Wednesday 7, march 2018 edition

The VOX POPULI SACRUM

racle

Today

www.oraclenews.ng

WEDNESDAY 7 MARCH 2018

ISSN: 2545-5869

VOL.3 No. 9 N200

Where are 2019 candidates?

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HE headline is not meant to reflect the tendentious posturing that there are no candidates for the 2019 general elections. If anything, it is to ask them to come out (as we say), show themselves, be visible, and let us know that they want to run Nigeria.

IT is another way of asking them what they intend to do

THE ORACLE TODAY COMMENT

with Nigeria, away from the platitudinous lines about making it a better country. Things are so bad that we can be sold on that “better country” lingo, but we have seen a lot. We have also heard a lot.

THERE is little time left for us

to interrogate, investigate and situate those who want to take charge if Nigeria in 2019. Who are the candidates? What is their idea of Nigeria? Have they tested these ideas elsewhere?

CHAIRMAN of the Independent National Electoral Commission,

INEC, Professor Mahmood Yakubu disclosed at an induction retreat for Resident Electoral Commissioners in Uyo on 8 December 2017. The announcement did not increase the tempo of political activities in the open.

POLITICIANS are still in their default mode they are talking to themselves. They are conspiring.

They are deciding all by them-

selves who would be what, and who should not be what. Their reasons are ‘personal; to them, or at best ‘political’.

THEIR interests would have little, if anything, to do with the larger interest of Nigerians, interests that seem ordinary, yet they are all the people have to cling to, Contd on page 24

Tributes for Biafra hero, Col. Achuzia

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Achuzia (above), as Biafran war commander. He passed on Monday 26 February 2018 at 90. A condolence register has been opened at his home.

From JONATHAN AWANYAI, Asaba, CHINEDU NWAFOR, Abakaliki, CHUKS COLLINS, Awka, IBE NWACHUKWU, THEO RAYS, Onitsha, BONIFACE OKORO, Umuahia

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RIBUTES have continued to pour in from far and wide for Col. Joe Achuzia (rtd), the Biafran War hero who died Monday in his hometown Asaba.

Nicknamed Hannibal and ‘Air Raid’ for his exploits in the Nigerian Civil War, Col. Achuzia, the Ikemba Asaba, died after a brief illness, aged 90.

Ebonyi State Governor and Chairman South East Governors’ Forum, SEGF, Nweze Dave Umahi, said the death of the Biafran veteran was a great loss to Ndigbo and Nigeria as a whole, described Col. Achuzia as an icon and centre of Igbo unity.

In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Emmanuel Uzor, Continued on page: 2

Page: 17

• He was centre of Igbo unity – Umahi • Warrior, great compatriot - Ikpeazu • Devastating blow to Biafra struggle - Ogirisi Igbo • He was our hero - IPOB • Last interview with The Oracle Today P. 9

PVC: More hurdles for voters in South East From BONIFACE OKORO, Umuahia, CHUKS EZE, Enugu

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NLESS drastic steps are taken to ameliorate the situation, efforts by governments, groups and individuals in the South East to mobilise the people to participate en masse in the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration, CVR, exercise in the country may be in vain as the

people so mobilised are finding it difficult to register owing to poor operational logistics put in place by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the exercise.

Recent figures released by INEC indicated that of the six geo-political zones, South East has the least number of registered voters at 8m, compared to North West’s 18m, South West’s 14m, North Central’s 11m,

South South’s 10m and North East’s 9m as of January this year.

Miffed by these widely circulated figures, which practically reduced the South East to an inferior voting bloc in the country, political, traditional, cultural and religious leaders as well as individuals, convinced that the zone can muster more voters than already recorded, took steps to

FG may negotiate Dapchi girls

By VICTOR NZE

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he Federal Government has officially released the names and other details of the 110 girls who are yet to be accounted for, following the attack on the Government Girls Science and Technical College (GGSTC), Dapchi, Yobe State, on Monday last week.

This is also as the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar relocated to Yobe State to personally superintend the search for the abducted school girls.

Also, Federal Government may commence immediate negotiations with Boko Haram over the abduction of students of the Government Science and Technical College in Dapchi which occurred last Monday.

