ideals of nation building, with a vision to see a generation that is empowered, motivated and stirred to operate with

tration to ensure that these factors are adequately addressed.

“Rather than allow the stinking influence of corruption to smear reputation of universities, Odugbemi called for moral rebirth in ivory towers.”

Don asks govt to implement policies to boost economy Naza Okoli-Lagos A Professor of Insurance and Risk Management at the Joseph Ayo Babalola University (JABU), IkejiArakeji, Osun State, Professor Festus Moboluwaji Epetimehin, has urged government at all levels to implement policies that will "encourage and strengthen" micro insurance agencies, international donors and other private actors in the country.

Epetimehin, who said this while delivering the 6th Inaugural Lecture of the university recently, stressed that such a development would help reduce the level of poverty in the country (particularly among rural dwellers), while also giving rise to massive infrastructural development.

Speaking on the topic, ‘Small but Big: Micro Insurance and the Reduction of Social Risk of Poverty’, Epetimehin, who is also the chairman, JABU Human Resource Development Board, said government must strive to protect low income earners against perils, as that would help develop the nation, particularly now, given the current economic hardship.

He cited South Africa, Zambia and Uganda as countries that have taken country-specific regulatory policy decisions in this area.

He however said “the challenges of targeting the under-privileged clients for micro insurance can only be overcome if the products are cost-effective, institutionally simple and designed specifically for the poorest section of the society.”

Earlier in his opening remarks, the vice chancellor of the university, Professor Sola Fajana, described the lecturer as a rare achiever who has distinguished himself by hard work, perseverance and passion.

education Niger votes N940m for renovation of 3 schools 19

Adelowo Oladipo Minna

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IGER State government recently said N940 million and not N2.3 billion is to be spent for the 2nd phase of the “Whole School” renovation and upgrading project of three additional secondary schools in the state.

The state Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Hajiya Fatima Madugu made this clarification following a newspaper publication (not Nigerian Tribune) that over N2 billion is to be spent for the renovation and upgrading of three secondary schools in the state.

Details of works to be carried out on the schools showed that a sum of N308.3 million would be spent for the renovation and conversion of Day Secondary School, Baro to a fullfledged boarding school.

Government Day School, Tegina that was affected by a heavy storm recently, would be made to undergo total rehabilitation, including the provision of perimeter fence at N270.1 million, while Mu’azu Ibrahim Commercial Secondary School, Kontagora would require N361.4 million for total overhaul.

The Commissioner said

Thursday, 24 November, 2016

the clarification was to correct the misrepresentation of figures for the project.

She noted that the N2.3 billion reported was even not the cost for the on-going renovation of six secondary schools.

According to her, N2.1 billion is to be expended on the on-going “Whole School” rehabilitation programme

of six secondary schools, two each, in the three senatorial district.

The benefiting schools under the 1st phase are Government Girls Secondary School, Bida and Justice Legbo Kutigi Science Secondary School, Kutigi in Lavun Local Government of the state; all, from Niger South Senatorial district

(Zone A).

Also included are Government Science Secondary School, Izom and Maryam Babangida Science Girls Secondary School, Minna,both from Niger East Senatorial district (B Zone) and Government Girls Secondary School, Kontagora and Day Secondary School, Rijau in Niger North Senatorial dis-

trict (Zone C).

“Earlier, the state government had embarked on the “Whole School” renovation project in six schools, two from each of the three geopolitical zones of the state at the cost of N2.1billion.

“Three new schools in Baro, Tegina and Kontagora are added to the initial six for renovation at the cost

Commission vows to promote nomadic education Anthony Ubong, Calabar

From left. Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Ogun State, Mr Shefiu Rasheed; former provost, Ogun State College of Health Technology, Dr Tunji Daudu; provost of the college, Dr Abiodun Oladunjoye, and head of the Ijebu-North Local Government Administration, Mr Tunde Ashiru, at the 40th anniversary lecture and award ceremony of the college, in Ilese-Ijebu, last week Thursday.

Education remains tool for Nigeria’s development —Chevron boss ...as winners emerge at Awokoya Chemistry Competition Ebenezer Adurokiya, Warri CHAIRMAN and Managing Director of Chevron Nigeria Ltd, Mr Clay Neff, has stated that education remains a veritable tool for personal and societal growth and sustainable development in the country.

Neff, who reiterated the commitment of the NNPC/

Chevron Joint Venture to improving the quality of education in Nigeria, made the statement during the award ceremony for the 2016 Awokoya Memorial Competition in Chemistry held at the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI), Effurun, Delta State.

The Chevron boss said the Joint Venture has

demonstrated commitment to qualitative education through investment in education infrastructures, sponsorship of manpower development programmes and provision of scholarships.

Neff, who was represented by the Area Manager, Policy Government and Public Affairs of CNL, Mr Esimaje Brikinns, stressed that with

the commitment of the Delta State Ministry for Education and the Chemical Society of Nigeria, NNPC/Chevron JV would continue to stimulate children’s interest in the study of Chemistry and other sciences and technology subjects.

He said the Awokoya Memorial Competition in Chemistry was initiated and

OSCOHTECH to award degree —Provost THE Provost, Ogun State College of Health Technology, Dr Abiodun Oladunjoye has said that arrangements had been concluded with the Kwara State University to run Bachelor degrees in Science course and other health-related courses in the college.

Oladunjoye made this disclosure at the 40th Anniversary Lecture and Award Ceremony of the College, held at college premises in Ilese-Ijebu, area of the state.

He said that it was imperative to run degree courses as the volume and influx of the students intending to bag degree was increasing, noting that among the courses

of N940 million,” Madugu clarified.

The priority attention given to the renovation of the three new schools was informed by the deplorable condition of the schools when Governor Abubakar Sani Bello paid unscheduled visits to the schools.

Meanwhile, Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Mr Jonathan Vatsa, pleaded with journalists in the state to always ensure strict adherence to the ethics of their profession, which requires for verification of facts and figures.

to be awarding degrees included: Environmental Health, Medical Laboratory Sciences and Health Information Management, among others.

“Our status as College of Health Technology has given us the opportunity to expand and widen the scope of operation and its horizon.

So, we have successfully concluded arrangement with the Kwara State University in awarding degrees.

As soon as possible we shall begin to award degrees on Environmental Health, Medical Laboratory Sciences and Health Information Management, among other courses”, Oladunjoye said.

Speaking earlier, the state Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Mrs Modupe Mujota, said the success story and the achievements being recorded by the college for four decades could not be overemphasised, saying that the theme of the lecture: “Achieving Cleaner more Sustainable and Healthier Future” was apt, putting into consideration the climate change being experienced in the country and the world at large.

While acknowledging the cooperation of staff and students, whose professionalism has helped the college to surpass academic excel-

lence in the array of other colleges in the country, she said government would do everything possible to help them achieve more in terms of professionalism.

Mujota, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr Shefiu Rasheed said to enjoy a mitigated climate change, people need to preserve trees and grasses in their environments, noting that burning of unwanted plants, woods and charcoals for cooking could increase quantities of air pollution which could lead to serious health issues, such as cancer, respiratory defects and other health related problems.

sponsored by the NNPC/ Chevron JV to promote the study of Chemistry among secondary school students of Delta State and in memory of Professor Stephen Awokoya, a great chemist, who died on 15March, 1985.

He congratulated the students from Delta State for winning the competition back to back, adding that they were happy that the goals of the competition are being realised.

He said that he was pleased that their contributions to education were helping the country to develop quality manpower in different fields including, but not limited to the Oil and Gas industry.

“I am happy, on one hand, because the robust partnership between NNPC/ Chevron Joint Venture, the Chemical Society of Nigeria (SCN) and the Delta state Government on the Awokoya Memorial Competition in Chemistry has continued to grow over the years. On the other hand I am also happy because the reasons we all agreed to initiate and support the competition are being realised,” Neff said.

THE National Commission for Nomadic Education, through its Social Mobilisation and Outreach Department Support (SBMC), has reiterated its commitment towards the development and improvement of the standard of nomadic education in the country.

Speaking during a twoday capacity development workshop/interactive forum for School-Based Management Committee on Effective Implementation of Nomadic Education, held in Nasarawa Community, Calabar, Cross River State, the Social Welfare Officer of the commission, Mrs Florence Okwusogu, said the commission is aware of the difficult terrain as the basic challenge facing nomadic communities, and is determined to tackle them.

Florence said the essence of the SBMC programme was to sensitise nomadic communities on the need to embrace education.

She said the commission is currently doing everything possible to increase the level of enrolment of pupils in school in nomadic communities.

Mrs Okwusogu stressed that the SBMC programme is also aimed at encouraging the interest of communities and government to support school improvement.

“The whole essence of the SBMC is to ensure that more people enroll in schools in nomadic communities. This workshop serves as a reminder to rekindle in your minds the need to have a well-thought-out project for effective development of your various communities and schools.

“It is the hope of the commission that all schools with SBMCs will come up with proposals.”

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We don’t help students write exams, yet we make good results —Principal, Ijebu Anglican Diocesan College

Principal of Ijebu Anglican Diocesan College, Ven. S.B. Omosanya, in this interview by AYO-LAWAL GBENOBA AND MODUPE GEORGE, explains the vision, challenges and achievements of the school.

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HE school has gone a long way; how did it all start sir?

Well, it started during the time of our past bishops, particularly Right Reverend A.S.O. Olowoyo. He was then the bishop according to history and the information from those who were around. I wasn’t in the church then. He wanted to establish a school which low-income-earner-members of the communion and the society would be able to send their children to. This was even the second reason for establishing the school. The first was that he felt the public schools were not doing very well because the government had taken over the schools and they had eliminated religious instructions. Morality was going down, things were bad generally and infrastructures were bad and not repaired. The primary aim was to correct some of the anomalies in the public education system. Normally, for the Anglican, the idea was first of all put before the Synod, and they debated and approved it in April 1996, while the school was eventually established on October 7, 1996. The next step was where the location was going to be. So, since it is a church project, it was decided that the school would be located in any community that was able to give them land. And a number of communities offered to give them land, but some attached some conditions which the church couldn’t comply with. So, here at Igan-Ipabi, they got what they needed and so it started. The pioneer proprietor was Bishop A.S.O. Olowoyo, while the first principal was Very Reverend M.O. Soyannwo.

You have many public schools around here, what can you say is special about this school?

Well, two things are special here. This is a mission school and we have other private mission schools around, but the tuition fee we charge is more affordable. In fact, what they charge for a year, a student here may not pay in three years.

Another thing is, in some of the schools, if you don’t pay your money in full, you don’t attempt coming to school. But here, we give a kind of leeway as you can pay in installments, you just have to make sure you pay up before the terms ends.

In terms of academics, what makes you stand out?

Here, we don’t involve in the evil that is going on, we don’t help students to write examinations. By so doing, we have been able to record good results. Even now that the school has clocked 20 years old, many don’t know the school exists, but parents come and say it was someone who told them about the school. Parents whose children had passed out here are the ones helping us to publicise the school and that is why some students are still writing entrance examination. Recently, a parent came to the school and said: “Look, I have just gone to publicise your school to my neighbour and he asked me to bring him here.” So he came with the neighbour and his son. His daughter had already passed out from the school.

By the grace of God, over the years, we have been able to record good results and this has always attracted more people to come. Another thing that stands us out is that we have 100 per cent credit pass in Further Maths; 88.5% in Mathematics and, 97% in English Language. This is a challenge in most schools, but we thank God Almighty for giving us an edge in these subjects.

How do you manage to maintain these excellent scores in those core subjects?

We put all our teachers on their toes, especially the Mathematics teachers, and sometimes, we create a special day in a week when they concentrate on English Language and Mathematics, especially when the students get to SSS3. We are tempted to think that may be those are some of the things that contributed to the brilliant performance.

Since the school started 20years ago, what will you say has been its greatest challenge?

It is majorly finance. The founding father didn’t want a school a common mam would not be able to afford. This was why up to last session, we were charging N20,000 as tuition per term and it was this session we decided to add N5000 to it, making N25,000. Meanwhile, for my daughter who is still in primary school, I’m paying N35,000 per term. Like I said earlier, we have schools around here, which charge as much as N150,000 as tuition fee alone per term. The N150,000 is

Ven. S.B. Omosanya more than what they pay here for a whole term, including boarding house, uniform and other things. Do you know that as low as our school fee is, we still have problems of getting it from the parents. Many are owing us, they would come promising and even write agreements only to default.

Since you cannot increase the fees, how do you keep in line with the mission?

We can’t increase, we can only adjust ourselves by not involving in many of the things others are doing. We would only go for things that are inevitable when it comes to the issue of finance. More so, in times like this, we would have to draw a scale of preference and choose the most needed and necessary.

How do you feel on the occasion of this 20th anniversary of Ijebu Anglican Diocesan College?

We are happy to be marking having been in existence for twenty years; we have every reason to thank God and that is just what we are trying to do in this celebration.

The situation generally in the country doesn’t call for much celebration, but we have every reason to thank God; we cannot but mark this occasion. 20 years in the life of any organisation is not a child’s play, after all, some started at some point like this and they have gone under. So, that we are still existing and not only existing, but going stronger year by year, we are very grateful to God and that is why we put up a little celebration. We went to church to offer our thanks to God for his faithfulness, goodness upon our lives over the years; over our proprietors, past and present, over our students past and present, their parents, and of course over what we have been able to do with the help of God.

Another thing that stands us out is that we have 100 per cent credit pass in Further Maths; 88.5% in Mathematics and, 97% in English Language. This is a challenge in most schools, but we thank God Almighty for giving us an edge in these subjects.

So, how far have you been able to sustain the vision of the founders?

We can say that the reason for the church coming into the educational system has not been defeated because the church decided to venture into education to correct some of the problems facing the educational system in the country. The problems are mainly two: The falling standard of education and infrastructures, then, due to the lack of moral training for the young ones.

Since the government took over schools, we can all see that it was a wrong decision; it’s not helping us. It has just led to the production of many young people who don’t have any moral conscience at all. They go to any length to get what they want. However, seeing our products, who are all over the world, we thank God that for the past 20 years, we have been able to sustain the vision of the founders.

So, you support the call that schools should be returned to the missions?

After the government take-over of schools, we have seen that they have failed. In actual fact, it appears that everything the government touched has gone sour, almost everything, including education. Almost everything that the government ventures into, one way or the other, is turned into nobody’s business and is not properly run. If that can be allowed in other aspects of our lives, it cannot be allowed in education, because education is the foundation of the future of any society. Any country that wants to make it must have a strong education system.

So, some of these are the shortcomings that the Anglican Communion felt it should correct. That’s why we ventured into the education system and we thank God that He has helped us to achieve these visions.

What are the other things that give your school an edge over others?

We are located in a very serene environment far away from noisy condition of the city. Nobody comes here to disturb us, unless we want to disturb ourselves. We are able to face our studies squarely and of course, people always say the taste of the pudding is in the eating. Parents whose children have passed out here usually turn out to be our PROs. They go about telling others about our school and that’s how we have been getting more students. Therefore, if anyone wants to give his child quality education, coupled with good morals, this is the place to come. Our fees are affordable and the mode of payment makes things easy for the parents.

Aside that, our hostel facilities are very conducive, more than 80 per cent of our student population are in the boarding house as most of them come from far areas such as Lagos, Ibadan, Port Harcourt, among other places. We have people coming here because they hear about us and they believe in their children’s future.

We also have good sporting facilities with a lush, green field which has been a centre of attraction. There is a student we have here now, who chose to come to this school when he came visiting with his mother to see his sister. When he saw the school, he said he would like to be a member of the school.

His sister has passed out now, but he is here. We have a facility for sports and we are still developing more.

We want to do more to meet students’ needs. We have a well-equipped laboratory for Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and we have qualified teachers to handle all subjects. We have a functional library which we want to upgrade and we can also boast of an active ICT facility. We have, a computer room where we have enough set of computers. In summary, we have all it takes to give a child qualitative education.

What about your academic performance?

Like I said, over the years, the parents of students who pass out from here find it easier to turn themselves to PROs for Ijebu Anglican Diocesan College. In fact, there are some families who can mention up to four children from the same family, who have passed out from this school. They tell others about us and that’s to show we have been having good results over the years.

Most schools have problems with English and Mathematics in their WAEC, how has your school been faring in that area?

We have not been doing badly in those two subjects. If I should show you the record in the past few years, you will discover our scores in the two subjects are in the range of 90 and 100 per cent.

21

Thursday, 24 November, 2016

arts&review Book Review: Comparing the lives of Socrates, Orunmila 22

A review of Professor Sophie Bosede Oluwole’s book, Socrates and Orunmila: Two Patron Saints of Classical Philosophy by ADEWALE OSHODI.

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ROFESSOR Sophie Bosede Oluwole’s book centres on two saints of classical philosophy, Socrates and Orunmila. To study the works of these two great philosophers, the retired professor of African Philosophy delves into Comparative Philosophy, which is a relatively new field of study, research and achievement in understanding and teaching.

Quoting from Bahm (1977), Professor Oluwole explains that this study’s distinction, which on the surface appears paradoxical, is between comparisons of ideas, concepts, principles and theories in philosophy and comparison as the study of the works of two or more thinkers or system, at different or similar times and places.

Bahm identifies some areas in which scholars and researchers have carried out comparative philosophy in recent times.

An expansion of his list includes the comparison of philosophies of: Two thinkers each of whom lived and wrote at the same age in the same society, e.g Plato and Aristotle; two thinkers who lived and wrote during two distinctive stages of the history of thought of a multi-lingua intellectual culture, e.g St. Augustine and Immanuel Kant; two thinkers from two distinctive cultures, e.g Socrates and Buddha, among others.

Now, Professor Oluwole has come up with comparisons between Socrates and Orunmila, identifying the ideas of each of these thinkers as philosophy from those that distinguish the tradition of philosophy within which each finds rational existence.

In comparing these two philosophers, Oluwole says that by an irony of history, Socrates and Orunmila are two of the few ancient thinkers who many scholars agree stand before us in flesh and blood. By an irony of fate, they are two of the greatest thinkers of the world who did not write down anything. However, one incontestable fact is that both Socrates and Orunmila discussed their ideas, beliefs, views and taught in oral language. The verbal forms and literary styles in which they did these share some distinctive literary similarities.

The author highlights that William Durant, a notable researcher and philosopher, points to the fact that the language of Socrates, as recorded by Plato, contains poems, metaphors, parables, stories and myths, while Professor William Bascom, Wande Abimbola as well as Dr Abosede Emanuel have each separately noted that the basic forms of expression in the extant literature that contains the views of Orunmila are poetry, prose, chant, litany and song. Scholars of Yoruba culture conventionally treat this oral tradition as a compendium of aphorisms, tales, proverbs and mythologies.

Professor Oluwole notes that the idea for the book first came in a research paper presented at an international conference organised by the Philosophical Association of the Republic of Benin, in collaboration with the International Colloquium on Euro-African Personalism, which was held in 2007, with an enlarged version presented in Palermo, Sicily, Italy in 2008.

A summary of major points raised in

Thursday, 24 November, 2016

that research paper says: “A comparison of Socrates and Orunmila must definitely sound strange to the ears of most contemporary Western trained scholars. This is so given the fact that Socrates is well-known as the ‘Father of Philosophy,’ whereas only a handful of theologians and anthropologists are familiar with Orunmila as Yoruba god of wisdom.”

This, according to Professor Oluwole, is the reason scholars conversant with the ongoing debate about the existence of African philosophy are outraged at an apparent attempt to elevate an African mythological figure to the status of the doyen of ancient Greek philosophy, and the leading ancient Western philosopher.

In the second and third chapters of the book, the author delves into the lives of Socrates and Orunmila, revealing those things made public by Aristophanes, Socrates right hand man, and the 16 disciples of Orunmila, who the 16 Odu Ifas are named after.

Professor Oluwole also exposes the parallels in the lives and times of Socrates and Orunmila, highlighting that while Socrates was born in Athens, Greece, around 468 BC, Orunmila was said to have been born in Ado, but some claim Ile-Ife, around 500BC. In fact, in one of the Odu Ifas, Orunmila denied that he was not a native of Ado, but only went there to convert the people into Ifa. Socrates’ father, Sophonisus, was a stone mason, while Orunmila’s father, known as Oroko or Jakuta, with the latter literally meaning a stone man.

Socrates was depicted as having protruding eyes, thick lips, big paunch, a large capacity for liquor, bald, dark skinned, short and ugly, wobble while walking, while an Odu Ifa describes Orunmila as a short, black and ugly man given to drinking, and this made him to wobble when walking. Some said Socrates had 10 disciples, while others said he had more, but Orunmila had 16 disciples who the Odu Ifas are

named after.

While Socrates preached virtue as the ideal of a good life, he was accused of being a homosexual and a polygamist who had two wives. In the case of Orunmila, he identified virtue as the principle of an ideal life, but was a polygamist with two wives.

In the third chapters of the book, the author traces what these two philosophers under study had said on different issues of human endeavours during their lifetimes.

Due to the fact that both of them wrote down nothing, researchers have had to rely on what Plato recorded on his master, Socrates, while the 16 Odu-Ifas gave an insight to what Orunmila had said.

On human destiny, Socrates says: “Your destiny will not be allotted to you; but you will choose your genius; and let him that draws the first lot have the first choice, and the life which he chooses shall be his

destiny.”

On the same issue, Orunmila, in Otura Meji, says: “Every human being sent by the Omnipotent to the earth must go before Orisa to choose the blessing he desires with this condition that he cannot choose more than one blessing…”

On virtue, Socrates says: “Then virtue is the health and beauty and well-being of the soul, and vice, the disease and weakness and deformity of the same. They themselves care only for making money, and are as indifferent as the pauper to the cultivation of virtue.”

On this same virtue, Orunmila, in Oyeku Meji, says: “Raise it up, pull it down, twist it as you may, the essence does not change.

What matters most is iwa (good character/virtue). You may be wealthy, have many children and build several houses; all come to naught if you lack good character.”

Both philosophers discussed on several life issues like the nature of reality, the nature of truth, limit of human knowledge, necessity of education, paying evil with evil, lust for money, among others.

In Obedience to the state, Socrates says: “Our country is more to be valued and higher and holier far than mother or father or any other ancestor… And when we are punished by her, whether by imprisonment or stripes, the punishment is to be endured in silence.”

Speaking also on this, Orunmila says: “The president sends for you, your response is that you are consulting Ifa Oracle. Even if the divine message is positive, what if that of the president is negative?”

This chapter also highlights the parallels in the philosophical views of Socrates and Orunmila.

Professor Oluwole’s book, which is recommended for students and scholars of philosophy and history, answers Western philosophers who hold the view that no African philosopher can be at par with Western thinkers.

Understanding the museum

By Omiwole Kayode THE word ‘Museum’ is derived from the Greek word ‘Museion,’ which means abode of Muses. Muses were daughters of Zeus, (Olympian deities). Since they were good in singing and dancing, they helped men to forget their sorrow and anxiety.

Hence, “Museion” came to be associated with a place where men’s mind found rest and aloofness from everyday affairs.

Before the advent of modern Museums, different societies adopted different ways of preserving objects and collections they saw as important. In Asia, precious items were deposited for safe keeping in temples, while in Nigeria, various shrines and temples in different communities serve as traditional Museums. Also Obas, Obis,

emirs’ palaces acted as repositories for various cultural objects. But today, Museum have come to be accepted by men to “safe keep” as well as preserving or protecting the objects from loss or possible deterioration.

Today, according to International Council of Museum (ICOM), the Museum is a non-profit making permanent institution in the service of the society, and it is open to the public for researches, relaxation/ leisure/education.

One of the fundamental objectives of Museum is to educate its numerous audience (children, youths and adults) using its vast collections and exhibits, either in its natural state as artifacts or as slides.

Museum Audience: These are the people who visit the museum for the purpose of

recreation, learning, research and enjoyment.

Audiences are grouped into two main categories, namely, visitors (museum users) and non visitors (non Museum Users). The most striking thing about Museum visitors is that they are heterogeneous in age, background, interest, sex, physical ability, language, educational attainment, income and reasons for being in the museum. Just as a wise merchant comes to know his potential customers, the Museum Education Officer must know the categories of Museums visitors. Therefore, for the Museum Education officer to effectively interpret the museum collections to its diverse audience, understanding the various categories and characteristics of museum visitors is necessary.

There are many factors used in segmenting or dividing the Museum users; they include age, sex, income, education, among others. Using age as determining factor, museum users may be subdivided into children, youths and adults.

The Education officer must realise that people use the Museum to meet all kinds of need. Some are in search of information, while some are in the museum for recreation and enjoyment.

Finally, Museum education in Nigeria has tried to conform with the need to diversify museum programmes but much still needs to be done in that area. The effect is that the level of public awareness about the museum, its functions and mission is still low in Nigeria.

•Omiwole is of the National Museum, Ile-Ife, Osun State.

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Thursday, 24 November, 2016 Editor: Sade Oguntola sadeboguntola@yahoo.com 0805 506 9260

health

Health Minister, Professor Isaac Adewole, commissioning Modular Polio Laboratory at the Department of Virology, University of Ibadan, while others look on.

FGN and USAID give polio eradication a push

As Minister of Health commissions modular Polio Laboratory

Polio is a crippling and potentially fatal infectious disease. Critical to its detection, treatment and prevention is the availability of high grade functional laboratory. The donation of a modular by USAID that is expected to increase the workspace and pave way for improved diagnosis and subsequently promote better environmental surveillance in Nigeria, reports SADE OGUNTOLA.

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HE Global Polio Eradication Initiative was launched in 1988 by the international community and tremendous progress have been made to stop interruption of wild polio transmission in the country.

Little wonder, the stunning news of four cases of children struck by wild polio in the newly liberated communities in Borno State – the former stronghold of Boko Haram for two years in Northeast Nigeria created national and international crisis. The country was initially cruising to her certification of being declared wild polio free.

Experts estimate that for every case of polio that paralyses its victim, another 200 silent infections go undetected. The virus, which can cause irreversible paralysis within hours, spreads quickly among children, particularly those living in unhygienic conditions and war-torn regions, where healthcare is limited.

Although the recent polio cases in Nigeria have cast a shadow over global eradication, Nigerian government, developmental partners like USAID and WHO and dedicated health workers gathering at the commissioning of a Modular Polio Laboratory at the Department of Virology, University of Ibadan, are confident that the nation will be free of polio by next year.

The polio modular laboratory, a renewed boost to the fight against polio, was purchased with a grant from the United States Agency for International Aid, USAID, to support polio eradication activities in Nigeria.

The standard BSL2 laboratory would also support diagnosis of many viral infections

like measles, rubella, rotavirus, yellow fever and dengue fever, among others at the Ibadan Polio laboratory.

Health Minister, Professor Isaac Adewole at the commissioning acknowledged the modular polio laboratory as an important asset to the effort to ensure that not only is Nigeria polio-free, but that Africa is poliofree by 2017.

Adewole, who noted that polio eradication was a health agenda of President Muhammadu Buhari, stated “The laboratory will strengthen our Polio surveillance effort in Nigeria.”

The gold standard for polio eradication programme is surveillance. This involves detection of cases of acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) and laboratory testing of stool specimens from suspected polio cases in a WHO accredited laboratory. At present, there are two of such laboratories at Ibadan and Maiduguri.

Currently the Ibadan polio laboratory, established in 1997 serves 26 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). It is the only laboratory in the country processing environmental samples for polio virus isolation, thus paving way also for expansion of environmental surveillance in Nigeria.

Polio situation in Nigeria The Minister, however, said it was not true that Nigeria had experienced a resurgence of wild polio virus in the security challenged Northeast States of Borno.

“We do not have resurgence of polio. Actually we shouldn’t have declared Nigeria polio free when we did. What we should have said scientifically is that the area of Nigeria

that is free and accessible is polio-free”.

“So, what we have now is polio been detected in areas that we have no control over before. These were places where they had no access to medical care in the last five years.

There was no way, we could have vaccinated children living there. So, it was not really a surprise that we picked polio among them.”

Surveillance on polio Nonetheless, he said there have being heightened surveillance activities, including active case search for polio during and between the outbreak response campaigns which are on-going fortnightly.

For the sub-national campaigns, Professor Adewole stated that four outbreak response vaccination rounds on wild polio had been conducted by the Federal Government with support from partners.

“The first response which took place in the affected local governments resulted in 800,000 children being immunised. We have done three rounds of immunisation, covering 18 northern states of the federation, excluding Kwara and Kogi in each occasion.

“Specifically, the third round which ended in October resulted in 31,422,237 million children being immunised. We are currently compiling the result of the fourth round that was completed on 15 November, 2016.

“We are on track to commence the fifth round on 3rd December, 2016. Our ultimate goal is to reach over 41million children per round.”

Professor Adewole stated that the four wild polio cases was a setback for Nigeria, adding that it was also a wakeup call to gov-

ernment at all levels and people to play their roles to stop transmission of wild polio virus in Nigeria, and indeed Africa.

Moreover, he added, “this outbreak is not a failure of the polio eradication campaign.

It is mainly due to the insurgency in the North east which resulted in limited access to children for immunisation and health services for several years.”

Adewole appreciated the military for their stride to recover territories from insurgency, provide protection for health workers and support movement of materials and personnel for immunisation services.

He appealed to state governors and Local government chairmen to complement Federal Government’s efforts by providing the needed counterpart funds and political oversight for polio immunisation activities and indeed primary health care programmes.

US Consul General, John Bray declared that health initiatives in Nigeria were US government’s priority, adding that over half of USAID’s budget in Nigeria is spent on health.

“Our government spends about 600million US Dollars a year in Nigeria on health,” he stated.

Bray stated that the 400,000 US Dollars modular polio laboratory Ibadan was US contribution to improve the health of Nigerians, adding “I see the Ibadan polio laboratory as a tangible way to make a difference in peoples’ lives and improve Nigerians health status.”

The US Consul General said that Nigeria needs to lead vigilance in the fight against polio until global certification, adding that the complex security environment and humanitarian emergency in northeast Nigeria demands innovative approaches in the widening traditional partnerships.

The new modular polio laboratory, he stated, was critical to enhance response to polio outbreaks by quickly detecting polio in samples as well as critical to providing convincing diagnostic evidence of the absence of wild poliovirus infections in humans and the environment.

While noting that diseases do not have borders, he urged countries to work together to stop public health threats.

Bray stated that Nigeria has an important regional leadership role in disease surveillance, and thus underscore the critical importance of Nigeria’s participation in the disease surveillance coordination platform.

WHO’s representative, Dr Fiona Braca in her remarks said that the two WHO accredited polio laboratories in Nigeria had been experiencing an increase in workload due to improvement in surveillance sensitivity nationwide, and thus the funding grant from USAID for a new modular laboratory.

Braca, then, pledged WHO’s continued support towards achieving polio free status and certification in the African region.

Vice Chancellor, University of Ibadan, Professor Idowu Olayinka, expressed confidence that the laboratory would further enhance the university’s contribution and relevance to diagnosis, management and policy control for viral diseases as well as building of capacity in research and training and prevention of diseases.

The Provost, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Professor Bunmi OlapadeOlaopa, who represented the vice chancellor, said that the donation will further enhance the strong collaboration between the university and the United State’s government through the USAID.

24

Thursday, 24 November, 2016

Dr. Ben Ajayi 0805 400 5447

you-and-eye@gmail.com

‘Soon, we shall have a house full of blind people’

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ODAY is January 1, 2020, an important year the whole world has been looking forward to. It has been the subject of our discourse locally and internationally, since 1999 when the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) commenced the global initiative for the elimination of avoidable blindness – Vision 2020: The Right to Sight.

The great plan of action sought to promote “a world in which nobody is needlessly visually impaired, where those with unavoidable vision loss can achieve their full potential.”

It’s time to take stock how well we have done.

Sadly, Nigeria has fallen behind in its promise to deliver. There are still hundreds of thousands of people with blinding cataracts in our midst who with simple cataract surgery can have their vision restored.

Then the events of the last few days have been quite disturbing. I won’t bother you with these. I try to brush them aside but they keep echoing in my head. This isn’t me, ever so boisterous! Friends have asked if I ever have sad moments. “Yes, I do once in a while,” I have replied.

Today is one of such odd days. I am all alone and by myself sitting in front of a huge mirror. I see my face in the mirror and take a glance at the photograph of my late father hanging on the wall by the mirror. I am stunned at what I see. The guy in the mirror bears a striking resemblance to the picture

on the wall. I can’t believe it! It’s me – a mirror image! I am always being told that I look like my father. I never paid attention to it until now.

I am 50 years old today. The picture on the wall was taken on my father’s 50th birthday.

What an uncanny coincidence! My father had glaucoma and was almost blind at 55.

He could still manage to see his way around, but had tremendous difficulty driving a car.

After a few small, lone accidents, no-one told him he should give up driving.

Now, I am scared. It seems I have taken after him in looks and all? I was told I had glaucoma five years ago. Am I going the same way? My father had lost his sight completely by the time he was 65 years old.

“How much longer do I have to keep my sight? My paternal uncle and aunt (my father’s older brother and his younger sister) were blind much earlier, but because they lived in the village where blindness was associated with age, they never visited a hospital and the cause of his blindness was never known before they died. Now, I am thinking

it must have been glaucoma and that’s even more frightening.

I’ll find out from my eye doctor if glaucoma is hereditary. It looks plausible. If my father and his siblings had been blind from glaucoma, then there must be a strong genetic link in our family. I am worried about my children.

Can I really wait until tomorrow? What will the doctor say? I can hear my heart beating very fast. All of a sudden, I hear an orchestra of voices and claps, led by my wife and children singing, “Happy Birthday to you.” It catches me by surprise. My wife had told me she was going to see her sister several blocks from our house and would be back towards evening.

Our children – two – are supposed to be in far-away Canada and had told me they would not be able to make it for my birthday but would come to celebrate with me at Easter. In the orchestra, singing and dancing are my children, my brothers, sisters and friends. I quickly realise that I have been fooled. A surprise party is the offing. It

They lived in the village where blindness was associated with age, they never visited a hospital and the cause of his blindness was never known before they died

your mental

is a happy reunion. Soon, I forget all about glaucoma.

It is now 11:50pm., all the guests are gone.

I can hear our son discussing, in a low tone, with his mother. I strain my ears to get a gist of their discussion. I think I hear the word ‘glaucoma.’ I spring to my feet. “What about glaucoma?” I ask. “Dad, calm down. I don’t want to spoil your day, I’ll rather tell you tomorrow,” my son replied. “Debola, it’s too late, spill the beans,” I said emphatically.

“I have glaucoma,” Debola said. My knees buckle under me. I crash into the sofa.

“Daddy, remember that I collected a sample of your blood when I came last time.

“I collected Desola’s and mummy’s too.

Except mummy, we all have the gene for glaucoma.” My head is spinning. I feel faint at the confirmation of my suspicion. His words hit me like a bomb. I am utterly confused. So many things are going through my head right now. Soon, we shall have a house full of blind people. My wife will have her hands full taking care of the blind…etc. etc.

“Daddy, calm down. I know what is going through your mind. You told me four years ago, how you watched your dad go blind. It was a painful experience for you! Neither you, Desola nor I, will go blind. This is the year 2020 and I’ll show you that glaucoma is no longer such a dreadful disease and noone needs to go blind from glaucoma,” he said reassuringly and added, “It’s almost 2:00am now. Let’s go to bed and continue our discussion in the morning.”

healthyou &

With: Jibril Abdulmalik (Consultant Psychiatrist) jabdulmalik@gmail.com

Learning disability: When a child struggles to learn FOLAKE is a 10-year-old girl who has already repeated every class she has attended so far. She is currently in Primary 2. Her class teacher complains that she finds it very difficult to understand basic concepts such as the alphabets. The mother brought her to the child psychiatry clinic and explains that she is worried about Folake, and she fears something might be wrong with her.

Folake’s Mummy: She is growing up normally and she looks alright physically.

She is also very nice and friendly, but she just seems to be not as intelligent as other children of her age. I have tried my best to encourage her, and I am just frustrated now.

Psychiatrist: Thank you for coming and for sharing your worries with me. I would like to ask a few more questions to clarify some aspects. Firstly, when you were pregnant with Folake, were you ill at any time?

Were there any complications during the pregnancy? Did you attend antenatal care?

Folake’s Mummy: No, I was not ill – other than malaria once or twice. I also went for antenatal and everything was going smoothly until I did a scan at eight months and they told me the baby was not coming down with the head but was horizontal in my womb – I think they called it ‘breech’.

The doctors then told me that when the pregnancy gets to term (at nine months), they were going to do a caesarian section

(CS) operation to bring out the baby as it would be almost impossible for me to deliver normally.

I was alarmed and discussed with my mother. We then agreed that when it is time to deliver, I should go to a prayer house for the man of God to pray for me. With God, everything is possible and our prayer was for me to deliver normally without operation. Everyone in my family had always delivered normally. Why should mine be different?

Psychiatrist: Hmmm. Okay. So, how did that work out?

Folake’s Mummy: Well, I waited until I started having labour pains and I then went to the prayer house. Prayers went on all through the night and all of the following day. The labour pains continued, but I could not deliver the baby. By the following evening, I was completely exhausted and I was just crying. The Man of God then advised

that we should go to the hospital, while they continue to support with prayers. So we finally got to the hospital and I was immediately prepared for surgery and delivered Folake through a CS within four hours.

Psychiatrist: Okay. And how was Folake growing up in her early years? Was she seriously ill in her first few years of life? Did she start sitting, walking and talking at the normally expected times?

Folake’s Mummy: No, she was not a sickly child. She was very pleasant, quiet and always smiling. The only problem we noticed was that she did not start walking until after two years. And she only started talking when she was almost three years.

But I reassured myself that some children are usually slow developers. She looked fine. It was when she went to school that we realised her performance was very poor and she was struggling….even in Nursery class.

Psychiatrist: But outside of school, can

When labour is unnecessarily delayed, the cord may be compressed for a very long time and the baby is starved of glucose and oxygen. This may affect the brain of the baby

you send her on errands around the house?

Can she understand instructions? Does she appreciate the value of money and would she know how to calculate the right change if she went to buy something?

Folake’s Mummy: Nooo, you can’t send Folake on an errand to buy something. She will get confused and she would not know how much change to collect. Even in the house, she can only obey very simple instructions.

Psychiatrist: I see. Well, now it is my turn to share some information with you.

Based on what you have told me about Folake thus far, it would appear as if the period of delayed labour before you came to the hospital may have had an effect on her brain. A baby until they are born, depends entirely on their mother for sustenance through the umbilical cord….which is very soft and can be easily compressed.

When labour is unnecessarily delayed, the cord may be compressed for a very long time and the baby is starved of glucose and oxygen. This may affect the brain of the baby. These effects will only become clear over the years when the child starts having delayed growth and speech, or difficulties with learning in school. We call this ‘Learning Disability’. The old name for the condition is ‘Mental Retardation’.

Please join us next week Thursday for the concluding section on this discussion.

25

healthnews

Thursday, 24 November, 2016

HIV, additional cause of infertility in HIV positive couples —Expert

By Sade Oguntola

A

medical expert, Dr Oliver Ezechi has said that despite high mortality and morbidity associated with HIV infection, the infection may be a specific cause of infertility, in addition to the other traditional causes of infertility in HIV positive couples.

Dr Ezechi, a consultant obstetric and gynaecologist, said this in his Nigerian Institute of Medical Research(NIMR) distinguished lecture series entitled “That she may survive, and bring forth an AIDS free Generation”.

Ezechi stated that infer-

tility among HIV positive couples is increasingly being reported, adding that “it is a double jeopardy of HIV and infertility for millions of couples living within the infertile belt of Africa.”

The expert, who remarked that the rate of unexplained infertility was higher in HIV positive couples, stated that studies have shown that HIV

infection may be a specific cause of infertility, in addition to the other traditional causes of infertility in HIV positive couples.

Ezechi said that the proportion of individuals with abnormal sperm density was significantly higher in the HIV positive partners compared to couple.

He added, “in our study,

male contributes about one third of infertility and severity of HIV diseases imparts on semen quality.”

The expert, however, said that HIV is now wearing a woman’s face in Nigeria given that its burden is higher for women than men in both urban and rural areas.

“Feminisation of HIV/ AIDS globally, nationally and

at the site level is not because women are more promiscuous than men. It is due to the conspiracy of nature, culture and man,” he said.

Ezechi, however, stated that for females to survive and bring forth an AIDS free generation, there was the need to strategically plot against the conspiracy of nature, culture and man.

CSOs seek accountability in the HIV response in Nigeria Following the global call for accountability with donor funds to combat HIV, civil society organisations (CSOs) in Nigeria, resounded this call for accountability in the HIV respknse in Nigeria.

They made the call during the 2016 CSOs Accountability Forum held in Abuja with the theme: “Fast-tracking stakeholders’ commitment and actions towards achieving the UNAIDS 90-90-90 targets by 2020 and ending AIDS as public health threat by 2030”.

It was organised by the Treatment Access Mobilisers Initiative (TAM) and other partners with the aim of galvanising CSOs efforts in accountability in the HIV response in Nigeria.

Several stakeholders present at the event remarked on the HIV response in the country and what must happen to achieve the 90:90:90 target.

The UNAIDS 90:90:90 target aims to fast-track efforts to end the AIDS epidemic by 2020 by ensuring, 90 per cent of all people living with HIV would have been diagnosed, 90 per cent of those diagnosed placed on sustained antiretroviral treatment and 90 per cent of all people receiving treatment will have viral suppression.

Speaking at the forum, Dr Bilali Camara, the Country Director of UNAIDS said Nigeria is on track to end the HIV epidemic by 2030, but advised that this can only be achieved if civil societies stay committed to demanding for accountability and ensure proper data collection and dissemination.

“Nigeria can end the HIV epidemic by using effective data collection and accountability tools.”

The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Health (Nigeria) Hajiya Binta Adamu Bello, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs (Nigeria), Hon. Khadija Bukar Abba Ibrahim and the Prime Minister of Cameroon, His Excellency, Philemon Yang during the donation of Health Commodities to Cameroon by Nigerian Government in Cameroon.

UCH to tap expertise of doctors in Diaspora on killer diseases UNIVERSITY College Hospital (UCH) has signed an MOU to ensure expertise of medical doctors in Diaspora is better tapped to improve care of the four major killer diseases in Nigeria and checkmate medical tourism.

UCH’s Chief Medical Director, Professor Temitope Alonge made this known at an interactive session of between the hospital and Centre for Medical Information and Professional Development (CMIPD), an NGO, recently.

Professor Alonge stated that the collaboration was to ensure the merge of clinical acumen of doctors in the hospital with knowledge of technology of doctors in Diaspora to advance the care patients at the hospital.

Alonge stated that knowledge–based in medicine as well as clinical care is very good, but that technology is essential to ensure furtherance of healthcare services to patients.

According to him, “we want proper integration of technology along with clinical practice and then work a way out by which we can look after our clients. Nigerians are different from whites. Although their diseases might be similar but the presentation may be different.”

He, however, urged that the Federal government provide a structured revenue base or budget line for Diasporas integration, saying this had helped devel-

oped countries to better tap into the expertise of its citizens abroad to build their health sector, too.

Professor Alonge declared that such a budget line would also ensure that teaching hospitals can bring in medical doctors in Diaspora for a longer time for training of experts as well.

Dr Segun Alawale, CMIPD’s Chairman said that the collaboration was

to ensure medical doctors in Diaspora gives back to their country both in terms of training and clinical practice, and thus improve quality of healthcare delivery.

Alawale noted that the NGO was to serve as a platform for doctors from developed countries to come and help and that UCH, Ibadan is being used for its pilot scheme.

He declared; “the goal is to make it go round other hospitals and that it become a national programme so that as a country we can take advantage of our people in Diaspora.

But we need to organise them.”

He also assured of the NGO’s support for treating indigent patients and equipments to hospitals in the country.

According to him, “This should be done through conscious effort to educate women to not only delay age at first sex, but empower them to be self-sufficient, institutionalise laws that delay age at marriage, abhors and prevent violence against women, as well as make life-saving ARV drugs accessible and affordable to women and their families.”

The increasing incidence of HIV among women, he also declared worrisome, saying that it shows the high rate of unmet needs for family planning and unprotected sex.

According to him, “This also has implication for motherto-child transmission of HIV and heterosexual transmission of HIV. The large numbers and their predominant residence in non-urban settings pose a further challenge to the HIV programme in the country.”

He also stated that it was time to classify Nigerian traders as another vulnerable group that merit targeted HIV-prevention programmes, adding that often they are involved in high risk sexual behaviours such as early initiation of sex, premarital sex, multiple sexual partners and commercial sex.

While stating that advent of potent ARV had resulted in a decrease in rates of HIV-related deaths globally, Ezechi said deaths from non-AIDS causes has become increasingly common, with the major ones being cardiovascular diseases, maternity mortality and liver diseases.

He also charged the National Assembly as a matter of urgency to pass the Bill on stigmatisation and discrimination of Persons Living With HIVs (PLHIVs).

MWAN to provide free cervical cancer vaccine for 100 school girls Cautions on sex before marriage IN a bid to curtail rising cases of cervical cancer, the most common female cancer in developing countries, the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria (MWAN), Oyo State Branch will in January, 2017 vaccinate 100 girls against the disease.