The list was contained in a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday by the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, who

Continued on page: 2

Saving Nigeria’s telecoms sector

Continued on page: 2

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The Oracle Today Wednesday March 7, 2018

NEWS

FG may negotiate

Tributes for Biafra hero

Continued from Pg 1

Umahi described the late Biafran hero as one of the last Igbo figures who lived and conquered their fears and stood for the liberation of their people.

Umahi said by the death of Col Achuzia, Ndigbo had lost another great unifying factor, a great man of high intellect and warlord who put in everything to ensure safety of his people.

“Col Achuzia during the unfortunate Civil War was to Ndigbo a stronghold and dependable hero who sacrificed personal interests for the people of Biafra. He had since the ugly Civil War put everything behind him and continued to play his advisory role in the politics of Nigeria. By his death, we have lost another great man whose impact and love transcend beyond Igbo and Nigeria,” Umahi said.

“His death saddens us as a people because Ndigbo at this moment need such persons who have seen it all to continue to give directions on how to avoid insipient and divisive politics that tend to divide us more along ethnic and religious lines. I, therefore, commiserate with the government and people of Delta State and indeed the family of Achuzia over the death of this icon and centre of Igbo unity,” Umahi surmised.

The Governor of Abia State, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, has described the late Biafran war commander, Colonel Joe Achuzia, as a great Igbo leader, warrior and brave compatriot. Ikpeazu stated that the late Achuzia gave his best to any struggle be believed in.

“As a people we believe there is time for everything. When it was time to defend our land and people, Colonel Achuzia gave his best. He is a true Igbo leader, warrior and a brave compatriot.

“On behalf of the people and government of Abia State, I wish to express my sincere condolences to the Achuzia family, Ohanaeze Ndigbo and the people and Government of Delta State.”

Gov Willie Obiano described Achuzia’s death as “the passing of a legend and a patriot of the highest order.”

State Commissioner for Information and Communications Strategy, Ogbuefi Tony Nnachetta, signed the statement in which Obiano noted that Achuzia was “a man of service and deep convictions whose exploits in the sands of time can never be forgotten by our people, both young and old,” stressing that the fallen Biafran hero’s life was defined by constant trouble-shooting in Igbo land aimed at securing the “wellbeing of our peoples in war and in peace.”

“The people and government of Anambra State commiserate with the governor of Delta State, His Excellency Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, the Asagba in Council, Ohaneze Ndigbo, the immediate family of Col. Achuzia and Nigerians in general on this monumental loss,” Obiano said, praying that Almighty God would accept his soul to rest in peace in His bosom.

The Indigenous Peoples of Biafra, IPOB, through its Director of Media and Publicity, Emma Powerful, lamented Achuzia’s passing, describing the Biafran War hero as one of those who saved the Ndigbo

Continued on Pg 14

Continued from Pg 1

• Abia State Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu distributing food during the flag-off of Abia Free School Meal Programme for primary school pupils at Umuahia South LGA with his wife Mrs Nkechi. Photo: Ibe Abarikwu.

PVC: More hurdles for voters...

Continued from Pg 1 mobilise the people of the zone to go out and register and collect their PVCs. However, The Oracle Today investigations revealed that while people in the zone generally responded to calls on them to go get captured in the voters’ register, INEC’s ineptitude, tardiness and seeming deliberate attempt at disenfranchising people of the zone have made it very difficult for the people to register in their numbers.

In Abia State, for example, there are complaints galore in virtually all the 17 local government areas in the state.

Accosted by The Oracle Today as she sat in front of the massive mango tree close to the entrance of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) office in Umuahia North Local Government area of Abia State, Cecelia Nwachukwu, a woman in her 60’s agonized: “I was here last October to submit my change of name, to enable me register in the Continuous Voter Registration exercise. They told me to come back in December. When I came, I was told to come back early this year. Today, I am back here again, only to be told that I should go home and wait for a radio announcement. How long I will wait for the radio announcement, nobody has told me. When we did this registration in Kano, it was as easy as ABC, but here, people pass through hell.”