President, MWAN, Oyo, Dr Olulola Oladapo made the announcement at an awareness symposium on “Preventing Cervical Cancer through early vaccination” by the association in Ibadan.

The exercises, which will be the first phase of vaccination, she stated would ensure that the girls have two doses of cervical cancer vaccine.

Dr Oladapo, who solicited for funding to ensure more girls can also be vaccinated, urged that the audience at the programme spread information of cervical cancer.

She urged the students drawn from 14 secondary schools to abstain from sex

still marriages, stating that this was the best protective measure against cervical cancer.

Dr Bukola Adesina, a consultant obstetric and gynaecologist, in an overview of cervical cancer and its prevention said around the world, a woman dies form cervical cancer every two minutes.

Adesina, who remarked that over 880 per cent of these deaths occur in developing countries like Nigeria, said that it is projected that about 30 per of 100,000 women in Nigeria will develop the cancer.

The expert declared that cervical cancer was essentially a sexually transmitted disease, declaring that people with multiple partners, who have sex before age 20 or previous history of a sexually transmitted disease had a higher chance of developing the cancer.

She linked high deaths in cervical cancer in Nigeria to low awareness on cervical cancer in the community, lack of effective screening programmes and low socioeconomic and educational level.

The medical expert declared, “as long as a woman has had sex even once, she is at risk, as such she must be screened.”

Adesina, however, stated that even when vaccinated, women still need to get screen regularly to be sure they are at risk of developing the cancer.

“You can prevent cervical cancer; HPV vaccine is the key but also screening is important,” she declared.

Dr Foluso Balogun, Institute of Child Health, University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan declared that cervical cancer vaccination in Nigeria is long overdue given that the country had little or no facility to

treat and prevent the disease.

Balogun stated that the few cervical cancer screening programmes were not coordinated, but scattered all over the country, unlike other countries in Subsaharan Africa where the vaccination programmes on the cancer had started.

She stated that although the vaccine is effective, its cost, socio-cultural issues, corruption and non existence of adolescent health programme had hampered its uptake.

Dr Bridget Kolade, Vine Branch Medical Centre, Ibadan, however, stated that to scale up cervical cancer screening, more people need to be trained for it.

Kolade, noted that misconceptions on the cancer was rife in the community, as some women believe that once they had stopped having sex, they cannot develop the cancer.

26

Thursday, 24 November, 2016

natural

Many ways locust beans benefit your health

By Vera Onana

F

OR most people, locust bean, locally called iru by the Yorubas, dawadawa and ogiri by the Hausas and Igbos respectively may be an unappealing food condiment because of its offensive odour, but according to experts, its health and nutritional gains, far outweighs its stench.

African locust beans are a product of a tree which is botanically called Parkia biglobosa. Parkia biglobosa, a dicotyledonous angiosperm belongs to the family fabaceae and is categorised under spermatophytes, vascular plants.

The pods of the tree, commonly referred to as locust beans, are pink in the beginning and turn dark brown when fully mature. Each pod can contain up to 30 seeds.

While interacting with a national daily, Tunde Ajobo, Chief Dietician, Department of Dietetics, University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, recommended the consumption of locust beans because of its nutritional and medicinal benefits. Ajobo, had stressed that locust bean has numerous uses and should be a part of people’s everyday diet. “It contains Vitamin A which helps to promote good eye sight.”

According to him, “Locust bean is a natural condiment that is supposed to be in our food on a daily basis because of its numerous nutritional content. It is better than processed seasonings and we should not substitute these natural flavours for the processed condiment that are readily available today.

Locust beans

“Locust bean contains nutrients in a natural form that the body can easily utilise and its health benefits cannot be over-emphasised,” he said.

The dietician explained that locust beans is rich in nutrients that help to promote good sight, aid digestion and reduce risks of hypertension and diabetes.

“It is one of the sources of protein, Vitamin A, sodium, iron, zinc, calcium and potassium. Calcium helps in the formation of strong bones, proper development of teeth as well promoting blood clotting. Zinc helps in healing. Locust beans also helps in absorption and aid digestion of food,” the dietician said.

From local research, the African locust bean seeds contain 35 per cent protein, 16 per cent carbohydrate and 29 per cent lipid while the bark contains between 12 and 14 per cent tannin. The pod contains 60 per cent carbohydrate whereby 10 to 20 per cent of this carbohydrate is sucrose, with a

health

29 milligrammes of vitamin C per 100 gramme of the pod. The husk is made up of 27 to 44 per cent tannin. The ripe sweet yellow pulp of the locust beans contains 60 per cent simple sugar (except maltose), higher sucrose and cellulose, but less ascorbic acid. Parkia biglobosa is also an excellent source of essential vitamins and minerals such as calcium, fat, potassium, ascorbic acid and phosphorus.

According to researchers, Parkia biglobosa has very high anti-oxidant properties. It has strong free radical scavenging and reducing abilities and as such can be used as an antioxidant for detoxifying the body. The fruit has a remarkable amount of polyphenols that accounts greatly for its anti-oxidising properties.

The anti-oxidising properties of the fruit extracts of locust beans are very similar to that of ascorbic acid.

Other local and international researches have highlighted the medicinal properties of other parts of the African locust bean plant showing a wide array of its usefulness. It has been observed to possess wound healing properties.

Researchers say that the bark of the African locust beans can be crushed, ground, soaked and boiled for preparing herbal tea for treating and healing wounds. Also, the fruits, like Ajobo said, are normally used in folk medicine for treating hypertension.

It also has immune system boosting properties. Researches revealed that the African locust beans are useful for boosting the immune system, especially

in immunocompromised individuals.

Also, the roots of the locust bean are used in folk medicine for preparing lotion for sore eyes. Studies reveal that it helps to promote good eyesight.

According to scientists, the bark can be infused, soaked and boiled in water for use as a mouthwash and for treating toothache.

The root, bark, pod and leaves of the African locust beans can be infused, soaked and used for bathing by individuals suffering from skin infections such as leprosy and sores. It can also be applied to the skin to soothe burns.

It can be macerated (infused or soaked in liquid) for treating respiratory infections such as pneumonia, bronchitis, cold, cough and fever.

African locust bean is a rich source of tannins and as such both the seeds, roots, stems, barks, fruits, flowers and leaves can be used for treating gastrointestinal diseases such as diarrhoea and ulcer.

The leaves contain procyanidin, which has been proven effective in reducing blood pressure. They significantly reduce the diastolic blood pressure more than the systolic blood pressure.

Researchers reveal that Parkia biglobosa is very effective for treating malaria. Both the leaves, pods, stems and barks can be macerated and used as an herbal remedy for tackling malaria.

African locust bean plant contains antibacterial properties that are similar to those of streptomycin and as such can be used for preventing and treating bacterial infections.

Ways orgasm may benefit your health “The bottom line is that orgasms are probably better for your health than they are worse for your health,” says Barry Komisaruk, a professor of psychology at Rutgers University who specialises in behavioural neuroscience and sexual health.

Here’s a close look at orgasm and how it impacts our health.

What is an orgasm?

During arousal, blood flow to your genitals increases and the muscles in the area tense up. Orgasm is your body’s way of getting rid of all that tension and getting back to your pre-arousal state through rhythmic contractions. What an orgasm feels like varies for everyone but often people experience changes in breathing, feelings of warmth or tingling, and a sense of altered consciousness. Men often ejaculate during orgasm but not always, since those are actually separate bodily processes. Most men average about two to three minutes of intercourse before orgasm but, if you count foreplay, the average jumps to seven to 14 minutes.

Brain functioning In his research, Komisaruk has used a functional magnetic resonance imaging machine (fMRI) to monitor what happens in the brain during climax. “What we see is a very widespread increase in the functional brain activity at orgasm,” says Komisaruk. “So, if there’s an overall increase in blood flow and oxygen utilisation that is probably good for the brain.”

The blood flow reactions Komisaruk observed indicate that orgasms bring extra

nutrients and oxygen to the brain. The mental exercises some people do to train their brains are often intended to increase this type of brain activity but orgasm seems to do it in a larger portion of the brain.

Pain relief The rush of oxytocin during orgasm may also alleviate several kinds of aches and pains. We know that this hormone is released in abundance during child labour, probably for the dual purposes of pain relief and accelerated healing. Because of its natural role, scientists are now seeing if oxytocin can help with migraines and chronic pain.

Fertility Neither partner needs to orgasm to make

a baby but there is growing evidence that the female orgasm may aid fertility. This research is still very shaky but one study showed that women who orgasm retain more sperm in their bodies post-sex and another found that uterine contractions (which occur during orgasm) may help move sperm in the right direction.

Prostate Cancer In 2004, a study from the National Cancer Institute compared 50,000 men and found that those who had more than 21 orgasms each month were 30 per cent less likely to develop prostate cancer than those who had fewer than seven. Another study in 2003 had 2,000 men report their ejaculation history from when they were younger. They found that men who reported more than five orgasms a week

in their twenties had a one-third lower incidence of aggressive prostate cancer later in life.

Researchers aren’t positive about why this happens but there one theory is that ejaculating often clears the prostate of old semen that would otherwise turn carcinogenic.

Stress relief Orgasms can obviously take a person’s mind off stressful situations. They can also be indicative of a happy, healthy sexual relationship – a stress-buster all its own.

Although the research is on-going, it looks like the oxytocin and endorphins released during sex (and even more so during orgasm) can make people feel more relaxed, comfortable, and safe. Studies have shown that partnered sex is usually a more effective way to get stress relief from sex but masturbation also likely lowers stress levels.

Longevity A 1997 study of villagers in the town of Caerphilly, South Wales found that men having the most orgasms (two a week) were 50 per cent less likely to die than those having the fewest (one a month).

It’s a fun correlation but not really conclusive. “There certainly may be other mediating factors,” says Komisaruk. “The men who had fewer than one orgasm per month may [have had] other kinds of health problems.” Healthier men are more likely to have sex but sex may still keep us in better health because it is a form of exercise.

•Culled from mensjournal.com

27

aviation

crucial moment With Shola Adekola

0803 365 4818

Saving the sector from total collapse

“WE have not done our duties rightly. We are going to look at the projects one after the other; we are going to review the entire industry. Aviation industry should not go into extinction because Nigeria has no money. Nigeria has spent five times of what the neighbouring African countries spent on navigational aids at their airports. Navigational aids work at those airports; why are the ones at our airports not working? We have something peculiar here and we have to address it. We are in trouble”.

These were the words of Senator Bala Ibn Na’Allah, the deputy chairman of the senate committee on aviation when he led members of the committee to embark on oversight of the aviation agencies earlier in the week.

Ibn Na’Allah bluntly declared that the visit was the first of its kind in the sense that the visit was specifically to review the sector and find out what was responsible for the poor performance of the various stakeholders including the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), the Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB), airlines, aviation fuel marketers and other relevant agencies within the sector.

“This visit is unlike any other in the past; we intend to honestly look at where the industry is especially as there are no funds to carry out some high-end projects due to the economic challenges in the country.

“We have appropriated money; implementation has begun already and what we are looking for are the successes and shortfalls. We must accept that the industry is in trouble and we are all involved, we are not here to indict anybody but we are reviewing the entire industry and projects line by line to see where we are, reduce certain or not continue with them so as to bring the industry back on course.”

Obviously, the committee was right to say the sector was in a critical state in view of myriad of challenges tearing it apart.

Top on the endless list of the challenges include: undue politicization, unnecessary interference by the government officials and friends of the governments, hostile government policies and unfriendly business environment, corruption and disregard to the aviation rules guiding implementation of policies.

While the committee should be commended for taking the initiative at this critical period when things seem to be at a standstill, it is expected that the committee will carry out a thorough assessment of the sector vis a vis the role played by all the relevant key players for the purpose of identifying the loopholes which created the lapses.

In doing this, there is the need to further make those managing the various agencies more accountable to happenings within their domains.

Government through the managements of the agencies should put their feet on ground when it comes to providing services and getting paid for such services by those enjoying them particularly the airlines.

The committee according to its promise should critically look into the expensive cost of aviation fuel which has been attributed to the illegal dealings by the ‘almighty’ oil marketers who operate as a cartel.

There is an urgent need for the committee to clip the wing of this cartel which is greatly contributing to the pains of the airlines while those who could not withstand the illegal activities of the marketers particularly the foreign airlines have been forced to shift their patronage to neighbouring countries.

Another area the committee needs to also look into is the role played by the politicians including the National Assembly members who have turned the sector to a piece of national cake where they feel they can extend their political gimmicks to.

It is no longer news that many of the lawmakers in the past governments and even now have used their private companies to corner contracts which they failed to carry out as specified even after they had been paid. Those who managed to complete their contracts ended up doing a bad job.

At the end of the day, it is those Chief Executives upon whose shoulders such projects fall that are being crucified for this.

There is no need for the committee to continue to wonder why things that work out in even Ghana very close don’t work out in Nigeria. The simple fact is that things are done strictly in the national interest unlike here where ordinary local government councillor can call for the sack of a Chief Executive in the sector if he fails to bend the rules for him.

Above all, in its attempt to bring the sector back on course, while the relevant aviation key players should be made to be more answerable in their callings, government should adequately contribute its own quota while the political class including the lawmakers should be told where their privileges and limitations begin and end. Aviation is global devoid of any local politics.

Under this present predicament, everyone even the lawmakers cannot be exonerated from the accumulated rot.

Thursday, 24 November, 2016

Nigerian Tribune

Airline operators cautioned over use of jumbo aircraft Stories By Shola Adekola - Lagos

F

OLLOWING the economic challenges confronting the country’s aviation sector which has forced many airlines out of business, airline operators have been advised to acquire light and fuel efficiency aircraft to boost operations.

Speaking on why domestic airlines collapse within first ten years of existence, the immediate past general secretary of Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), Alhaji Mohammed Tukur identified the use of ‘jumbo’ aircraft meant for six hours flight aircraft for an hour flight on domestic routes by the domestic airlines.

According to Tukur, the only way domestic airlines will survive in the country will be to acquire less fuel consumption aircraft such as jets while management of various airlines should stop living expensive lives with monies meant for operations of airlines adding that some management staff of some airlines received too much as salaries.

“There is need for airlines to change their aircraft types, they should get JET aircraft and not these B737 and light aircraft. If they have these less fuel consumption aircraft, it will reduce their burdens.”

According to the former director of operations, Chanchangi airline, the B737 aircraft were costly to maintain adding that there was no way an operator could survive under

the present economic situation.

“Most of the airlines over stretch themselves from the beginning before they acquire the AOC they start paying salaries for workers and people be-

lieve that there is money then later the kind of live will haunt them. Most airlines operators take money out of the system.

And put it in another business. In aviation, the moment you move

From left, Gabriel Lalande, Cargo Manager, Airfrance/KLM, Nigeria; Jean-Jacques Castillo, Vice President, Airfrance/ KLM Cargo (France, Africa, Indian Ocean & Caribbean); Rizwan Kadri, Managing Director/CEO, Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCOL); Philippe-Emmanuel Gindrat, Director, Guinean Gulf, Airfrance/KLM Cargo; Adigun Olaniyi, General Manager, Sales & Marketing, SAHCOL and Boma Ukwunna, General Manager, Cargo Services, SAHCOL, during a facility tour of SAHCOL Ultra Modern Cargo Warehouse.

Emirates offers Nigerian customers 50% off fares EMIRATES Airline has offered its Nigerian customers return airfares of up to 50 percent off to Dubai, one of the world’s most iconic cities.

This special offer, which is available for both Economy Class and Business Class travel, must be purchased from now to 30th November 2016 for travels until 31st May 2017.

This is just as the airline has begun taking delivery of its new generation Air-

bus A380 and Boeing 777300ER aircraft.

The first of the new generation A380s which was delivered this month was Emirates’ 85th A380 while the first of its new generation Boeing 777-300ER aircraft is expected to be delivered later this month and will feature upgraded Business Class seats amongst other features.

“Known as a city of contrasts, from futuristic architecture to vibrant tradi-

Delta Air Lines ranked number one US airline for 6th year DELTA Air Lines has earned the top overall score for the 6th consecutive year on the Business Travel News (BTN) Airline survey, sweeping all ten categories and bettering 2015 scores in each.

This win according to the airline celebrated the outstanding performance and industry-leading customer service Delta people provide every day.

Commenting on the development, Steve Sear, President, International & E.V.P Global Sales for the airline, “Each year, we set ‘Win BTN’ as a company-wide goal and all 80,000 Delta people set out to deliver by providing an industry-leading customer experience around the globe. This win marks six years in a row of Delta outperforming our competitors in the eyes of the

money out of operation then you are killing the operation completely because the airlines are individually owned and somebody will just take the money without accountability.”

business travel community and the fourth year that we’ve ranked highest in every category. This achievement, and being named No. 1 again this year by BTN readers, further validates our ongoing commitment to creating a seamless travel experience for our customers.”

BTN voters, who manage tens of billions of dollars in annual, corporate travel spend, selected the top U.S. carrier in the survey based on their perceptions of airline performance in negotiating and maintaining preferred programs, delivering service and providing value.

This survey provides important validation of an airline’s efforts to provide the best experience for corporate customers. No other airline has been selected six consecutive times in the survey’s 19-year history.

Delta Air Lines which serves nearly 180 million customers each year, in 2016, was named to Fortune’s top 50 Most Admired Companies in addition to being named the most admired airline for the fifth time in six years.

tional culture and diversity, Dubai is a place that caters to all types of travellers.

The city offers everything a visitor could want, from shopping at some of the largest malls in the region to dining options which will spoil anyone for choice, a trip to Dubai is a must for families, friends and individuals.

The city also offers visitors several new and exciting experiences, such as the recently-opened IMG Worlds of Adventure, the world’s largest indoor themed entertainment destination, and the soonto-be-opened Dubai Parks and Resorts, which will offer a range of attractions and experiences. Other attractions in the city include the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, traditional souks and the clear water beaches of the Arabian Gulf.

FAAN commissions new carousels at Lagos airport THE Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) in a bid to conform with global trends and International best practices, has commissioned three ultramodern carousels and conveyor belts at the Arrivals of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport.

The commissioning of the facilities will reduce delays and fast track departure formalities of arriving passengers.

According to the FAAN management, this facility is one of many projects embarked upon by the Federal government to facilitate passengers’ facilitation at the airports to keep pace with the growing traffic which has been on the increase since the commencement of the remodeling project, and the immense growth of the country as the fastest growing economy in Africa.

28

Thursday, 24 November, 2016

Nigerian Tribune

with Tola Adenubi

m:07068476673 e:adenubiadetola@yahoo.com

N2.5bn Baro River port rots away one year after completion Port not accessible by road —NIWA Stories by Tola Adenubi - Lagos

I

NVESTIGATIONS have revealed that the N2.5 billion Baro River port awarded under the administration of former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan is currently lying waste due to lack of utilisation by port users despite it completion more than a year ago. This is even as the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has stated that the Baro River port has not been put to use due to lack of access roads linking the port.

According to findings, the Baro River port in Niger State, awarded in 2011/12 at a cost of N2,563,499,248.00 by the Federal Executive Council to Messrs CGGC Global Projects Ltd has been completed but is gradually becoming a waste due to non-utilisation by port users.

Speaking to the Nigerian Tribune, a Master Marina who declined to have his name in print stated that the infrastructure built with tax payers money is gradually looking like a shadow of its self due to abandonment and neglect.

According to him, “If you go to the Baro River port now, you will not meet anybody there. The facility has abandoned. Reptiles have taken over the terminals. It is a ghost town cut off from this world with no activity taken place there.

“It is a pity that when government was building that port, no

provision was made to dualise the road link the port. Currently, the Baro River port is not accessible by road. You cannot get there by land except you are ready to navigate the horrendous roads and bush paths that lead there.

“Even if you decide to go there through the very bad road, God help you if you don’t get attacked by wild animals from the bushes surrounding that route.

“For government to have spent about N2.5 billion building that facility without thinking of how to link it by road sums up the clueless state of our leaders. Nothing is happening there as I speak.

“You can only access the port by water. No economic activity is going on there. Does this not amount to a waste of public funds? Soon monkeys and gorillas from the neighbouring bushes will turn the

port to a permanent place of abode if it remains idle. Already, reptiles like snakes already hibernate there, seeking shelter.

“It is only in this part of the world we don’t plan ahead before we start a project. The contractors have finished their job and have returned back to their country, but the facility is laying waste there in Baro all because of no access roads.”

When contacted on the issue, the

As pirates attack ship off Nigeria’s coastline

From left; Senate Committee Chairman on Marine Transport, Senator Yerima Ahmed; Chief Executive Officer, Intels Nigeria Limited, Mr Andrew Dawes and the Deputy Managing Director, Intels Nigeria Limited, Mr Adamu Atiku, during the visit of the Senate Committee on Marine Transport to the Onne port city, recently.

NIMASA charges ECOWAS to eradicate maritime piracy THE Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr Dakuku Peterside has charged member states of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to eradicate the scourge of piracy in the sub region in order to grow the economy.

The DG who stated this while delivering a goodwill message at the delocalised meeting of the Joint Committee on Political Affairs, Peace and Security of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Parliament also said that the fight against piracy must be a collective responsibility of member states to be successful.

According to him, “the theme of this meeting, Maritime Security and the Fight Against Piracy: The Role of the ECOWAS Parliament in the Implementation of the Integrated Maritime Security Policy of ECOWAS could not have been more timely coming exactly one

Spokesman of NIWA, Tayo Fadile confirmed that the Baro River port is not been used due to lack of access roads linking the port.

In his words, “the Baro River port is completed, but there is no access road linking the port. Is it NIWA that will go and do the access road?

“We have written the Ministry of Works and the Niger State Government, informing them that there is no road leading to the Baro River port, but nothing has been done.

Is it the responsibility of NIWA to construct roads?

“We have done our job by building a port in Baro. What is remaining for us is the cargo handling equipment which I learnt is already in the 2016 budget of NIWA.

month after the signing of the Lome Charter on Maritime Security, Safety and Development in Africa by heads of government in Africa, under the auspices of the African Union.”

Speaking further, he observed that the adoption of the ECOWAS Integrated Maritime Strategy (EIMS) and the 2012 Yaoundé declaration of the Heads of States and Governments of Central and West African States on Maritime Safety and Security is a clear demonstration of the critical role of the ECOWAS parliament in ensuring Safety and Security of the sub region’s shipping and maritime transportation including the territorial waters and the seas.

The objectives of these two sub -regional instruments are in sync with the goals of the African Integrated Maritime Strategy (AIMS) 2050 which culminated into the signing of a Charter on Maritime security, safety and development

in Africa on October 15, 2016.

While acknowledging that the ocean provides a unique opportunity to optimize the benefits of the blue economy and to provide special opportunities to tap into the benefits of nature, he urged the participants to engage in sensitising member countries on a harmonized legal framework that will ensure safe, secure shipping and

cleaner oceans in the ECOWAS sub-region.