Madam Nwachukwu was not alone in her rage.

According to The Oracle Today Correspondent in Umuahia, about eight out of every 10 persons who came for registration in the INEC office in Umuahia North storm out in frustration, wearing long faces because of one hurdle or the other.

The problems ranged from lack of coordination of the exercise, as those who came for registration were not properly directed on where to go, enquiries were not promptly answered, tardiness in the whole process leading to disorderliness and discourteousness of the INEC staff.

All these made the registrants crowd the INEC compound, leaving the entire place rowdy.

Most of the registrants complained that they had to come to the INEC office for, at least, three days before

they would conclude their registration process.

Unfortunately, according to The Oracle Today investigation, most of the people that come for registration are pressed for time as they are mostly civil servants, businessmen and women, as well as students.

Chukwu Ojike who works in a private security company told The Oracle Today that on his second day, he was lucky to do the biometric capturing and was asked to come back the next day for his Permanent Voter Card. And he was very happy.

A house wife who gave her name as Ifunanya complained that she had submitted her form but that it had gone missing, disclosing that efforts to trace it were yet to yield any positive result as at the time of this report.

She said she had been coming to the INEC office for five days, agonizing that if eventually the form was lost, she would have to cough out money to snap a new passport.

Similarly, Mr. Onyike Felix Chimaobi, an electrician, complained of lack of organization of the whole exercise in the INEC office in Umuahia North which many capitalize on to jump queues and cause commotion.

“The entire process is very slow.

We have been coming here for days and yet, you can’t predict when you will be through. INEC staff do not help matters, they are not courteous,” he said.

When The Oracle Today visited INEC office last Monday morning, it was observed that about 100 persons were waiting to be attended to with only for machines for biometric capturing available. Some who have concluded the process were given the task of having to look for their PVCs themselves.

It was also learnt that some INEC staff had gone to other wards to carry out the registration exercise in some remote areas with logistic problems.

The delay in the registration process may create problems that could lead to disenfranchising voters on polling days. The Oracle Today observed that some people at the INEC office in Umuahia North decided to switch over to the INEC office in Ubakala, Umuahia South local government area where they said they learnt the exercise was a bit faster.

They duo of Peace and Esther who

said they reside in the Ossah area of Umuahia North, declared that all they needed was to get their PVCs. It took persuasion and enlightenment on the repercussion of their decision, as it could disenfranchise them during election, to get them to rescind their move.

Also, at a recent meeting between the Abia State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr Joseph Iloh, and the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Abia chapter, the chairman of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Rev Augustine Ehiemere, complained that some residents of Aba South who turned up for registration were being directed to go and register in Obingwa.

He was told that those who leave the areas of abode to register in areas they could hardly access on voting day were disenfranchising themselves.

The story is not different in other INEC offices in the 17 local government areas in Abia State, leading to calls for decentralization of the registration centres from the council headquarters to alleviate the logistics pains people from the hinterland go through.

Chairman of Green Party in Abia, David Kalu, told The Oracle Today in a telephone interview that it was in a bid to resolve the lingering problems of logistics that INEC in Bende local government area is now moving from Ward to Ward. This, he said, would make it possible for the aged in rural and far-flung communities to get registered.

“The cost of transportation may have affected participation of my people from Ozuitem in the registration exercise. Many can’t afford going to the Council headquarters at Bende. So, INEC is bringing their staff here to register the people.

“But I think the problem INEC has at this time is lack of machines and manpower,” he said.

A former Transition Committee Chairman of Isuikwuato local government area, Chief Ralph Ukoro, also confirmed that INEC was now going round to alleviate the suffering of the people in their bid to get registered.

“Actually, when they first came around my area, they experienced some logistics problem, so most

Continued on Pg 14

has twice led a federal government delegation to Yobe since the tragic incident occurred.

The list, which was handed over to the Minister by the Yobe State Government, contains the name, age and class of each of the 110 students.

Out of the 110 missing girls, eight are in JSS1, 17 in JSS2, 12 in JSS3, 40 in SS1, 19 in SS2 and 14 in SS3. The girls’ ages range from 11 to 19 years.

The list, which also contains the contact address and phone number of each missing girl, was verified by a 26-member Screening Committee that includes the Executive Secretary, State Teaching Service Board, Musa Abdulsalam; Director, Schools’ Management, Ministry of Education, Shuaibu Bulama; Principal of GGSTC, Adama Abdulkarim; the two Vice Principals, Ali Musa Mabu and Abdullahi Sule Lampo; Admission Officer, Bashir Ali Yerima, and the Form Masters for all the classes.

It would be recalled that the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) had earlier deployed more platforms to the North east for the search, as the security agencies ramp up their efforts to locate and rescue the girls.

As at 6 pm, last Monday, NAF had flown a total of 200 hours while conducting the search.

Meanwhile, indications have emerged that Federal Government may commence negotiations with Boko Haram over the abduction of students of the Government Science and Technical College in Dapchi, Yobe State where the insurgents reportedly abducted 110 students of the institution, last Monday.

The negotiations, according to sources, are said to involve ransom as well as possible release of some Boko Haram commanders in custody of Nigerian military operatives.

This also followed an enlarged meeting held on Monday between a federal government’s delegation, comprising the Ministers of Information and Culture as well as that of Interior, Lt.-Gen. Abdulrahman Dambazau (retired), with the state governor, Ibrahim Geidam, members of the state cabinet, the Principal and Vice Principal of the school, representatives of the parents of the missing girls and security agencies, among others in attendance.

The meeting, which was confirmed by a statement credited to Special Assistant to the Minister of Information and Culture, Segun Adeyemi, in Damaturu, the Yobe State capital, also provided a platform for government to reassure the affected parents of its resolve to explore all available means in order to ensure the safety of their children.

Although, the amount of money involved in the negotiations was not disclosed, the pattern of Chibok girls negotiations may be followed.

The negotiations with the Boko Haram sect over some of the Chibok girls’ release involved a part exchange of Boko Haram commanders with money, according to Defence sources, even though the Federal Government has refuted the allegation.

The Oracle Today

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Wednesday March 7, 2018

NEWS ACROSS THE NATION Prosecute culprits in Kasuwan Magani mayhem – El-Rufai to police

By VICTOR NZE

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ADUNA State Governor, Malam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai has directed the prosecution of all persons responsible for the Monday mayhem that occurred in Kasuwan Magani in Kajuru local government area.

The government said that security agencies must investigate this unfortunate incident, arrest and make available for prosecution the perpetrators.

Governor El-Rufai’s spokesperson, Samuel Aruwan, who disclosed this in a statement issued in Kaduna, shortly after receiving preliminary report of the mayhem, explained that the government condemns the violence,

and regrets the wanton shattering of lives.

He further disclosed that the government has expressed its sympathy to the victims and their families.

According to Aruwan, the government has directed the State Emergency Management Agency to take inventory of damages and provide relief materials with immediate effect. The statement added that security forces have been deployed to contain the situation, protect lives and properties and to prevent any further breakdown of law and order.

The statement added that the government urges all citizens and communities to reject violence and division, and uphold their

neighbours in peace and harmony.

Meanwhile, the Kaduna State Police Command has said it had arrested 10 suspects over Kasuwan Magani mayhem in Kajuru Local Government Area in Kaduna State.

The Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Muhktar Aliyu,

also said in Kaduna that 10 people were killed and 15 injured during the crisis, adding that normalcy has returned in the area.

According to him, the command received a distressed call in the morning hours of Feb. 26 that there was tension in the area.

“We immediately contacted ‘Operation Yaki’, a security outfit,

and the Divisional Police Officer to arrest the situation. So the situation is under control,” the spokesman.

On loss of property, Aliyu said: “We are still accessing, we cannot be certain, but properties were destroyed.”

The PPRO said the cause of the crisis is being investigated.

From BONIFACE OKORO, Umuahia

for anyone with information that could lead to arrest Boko Haram leader, Abubakar Shekau.

The Nigerian Army, while declaring Shekau a fugitive on Thursday, February 15, 2018, in a statement issued by its spokesman, Briga-

dier General Sani Usman, had promised a N3 million cash reward for credible information on the hideout of Shekau.