The Joint Committee on Political Affairs, Peace and Security of the ECOWAS Parliament which met in Lagos is aimed at developing implementation strategies against maritime piracy and related crimes in the West African Region.

A Maersk Line container vessel came under attack from Nigerian pirates recently according to a report by a security broker.

The Singapore-flagged, 61,614 dwt boxship, Maersk Cotonou, was attacked in Rivers State, Nigeria close to Bonny Island according to a report from security brokers Asket.

Asket said that the containership had been attacked by eight armed men in a speedboat and the Maersk Cotonou successfully applied counter piracy measures.

The vessel then continued to its destination.

Asket said the attack was carried out by the same group that attempted an attack on a convoy of supply vessels earlier on November 19. In that case a security vessel escorting the convoy intercepted the pirate skiff and came under fire. The security vessel returned fire and the attack was aborted.

Haarstrup takes over as CISN President THE Executive Vice Chairman, ENL Consortium and Chairman, Seaport Terminal Operators Association of Nigeria (STOAN), Dr Vicky Haastrup on Thursday took over the mantle of leadership of Nigeria’s foremost maritime institution, the Certified Institute of Shipping Nigeria (CISN) as the 4th President of the institute.

Speaking while delivering her acceptance speech during her investiture ceremony in Lagos re-

cently, Haastrup called for urgent review of some maritime policies, which she said have negatively affected port operations in the country. She also called for passage of the Port and Harbours bill by the National Assembly.

Haastrup stated that in order to re-engineer the maritime sector, government should provide an enabling environment through monetary and fiscal policies for trade growth and economic sus-

tainability.

“The maritime industry should be overhauled in the areas of maritime policies, institutional, regulatory and legal framework.

This is because our policy framework is outdated and incoherent.

The Nigerian Ports Authority Act is 29 years old. New laws are urgently required. The National Assembly should pass the Ports and Harbours Bill currently before it.

29 news PDP, Mimiko, Fayose, call for election postponement

Thursday, 24 November, 2016

From Leon Usigbe, Jacob Segun Olatunji Sam Nwaoko and Hakeem Gbadamosi

T

HE Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has reiterated its call for the postponement of the Ondo election slated for Saturday, “in view of the fact that our candidate have been robbed of the opportunity to campaign, unlike others.”

This was as the party hailed the judiciary for the Appeal Court judgment which restored Eyitayo Jegede as its candidate in the election.

In a statement issued in Abuja by the national publicity secretary of the party, Dayo Adeyeye, the party praised the Nigerian judiciary for “standing behind the truth as if affects the attempt by enemies within, working in consonance with some jittery and desperate opposition members to thwart the participation of our party in the Ondo State governorship election.”

It asked the INEC, to toe the line of dignity and fair-

ness by heeding the call for the postponement of the election, to enable Jegede to tell the people of the state his programmes for them through campaigns.

“This is the least honourable thing the electoral um-

pire can do to show its unbiased in this matter.

“Postponing this election for two weeks definitely won’t hurt anybody, except the fact that it would disrupt the possible plans by some desperate persons to rig the

Saturday’s election,” it said.

Ondo State governor, Dr Olusegun Mimiko, on Wednesday, tactically solicited for the postponement of the Saturday election.

Mimiko stated this at the Akure airport, after return-

ing from Abuja where Eyitayo was declared as the authentic candidate of the party by the Appeal Court.

The governor said Jegede’s name was substituted by INEC, replacing it with Jimoh Ibrahim before it was

Wife of the Ondo State governor, Mrs Olukemi Mimiko, celebrating alongside other supporters, the victory of the PDP’s candidate, Mr Eyitayo Jegede, at the Court of Appeal, Abuja, on Wednesday.

Wike, Okowa, Ekweremadu, others congratulate Jegede REACTING to the Court of Appeal judgment on Jegede’s reinstatement, Rivers State governor, Nyesome Wike, in a statement signed by his Special Assistant on Electronic Media,

Simeon Nwakaudu, commended the judiciary and advised Nigerians not to lose hope in it.

He said no matter the level of intimidation by the powers that be, there were re-

silient judicial officers who would always enthrone the rule of law in the country.

The governor urged the people of Ondo State to vote massively for Jegede, so that he could continue

Igbos in Ondo endorse Akeredolu WIFE of the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for Saturday’s governorship election in Ondo State, Mrs Betty Anyanwu Akeredolu, on Wednesday, visited the Igbo community in the state to solicit the support of her Igbo brothers and sisters for her husband, Rotimi Akeredolu.

Mrs Akeredolu, who is a grass root politician and activist of good governance, assured the Igbo in the state of a balance in representation at the Alagbaka seat of government in Ondo State if her husband was elected governor.

She pointed out her position as the only cherished wife of Akeredolu and she promised the Igbo interest will be protected and there will be remarkable presence

of Igbos in the government of the state. She called on them to stand by her as she will not disappoint them.

Ahead of the gubernatorial election in the state, the Igbo living under the aegis of Ohanaeze Ndi igbo, have pledged their unalloyed support for the governorship candidate, Akeredolu of the APC. Responding, Eze Gregory Iloerika (Gburu Gburu 1 of Ondo) pledged, on behalf of Igbo people in Ondo State, to vote for Akeredolu.

Eze Iloerika informed Mrs Akeredolu that Igbos made a sizeable percentage of population in Ondo State, and he assured her of their massive votes in the coming election. He also added that Igbo people would always identify with their own at all times.

Adebutu congratulates Makarfi, Mimiko, Jegede CHAIRMAN, House of Representatives Committee on Rural Development, Honourable Oladipupo Adebutu, congratulated the national caretaker chairman of PDP, Ahmed Maikarfi; Ondo State governor, Dr Olusegun Mimiko and the party’s governorship candidate in Saturday’s

election in Ondo State, Eyitayo Jegede over the victory at the Appeal Court, Abuja.

In a congratulatory message on Wednesday, Honourable Adebutu praised the valour of the justices of the Court of Appeal for standing by the truth, equity and good conscience.

Finally, he prayed that God would grant Akeredolu success at the polls.

Meanwhile, APC’s governorship candidate in Saturday’s election in Ondo State, Mr Rotimi Akeredolu, on Wednesday, rounded off his campaign at Owo Local Government Area of the state, promising to transform the state in all ramifications if elected.

Akeredolu hails from Owo, the headquarters of Owo Local Government Area of the state.

with the giant development strides of the outgoing governor, Olusegun Mimiko.

Delta State governor, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, hailed the ruling, while he described the decision of the Court of Appeal panel, led by Justice Ibrahim Salauwa, as a triumph of good over political bitterness aided by selfish interests.

Reacting to the unanimous judgment of the appellate court that Jegede was duly nominated as the authentic candidate of the party, Okowa, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Charles Aniagwu, in Asaba, on Wednesday, urged the Ali Modu Sheriff-led faction of the party and its candidate, Jimoh Ibrahim, to stop distracting the party and support Jegede to deliv-

er for the party in the Ondo election.

Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, hailed the ruling of the Court of Appeal which affirmed Jegede as the candidate of the PDP in Saturday’s governorship election.

Ekweremadu, in a statement, described the decision as “just, courageous, and expeditious,” adding that the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal deserved commendation for their promptness in handling the matter.

According to him, democracy could only thrive where there was respect for the rule of law.

Ekweremadu also called on the people of Ondo State to vote massively for the PDP in the governorship election.

We are prepared —APC Kolawole Daniel -Abuja

THE leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), on Wednesday, said the party is prepared for the Saturday”s election in Ondo State.

Briefing newsmen in Abuja, the deputy national secretary of the party, Mr Oji Ngofa, said the party was battle ready to slug it out with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state.

He equally noted that available records showed that the APC was the only party ready for the election, as other parties were busy calling for postponement.

On the Court of Appeal ruling that was given in favour of Mr Eyitayo Jegede as

against Mr Jimoh Ibrahim as the candidate of PDP, he said “it is okay. No table has turned against us. I can say we are prepared.

“The ruling is a welcome development; it shows that our judicial system is working and they have continuously proven that they are the hope of every person, especially the so-called common man and so our party is ready for Jegede, even if you put them together, we are prepared. Come Saturday, Ondo chapter would be a party for us.

“Whoever represents PDP in Ondo State - be it Jimoh Ibrahim or Jegede- we are prepared. We are better ready, better prepared in Ondo than any other party

as at today.

“So, we welcome the contest, we welcome the healthy contest that Jegede legal victory would bring to the entire process. It is good for Ondo State, it is god for Nigeria, but APC is prepared to win Ondo State on Saturday,” he stated.

On the fallout of APC primaries in the state, he said “I want to say also that a lot has gone positively in terms of reconciliation with the little issues that emanated from the primaries. I can confirm to you that reconciliation has gone on very well and everybody is prepared and ready for the Saturday and by the grace of God, our party would be triumphant in the election.”

reversed by the Appeal Court two days to the governorship election in the state “Eyitayo Jegede’s name was substituted by INEC against logic, common sense, law, against their own regulation. Now, two days before the election, we eventually got some reprives from court of Appeal.

“The question now is: would anybody in good conscience say that they have provided Eyitayo Jegede level playing field in this election?

“Will anybody in good conscience and all morality be comfortable to say that they have done justice to Eyitayo Jegede if he has to contest the election in two days’ time?”

Mimiko noted that the elecoral umpire could postpone the election to accommodate and give Jegede time to campaign, saying the electoral law stated that election should take place a month before the expiration of the current administration.

Also, Governor Ayodele Fayose of Ekiti State said the ruling was commendable.”

Governor Fayose, who reacted to the verdict on Wednesday, however, said the time was against the PDP and its candidate to be able to make a headway at the poll.

The governor joined others who had called for the postponement of the poll, and contended that “INEC in cahoots with the APC had succeeded in undermining the strength of the party through this unwarranted judicial impediment.”

According to Fayose, “the postponement remains the best option if INEC is truly an unbiased umpire which it claims to be.”

Fayose calls for Justice Abang’s sack

Fayose described the controversial Justice Okon Abang of the Federal High Court as a disgrace to the judiciary, calling on the National Judicial Council (NJC) to “save the judiciary by showing him the way out of the bench.”

In a statement by his social media aide, Lere Olayinka, the governor said “in the face of these indictments by the appellate court, NJC must wade in and save the judiciary from Abang.”

According to him, “today again, three justices of the appeal court descended on Justice Abang, describing his judgments imposing Jimoh Ibrahim as the PDP governorship candidate in Ondo State and the one affirming Senator Ali Modu Sheriff and the PDP national chairman as fraudulent.

“These are clear indictments on Justice Abang and in a civilised society; he ought to have resigned without the prompting of anyone.”

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Thursday, 24 November, 2016

Afenifere’s tributes day for Sir Olaniwun Ajayi

PHOTOS: D’TOYIN

Osun State governor, Mr Rauf Aregbesola; Ogun State governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun and Oyo State governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, during tributes for Sir Olaniwun Ajayi at his Residence in Isara- Remo, Ogun State.

The children of late Sir Olaniwun Ajayi.

Co-Chairman, African Newspapers of Nigeria Plc, Ambassador Olatokunbo Awolowo Dosunmu (right); Dr Amos Akingba (centre) and Mr Yinka Odumakin.

Chief Ayo Adebanjo and Senator Femi Okurounmu

Chief Olu Falae (left) and Pa Ruben Fasoranti.

From left, Folarinwa Ajayi, Gbeniyi Ajayi and Senator Kofoworola Akerele Bucknor.

Otunba Tunde Onakoya, Chief Supo Sonibare, Dr Ebun Sonaiya and Mr Pekun Awobona

Former governor of Osun State, Chief Bisi Akande and former Kwara State governor, Chief Cornelius Adebayo.

A cross section of obas from Remo.

Solomon Asemota (SAN) (right) and Dr (Mrs) Bisola Clark.

tribute Eulogies for Olaniwun Ajayi at Afenifere tributes day 31

Olayinka Olukoya - Abeokuta

I

T was glowing tributes galore, on Wednesday, in memory of the chieftain of the Afenifere, a Pan Yoruba-socio cultural group, Sir Olaniwun Ajayi, as people of goodwill extolled his good virtues and ideals.

The late Ajayi ,who died on November 4, at the age of 91,was one of the disciples of the sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

The programme organised by the group, was held at his No 2, Odemo Road, Isara -Remo and had in attendance the governors of Oyo, Osun and Ogun, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, Mr Rauf Aregbesola and Senator Ibikunle Amosun ,respectively.

Others in attendance were Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Fasonranti, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, Chief Olu Falae, Chief Bisi Akande, Senator Mojisoluwa Akinfenwa, Chief Cornelius Adebayo, Senator Femi Okurounmu, Senator Adegbenga Kaka, Honourable Wale Oshun.

Also, Dr Olatokunbo Awolowo Dosumu, Chief Sehinde Arogbofa, Senator Kofoworoola Akerele -Bucknor, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, Chief Solomon Asemota, Chief Edwin Clark,

Thursday, 24 November, 2016

represented by his wife, Dr (Mrs) Abisola Sodipo -Clark, Dr Kalu Idika Kalu, Mr Tokunbo Ajasin, Mrs Dupe Adelaja, Senator Banji Akintoye, Chief Pekun Awobona, among others.

The chairman, organising committee for the funeral rites for the late Ajayi, Chief Supo Shonibare, said the event was put together to celebrate a great patriot, who committed himself to the unity of Yoruba nation.

“Sir Ajayi was strongly committed to liberty, democracy and the devolution of power to the six geopolitical zones as federating units or regions. For him, justice was a primary principle,” he said.

Governor Ajimobi, while addressing the gathering,, described the late politician as an accomplished Nigerian and an epitome of humility.

He noted that the late legal luminary preached for peace among Yoruba leaders till he breathed his last, submitting that failure to espouse unity among the Yoruba leaders, would continue to affect the development of the region.

Ajimobi admonished members of the to continue flying the flag of unity in the South West.

Also,on the occasion, Gov-

ernor Aregbesola, in his tribute titled “A star falls”, said that the late Ajayi was a man of many parts, whose departure remained a big blow to the progressives fold.

He said Ajayi was a defender of Yoruba race and a unifying leader of Oduduwa children.

The governor also said that quality and concrete unity must be put in place, rather than a blanket unity for Yoruba nation to progress.

Aregbesola added that the late Afenifere chieftain’s

memory should be honoured by forging a common front in the South West.

“Olaniwun Ajayi lived a good, fulfilling and remarkable life worthy of recognition, emulation and celebration. The Yoruba race, progressive Nigerians and the world at large, will for a long time preserve the memory of his huge contributions to the expansion of freedom, federalism, rule of law, democracy, human rights and dignity.”

While Senator Amosun also lent his voice for strong

unity and cohesion in the South West to engender regional integration.

Amosun said political leaders in the region should be wary of political mischiefs capable of polarising the South West.

He described the late Ajayi as a true and passionate Yoruba leader, who worked for unity among his people He said unnecessary political rivalry must be discouraged to ensure unity and progress in the region.

The co-chairman, African Newspapers of Nigeria

Nigerian Tribune

(ANN) Plc, Dr Awolowo Dosumu, said Sir Ajayi was a man full of commitment and loyalty.

She said, “His commitment to ideals and his loyalty is also well -known. People like Sir Ajayi are not given to frivolity. They only commit to ideas and relationships after very rigorous consideration.

“His legendary loyalty to Chief Awolowo, and the ideals he espoused, is an excellent example and was, practically, his defining attributes.”

UNIZIK braces up for Glo Campus Storm this weekend THE Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, Anambra State, is next to be hit by the telecoms firm, Globacom’s campus -based music concert, the Glo Campus Storm. The train of top class artistes that have been going round tertiary institutions dishing out great entertainment and getting students stomping, will stop over at Awka’s prime institution on Friday (tomorrow).

The top artistes that will file out on stage this weekend include, Egberi papa, Timaya; African Rapper

Numero uno , MI; new sensation, Asterix and latest kid on the block, Runtown. They will be supported by humour merchant, Gordons with DJ Tops ,on the turn table.

Globacom says that the students will have unprecedented entertainment at the show. “It is to set off the Christmas and end of year celebrations on a high note for the young people, ” Globacom stated.

In the last one and a half month, six tertiary institutioms have received the Glo Campus Storm train, each

experiencing the big bang impact of top class music and standup comedy.

The fame of the show is such that other universities around the six geopolitical zones, where the show is yet to hold, are asking for a taste of the musical Storm.

Globacom added that anyone willing to be at the show in Unizik, should simply load Glo Campus Booster Data worth only N500.

During the show, five males and five females will have the chance of winning up to N100, 000 in the “Glo

Campus Dude” and “Glo Campus Diva” beauty pageant.

The 10 successful contestants will join 230 other contestants from all the institutions where the show would have been held to compete for the star prize of N1 million in scholarships. Other perquisites include Globacom Brand Ambassadorial contract and automatic invitations to Globacom-organised events such as the Glo-CAF Awards, Glo Slide ‘n’ Bounce concert and Glo Laffta Fest comedy shows.

Sir Olaniwun Ajayi lived well, died well

Oration delivered by Dr Olatokunbo Awolowo Dosumu in honour of Sir Olaniwun Ajayi

T

HE fact of Sir Olaniwun Ajayi’s sudden death on November 4, 2016 is only gradually sinking in. At 91, he has had a ‘good innings’, as they say. He lived well and died well. Yet, what a loss his death is to his family, the church of God, his political associates and acolytes, society at large and, in particular, believers in the indispensability of the principles of decency, truthfulness and reliability in all spheres of human endeavours.

I have had the privilege of knowing him for very many years. First as a keen observer of the goings-on in the highly political home in which I was brought up and, much later, at closer quarters, as the Executive Director of the Obafemi Awolowo Foundation where Sir Olaniwun Ajayi served as a most valued member of the Obafemi Awolowo Prize for Leadership’s Selection Committee.

From my knowledge of him, the two words that best sum Sir Olaniwun Ajayi up are ‘commitment and loyalty’ - to his God and the body of Christ, to his wife and family, to the highest ideals in politics and public life and to his friends and associates.

His commitment to God and the body of Christ was evident throughout his life in the total deployment of his time, talent and substance to ‘the great commission’ of our Lord Jesus Christ.

His commitment to his wife was unquestionable. Indeed, many were surprised that he survived for as long as he did after her demise. His children, their spouses and their children meant the world to him, and he left no-one in any doubt about that.

His commitment to ideals and his loyalty is also wellknown. People like Sir Olaniwun Ajayi are not given to frivolity. They only commit to ideas and relationships after very rigorous consideration. His legendary loyalty to Chief Obafemi Awolowo and the ideals he espoused, is an excellent example and was, practically, his defining attribute.

For their generation, the only goal of politics was to serve humanity. That was the basis of their enduring philosophy of Afenifere. Any potential critic has to appreciate this fact in order to understand their fierce commitment to the fundamental principles of federalism and political restructuring in Nigeria as the logical means of guaranteeing the delivery of ‘life more abundant’ to the citizenry.

Sir Olaniwun Ajayi seized every opportunity that came his way to point, and urge us to navigate our way back, to those ‘ancient landmarks’ that served his generation so well and

Sir Olaniwun Ajayi which hold the potential, still, to serve future generations even better.

Although his message and his principled stance may appear unrewarding to some in the current political dispensation, I believe that he is assured of an enviable place, not only in the history of this country, but more importantly in the pantheon of the architects of the highway that would lead us to our manifest destiny.

On the Selection Committee of the Obafemi Awolowo Prize for Leadership, Sir Olaniwun Ajayi never missed a single meeting and he always generously availed us of his profound knowledge and wisdom. He will be greatly missed.

He also remained committed to the family of Chief Obafemi Awolowo throughout his life, sharing deeply in all our joys and challenges.

Let me urge his children and grandchildren that, as inher-

itors of a proud heritage, you are obliged to ensure that the heritage endures. I pray that the Lord will guide your every step as you journey into the future.

Finally, Sir Olaniwun Ajayi was a foremost member of a gradually disappearing ‘band of pilgrims’ whose vision and mission in public life extended far beyond self and material gain.

For the benefit of those of us he left behind, permit me to quote excerpts from the poem, ‘The Present Crisis’, written in 1844 by James Russell Lowell, an American scholar, poet and diplomat.

This poem assumes greater poignancy in a year that Oxford Dictionaries’ choice of word of the year is ‘post-truth’ because 2016 is considered best characterised by a word that, believe it or not, questions the very concept of facts!

Rather ominously, the publisher is reported to have said in a video explaining its selection, that ‘post-truth’ is likely to have a long shelf life, because it describes ‘a general characteristic of our age.’

Back to James Lowell’s words. They are profound and deeply spiritual. Hear him: ‘Once to every man and nation comes the moment to decide, in the strife of Truth with Falsehood, for the good or evil side… Hast thou chosen, O my people, on whose party thou shalt stand…They were men of present valour, stalwart old iconoclasts…But we make their truth our falsehood, thinking that hath made us free…

New occasions teach new duties. Time makes ancient good uncouth. They must upward still, and onward, who would keep abreast of Truth…Truth forever on the scaffold… Yet that scaffold sways the future, and, behind the dim unknown, standeth God within the shadow, keeping watch above his own…’

Chief Obafemi Awolowo left us almost 30 years ago. He passed the torch to the likes of Sir Olaniwun Ajayi who we here honour. I have no doubt that history will adjudge him to have carried the torch forward with admirable courage and distinction.

Now the question to succeeding generations is this: to which side of history do we wish to belong?...

To Sir Olaniwun Ajayi I say, farewell, valiant pilgrim. You have earned your rest.

Farewell. And Godspeed!

•Dr O. Awolowo Dosumu November 23, 2016

32

Thursday, 24 November, 2016

PoliticsNews Rivers rerun: INEC has handed over original result sheets to Amaechi —Wike It’s not true; we’ve not printed result sheets —INEC

By Dapo Falade

R

IVERS State governor, Nyesom Wike, has declared that the leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has handed over original copies of the result sheets for the rerun election into the National Assembly to the Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, for the alleged planned rigging of the December 10 rerun elections.

Speaking during the kickoff of the construction of the Ulakwo II-Afara--Nihi in Etche Local Government Area, on Wednesday, Governor Wike noted that Amaechi made the disclosure on Tuesday in Abuja during a meeting of Rivers APC leaders.

The governor said that he was in possession of the proceedings of the Abuja illegal meeting of the APC at Abuja .

Governor Wike stated that Amaechi assured the Rivers APC leaders at the meeting that the original result sheets supplied by INEC would be used for the December 10 rerun elections to facilitate victory for unpopular APC candidates.

However, when contacted, former Governor Amaechi maintained that Wike’s allegation was wild and baseless, saying that Amaechi had no business with any result sheets for the coming election.

In a reaction by his media office, Amaechi said: “These new allegations by Governor Wike is a cheap ploy by a failing, garrulous talkative to intimidate and harass INEC into doing his bidding and whip up public sentiment against APC, its candidates for the election and the President Muhammadu Buhari administration, ahead of the rerun election.

“Wike is scared and profoundly afraid; this is why he is telling these spurious lies. He knows he will lose at the polls if the election is free and fair,” he said.

Also responding, INEC’s Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in the state, Mr Aniedi Ikoiwak, has maitained that the allegation was untrue, noting, however, that he was not ready to join issues with Wike or any other person.

Wike had said: “While we are working for the people of Rivers State to convince them to vote for us, the APC is busy working with INEC to rig the

LG election: Revise election time-table, Oyo PDP tells OYSIEC Sets up screening committee

By Moses Alao

THE Oyo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has called on the Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission (OYSIEC) to revisit and revise the timetable it released last week in order to conduct a free and fair election, noting that the commission should have released the delineation of wards following the creation of 35 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs).

This is just as the party nominated Mr Ashipa Ismaila as its Director of Information and Strategy/Acting Public Relations Officer, a replacement for the deceased former PRO, Mr Kehinde Salawu.

In a communiqué issued at the end of a meeting of the party’s stakeholders, including the state executive led by

Mr Yinka Taiwo, local government party chairmen and several party leaders, the PDP maintained that it would participate fully in the local government election scheduled for February.

The party maintained that the leadership of the party at the national level “is working urgently to find a lasting solution to the lingering crisis in the party,” even as it warned its members to stop “further negotiations with other political parties,” noting that anyone who contravened the directive would be penalized.

The party also set up a nine-member committee to screen all councillorship and chairmanship aspirants for the local government election, calling on its members across the state to rally round the party ahead of the poll.

rerun elections.

“On December 10, follow your results bumper to bumper. Don’t allow anyone to swap results. I urge the Etche people to follow their results.”

The governor informed that the Rivers APC members who were arrested printing fake result sheets for INEC were

• Allegation wild, baseless —Amaechi

transferred to Zone 6 Police Command headquarters in Calabar where arrangements have been concluded to take them to Abuja for the Director of Public Prosecution at the Federal Ministry of Justice to formally release them in line with the request of APC .

However, Ikoiwak said

that the sheets for the rerun exercise have not been printed.

Speaking with Nigerian Tribune on telephone, the Rivers REC said: “The result sheets have not been printed. I don’t want to join issues with anyone, but hand over how? We should know that there are some

things people will say and you begin to ask, how can such a thing happen?”

“One thing is clear: The result sheets for the conclusion of the Rivers legislative rerun election have not been printed.

So, how can what has not been printed be handed over to somebody?,” Ikoiwak queried.

Mr Tunji Ariyomo; Mr Tunji Abayomi and President Muhammadu Buhari, at the meeting of Ondo State All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirants with the president, on Saturday, held at The Dome Event Centre, Alagbaka, Akure.

Bello to Faleke: Stop inflammatory statements Yinka Oladoyinbo - Lokoja THE Kogi State governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, on Wednesday, challenged the deputy governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the last governorship election in the state, James Faleke, to stop making inflammatory statements

that could affect the peaceful coexistence among the people.

He said Faleke should, rather, promote ideals that would portray him as someone committed to peace and stability in the state.

In a statement signed by the governor’s media aide, Kingsley Fanwo, he said

the APC was bigger than the ambition of any of its members.

Bello was reacting to a statement credited to Faleke that “there could be no reconciliation in Kogi State APC without justicce.”

The statement said Kogi State is “bigger than Faleke’s ambitions,” add-

Rivers rerun: Dep gov drums support for PDP candidates

By Dapo Falade AS campaigns for the conclusion of the legislative rerun election get under way in Rivers State, the state deputy governor, Dr (Mrs) Ipalibo Harry Banigo, has called on the people of the state to vote enmasse for the candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the election.

The call was contained in a statement at the Government House, Port Har-

court, on Wednesday, as the deputy governor said the only way for an effective representation at both the national and state Assemblies was for the people to cast their votes for the PDP government-led administration in the state.

Banigo, who said Governor Nyesom Wike’s performance had endeared the administration to the people, called on the electorate in Rivers West Senatorial District to see the re-

run election as a period to re-enact their seal, as they did in the exercise that was cancelled by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for what she said was “without justifiable reason.”

She advised Rivers people and non-indigenes alike to vote wisely and refuse to be intimidated by “desperate politicians, who said claimed were bent on instigating violence during the December 10 rerun exercise.”

ing that “immediately the Supreme Court delivered judgement in favour of Governor Yahaya Bello, he called on all his opponents to join forces with him in moving the state forward.

Those are words of a great leader. The elections are over, the litigations are over, so also should the hostilities.”

“Governor Bello is concentrating on developing Kogi State and should be allowed to do the job for which he was elected. He has nothing against any political leader, as he is the father of the state. He is not thinking of politics right now, but the need to give people better roads, better schools, better healthcare, good water and give jobs to our youth and women.

“Kogi State APC had no problem before the 2015 general election and that was why the party was formidable enough to win the support of the people,” the statement read in part.

33

interview

Thursday, 24 November, 2016

Ondo gov election: My last shot at politics —Akeredolu

for is that I was the governor, who opened up all rural areas; roads, water and every other thing that will make life comfortable for rural dwellers. We have abandoned our rural areas for too long. Our farmers - they don’t have roads even to their farms. They toil day and night; no light, no water and no road. Some of them die of dysentery and cholera because the same water where they defecate is where they wash cloths and drink.

The standard bearer of the All Progressives Congress [APC] in Saturday’s governorship election in Ondo State, Mr Rotimi Akeredolu [SAN], in this interview, explains why he believes he will win the poll, among other issues. KUNLE ODEREMI brings excerpts.

Y

OU were in the governorship race in Ondo State in 2012 and now, you are back in the contest. What has been the motivation for you?

Seriously, when I ran in 2012 by His grace; through caucusing in the then Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), I was picked to run for governor. Yes, I don’t believe that we lost.

We were just victims of an electoral fraud promoted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the outgoing governor - hand in glove. We fought the matter to the Supreme Court, as you know. And we believe we were walking on sound ground - we believe our case was good because there were some fundamental errors in the voters’ register. Once, for instance, we were able to prove that there were some injection of names in the voter’s register, there was nothing left because voter’s register remains the basis of any election,. So, if there are errors in it, there was nothing to be substantially complied with.

This time around, I have yielded to the clarion call of our people. I believe they are not having the best as we would expect of an oil-producing state. The state capital, there is nothing to write home about it. You need to get to Imo State and see how developed the state capital is and I don’t believe our people had the best. They have been on the wrong side of everything. So, I am convinced that if given the opportunity, we would turn the lives of our people around; ‘why not give it another shot again. So, I came back.

In 2012, by the grace of God, we won in spite of shenanigans here and there. And again, moving on we are trusting in God that we will win again. So, we are here.

Between then and now have you seems to have become more of a politician because we see less of you in the courts?

As you have rightly observed, I have not been going to court that much, particularly in the last one year. I have only concerned myself by handling a few cases and at this age, I don’t need more than one or two cases in a year. It is enough for you to live on and the younger ones will keep going to court.

So, because of my political pursuit, I just felt like giving it all because it is the last time.

If I win this election, I would thank God and I will serve my people. If I don’t win, I am back into my practice. This is my last shot at politics except if I am convinced and I want to run for a higher office because I am getting old. This is my last shot at it; so I am giving it all I have. Therefore, there has been tremendous change, seriously.

Have you reached out to those that felt aggrieved after your party primary?

I am not sure that there were people that are really aggrieved. We went into a primary; someone emerged from the primary and some of them were suborned. They knew we had a free and fair primary but because people cannot accept defeat, they suborned about three of us, encouraged them to file unmeritorious appeal. Their appeal was thrown away and, yet, they do not want to stop at that. They still went ahead to encourage them

You spoke about party members being treacherous. Are you not worried that this is capable of affecting the chances of the party in the election?

I am worried that this treachery that is playing out would affect the fortunes of the party, but this would only affect it to some extent but we will surmount it. The margin would have been wider but it would not be wide now; it would still be wide but it might not be as wide as we expected.

If we are together and the party is still intact you can imagine now that the PDP is totally decimated, it would have been very wide, but because of the treachery that some people have decided to engage in, which is unfortunate to me, but we would still win. I don’t run away from reality. I know it would affect our fortunes.

to involve in anti-party activities.

Yes, one of them did the right thing and went to another party. Fair enough! But, there is still one or two others who pretend to still be in the party but they are working against their party’s interest. So, when you say they are aggrieved, how do you say they are aggrieved? You cannot talk to them any longer; somebody, who has left your party to another party and is being sponsored by leadership of the party in the South-West. It is unfortunate. What do you want to say to those people? You try to appeal to the leadership; you try to send people to them - you don’t do this to your party and they don’t want to hear.

They are spending a stupendous amount of money and giving money out; not in hundreds of millions but in billions because you want to fight your party. So, do you still say those people are aggrieved? They have left. There is nothing we could do. Every other person that believes in the APC has returned to the party.

Almost immediately we won we met with people. Those who believe in the party remained, but those who do not have left. Some are still here pretending because they are holding offices in the name of the party and they know that if they go out and say they have decamped to another party, they would lose their seat. So, they are pretending. There is nothing we can do about it. We have tried our best. We have made efforts to see whether we can bring them back to see reason but they are being propelled from areas that I least expected.

What are your programmes for Ondo State should you emerge as governor?

When it comes to my programme, I have five cardinal programmes and I have gone everywhere to sell them. It is called JMPPR. The J, we want to create jobs through agriculture, entrepreneurship and industrialisation. We don’t have industries in Ondo State. People are not being encouraged to create their own businesses. So we are going to have a College of Entrepreneurs, who, at the end of the day, will be able to establish their own industries; employ themselves and then, employ others.

On the M, we want to get involved in massive infrastructural development; roads; a lot of our schools are dilapidated, some have no roofs. Infrastructure is important and maintenance too. Then, the P is that we want to promote what we call functional education and technical growth. We have schools but what training do we get from there? We have schools, we don’t have teachers. We have some teachers who are not trained. The other P is provision of affordable healthcare services.

Today, most of our comprehensive health centres don’t even exist. Most local government areas don’t even have general hospitals. For instance, from Owo area, to Ifon, Ikare area, and so on, if you take ill, you are rushed to the Federal Medical Centre. That is supposed to be a referral centre, not necessarily where you take the first treatment, but because we don’t have comprehensive medical centres and general hospitals that are functional. We must be able to provide affordable healthcare services.

And the last R is what we call rural development and extension services because I believe by the time I leave as governor of this state, the only thing I want to be remembered

I am worried that this treachery that is playing out would affect the fortunes of the party, but this would only affect it to some extent but we will surmount it. The margin would have been wider but it would not be wide now.

You have listed a lot of laudable projects you want to embark. How do you intend to finance these projects?

When you talk about financing your programmes, you can’t go and start such programme if you have not given it a thought. I spoke about job creation and agriculture. What is going to be involved other than tractors, mechanised farming, plough the land for them, they will plant, they are the ones that will weed.

It is not that capital-intensive that you need t break the bank to do. I am sure that once the bank and other financiers who are prepared to assist you know that you are genuine, the money will come. I did ‘Aketi Means Business’ some days ago, it was like a symposium. Chinese and Japanese people were here in Adegbemile Ondo State. All of them wanted to talk to us about what they have. Some have signified that they want to have so many industries here.

It is for you to give the enabling environment to them. It is not my money but once they have it, which is part of the industrialisation we are talking about. People will have jobs. So, there are many ways you can do things.

Despite your national clout, some still feel that you are not a grass roots politician and that there is a disconnect between you and the residents of Ondo. What do you say to this?

I don’t know how these people measure their connection with grassroots. If connection with grassroots is being deceitful, then I don’t think I have connection with them. But if connection with the grassroots is the affection they show to you as a politician, I know that no other politician in this state has better connection with the grassroots than myself. I enjoy tremendous affection of the people of this state in everywhere. Their interest in us, you can feel it yourself. Sometimes when I see the way they behave, I am in tears because I feel and I pray that nobody should terminate the interests of this people in who they want as governor of this state. It is clear. You need to go out and ask people. They know who they want to be their governor. When I see the way our people behave, something occurs to me that if you are not careful and if they continue this way, you might lead them to a point where they will be acting like the North Koreans when they see their president because they know who they want and they are prepared to do everything for it. So, to me if that is what is called grassroots.

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news

Thursday, 24 November, 2016

Raid on judges’ homes: Reps move to whittle DSS powers Jacob Segun Olatunji and Kolawole Daniel-Abuja

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H E S p e a k e r, House of Representatives, Honourable Yakubu Dogara on Wednesday, hinted that the House was poised to amend the act setting up the State Security Service (SSS) in view of the recent invasion of some judges’ houses, by the operative of the secret police.

The Speaker dropped the hint while declaring open a two-day investigative hearing by the ad hoc committee set up to investigate all cases of invasion of property and arrest of persons for reasons outside the general duties of state security service, as prescribed by the National Security Agencies Act, 1986 since 29 May 2015.

The Speaker noted that, the activities of DSS was a duplication of the function of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission(EFCC).

According to him, “It is untidy, it seems we have multiple agencies exercising similar functions. The EFCC already handles issues of corruption and economic crimes in Nigeria.

“The activities of the State Security Service of late have raised concerns in the Nigerian polity as to the propriety of the conduct of officials of the service and whether their actions are consistent with the law setting it up.

The chairman of the ad hoc committee, Honourable Garba Datti Muhammad on his part, said that, “the task

of this committee is not an easy one and, therefore, we crave the support of everyone here present in order to come up with recommendations that will mean well for our country as well as stand the test of time.”

The Rivers State governor, Mr Nyesom Wike in his memorandum submitted to the committee through the

state Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice, Mr Emmanuel Aguma, decried the DSS invasion of judges’ residences.

According to the governor, “the action of the SSS on the 8th of October, 2016 is counter productive. We are of the firm view that their actions in Port Harcourt, Abuja and other parts of the country in which

the SSS demystified the judiciary in itself poses a threat to the internal security of the nation.”

Also, the House of Representatives on Wednesday, called on EFCC to investigate the diversion of the 120 billion aviation intervention fund provided by the Central Bank CBN in 2012; This is coming just as the

From right, Lagos State governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode with the chairman, Board of Neighbourhood Safety Corp Agency, DIG Israel Ajao (retd.); community representatives, Chief Tunde Aboyade (Ikeja Division); Chief Dengel Anifowose (Epe Division) and Mrs Koforowola Adegboye (Ikorodu Division) during the inauguration of the board, at the Conference Room, Lagos House, Ikeja, on Wednesday.

Community policing will help in crime reduction —Ambode •Inaugurates neighbourhood safety corp agency LAGOS State governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode, on Wednesday, said the fight against crime and all forms of criminality would be better enhanced if efforts are geared towards embracing community policing to complement the police and other law enforcement agencies.

Governor Ambode, who stated this at the swearingin ceremony of the chairman and members of the board of the state’s Neighbour-

hood Safety Corp Agency, said community policing was needed to assist law enforcement agencies who, according to him, are already overstretched, judging by the enormous task of securing the country.

Speaking at the ceremony held at the Lagos House in Ikeja, Governor Ambode said right from the outset, the major thrust of his administration has been the security of lives and prop-

erty of Lagos residents.

He added that the Neighbourhood Agency, being an initiative aimed at safeguarding the communities through community policing, was another testimony of the commitment of the state government to the safety of lives and property and a demonstration of a promise kept to all citizens.

The Governor recalled the provision of security at the state level with massive pro-

I won’t sack genuine workers —Bello Yinka Oladoyinbo - Lokoja KOGI State governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, on Wednesday, said no worker of the state would be unjustly sacked as a result of the completion of the screening exercise to determine the actual size of the state workforce.

This is just as the governor has ordered the payment of the September and October salaries of all 43,909 state and local government government workers already cleared by the screening committee.

The chairman of the screening exercise review committee, Alhaji Yakubu Okala, who is also the auditor-general of the state, who disclosed this to newsmen in Lokoja, said the committee had already completed work on the screening.

He said the governor had

House asked the Federal Government to stay action on the proposed concession of airports.

The House gave the marching order after consideration of the Report of the House Committee on Aviation on the investigation of the need to rescue the airline industry from imminent collapse.

also directed that those being owed salaries from January till date, and are having genuine cases should be paid their salaries.

He, however, stated that many of the people accusing the state government of owing them salaries from January, were those already indicted by the screening

committees, who had been handed over to the security agencies.

He said the review exercised carried out by his committee further uncovered many rot, including people with fake results, adding that the governor would at an appropriate time release the figure of the people in this

category.

Okala said his committee had been able to establish 43,909 as genuine workers at both state and local government levels, saying that the figure of over 66,000 workers arrived at in August, by the screening and verification committee was fraught with irregularities.

vision of equipment such as patrol vehicles, motor bikes, boats and helicopter on several occasions to police and other security agencies, saying such had aided law enforcement outfits in the state in effectively discharging their duties.

“You will agree with me that the police and indeed all other security forces within the state and even the country at large are quite stretched, and some form of “community” or “local policing” is required to boost and support the great job the Nigeria Police is presently doing.

“The creation of this Agency marks another step towards ensuring the protection of lives and property at the grassroots level. corp members recruited by the Agency are meant to interact with the people at the communities."

World Bank predictions of Nigeria’s population not reliable —Expert Adetola Bademosi-Abuja CONTINUOUS dependence on the World Bank predictions of Nigeria’s population for national development is unsustainable, president, the Nigeria Institute of Town Planners (NITP), Mr Luka Achi, has said.

Achi said aside from reliance on data gathered from

the 2006 census for planning and development, forecasts made by other international development organisations were unreliable except the country hasten it’s next census exercise.

He disclosed this in Abuja on Wednesday, during a conference on the imperative for the conduct of 2018 population and housing

census.

He said it became imperative for President Muhammadu Buhari to urgently make proclamation for the conduct of the 2018 population and housing census, adding that further delay in the conduct of the next census, would compound town planner’s efforts in the use of authentic and current popu-

lation data for planning.

“Nigeria does not have current demographic data set for planning purposes. The last census was conducted in 2006 and Nigeria has undergone substantial demographic changes since then.

Continuous reliance on the 2006 census data for planning purposes is not consistent with current realities.

JDPC empowers 150,000 S/West women THE Justice, Development and Peace Commission (JDPC) has extended a soft loan scheme to about 150,000 women in the South-West part of Nigeria to assist them in small scale and farming projects.

JDPC Director of the Diocese, Reverend Father John Patrick Ngoyi, who said at a Recognition and Award Giving ceremony held at the commission's headquarters in Ijebu Ode, and organised by the Centre for Grassroots Economic Empowerment (CGEE) of the Catholic Diocese,explained that the scheme which was a savings and credit scheme, was established since 1992 to give aid to groups in need of small scale businesses.

While stressing that the beneficiaries were drawn from Lagos,Ogun,Oyo,Osun and Kwara states, the Reverend Father, however, called on communities and traditional institutions across the country to ensure that government at all levels make loans available for the masses, especially women, to cushion the effects of recession in the country.

The Catholic Bishop of Ijebu Ode, Reverend Dr Albert Fasina, in his remarks explained that the CGEE is an arm of JDPC of the Diocese whose duty, among others, is to provide support for the needy.

Ambode redeploys Ashade as finance commissioner LAGOS State governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode, has redeployed the Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Mr Akinyemi Ashade to take over as the Commissioner for Finance.

In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Habib Aruna, the Governor made the decision shortly after the State Executive Council meeting on Wednesday.

Ashade is expected to assume duties with immediate effect.

Governor Ambode, however, said Ashade would still oversee the Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget, pending when the state Executive Council would be reshuffled.

It will be recalled that Governor Ambode, on Wednesday, October 19, carried out a cabinet reshuffle with the dropping of the Commissioners for Tourism, Mr Folorunsho Folarin-Coker; Finance, Dr Mustapha Akinkunmi and Transportation, Dr Ekundayo Mobereola.

news Ondo govt promotes 2,212 workers 35

Thursday, 24 November, 2016

Training of workers not politically motivated —Mimiko Hakeem Gbadamosi Akure

O

NDO State government promoted 2,212 civil servants in 2016, chairman of the state’s Civil

Service Commission, Dr Afolabi Adewakun, has said.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Adewakun made the disclosure in Akure, on Wednesday, while briefing

workers on the promotion exercise carried out during the year.

“Governor Olusegun Mimiko has always prioritised the welfare of workers.

“It is in this light that he graciously approved the promotion of all deserving officers in the civil service for 2016, despite the difficult times.

“The promotion list was

Vice Chancellor, Ajayi Crowther University (ACU), Professor Dapo Asaju (second right); Deputy Vice Chancellor, Professor Stephen Titilola (second left); Registrar, Mrs Adenike Fatogun (right) and the Bursar, Mr Samson Olojede, during the press conference at the Senate Chamber of the institution, on Tuesday.

We’re unlike PDP, we don’t cook books —Osun govt Oluwole Ige - Osogbo OSUN State government, on Wednesday, said the All Progressives Congress (APC) is unlike the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), adding that the PDP government at all levels were notorious for corruption, the very reason Nigerians rejected it at the poll.

Apparently reacting to the statement issued by the opposition, the Bureau of Communication and Strategy, Office of the Governor, took a swipe at the PDP which accused the government of “manufacturing documents” in anticipation of a purported planned probe of the bailout by the Senate.

The Bureau, in a press release signed by the Director, Semiu Okanlawon, described as warped, opposition’s reasoning and conclusion that the government had hired an accounting firm to help it cook books of its expenditure since 2014.

According to the release, “PDP’s allegation is fallout of what the party represented while it was lord over Nigerians. If the PDP government had not been good at falsifying and altering financial documents, it would not have so easily jumped into conclusion that Osun has hired a firm to help it perfect fraud.

“The PDP’s statement

merely reminds us why, since the anti-people party was booted out of office, Nigerians have been treated to series of mind-blowing financial malfeasance.

Of course, the humongous financial recklessness of the PDP, which is now public knowledge, could only have been result of many years of ‘manufac-

turing documents’.

The release also cautioned the media against falling prey to PDP’s deceits, adding that the party’s several lies were capable of robbing an unwary media organisation of its honour and credibility in the estimation of rightthinking people.

“In the first place, are ac-

counting firms set up to cook up books? Is this the first time a state government would be engaging service firms to build capacities and enhance government’s service delivery to the people? An accounting firm that subverts accountability has already destroyed the basis of its existence.”

forwarded to the commission by the Office of Head of Service as prepared by the Senior Management Committee for eligible officers,” he said.

He said that the list also contained those forwarded by the Office of Establishments and Ministries, Departments and Agencies.