Reacting to the Army’s promise of reward, Njoku, in a statement in Umuahia, said the federal government’s promise of N3 million cash reward for information leading to the arrest of Shekau was a sign that the “President Muhammadu Buhari-led APC government remains a government of confusion, deceit, incompetence.”

Njioku maintained that no Nigerian should know the whereabouts of Shekau more than the Federal Government which has been having swap deals with him for the release of Boko Haram captives.

“If federal government and Red Cross International who have been soliciting, intervening and paying Shekau money to release people in his captivity do not know Shekau’s whereabouts, why placing bounty to Nigerians who are not part of the Buhari/ Boko Haram swap deals?,” he queried.

He alleged that the federal government “paid millions of dollars to terrorist Shekau through the intervention of Red Cross International for a swap deal with Chibok girls.”

“The same Buhari-led federal hegemony has mentally placed a N3 million bounty on the same Shekau who was ‘technically and completely defeated two years ago’ and yet he has been supremely striking at will and presently ‘releasing policemen, UNIMAID lecturers, some individuals and Chibok girls held in captivity, in batches,” he added.

According to him, “Buhari’s administration is, indeed, unbearably unpleasant.”

FG’s N3 million bounty on Shekau, a ruse – Activist

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HUMAN rights activist, Comrade Paul Ikechukwu Njoku, has described as a ruse, the recent N3 million reward

Rural financing: Oyo trains over 4,000 rural dwellers in 9 LGAs

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he Oyo State Government has embarked on an intensive training package for over 4,472 rural dwellers through the State Rural Finance InstitutionBuilding (RUFIN) in nine Local Government Areas in the state.

The State Government said that the 2-Day training is meant to support, empower and consolidate group cohesion dynamics as well as management of rural financing.

Speaking at the weekend during the flag-off of the training programm held at Ikoyile, Oriire Local Government Area of the state, the State Commissioner for Agriculture, Natural Resources and Rural Development, Prince Oyewole Oyewumi said that the training would enable the rural dwellers to become credit worthy groups, noting that after the training, they will be linked with financial institutions for loan accessibility by RUFIN. Oyewumi, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mr. Victor Atilola, reiterated that the present administration in the state places priority on food security, poverty reduction among the people at the grassroots as well as job creation through its various agricultural policies and programmes which have enabled a favorable environment for investors.

He posited that RUFIN will not give loan facilities directly to the participants rather link them up with the financial institutions with lower interest rates after meeting the necessary requirements, stating that the Group Dynamics play a fundamental role in group functionality.

In his speech, the State RUFIN programme Coordinator, Comrade Olusola Ogundiran, said the participants were divided into groups to allow for monitoring and connections with financial institutions.

He noted that the programme was not focused on farmers alone but also rural dwellers to reduce poverty in rural areas, adding that the groups will be trained across 9 Local Governments including IkoyiOriire, Ona-Ara, Oluyole, Ibarapa North, Iwerele in Iwajowa, Afijio, Jobele, Akinyele, Atisbo and Ibarapa East Local Government Areas.

• From left, Head, Savings Group, Fidelity Bank Plc, Janet Nnabuko; Divisional Head, Retail Banking, Fidelity Bank Plc. Richard Madiebo; winner of a generating set, Ranmilowo Olaniyi,; Winner of N2 million and a student of Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUAAB), Azeez Morenike Adedoyin; winner of N 1 million, Mmereole Salome Obiageri,; winner of a television set, Joe Henry Chioma and Regional Bank Head, Festac, Fidelity Bank Plc., Paschal Nzeribe, at the 4th Monthly /2nd Bi-monthly prize presentation of Fidelity Get Alert In Millions Promo Reloaded in Ojo, Lagos.

Dapchi: Provide stable military patrols around schools – NUT

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he Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has condemned the abduction of some school girls by insurgent groups in Government Girls Science Technical College, Dapchi, Yobe State, on February 19. This is just as the Union called on Government to provide a stable military patrol around all schools.