The chairman added that the commission had also successfully carried out the conversion of 479 officers from various cadres between 2015 and 2016.

Adewakun challenged the promoted staff to be diligent, hard working, loyal and dedicated to their duties.

Meanwhile, Ondo State governor, Dr Olusegun Mimiko, on Wednesday, said the training of workers embarked on by the state chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) has no political undertone.

Mimiko stated this at a seminar organised by the NLC, TUC and Joint Negotiating Council (JNC), held at the International Event Centre, Dome.

He said the seminar was put in place to encourage workers in the state to look inward and see what they can do differently to feed their family.

Mimiko, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Dr Kola Ademujimi, said “workers are human beings and they have their choices to make.”

Alleged fraud: EFCC arraigns Ogunlewe, FUNAAB VC, bursar in court tomorrow Saliu Gbadamosi - Abuja THE Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) will on Friday arraign a former Minister of Works and Pro-Chancellor of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Senator Adeseye Ogunlewe and two other principal officers of the university in court for alleged fraud.

Ogunlewe, who was appointed pro-chancellor of the university by former President Goodluck Jonathan, will be docked alongside FUNAAB Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olusola Oyewole and the bursar, Mr Moses Olusola Ilesanmi.

A source in the anti-corruption commission informed the Nigerian Tribune that the former senator, who represented Lagos Central in the Upper Chamber of the National Assembly, and the other principal officers of the

university would be docked on an 18-count charge bordering on stealing, abuse of office and obtaining by false pretence.

The three have been subject

of investigation by the commission in an alleged case of abuse of office and misappropriation of funds.

Ogunlewe was on Wednesday, August 31, 2016 in-

vited and interrogated at the Ibadan office of EFCC following a petition written to the commission by a group known as ‘Concerned Stakeholders of FUNAAB’.

Community leader tasks politicians on masses’ welfare Sam Nwaoko - Ado Ekiti AN industrialist and Chairman of Prosperous Group of Companies, Mr Abiodun Isinkaiye, has charged politicians to make masses’ interests the focal point of their policies, programmes and projects.

Isinkaiye, who said the masses were at the receiving end of the economic recession facing the country at present, tasked governments at all levels to deliberately give human face to their economic policies.

The industrialist and

owners of Prosperous Oil and Gas and Prosperous Hotels and Resort Centre, spoke in Ado Ekiti yesterday at a press conference to announce programmes lined up for the memorial anniversary of his late mother, Madam Alice Isinkaiye, billed to climax on Saturday at Ijelu Ekiti in Oye council area of Ekiti State.

Among dignitaries expected at the event, which he described as the celebration of the life of his late mother, a devout Christian and community leader,

were Ekiti State governor Mr Ayodele Fayose; Cross River State Deputy Governor, Professor Ivara Esu; the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi; founder, Afe Babalola University, Chief Afe Babalola and former NBA President, Chief Wole Olanipekun.

Isinkaiye, who lamented that the recession had adverse effect on businesses generally in the country, including the hospitality industry, said governments and well-meaning Nigerians should rise to the occasion.

Nigerian Tribune

Oke-Ogun youth congress holds tomorrow OKE-OGUN youths will gather tomorrow, Friday, November 25, at the Old NYSC Camp ground, Iseyin by 10:00 am. to encourage Oke-Ogun virtues among youths of the region.

According to the organiser of the congress, Oke-Ogun Summit of Honours’ Team & Friends, the gathering will also be used to deliberate on how youths can constructively get integrated to productive government policies.

The congress will as well address various patriotic ways of doing things differently to collectively develop the region, Oyo State and the nation in general.

“The development of youths, particularly in OkeOgun, is beyond mere wishful thinking. It must take a deliberate and concerted effort of every one. It demands a qualitative change process and not frivolous comparative desires.

“The congress promises to be a very impactful gathering on regional constructive youth engagement and development; identification of development growth poles in the region; sensitisation on unity and regional integration; and capacity development at individual, organisational and societal levels,” the organiser stated.

The event will be attended

by Oke-Ogun youths in different areas of endeavours at home and abroad.

OYSCATEC NASU embarks on indefinite strike

By Modupe George THE Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU) of educational and associated institutions, Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology (OYSCATECH), Igboora chapter, has ordered its members to commence an indefinite strike, beginning from yesterday, November 23, 2016.

This was contained in a press release made available to the Nigerian Tribune and signed by the union secretary, Mr Yusuf A. Adeleke.

According to the release, “as directed by the union headquarters, all union members were ordered to proceed on strike due to non-payment of outstanding salaries and arrears by the college’s management and failure to take actions on the issues raised, as stated in the communiqué made available to the management at the end of the union’s meeting, held on Tuesday, November 1, 2016.”

Thursday, 24 November, 2016 36 news Support 376 SUBEB contractors abscond after receiving mobilisation fees Recession: less privileged, Johnson Babajide, Makurdi

A

BOUT 376 contractors handling contracts with the Benue State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) have absconded after getting mo-

Reps jack up Buhari’s virement request

bilisation fees.

It was gathered that the contractors were mobilised with 15 per cent mobilisation fees since June 28, 2016, but have refused to move to site.

The executive chairman, SUBEB, Dr Philip Tarchin, who confirmed this to the Nigerian Tribune, during an interview on Wednesday, said, ‘out of 710 contractors mobilised to work with the payment of 15 per cent mobilisation fees, only 334 of

them moved to site’.

Tarchin said that the board had given the defaulters time frame to move to site or be dragged to the anti -graft agency and at the same time, have their contracts revoked.

While stating that his board would not condone any act of corruption but uphold core values as exemplified by the current administration, the SUBEB boss vowed that he would not spare anybody.

“Our schools were in dilapidated form when this administration came on board and with the strong desire to turn things around for the benefit of our people, contracts were given to renovate and build new schools, unfortunately, out of 710 mobilised to work, only 334 moved to site”.

“It is absolutely wrong for someone, after taken 15 per cent mobilisation fees and refused to move to site, it is not a political project

but a service delivery to the people of the state. I will not hesitate to drag defaulters to the anti -graft agency and terminate the contracts and re-award them.”

While expressing satisfaction with the work done by some of the contractors, Tarchin said that the board would continue to encourage and patronise qualified and faithful contractors, who expend their resources judiciously in line with contract specifications.

Jacob Segun Olatunji and Kolawole Daniel -Abuja

THE House of Representatives Committee on Appropriation, on Wednesday, submitted its report for the N180 billion virement request by President Muhammadu Buhari and raised it by about N209 billion.

Chairman, House Committee on Appropriation, Honourable Mustapha Bala Dawaki, during the plenary, through a motion entitled: “Receipt and Approval of the Request for Virement of Funds in the Appropriation Act, 2016,” called for support of the request.

Why justifying the increase, he noted that “the committee observed that there are other areas of critical needs with potentials for development and stimulating the economy and for which additional funds could be provided through virement from the Special Intervention Programme.”

For Service Wide Vote: Public Service Wage Adjustment (PSWA) N71 billion; Service Wide Vote: Contingency N1.2 billion; Service Wide Vote: Margin for increase in Cost (MIC) N2 billion and Ministry of Interior: Cadet feeding-Police Academy, Wudil, Kano N932 million Also, Service Wide Vote: Amnesty Programme N35 billion; Service Wide Vote: Internal Operations of the Armed Forces N5.2 billion; Service Wide Vote: Operation Lafiya Dole N13.9 billion and Ministry of Youth and Sports Development: NYSC N19.7 billion.

The committee also gave Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Foreign Missions N16.3 billion and Federal Ministry of Education: Augmentation of Meal Subsidy/Direct Teaching and Laboratory Cost N900 million.

Under statutory transfer, Public Complaints Commission got N2.5 billion; under capital expenditure, Ministry of Defence: Nigerian Air Force (NAF) N12.7 billion; Capital Supplementation: Presidential Initiative for the North East (PINE), N1.5 billion and Payment of local contractors debts/other liabilities, N25 billion, among others.

Lions Club tells Nigerians

By Wale Akinselure

NIGERIANS, especially, the wealthy, have been urged to support the less privileged irrespective of the current economic situation.

The district governor, International Association of Lions Club, District 404-A1, Dr Ayodele Ajayi, said this at the presentation of Mr Mutiu Aderogba, as the Centennial President of Ikorodu Golden Lions Club, District 404A-1 Nigeria.

Furthermore, he called for the unceasing contribution of Nigerians to the development of their various communities, drawing attention to the ethos of the Lions Club, such as service to the less privileged in communities, environmental protection and promotion of peace across the globe.

A former chairman, Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON), Oyo State chapter, Chief Ademola Ojo, who chaired the event, stressed the need for Nigerians to inculcate the habit of assisting the less privileged.

Navy raids more illegal refining sites in N/Delta From left, the Obi of Onitsha, Chief Nnaemeka Achebe; Professor Olu Akinkugbe, keynote speaker and former president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo; Chairman, Board of Trustees, Akintola Williams Foundation, Chief Akintola Williams; Chief (Mrs) Olutoyin Olakunle and the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Michael Aremu Adedotun Gbadebo, at the first inaugural lecture of Akintola Williams Foundation, held at MUSON Centre, Lagos, on Wednesday. PHOTO: SYLVESTER OKORUWA.

Buhari to present 2017 budget Dec 1 Continued from pg 5

year? The oil price as well looks conservative.

“Like some of our distinguished colleagues said, our responsibility is to work on it and use our capacity to do the right thing.

We have our Committees on Appropriation and Finance that should not just take anything from the executive, sign it and return it (verbatim). If it means that we have to rehash it, look at it again, turn it around and do what is right, then, that is our responsibility.

“I think that is just the way to go rather than to just take a document from the executive and return the same to it. It is clear from what was submitted (by the lawmakers) today that it will not work like that this time around,” he said.

During the debate, senators, however, raised voices against the document before agreeing to send it to the committee for further consideration.

While making his contributions, Akpabio said “Yesterday (Tuesday), you made reference to the fact that the president may be

coming to the chambers to submit and read the 2017 budget on December 1 (next week Thursday).

“If that is the case and we send this (MTEF) back for reworking by the Presidency, it means that we will not be able to meet that deadline.

“But if we send it to the committee level, they may come up with something

within the next three days that will be much, much realistic ahead of the budget presentation itself,” he said.

He pleaded with the Senate not to throw out the MTEF document based on its unrealistic projections, adding that the committees could breathe live into the documents.

During the general debate

on the document, senators, including Dino Melaye, Bayero Nafada, Adeola Olamilekan, Mohammed Hassan, Emmanuel Paulker and Abiodun Olujimi condemned it, arguing that the the document be sent back to the Presidency.

Saraki, in closing the debate, asked senators to give the document another chance.

Ganduje presents N209bn budget proposal to Kano Assembly Kola Oyelere Kano

KANO State governor, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, on Wednesday, presented a sum of N209 billion for the 2017 appropriation bill, tagged: ‘’Sustainable self- reliance’’, to the state House of Assembly, for consideration.

It will be recalled that the 2016 budget was N274 billion, meaning that the 2017 budget was lower by about N66 billion when compared with the 2016 budget, The governor, however, said 2016 was economically challenging due to fall in oil prices leading to fall in revenue allocation to the state.

Governor Ganduje, while

presented the 2017 budget proposal before the state House of Assembly ,said the total capital expenditure proposed was N130,486,682,670.

He also said that the recurrent expenditure is N79,370,670,811,while the revenue expected from the federation account is N96,969,104,895.

He, however, said that the proposed Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) for 2017, will be about 8.4 per cent against the 2016 Going by the breakdown, the Ministry of Works and Housing, got the highest vote of N 43·72 billion, while

the Ministry of Education, got N17.5 billion However, the Ministry of Land and Physical Planning got N16.8 billion,while the Ministry of Water Resources, was allocated N13.5 billion and the Ministry of Health, N10.74 billion.

The governor commended the state House of Assembly for the support given to his administration. The speaker of the House, Honourable Kabir Rirum, pledged that the House will work assidously to ensure swift passage of the budget and commended Ganduje-led administration for the laudable projects executed in the state.

Chris Agbambu – Abuja

IN continuation of the anticrude oil theft operations of the Nigerian Navy in the Niger Delta region,patrol teams deployed by the service, have raided and destroyed more illegal bunkering and refinery sites.

This is even as the Nigerian Navy, has intensified patrol of the maritime areas of the country in order to deter any form of security beaches and threats.

The Director of Naval Information, Commodore Christian Ezekobe, said that on November16, the patrol team deployed by Forward Operating Base (FOB), Formoso, Bayelsa State, arrested MV MIDES 2 and two other Cotonou boats, over alleged illegal bunkering activities at Sonikiri community in Nembe Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

MV MIDES 2 was arrested while carrying out transfer of suspected illegally refined AGO to the Cotonou boats.

According to him, in another raid, on November 18, the patrol team deployed

by NNS PATHFINDER, in Rivers State, destroyed an illegal refinery site containing about 70,000 litres of stolen crude oil and 40,000 litres of illegally refined AGO, at Bille Creek, Rivers State.

Similarly, he added that the patrol team deployed by NNS DELTA, arrested four people onboard a Cotonou boat laden with suspected stolen crude oil on the Forcados River.

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Thursday, 24 November, 2016

Editor: Wale Emosu tribunesporteditor@yahoo.com 08111813054

A Black Queens of Ghana player is sandwiched by Super Falcons players – Osinachi Ohale, Ugo Njoku and Rita Chikwelu – in a group match of the Women’s Africa Cup of nations in Cameroon, on Wednesday.

GCI hockey team wins Quadrangular title THE Government College, Ibadan have emerged champions of the fourth edition of the Government College, Ibadan Quadrangular Hockey tournament when they defeated their opponents from the International College of Arts, Science and Technology 2-0 in the final match played at the hockey pitch of the host institution.

The two goals, one goal in each half, were scored by GCI’s sensational player Oluwatobi Odedokun, who emerged the tournament’s highest goal scorer.

The champion’s team, GCI hockey team was presented with a giant trophy and medals by the Secretary General of the Nigeria Olympic Committee, Mr Tunde

Spanish court wants Neymar jailed

S

PAIN’S public prosecutor has called for Barcelona’s Neymar to be sent to prison for two years for his part in a corruption case over his transfer from Brazilian club Santos to the Liga champions in 2013, said a court filing on Wednesday.

Judge Jose Perals also called for a five-year sentence for former Barca president Sandro Rosell and a fine of £7.1million (€8.4m) for the club, but called for charges against current president Josep Maria Bartomeu to be dropped.

The case stems from a complaint

by Brazilian investment group DIS, which owned 40 percent of Brazil forward Neymar’s transfer rights and which alleges it received less money than it was entitled to as Barca concealed the real transfer fee.

Barcelona have been engulfed in legal troubles over Neymar’s transfer since 2013. Rosell resigned as the club’s president in 2014 for his role in the affair and testified in court in February alongside Bartomeu, Neymar and Neymar’s father.

The club struck a deal with pros-

ecutors in June to settle a separate case and paid a 5.5 million euro ($6.2 million) fine and avoided trial on charges of tax evasion over

the transfer.

Barca thought they had brought the affair to a close when judge Jose de la Mata archived the case

Ogbein Fawole for burial March 4, 2017

By Olawale Olaniyan THE remains of former Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) of Ibadan player, Ogbein Fawole, will be buried on March 4, 2017 in his hometown in Bayelsa State, the family has announced.

Younger brother of the deceased, Harry Fawole, speaking to Tribunesport on Wednes-

day, said the Christian wake for the late Ogbein would be held on March 3, while the burial would take place the following day.

He said “the date for the burial of our brother, the late Ogbein Fawole has been fixed by the family. The programmes are scheduled for March 3 and 4, 2017.

“March 3 is for the wake, while

March 4 is scheduled for the burial and other necessary programmes,” Harry told Tribunesport.

The corpse of the former defender, who died early this month in Lagos following a heart attack, has also been deposited, for now, in a mortuary in Delta State prior to the burial in his hometown in Bayelsa State.

New Africa Soccer endorses Oyo Sports Summit AS preparations for the maiden Oyo SWAN Sports Summit gather momentum, a United Kingdom-based firm, New Africa Soccer, has thrown its weight behind the project, describing it as a right move at the right time.

A letter of endorsement sent to the association and signed by the

founder/Chief Executive Officer of the firm, Mr Tunde Adelakun on Wednesday, having commended the executive members of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Oyo State chapter and its members for the initiatives, said the summit would go a long way in re-branding the face of sports in

Honour for Ogunjobi at Aregbesola Golden Cup final THE Ooni of Ife, His Royal Majesty Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja 11 is expected as the Royal Father of the day at the final of the third edition of Governor Rauf Aregbesola Golden Cup competion slated for the Osogbo Township Stadium.

The final which comes up on Saturday is part of activities marking the sixth year anniversary of the Rauf Aregbesola administration, will also have the likes of former Super Eagles coach, Chief Adeg-

in June, although Spain’s public prosecutor successfully overturned the ruling in September, allowing the case to proceed.

Popoola, who is a co-sponsor of the tournament and also an old student of GCI. For the annual tournament that saw four teams: GCI, ICAST, Lead City High School, Ibadan and St. James High School, Osun State compete for honours, Popoola noted that he would use his influence in the Olympic Committee to ensure that Government College Ibadan further develops the hockey team by getting donations of hockey equipment from the international federations.

The tournament’s coordinator and Director of Sponsorship, Mr Folarin Olujembola, disclosed that the essence of hosting the event is to solicit support of the school’s old students and other corporate sponsors to help in the construction of hockey artificial turf in the school. This, he added would help GCI produce more world-class players the way it did in the past when at a certain time the school produced six regular players in the Nigerian men’s national team.

The Oyo State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Mr Yomi Oke, said at the closing ceremony that he would try his best to return Oyo State to the forefront of Nigerian hockey the way it used to be years back. He urged all the players who competed in the tournament to be resolute and focused as they grow in the game of hockey.

boye Onigbinde, ex international Felix Owolabi and other notable names in football in the country in attendance.

According to the statement made available to Tribunesport on Wednesday and signed by Mr Niyi Aluko of Oranmiyan Worldwide and Lawrence Babatunde Ayeni for LB Ayeni Sports Foundation, the project coordinator, a former Secretary General of the Nigeria Football Federation, (NFF) Chief Taiwo Ogunjobi will be honoured

as Football Ambassador during the final of the competition.

The honour as contained in the statement is in recognition of the former Shooting Stars Sports Club chairman’s contribution to sports and especially football in the state.

Ogunjobi, while reacting to the development, expressed delight at the honour, promising to continue to do his best for the development of the game in the state and the country at large.

the state and the country at large.

The summit which will dwell on the state of sports in the state and marketing/sponsorship values strategies, will have Gboyega Makinde, the Acting General Manager, Oyo State Sports Council and Mr Steve Akadiri, an insurance guru as speakers, while notable sports personnel in the country will act as panelists.

Adelakun, who also doubles as an aide to the Super Eagles technical director Gernort Rohr said, “inasmuch as I want to commend the initiatives of the Oyo SWAN leadership on this project, I believe it will be a step to greatness and fulfillment of the sporting potential that the state possesses.”

The chairman, Sports Committee of Oyo SWAN, Mr Samson Akindele, while responding to the statement assured Adelakun of a well organized summit, saying that it will attract many stakeholders in sports

in Oyo State and its neighbouring states, adding that notable among them are Dr Steve Olarinoye, Zonal Coordinator, Ministry of Sports; the Director General, Lagos State Sports Commission, Mr Dewunmi Ogunsanya; former Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Ogun State, Mr Bukola Olapade; Mr Felix Owolabi, former Green Eagles player and Mr Sola Akinwale of Worldwide Sports, among others.

Mr Niyi Alebiosu, the Oyo SWAN chairman in his remarks thanked the founder/CEO New Africa Soccer for his endorsement of the summit and his words of encouragement.

“We are pleased with the endorsement coming from an internationally acclaimed and experienced sports personality and I want to say that we in SWAN are looking to a working relationship with the UKbased organization to better the lot of the association and sports in general,” Alebiosu said.

38

tribunepools

DR. J.K POOLS –

07039275802 (39XX 40) 9 – 19 – 20 – 24 – 36.

Again, I boast to say, I will stampede most pools promoters with my usual 3/3, 4/4 and 5/5. As I did in the late (40s) forties with the closure of some promoters.

Please try to be patience since I am on serious research with my cocompilers and I also promised that I will take a lecture tour round the country when I am sound. If really old formula sequence are anything to go by with this I see no reason why 24xx 24 will not result as a fixed draw.

Now stakers pick two draws from 9, 19, 20, 24, 36 and add to the above bracket games.

Goodluck says Dr. JK Pools.

LUCKY MAN 08054352685 (21 SUREST 22)

IT’S N40, 000 when you win Grab our 3 unfailing 3 sure draws and win big fortune on pools far away fans will send N1000 MTN card for the 3 unfailing draws good luck to you all PERM with 21 surest 22

THE LIES 08086944309 (32 JACKPORT 22)

Winning is wonderful losing is sure stop loosing on pools call for our 3 jackpots to bail you out of loosing on pools send N1,500MTN card and win big jackpot on pools 32 jackpot x22

MISTER-DRAW 08030415683 (29XX)

Portuale will not fail to draw on Saturday plus 2 super draws cost N2000 MTN card take it or leave it Portuale a super drain 29x29x29

INNOCENT NAP (08095602590) 25 NAP 41

ENGLISH N30, 000 WINNER MEMBERSHIP GROUP A. N50, 000 ENGLISH SYSTEM BOOKLET N30, 000= Wk 20 Purple No Nap Nap Nap Nap= 25. 41 4 Special Draws N6, 000 Wk 21 No Nap Nap Nap Nap with Nap Nap 4 Special Draws N6, 000 Wk 22 No Nap Nap Nap Nap with Nap Nap Two Bankers N3000 Wk 20 No Nap Nap Pair 7. 25 Two Bankers N3000 Wk 21 No Nap Nap Pair Nap Nap Stakers try to get Innocent 4 special draws this Wk 20 cost N6, 000 Two Bankers cost N4000 Send MTN Card 08095602590 the game will be sent to you by text message 08095502590.

JOHN SUPER TIPS FOR SPECIAL RELEASE 8 XXXCBK

Readers, I command coupon No 8 xxxcbk on saturday plus 2, others this week I advise all our customers not to miss this opportunity stakers come out anywhere you are because it is time to win pool this is your time to win million naira with my 3 fixed draws and a strong pair cost N10,000. Cash call 09050512097

ALHAJI SADIKU ON RAMPAGE (9 PAIR 19).

08057416201, 08183573342 Wk 19 Nap played 4xx, 17xx, 48xx.

My key is set again in weeks 20, 21, 22, cost N10, 000 cash per week payable at GTB to Alhaji Sadiku Adedoja, acct No. 0030411077.

SHADOW 08087670776 (23 PAIR 24)

WEEK 19 = 9XX 22XX 33XX (4XX PAIR 5) Shadow is now call commander of pool draws as he commanded nos 9xx 22xx 33xx (4xx pair 5) last week 19. Another 3 good draws is seat again this week 20. Be one of those that will benefit from it by sending N15, 000 MTN recharge card to shadow. Your life will change from poor to rich. (23xx 24).

PETER NAP 18 PAIR 19 (08076546261)

Congratulations in advance to any wise stakers that will get my special release this week as the setting that got 2xx, 4xx, 36xx, 3/3 then the free pair 3F, 48xx, last week will get it again this week though, 48xx, was published from the headline pair. The weekly release cost N25, 000.00 pay to saving acct no: 3023114822 first bank in Person of Mr. Onaolapo Peter. And call on 08076546261. Meanwhile take 18 OR 19 for x draw.

WEEK 20 STATUS LKO ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­- 02 AND 08 SUNDAY MATCHES – 01, 06, 07, 09

NIGERIAN TRIBUNE POOLS PAGE

THE WINNERS CHOICE WISE STAKERS DELIGHT GET A COPY AND WIN.

PLEAID DE MAXWELL – 09099968585L 07X 08X 09 10X= 2 Draws

CAN TOTTENHAM HOLD CHELSEA AT STAMFORD BRIDGE? Middlesbrough 0-1 Chelsea. Diego Costa’s first half strike. Moved Chelsea to the top of the Premier League with a had fought victory over a stubborn Middlesbrough side on Sunday.

Manchester city of Guardiola now the rift is over as Yaya Toure made a tremendious come back with 2goals against Crstal Palace. Toure’s agent Dimitiri Seluk, Yaya Toure and Gaurdiola. Mancity is the self respected the team is no longer be bullied, no longer be so grateful to Toure, to Carlos, Teves, to Mario Balotelli, to Roberto mancini. They have been too thankful to be where they are – they think they owe too much. Yaya treatment sends message to every player in Guardiola Squad.

Arsenal Olivier Giroud 89th minute equaliser against the special on squad Manchester United at old Traford on Saturday made his way down south for the evening’s Global Gift Gala Co-hosted Victoria Beckham and Eva can Chelsea hold Tottenham at Stamford bridge? Hull City, Southampton, Swansea, Walford, are Premiership tips. While the Championship, Leage one, League Two & Confrence. Derby, Ipwich, reading, Rotherham, Wolves and Coventry, Gillingham oldham, Sounthrope, Shrewsbury, Barnet, Cambridge, Colchester Crawley, Exeter and Wycome are draws favourite. Guiseley, Lincoln and Macclesfield – 47x 48x 49. Contact De Maxwell for details.

DR. NICHOLAS SUREST WIN – 09066465222

ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL HISTORIC WINNING GAZET. DOVER – DOVER – DOVER ON 49 Weeks 6, 19, 20, 26.

DOVER AT HOME 49 – week 6 and 19 DOVER AT AWAY 49 – weeks 20 and 26 Week 6 – 02x 14x 36xxx 38x 41x Week 19 – 02x 14x 36xxx 33x ALT. BARNET and CREWE Away teams No. 38 and 41 in week 6 to meet in week 19 – Barnet must CREWE xxx DOVER AT AWAY 49 – weeks 20 and 26.

Week 20 – NAP NAP NAP = 43XX 33 NB - Draws are fixed on Authentic tabulated gazet by the pools panel officials only released to Experts of good reputation with sealed lips.

Welcome to the Nicholas winning place on our foreign Experts winning directives. N50, 000 – only. Call – 09066465222 for your sure winning conclusion.

OBINYAN FULFILLS PROMISES

THE DOYEN OF POOLS COMPILATION IN Africa and the managing director of King and George of Papers, Prince Willy Ehi Obinyan lived up to his promises last week as he dished out naked draws in spite of the stock draws on coupon.

The Africa No 1 compiler flashed 4xx 14xx 33xx 36xx in all his papers to help stakers win millions with only 9 draws on coupon. He therefore urged stakers to continue to watch the sequences in his papers for regular winnings, his group of papers, Pools Telegraph, Shoot Painter, New Dream, Zetters Pools – Guide, Murphy Sports and Final Result.

SUNDERLAND SYSTEM=09038460009= 3 NAP 7

ENGLISH SYSTEM BOOKLET OUT N3, 000. MEMBERSHIP N50, 000 WK 20 NO NAP NAP NAP NAP 4/4 WITH 7.7 4 BANKERS= N6, 000 WK 20 No Nap Nap Nap Nap 4 BANKERS= N6, 000 WK 21 No Nap Nap Nap Nap= 4/4 4 BANKERS= N6, 000 WK 22 No Nap Nap Nap Nap= 4/4 Two Bankers N3000 Wk 20 No Nap Nap Pair 7.8 Two Bankers N3000 Wk 21 No Nap Nap Pair XX Time to win pool this Wk 20 Sunderland system 4 special Draws this Wk 20 will play 4/4 correct hurry up to get your copy today two Bankers cost N3000 Wk 20 No Nap Nap= Send MTN Card 09038460009.

OLA-CITY SET FOR CUP WEEK21.

BOAST OF 3 DRAWS IN CUP TO GET ALL CORRECT PAIRS – 40XX 41 PHONE 08140575314, 08085005634 Prince R.O OLA-CITY master of F.A cup draws assures stakers and all registered members of his 3 fixed draws for week21 and week 22 cost N10,000 = cash each week which will surely get all correct as predicted by our compilers.

Pay your N10,000 cash to First Bank Plc account No 3033318854 in the name of Olafenwa R. Ola-City and collect the 3 draws un phone after confirmation of your payment.

Join the lucky winners phone 08140575314, 08085005634 Don’t doubt it.

FORTUNE DONOR DONATES 40/41 08099111828

The current English and Scottish Football Season has been a source of blessing to some people. Some others so it in a different perspective.

Let the season be a blessed one for you as you join the winning train on 40/41 for a sure banker draw this week. Watch out for our superlative release next week.

Add the free pair to our 1Bk draw and smile to your bank on Monday morning. Our 10k costs N1, 500: 00, 2Drs sell for N3, 000.00, and 3 good draws cost N15, 000.00. You are a sure winner with 08099111828.

BEST BARGAIN INTERNATIONAL 08092621480 Week 20= 20 BK + OTHERS

After an extensive consultation with the Bookmakers and the Pool Panel and after receiving the green light, our forecast is back with good tiding for staker. This week, coupon no 20 must draws with other classified games to enrich stakers. Our registration fee remains N250,000. This is a new deal and a new dawn. Call me on 08092621480 for further details and discussion.

ADEOTI SYNDICATE. 07051327960 BANK NOS: 45X 46X. EDBK

Next week is F.A. Cup round two and to remind you all that xmas is very soon our 3 weeks operation release will start Nest week. Weeks 21-22-13.

Thus week 20 the above two Numbers is EDBK Numbers is not pair.

Number 45x, 2-2. Number 46x 1-1.) by the name of god the two Numbers must play the two. All people that I send QUEENS PK – PeterHead games to this week 20. Should not fear.

For our release send your N10, 000. Cash to Ahmed Shafiri A\C. Nos. 2001788431 Zenith Bank. Or MTN. Recharge card of the same Amount.

Each week. If I am not mistaking RANGERS – ABERDEEN. 40X1-1 will play Draw Nest week F.A.Cup RD. 02. RANGERS is a promoted Team.

Thanks. Goodluck, all.

ACHIEVER INTER 08034097902

WEEK 20= 36XX 36XX plus 2 other As we did in weeks 7 against week 8,9, & 10 in the current year 2016/2017, our current key week ‘20’ against week 21 & 22 with authentic draws, We therefore congratulate you in advance as your fortune is assured by great compiler of achiever inter current key :- Gillingham at away No ‘31’ any (7 hetters vs cohchester ) on top bar red color following wk purple - date on Saturday plus cock ‘10’ANS fall at home to draw plus 2 castles week 7, against wk 8,9,10, in week 8 elate of play is 3rd+10’ your ANS is 13xx, 26xx, & 43xx 3/3 in wk ‘9’ drawn nos 17xx, 23xx, and47xx which plays3/3. And against wk ‘10’ with Nos – 17xx 35xx & 48xx scored 3/3.

This wk ‘19’ again wk 20,21,&22=wk ‘20’ date is, 26+10=ur ANS fall on Carlisle VS Mansfield on no36xxplus ‘2’ other against wk 21 and 22= 08034097902-08057309501 36xx 36xx 36xx 36xx against wk 21 and 22. Goodluck.

ATTENTION PLEASE! ALL ADVERTS ARE TO BE FULLY PAID

Thursday, 24 - 30 November, 2016 MODUPE NAP – 08033566694

NAP – XX 24XX 24XX 24XX Another sure usual win at Modupe pay point. Call for your winning details. Goodluck.

HARMONY POOLS – 08185423496 11X 19X 35X 44X 46

Free win in preparation for next week special Cup Nap perm the above games and win but you may call for the 3 direct draws while the permutation is free. Goodluck

LAWRENCE NAP SPECIAL RELEASE 8 (0-0) FINAL

Readers and stakers should go all out with our 4 gazetted draws this week again, because I promised to release this week20, just bank No 8xxbk to draw plus 3, others do not miss this great opportunity cost N100,000 cash call 08160052969

MID-WEEK GIVER 2-3 (08087176217)

A third of the season has gone.

How time flies! With only 9 draws on the cards last week only few luck winners emerged. But hope is not lost as only those who run away from moderate investing risk losing all past investments.

We live to recover our past losses.

This is our resolve!

Let us start litting the promoters hard now with a sure draw from coupon Nos 2& 3, this week.

Combine the duo with our 1Bk draw and get your 2/3 mandatorily. Our 1Bk sells for N1, 500.00, 2Drs cost N3, 000.00, 3draws sell for N15, 000.00 on 08087176217.

Best of Luck!

4 MEMBERS 4 MEMBERS 4 BANKERS

– (08162705220) 11 NAP 12

4 BANKERS COST N6000 WK 20 NO NAP NAP NAP NAP PAIR 10. 11 4 BANKERS COST N5000 WK 21 NO NAP NAP NAP NAP PAIR 39. 40 4 BANKERS COST N5000 WK 22 NO NAP NAP NAP NAP PAIR NAP NAP 4 BANKERS COST N5000 WK 23 NO NAP NAP NAP NAP PAIR NAP NAP Stakers try to get 4 members 4 bankers this wk 20 cost N6, 000 Wk 20 Bank No 10. 11. 12 membership Aussie 2016 N50, 000 Send MTN Card

DOSA 08072216644 (22 PAIR 25)

My absent in the Nigerian Tribune of last week Thursday make some stakers loose on pool staking. I am now present with 3 fixed draws and 1 hot pair. Dosa will not disappoint you this week 20. Just send to him N5, 000 MTN recharge card and be expecting good result on Saturday.

SIR MICHAEL NAP 19PAIR21 (09091874579)

Last week release to promote another special release this week cost just N15, 000.00 call for acct no OR mode of payment.

MAC – ANTHONY SCORED XXX GSM: 0806 – 904 – 8857

Wk 20 NAP NAP NAP = 3/3 pair Wk 21 NAP NAP NAP = 3/3 pair x bet x Wk 22 NAP NAP NAP = 3/3 pair x bet x Each week Nap cost N20, 000 payable @ UBA to Engr. Michael Akam. Acct No; 2029382770. A trail will make you a winner.

AUSTINE CHUKWU (08054462577) PAIR 7XXX38

This week and next week I will release 3 Bankers to those who are serious to win looking of my write up every week you will agree with me that I remain one of best this week cost N30,000 cash while next cost N50, 000 flat. For more information call me. Account numbers remain the same. Goodluck.

CARMARK SUPER – 08186673842 5X 7X 8X 40 XXX

Swansea vs Cystal Palace. On Coupon control 3 direct bankers at the cost of N8,000 for the Nap and N6,500 for the permutation to all interested stakers payable at IBTC Stanbic Bank a\c no 0001361916 in favour of Mr. S.B. Odesola. Goodluck

A.T.M LIVE

08056390550/ 07040478677 NAP: 19 –22–24

Stakers are hereby advised to use the above NAP and below pair this week, and invest wisely on them against wk21. Cup week and wk22 a week after cup. Cost of each week N25, 000 cash payable to Mrs. Modupeola Oseji, A\C No 2016981168. UBA Bank. Don’t miss it; it’s a time of change. Pair 7x26. Wk 21. Advert don’t expect any free banker pay and receive your copy.

PORTUGAL

COROATIA

NAP 7 NAP 8

NAP 11 NAP 12

TWO BANKER WK 20 N3,000

WK 21 BROWN NAP NAP

TURKEY

TWO BANKER WK 20 N3,000

TWO BANKER WK 20 N3,000

WK 21 BROWN

WK 21 BROWN

NAP NAP

NAP 9 NAP 10 NAP NAP

SEND MTN CARD TO 09038633666 CHUBY POOLS INTERNATIONAL WK20, HOT PAIR: 35X37. TEL: 08163631159 DEAR FANS I told you that your problem is over from wk 18, compiler Bolton Brown remember Nigerians and West African stakers, wk 18, 3 draws: 7, 17, 37 = 3/3. Wk 19, 3 draw: 9, 17, 33 = 3/3. Congratulations once again. It is your turn till wk 23. Promoters has taking enough, this is another week of jubilation, just call this hotline and grab this week 3 draws, cost N25, 000 cash.

Do not be a doubting Thomas your destiny this time is in your hand. Don’t miss this opportunity registration cost N350, 000 cash.

CONTACT PHONE: 08163631159

WERRIBEE.C

BALCATTA

MODBURY

TWO BANKER WK 19 N3,000

TWO BANKER WK 19 N3,000

TWO BANKER WK 19 N3,000

WK 20 PURPLE

WK 20 PURPLE

WK 20 PURPLE

X17X X22X NAP NAP

X33X X35X NAP NAP

X02X F03F

NAP NAP

4. SPECIAL DRAW THIS WK 18 BLUE N25,000 SEND MTN CARD TO 08162705220

ISREAL BAIL OUT READY TO ENRICH STAKERS WITH DOUBTS – 09085712800

WIN – SURE – NAP! AS USUAL 35 MUST 46 Congratulations our organization is ‘40’ today and we have a lot of gift to all wise stakers.

Please text message and win with least considerable charge for our ‘40’Th celebration welcome to the winners world – Text & win 09085712800 – Goodluck.

LAST HOPE 2016= 08142362005= 22XX 30XX

4 Special Draws N6, 000 Wk 20 Purple No Nap Nap Nap Nap With 22.

30 4 Special Draws N6000 Wk 21 Nap Nap Nap Nap 4 Special Draws Wk 22 No Nap Nap Nap Nap with Nap Nap Two Bankers N3000 Wk 20 No Nap Nap Pair 20. 21 Stakers try to get last Hope 2016. 4 Special draws this wk 20 Purple cost N6000 and two bankers cost N3000 following Wk 21 Brown to control 4, Special draws cost N6, 000 two bankers cost N3000 send MTN Card

PATRICK SURE WIN DAZZLES PROMOTERS AGAIN. 08154836338 (08xx 09xx)

On annual 4 weeks operational Naps for weeks 19, 20, 21 and 22.

Stakers to rejoice for the next 4 weeks, winning galore.

Week 19’2015 - 11X 29X 46XX 6X Week 20’2015 - 04X 20X 42XX 07X Week 21’2015 - 10X 22X 37XX 06X Week 22’2015 - 12X 21X 40XX 07X Now Week 19’2016 - 2X 33X 36X - 08X 09X PAIR Week 20’2016 - X X X - 09X 08X PAIR Week 21’2016 - X X X - 08X 09X PAIR Week 22’2016 - X X X 09X 08X PAIR Your winning is still Crystal clear this week again, as we are sure on our winning directive/instruction from our reputable Foreign Experts. Join the progressive winning forum. N50,000 Win! Win!! Win!!! Congrats.

NJOROGE MR ASSURANCE – 08177474535 (03X 13X 23X 33X 43) - 3DRAWS

STAKERS RELIEF ON AUTHENTIC WINNING ADVICE WEEK 19 – SUCCESS – 9X 14X 33X 33XX ANNUAL WEEK 20 FIXED WIN Week 20 ’2013 - 09x 25x 36xxx 34x Week 20 ’2014 - 07x 17x 27xxx 24x Week 20 ’2015 - 10x 20x 30xxx 24x Week 20 ’2016 - 03x 13x 23x - 33X 43X - 3 FREE DRAWS Note: annual week 19 result always recorded full payment of 10 and 11 draws Don’t be left out of our newly chilled and served menu for your winning pleasure and get out of the current economic recession. The above free win is to appreciate our clients partronage over the year. In preparation for our cup to cup 4 weeks super win in weeks 21 to 24. NB - 3 direct Nap cost N10, 000 Trust Mr Njoroge the winning Assurance that care for your winnings.

OUR PRIDE IS YOU Njoroge Assurance. N50,000 = free Nap win and standing win.

ATTENTION ALL COMPILERS, OUR POLICY ON NO ADVERT NO WRITE UP STILL IN PLACE —MANAGEMENT.

39

tribunepools

IKECHUKWU NAP – 08168157259 03X 07X 30X 35X

Free win at Ikechukwu & Brothers winning palace. Invest wisely to December the month of series request and gifts – (much spending needed good money) play & win with above 4games against week 21 – Cup win – N100, 000 – Pleasw I repeat6 No reduction.

Goodluck

PETAFE – 08059186433

40 CBK plus 3 others EXETER MUST LUTON. On digit of 0s. Controlled our 3 sure draws for this week 20 to make 3/3 and 4/4 draws. Call for your winning details = cost N10, 000 cash OR N200, 000 payment after winning. Goodluck

MR SOLUTION PRE CUP WIN 08072974720(46 MUST 35)

C – C – C and C at Home Cambridge U, Carlisle, Colchester and Crawley at home draw formation favours 3 fixed draws and Chester and Cheltenham as a MUST pair for 3\3, 4\5 and 5\5.

Let’s give solution to your financial status. Call 08072974720 and win. N25, 000 = Goodluck

KING OF CHAIN

DRAWS 08142362005= 08103222635= 10 NAP 11 NAP 12 NAP WK 20 NO CHAIN CHAIN CHAIN WITH CHAIN CHAIN CHAIN Wk 20 Purple 2016 No Chain Chain Chain Chain With Chain Chain Wk 21 Chain Chain Chain with Chain Chain Chain Following Wk 21 to control 3 Chain draws cost N7000= 08142362005, 08103222635= Wk 20 Purple No Chain Chain Chain with Chain Chain N7, 000 Wk 21= 2016 No Chain Chain Chain with Chain Chain. Send MTN Card= 08142362005= 08103222635.

JOHN SUPER TIPS

For special release 8 xxxcbk Readers, I command coupon No 8 xxxcbk on saturday plus 2, others this week I advise all our customers not to miss this opportunity stakers come out anywhere you are because it is time to win pool this is your time to win million naira with my 3 fixed draws and a strong pair cost N10,000. Cash call 09050512097

AUTHORITY NAP – 09030084552 (07 MUST 37)

NIGERIAN TRIBUNE POOLS PAGE

THE WINNERS CHOICE WISE STAKERS DELIGHT GET A COPY AND WIN.

M.B.A EXPERT (08104694618) PAIR 46XX 35

Despite non performance of numbers 21x 39 as pair, 3 Nap draws clicked at 2x 9x 33x with 14x as alternative XBK to 33. All details cannot be displayed as doing that would have leaked out with compiler as at a loss.

There are again, 2 perfect sequence that mark numbers 35x 46 as possible draws this week 20. Numbers 46 and 47 form the initial pair from both week 1 Dates computation, No 35 comes solely from the 2 dates of play, 26 plus 27 reversed. Then reversal of 1st date – 2nd date.

Under perfect atmosphere, either of the 2 dates a must. Watch 8 and 11 for a likely. Stakers who missed out last week week have a 2nd chance.

Goodluck.

NEW PROFESSOR HARRISON NAP – 07069009601 (03 MUST 07)

GILLINGHAM AWAY 31 – and – SHEFF.WED AWAY 14.

As quoted last week in our advert – Week 7 – 02x 14x 33xxx LIVERPOOL 08X 24X Week 19 – 19 02x 14x 33xxx LIVERPOOL – 04X 23F Yes! We gave our last week clients\callers the real Nap and 4\5 – on 9draws. (so-superb).

Week 14 and 20 / 2016 WIN – SURE – NAP. Southampton Home 7 and PORTVALE AWAY. 29.

Week 14 – x x x – 07 10x Week 20 – x x x – 03xx 07x WestBrom must Southampton = 03 must 07. Another promising winning week at New Professor Harrison draw management office. N50, 000 = Adults only. Goodluck.

STAKEHOLDERS LAUD NAZAR MASTER WITH JUMBO PAY ON TRIBLE CHANCE.

The leading pools company in Oyo state and environs, NAZAR Master pools company limited, Ibadan has continued to receive commendation from stakeholders in the pools industry for its business model Which has ensured that winnings are paid as and when due the pools company made this known in a statement made available to TRIBUNE POOLS during the week .According to NAZAR MASTER,”we are encouraged by the commendation we have been receiving from stakeholders In the pools industry. We have no choice than to continue to maintain the standard we have set and we shall never lower the benchmark. We shall continue to pay big dividend on our treble chance odd, while winnings on fixed odd shall never be delayed”.

ZENITH HOME OF WINNERS – 08146879314 (40X35) 10 – 10 WEEKS NAP IMPROVED STAKERS STATUS.

Week 9 – 03x 21x 32xxx - 40x Week 19 04x 22x 33xxx 39f Draws are fixed on calculation and Tabulation on Experts instruction.

Last week Nap was on additional plus one winning sequence. Another week of 0s sure win is here as we did in 2015 weeks of 0s.

Week 10’ 2015 – 07x 20x 36xxx 45x =4\4 Week 20’ 2015 – 07x 20x 36xxx 46x = 4\4 Congratulations the sequence that brought our weeks of 0s last year (2015) is re-scheduled this year 2016.

Week 10 – x x x – 25x = 10 drs Week 20 x x x – 40x 35 = 11drs Go and win with Zenith home of winners. Call for payment details= N25, 000 reduced price in preparation for 2nd round cup. Nap Goodluck.

AS TRIPLE’S 72ND BIRTHDAY DRAWS NEARER, IT’S HIGH TIME SOME PROWESS OR DEXTERITY IS EXHIBITED ON 17-29-46 3/40 (08035324990)

Watch Everton and Crewe on same digits is selected to produce 3 fixed draws and the above pair on numbers 07 and 37 as fixed.

Call Mr. Authority for your sure win this week. Delay is dangerous N25, 000 – Goodluck.