Secretary-General of the union, Dr Mike Ike-Ene, who said this in a statement in Abuja, noted further that with the development, it had become evident that students, teachers and the academic activities within the North-eastern part of Nigeria remain helpless.

“The NUT is distressed by the news of the terrorist attack on the school, which took place on Feb. 19, with the resultant missing of 110 female students of the school. We are not happy by the security operative inability to gather enough intelligence to avert the situation.

“Also, their failure to quickly move into rescue the female students from the fleeing terrorist a week after the school was attack.

The 110 missing female students after the attack, brings us fresh memories of the missing Chibok school girls where 113 missing female students remain in Boko Haram captivity since April 14, 2014.’’

Ike-Ene, however, called on President Muhammadu Buhari to ensure the safe return of the Dapchi and Chibok school girls.

He urged the government to put in place necessary measures to ensure that criminal activities are averted in the region.

“The NUT makes bold to demand for an urgent and immediate upgrade of the entire security architecture. We also seek the deployment of security personnel’s to all schools within the Northeast region.

“It is also necessary to provide a stable military patrol around all

schools to ensure adequate protection of students, teachers and other workers in the zone,’’ IkeEne said.

Abuja to reintroduce monthly sanitation, sanitary inspectors

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he Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEPB) says it will reintroduce monthly sanitation and street visitation by sanitary inspectors to districts within the Federal Capital Territory and environs.

Board Chairman of the AEPB, Dr Bawuro Yahaya, who made this known in Tuesday, in Abuja, explained that the move was to help maintain Abuja’s cleanliness, improve its environment and boost the overall wellbeing of the residents.

He disclosed that the board would put measures in place to support the AEPB management,

with other relevant agencies.

Yahaya said that the measures included initiating market and abattoir sanitation in order to sanitise the places and enhance good health of the residents.

“We do not want to see refuse dumped indiscriminately anywhere in the FCT. When the solid wastes are generated, we will sort them out into organic and nonorganic materials and dispose them appropriately and in a very healthy manner,” he said.

Yahaya added that the administration was determined to evolve a lasting solution to waste management.

The Oracle Today

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Wednesday March 7, 2018

NEWS ACROSS THE NATION

IFAD to spend N8b to boost agricultural production in 7 States

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HE International Funds for Agricultural Development (IFAD) said, Tuesday, that N8billion has been earmarked to boost agricultural production in seven states that were in partnership with the fund.

Head of Knowledge Management Communication of the fund, Alhaji Abdullahi Surajo, who made the disclosure in Dutse, said the state that would benefit from the fund included, Katsina, Kebbi, Jigawa, Zamfara,

Sokoto, Yobe and Borno.

He said that the amount would be spent in training farmers on new agricultural techniques, climate change adaptation and agribusiness support programme.

Surajo said a farmer’s field school will be established to train the farmers new farming methods in view of the climate change and global warming affecting agriculture and farmers.

The official said business schools will also be established to train farmers on the appropriate crops to produce and the marketing strategy for the sale of the commodities.

According to him, IFAD had en-

gaged 207 farmers groups in the benefiting states.

He said that IFAD Climate Adaptation and Agribusiness Support Programme, IFAD-CASP was a new programme in view of the climate change and global warming that was affecting farming, explaining further that under the scheme, farmers would be encouraged to shift from substance to commercial agricultural production.

Over 6b people live in corrupt countries – Study

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ore than six billion people live in countries that are corrupt, Transparency International (TI) has said in a report.

More than two-thirds of countries received a poor corruption score in study released recently, leaving most of the world’s population living in a country characterised as corrupt.

The global average score of the Corruption Perceptions Index (CDI) 2017 by Transparency • Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode (m) with members of the Ford Foundation led by their Executive International was just 43 and 69 Vice President in charge of Programmes, Ms. Hilary Pennington (second left), during a courtesy visit to the Lagos per cent of all countries scored less than 50, with 100 being the House in Alausa, Ikeja, Monday. best possible score.

“This means over six billion people live in countries that are corrupt,” Transparency International said in a brochure accompanying the release of the report.