Occasional display of dexterity or prowess is needed in this business to enable punters shift shafts from grains. More so, your indomitable Triple Spice International will soon clock 72years. Our celebration starts now on 17-29-46 3/40 for 4super draws.

Be part of the month long celebration with the free games and join us next week 21 with N50, 000:00. Week22 release will be super. Get prepared. Calls will only be picked from Monday. Be a winner now!

MADAM FAJOBI AGAIN, 33 PAIR 34

MANCITY SYSTEM 08166222529= 09038633666= 7XX 8XX NAP

08023657587, 08079826939 WK. 19 RELEASE = 17XX, 22XX, 33XX. Stakers I offer you the opportunity to win again in wks. 20, 21, 22. Cost N10,000 cash each week.

Pay at first Bank to Madam Fajobi Gbenga, acct No. 3058742139.

Congrats!!!

MAITO AGAIN –

08030785634/ 09081226091(08SURE18)

Your evergreen ace compiler the managing director of maito & Co is here again to enrich all stakers to Xmas. 2016 with big winnings call for details. Goodluck

DAVID SUPER NAP – 07088103080 (07X26)

2WEEKS WIN ON WALSALL HOME 31.

Weeks 19 and 20 ‘2016 Scheduled Naps with a pair on Southampton and Northampton. The 2 S and N – orthampton 2 weeks winning gazet Week 19 – 02x 33x 36xxx 04x25f Week 20 – X X X - 07x26x The same win of last week was the assurance for another sure win for this week. Join the celebrations – N25, 00 0 = Goodluck. Call – 07088103080 and win.

DOUBLE SHUFFLE CONTINUES WITH 17/18 (09052942626)

Despite the shocking…. Draws on the coupon last week, our Scintillating free pair on 4xx/5 supplied. This trend hopefully continues this week as give N17/18 for one sure draw come Saturday. Include the duo in all entries and you did.

Better still, add them to our solid 1BK draw this week and be a happy winner. Our 1BK sells for only N1, 500.00, 2draws cost N3, 000.00 and 3 draws cost N15, 000.00. On 09052942626. Goodluck to all of us!

EDITOR’S PLACE

07 - 08

RELEASE WINNER MEMBERSHIP ENGLISH 2016 N50, 000 ENGLISH SYSTEM BOOKLET N30, 000 4 Special Draws N6, 000 Wk 20 No Nap Nap Nap Nap With 7. 8 4 Special Draws N6, 000 Wk 21 No Nap Nap Nap Nap With Nap Nap 4 Special Draws N6, 000 Wk 22 No Nap Nap Nap Nap With Nap Nap Two bankers N3, 000 Wk 20 No Nap Nap Pair 9. 10 Two bankers N3, 000 Wk 21 No Nap Nap Pair Nap Nap Stakers try to get MANCITY 4 Stakers draws this Wk 20 cost N3000, two Bankers this Wk 20 cost N3000.

Send MTN Card to 08166222529, 09038633666. Winner membership English 2016, N50, 000 English system booklet N30, 000.

AKIN MR AKIN NOW RULES THE POOLS WORLD.

07067202291- WINNING DIRECTIVE. 02X 04X 13XXX SHREWBURRY and (vs) PORTVALE= ON 4/4 YEAR WINNING GAZET.= Refernce to 2008 – 2012 – 2016.

Week 12 ‘2008 – 02x 21x 39xxx – 03x.

Week 29 ‘2012 – 10x 27x 38xxx – 30x Week 20 ‘2016 – x x x 03xx30.

The above previous winning statement is a confirmation to our this week 20 seasoned NAP. –(4-4 years winning instruction call you ace compiler for your sure win gazette = N10,000. Call & win Goodluck.

HOPE NAPS & CO WITH 3WEEKS OPERATION WEEK20, WEEK21, WEEK22

PHONE 08107128449. PAIRS 6XX 36XX The compiler of Hope Naps & co. Mr. Stephen Gbadebo A. confirmed his 3weeks operation for 3draws in week20, week21, and week 22 at a cost of N20,000 cash each week pay to First Bank Plc account No. 3088328923 in the name of Stephen Gbadebo A. and collect the 3draws when your payment is confirmed phone 0817128449. Pair 3xx 6xx Goodluck.

BIG BROSS 07053681965 NOW BANK

7 OR 11 WITH ANOTHER 2 BKS + 1 FREE BK It was a mixed fortune last wk 19 when the two bankers 17, 36 and the free bk 22 played 3/3 while the pair 25 and 44 failed= 3/5.

I’m very sorry for the pair that failed us. But this wk 20, by God’s grace we shall all be in money on Saturday 26/11/16. Just bank 7 or 11 with another 2 bks and 1 free bk which must give us 3/3 and 4/5 again is still N10, 000= don’t miss it. Delay is dangerous.

WINNER CODE 505 08135637650 (33 NAP 34)

UK SYSTEM TWO BANKERS N2000 WK 9 NO 2X 9X WK 20 NO NAP WK 21 NAP NAP POWER X POWER N2000 WK 19 NO 17X 22X WK 20 NO NAP NAP WK 21 NAP NAP Winner code 505 two Bankers N2000 Wk 13 No 4x 9x Wk 20 No Nap Nap Wk 21 Nap Nap. Adesure Nap two Bankers N2000 Wk 19 No 33x 34F Wk 20 No Nap Wk 21 Nap Nap 4 Expert. 4 Special Draws this Wk 20 cost N25, 000 Wk 20 No Nap Nap Nap Nap= 4/4 Cost N25 N25, 000 Wk 21 Nap Nap Nap Nap= 4/4. Send MTN Card 0813560750. The game will send to you by text message.

WEEK 19 FINAL POOLS RESULT 02, 04, 09, 14, 17, 22, 33, 36, 48 = 9draws

Thursday, 24 - 30 November, 2016 MADAM DORCAS RELIABLE WIN –

08163902330 (26 MUST35)

NORTHAMPTON HOM E 26 AGAIN = Week 06 – 02x 38x 46xxx – 26 Week 20 – X X X - 26xx 35

Another guaranteed win at Madam Dorcas winning place this week. Don’t be left out = N50, 000 = Goodluck

JACOBSON THE STAKERS FRIEND 070 65652905

08X 09X 1 0 X 14X 35 43X FREE from the current economic recession with the above games for a confirmed win.

The 3 direct draws cost N10, 000 = starting of another 3 weeks tailored winning programme of current format. Call for your payment details. Now – N10, 000 = 3draws

SHORT GUN –

08050614477/ 04 MUST 20 08168241902

We are set again to continue our impressive performances this current UK season with the pair above which must supply again this week as usual with other fixed draws. The game costs N25, 000.

From the winning team and stop your losses. You must win this week. Goodluck.

LAWRENCE NAP SPECIAL RELEASE 8 (0-0) FINAL

Readers and stakers should go all out with our 4 gazetted draws this week again, because I promised to release this week20, just bank No 8xxbk to draw plus 3, others do not miss this great opportunity cost N100,000 cash call 08160052969

ALASE NAP IS SUPERB – 09081716580

It no longer news, saying we are equal to non with our superlative performance while other kept watching. 04x 14x – free draws from 9 draws played last week.

Again our mission is to enrich wise stakers on 3 fixed source.

Please enough free games don’t ask for it strictly on cash – N25, 000= Goodluck

LEKE INTERNATIONAL NAPS 09091798611

FREE 19 – 34 – 40 – 43 The above 4 games are for at least 3 draws as key to my special release in week 21 cup, cost N25,000 cash.

MADAM EMILIA – 08068523407

THE WINNERS CHOICE OF POOLS STAKERS FREE NAP – 7X 24X 29XXX 3X43X Success is golden with sweet memory. Invest wisely on the above free games against our week 21 22 and 23 special fixed win cost N250, 000 = Be prepared. Goodluck

CHARITY NAP

08054325929 (29 HOT 27)

This is a week to Cup operation and we want to get all our fans prepared for sure win. Make Hay while sun shines.

Call & win. Goodluck

OJIKUTU NAP

09091672122 (35XX43)

Your winning is sure this with our new discovery on current winning programme. Call now for your Nap details. Goodluck

MALLAM BAWA MUSA BETS (3X43).

08052506287, 09037208294 Wk 19 = 14xx, 22xx, 36xx = 3/3.

Special Naps in weeks 20, 21, 22, cost N15, 000 cash weekly. Payments at access Bank to Mallam Musa Ibrahim Bawa, a\c No. 0042075587

DR. SAM–08084077244.

FREE= 03X 07X 09X 11X 35X 43= WIN

We care for your winning with the above free win (permutation) play well against week 21 Special win – N50, 000 – No deduction.

Goodluck.

MODUPE NAP – 08033566694

XNAP – 24NAP – XNAP

PATRICK SURE WIN DAZZLES PROMOTERS AGAIN WINNING CONTACT — 08154836338

On annual 4 weeks operational Naps for weeks 19, 20, 21 and 22.

Stakers to rejoice for the next 4 weeks, winning galore.

Week 19’2016 - 2X 33X 36X - 08X 09X PAIR Week 20’2016 - X X X - 09X 08X PAIR Week 21’2016 - X X X - 08X 09X PAIR Week 22’2016 - X X X 09X 08X PAIR Your winning is still Crystal clear this week again, as we are sure on our winning directive/instruction from our reputable Foreign Experts. Join the progressive winning forum. N50,000 Read our advert for details.

HURRY! ISREAL BAIL OUT IS 40= WITH LOTS OF GIFTS. TEXT MESSAGE & WIN WITH UNBELEVABLE FEE - 09085712800

VICTORY AT VICTORIOUS VICTOR 08126994034

3WEEKS SENSATIONAL WIN AGAIN. 20, 21, 22 a week to cup, cup, a week after cup. call for your proper Nap - N25, 000 now

Amuko only have CUP RIGHT BE PREPARED. 07014686970.

JOSEPH DREAM WIN – 08167278061 (10XX 35)

PURPLE – PURPLE – PURPLE WINNING MUST Weeks 4, 8, 12, 16 and 20 The 5th Purple 4\4 weeks winning must is at it again. Join the Dream winning team.

Week 4 – 02x 17x 31xxx 14x Week 8 – 07x 20X 33XXX 13X Week 12 – 10X 27X 47XXX 12X Week 16 – 09X 35X 40XXX 11X Week 20 – X X X 10XXX 35X Week 4 Bradford City and Portrade descending one banker draw formation. Don’t’ compromise your winning chance this week again – N25, 000 = Recession fee. Goodluck

MAGIC KINGDOM – 08056753098/07085060512 (A) – 3X 4X 5X = (B) 17X 18X 19X

Congratulations our 2group Nap formation is from the result of my short stay Uk since week 3. Iam now back with a strong\confirmed KEY. The above games started our current 4 weeks operational Naps. Weeks 21, 22 and 23 cost N25, 000 each week. Payment to Balogun Adesin Kamoru at F.C.M. Bank No – 0279550010, Wema Bank No – 0206965116 or G.T.Bank a\s No – 0115505082. You can register as club member with N50, 000 on 2 times payment. Goodluck

PATRICK SURE WIN DAZZLES PROMOTERS AGAIN. 08154836338 (08XX 14XX)

On annual 4 weeks operational Naps for weeks 19, 20, 21 and 22.

Stakers to rejoice for the next 4 weeks, winning galore.

Week 19’2015 - 11X 29X 46XX 6X Week 20’2015 - 04X 20X 42XX 07X Week 21’2015 - 10X 22X 37XX 06X Week 22’2015 - 12X 21X 40XX 07X Now Week 19’2016 - X X X - 08X Week 20’2016 - X X X - 09X Week 21’2016 - X X X - 08X Week 22’2016 - X X X 09X Your winning is still Crystal clear this week again, as we are sure on our winning directive/instruction from our reputable Foreign Experts. Join the progressive winning forum. N50,000 Win! Win!! Win!!! Congrats.

SOLOMON RESORT IS ‘60’ = 09091111800

07X 26X 35X 46XXX – FREE WIN. The above free win is my BIRTHDAY gift to all stakers both my registered friends and new customers/clients.

The Above sure win starts our 4weeks operational Nap released to us from our oversees Kingpin in draws fixing\adjudication.

Week 20 – ABSOLUTELY FREE Week 21 – N250, 000 = week 22 – N500, 000 Week 23 – N1M. Start now, please invest greatly for handsome win.

Leave all doubts aside. Win now 09091111800. Act wisely.

DR. J.K POOLS – 07039275802 (39XX 40) 9 – 19 – 20 – 24 – 36.

Again, I boast to say, I will stampede most pools promoters with my usual 3/3, 4/4 and 5/5. As I did in the late (40s) forties with the closure of some promoters.

Please try to be patience since I am on serious research with my cocompilers and I also promised that I will take a lecture tour round the country when I am sound. If really old formula sequence are anything to go by with this I see no reason why 24xx 24 will not result as a fixed draw.

Now stakers pick two draws from 9, 19, 20, 24, 36 and add to the above bracket games. Goodluck says Dr. JK Pools.

ALASE NAP IS SUPERB – 09081716580

Winning galore continues at modupe the winner pay point. Call for NAP details

It no longer news, saying we are equal to non with our superlative performance while other kept watching. 04x 14x – free draws from 9 draws played last week.

Again our mission is to enrich wise stakers on 3 fixed source. Please enough free games don’t ask for it strictly on cash – N25, 000= Goodluck

With God one Bankers N2000 Wk 20 No Nap Wk 21 No X Wk 22 No Nap Wk 23 Nap. MOLLY one Banker N2000 Wk 20 No NAP Wk 21 No Nap Wk 22 No Pap Wk 23 No Nap USA one Banker N2000 Wk 20 No Nap Wk 21 No NAP Wk 22 No NAP Wk 23 No Nap Big Man one Banker N2000 Wk 20 No Nap Wk 21 No Nap Wk 22 No Nap Wk 23 No Nap. Stakers try to molly one Banker Group. 4 Special draws this N25, 000 Wk 20 No Nap Nap Nap Nap= 4/4

9 credible draws on score board last week that put smile to many of our Readers faces inspite of the shock draws. Austine Chukwu double cabin Nap gave a score line of 3draws, A narrow missed at Carmark Super on 2draws, and Alase the draw manager proved his worth in another success on 2 bankers series as he did in week 18. Our pair masterio added to all winners/ stakers winning dividends Jacobson, Luckyman, Mallam Bawa Musa, Peter Nap, Double shuffle, Shadow, Patrick sure win and the 2 Experts in one at Akin Mr. Akin. During the Editor’s chat with our pools Compiler during the week they promised good win most especially when the yuletide is fast approaching.

Stakers are adviced to stop requesting for free games it doesn’t pay. You are therefore advised to appreciate their hard work. Paid items/goods are always with equal value. Contact our dear Compilers for your good win to 2nd round CUP. HAPPY WINNING.

MOLLY ONE BANKERS GROUP= 08055230300= 7 NAP 9

WEEK 19 XRAY

SIDELINES

NO 16,640

N150

THURSDAY, 24 NOVEMBER, 2016

“While some hold the view that appointment as a Judge carries with it a prestige which may compensate for fantastic or adequate pay, the fact remains that prestige alone may not be enough to put food on the table”.

L

AST week I stated the need for an appraisal for the process of appointment of judicial officers to ensure that only qualified persons are appointed to the Bench. However, the fact remains that to attract brilliant lawyers to the judiciary, the pay of judicial officers must witness a significant increase from what obtains at the moment.

In the early days, shortly after independence, the pay of Nigerian Judges ensured that they lived comfortable lives. They were the envy of many in society. However, with the passage of time and economic downturn, the pay of Judges became affected such that Judges began to find life difficult.

This fact coupled with poor working conditions such as having to write in long hand and sitting in often dilapidated structures made many lawyers who were otherwise qualified for appointment to the judiciary to shun the Bench. Unfortunately, the fact remains that Nigerian Judges still rank among the least paid in the world. To make matters worse, it is even now reported that the salary of Judges are not paid as and when due and that in some instances, Judges are owed several months’ salary. This development without a doubt is likely to contribute to corruption as Judges may be forced to look for other means for survival. I do not wish to be misunderstood as stating that lack of prompt payment of salary is enough justification for any Judge to engage in corrupt practices. However, it is my firm belief that government should not permit a situation in which Judges are owed salaries as this will itself bring about an environment conducive for corruption to thrive. This very point was made in the Global Corruption Report 2007 of Transparency International published by the Cambridge University Press. At page 5 the report reads as follows: “Judicial salaries that are too low to attract qualified legal personnel or retain them, and that do not enable judges and court staff to support their families in a secure environment, prompt judges and court staff to supplement their incomes with bribes. …

In relation to other government employees judges should receive among the highest

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

President Muhammadu Buhari, while addressing an audience at a Green River Project Farmers in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, asked the Niger Delta youths to stop destroying oil pipelines. The youths surely have the motive to reason along because the President assured that plans to support Niger Deltans to realise their potentialities in agriculture are in the pipeline !

afeonthursday

aareafe@gmail.com

Justice: Loss of public confidence - Another look at the role of lawyers and judges (2) salaries. While the salary of a federal judge of a district court in the United States is not commensurate with what a judge might have earned in private practice, it is higher than most government employees and the prestige of the post makes it a sought-after position. The salary differential branches of government can be galling in some countries. Not so long ago, police in Uzbekistan received higher salaries than judges.”

COMPARISON WITH OTHER JURISDICTIONS Regrettably, as stated earlier, the pay of Nigerian Judges compares poorly with their foreign counterparts. At the rate N199 to a Dollar, the following table demonstrably shows that Nigerian Judges are the least paid: SALARIES OF JUDGES (PER ANNUM) CHIEF JUSTICE NIGERIA SOUTH AFRICA UNITED KINGDOM UNITED STATES (₦) (R) (£) ($) AMOUNT IN LOCAL DENOMINATION 6,727,945.92 2,478,378 247,112 223,500 EQUIVALENT IN DOLLAR 33,800.33 1 6 1 , 3 4 6 . 9 7 354,609.43 223,500 EQUIVALENT IN NAIRA @ 199.05 6,727,955.69 32,116,114.38 70,585,007.04 44,487,675.00 NIGERIA 6,727,955.69 SOUTH AFRICA 32,116,114.38 UNITED KINGDOM 70,585,007.04 UNITED STATES 44,487,675.00

In 2013, the then Lord Chief Justice of England, Lord Judge in his final annual report as Lord Chief Justice expressed the fear that unless the pay of Judges was raised from its average of £175,000 per year (N43,750,000 (Forty three million seven hundred fifty thousand Naira) - at the then exchange rate of N250 to a pound) many top lawyers will reject the opportunity to become Judges. In his report on the matter, the MailOnline in its edition of 31st August 2014 stated as follows: “Britain’s top judge has launched a scathing attack on the decision to slash his colleagues’ pay, warning it has destroyed morale in the profession and risks compromising the quality of future recruits.

Lord Chief Justice, Lord Judge, who is standing down from the role later this year, says sweeping salary cuts of as much as 60 per cent since 2011, allied to an increased workload, is seriously affecting judges’ state of mind.

And he fears that unless pay is raised from its current average of £175,000 per year, top lawyers will reject the chance to become judges.

In his final annual report, he said there was a growing gap between senior lawyers’ pay and that of Judges.

Judges are also working harder, he said, no longer presiding over trials and hearings, but also involved in administrative and other duties.

This combination of changes has lowered morale, which raised doubts about the ability to ‘recruit, retain and motivate sufficient high-quality people to the judiciary’.”

While some hold the view that appointment as a Judge carries with it a prestige which may compensate for fantastic or adequate pay, the fact remains that prestige alone may not be enough to put food on

the table. Furthermore and as stated by the then Lord Chief Justice of England, poor pay will discourage brilliant lawyers from aspiring to be Judges. Why would anyone aspire to be a Judge when he can earn more as a practicing lawyer. Addressing this point and stating why the salary of Supreme Court Justices is high in the United States, Jelfrey Joyner stated as follows: “In 1789, the compensation for the first justices of the Supreme Court was $4,000 per year for the chief justice and $3,500 for the associate justices. In the original constitutional draft, any adjustment of this salary was prohibitIes, but this was deemed unworkable. Congress was allowed to increase Supreme Court justice salaries, with three factors cited as justifying the increase: inflation, increased workload and expectations of society. Additionally, delegates to the constitutional convention noted that to attract people with the education, talents and integrity desired for the Supreme Court, it would be necessary to provide them with competitive compensation……. The current salary for Supreme Court justices is significantly higher than the average salaries earned in related occupations. In 2010, the median salary for all judges and magistrates, regardless of level, was $119,270. Federal circuit judges earned an average of $184,500.

Lawyer earned a median of $112,760 annually. The top 10 percent in these occupations earned more than $160,000 annually….”

It is my hope that the authorities in Nigeria will eventually adopt similar policy and place a premium on paying Judges wages commensurate to their work and attractive enough to encourage qualified lawyers to aspire to the Bench.

AARE AFE BABALOLA, OFR, CON, SAN, LL.D

Women’s Nations Cup: Nigeria, Ghana share points CUP holders Nigeria were held to a 1-1 draw

by Ghana in one of the group phase matches of the ongoing 10th Women Africa Cup of Nations finals in Cameroon on Wednesday.

The Falcons drew the first blood when Asisat Oshoala scored her fifth goal of the tournament in the 19th minute at the Stade Omnisports Limbe, but the Nigerians were somewhat too anxious in front of goal and missed several chances.

Ghana drew level two minutes before recess when Ugo Njoku committed a foul in the box and Elizabeth Addo made no mistake from the spot.

In the second half, the reigning champions piled much pressure on their West African

counterparts, but the Black Queens were well organized at the rear and kept the scoreline even.

The Falcons remain top of Group B on goals difference from the Black Queens, and will play Kenya on Sunday. The Black Queens will slug it out with Mali, who were poleaxed 6-0 by Nigeria.

Speaking after the match, Super Falcons coach Florence Omagbemi said: “The game was great and both teams played well.

Ghana gave us a good match and it was an impressive game. The foul on Asisat Oshoala was a clear penalty in my own assessment. I was disappointed in the referee not making the call. We were not over confident after the 6-0 victory over Mali.

“Today, we played against a good team and it was a good match by both teams. A draw (1-1) is not a bad result. We played well and were not expecting to draw. I’m looking forward to the game with Kenya and get a good result.

On his part, head coach of the Black Queens, Yussif Basigi said: “We are not happy to draw, but it is good to draw when the need arises. Ghana versus Nigeria can go either way. If for any reason we draw, we have to take it in good faith. Against Mali, Nigeria opened up but against us it was very close.

“The competition is still on. We have to approach the Mali match with all the seriousness to win and qualify convincingly.”

Super Falcons coach, Florence Omagbemi

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. 24/11/2016.