The report also said its findconsultant psychiatrist Zainab Atiku Bagudu said wives tion has introduced workable pro- ings are “disturbing” and that at the Neuropsychiatric of Northern Governors were dis- grammes to gainful engage youth the majority of governments are Hospital in, Kaduna State, turbed about drugs addiction in in profitable ventures. moving “too slowly” on tackling Dr. Willian Ebiti has urged govern- the region and resolved to be in the The Governor acknowledged corruption. ments and their agencies to place forefront in the campaign against it. that drugs addiction has become a The analysis used factors such emphasis on preventing drugs On his part, State Governor Abu- problem to almost every family in as freedom of the press, freeabuse rather that rehabilitation of bakar Atiku Bagudu in declaring the the society which require collective dom of speech and the freedom drugs addict in the fight against workshop open said his administra- approach to eliminating its. of organisations to operate and drug addiction in the country.

A statement by Abubakar Mu’azu Dakingari, the Chief Press Secretary to the State Governor, he Ogun State Governor, make life more meaningful for them. Local Government Area, Chief Abati quoted Ebiti as making the discloSenator Ibikunle Amosun, sure in Birnin Kebbi at a workshop He noted that the location of the air- Noah, in his response, also urged resiyesterday led an agricultural port was made several years before dents to embrace the project. on combating drug addiction, through awareness, said addiction team to Wasinmi, in Ewekoro Local his administration came on board.

Abati, who appreciated the goverwas a very difficult habit to discard Government Area of the State, to The Baale of Temu land in Ewekoro nor and his team for their relentless and attention must be focus on sensitise the people of the area and prevention to save the future of solicit support for the construction of youth. the proposed airport by the Federal On his part, Justice Simon Government.

Amobeda of the Federal High Speaking with the leadership of the not knowingly publish statements Court Birnin Kebbi requested the community, Amosun assured of ap- By THEO RAYS, Onitsha from person or persons they National Assembly to review laws propriate compensation and urged of the NDLEA describing them the people to embrace the develophe Indigenous People of Biafra themselves know don’t exist? An draconian because most drugs of- ment coming to their locality, as it (IPOB) has again refuted me- unsigned press statement is confirfences, prescribed life sentence as would open up the area to developdia reports about a breakaway mation that the information being the only option. ment. faction of the group, describing the peddled is false because you can’t In his submission Barrister Tunde Amosun said the satellite imagery claims as ‘fake news,’ even as it said link it to any conformable source.

“To prove that the latest ‘OkwudJohn of the NDLEA described the of the buildings and crop enumera- ‘the pro Biafra group is intact as one ili’ installment is fake and going prevalence of dangerous drugs is a tion have been captured to ease indivisible family.’ global scourge and requested the the compensation, as all is set for IPOB in a statement signed by the by their latest statement, nobody federal government to provide ad- the commencement of the airport Directorate of State (DOS) Mazi was identified as having signed the ditional logistic and manpower to project. Reeling out the compensa- Chike Edoziem, a copy of which was statement, it only said “news made the agency for effective operation. tion plans, he said the disbursement obtained by the Oracle Today, in On- available to”. In the interest of pubThe Director General of NAF- of N500 million would be paid to itsha, condemned the media report lic confidence, we would like to ask DAC Professor Moji Sola Christiana farmers, whose farms will be affected saying that ‘those people who have media houses to please confirm the Adeyeye spoke about the impor- in over 20 villages. taken it upon themselves to plant existence of person or persons istance of allowing NAFDAC to go Amosun stated that the farmers will false and fake news in the public do- suing public statements regarding back to ports to prevent the impor- also be relocated to more appropri- main must understand they are un- IPOB before publishing such.

“The only reason why this governtation and circulation of fake and ate farm lands, stressing that his gov- dermining public trust in the media.’ dangerous drug into the country. ernment would not in any way bring “Reputable publications should ment could have coerced the media to carry this fake news about a nonThe wife of the Governor Dr. hardship upon the people, but rather

Drug abuse: Place emphasis on prevention, not on rehabilitation – Expert urges Govs

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influence public policy transparently.

The CDI then ranked 180 countries and territories from 1 to 100 based on perceived levels of public sector corruption according to experts and businesspeople: A score of zero is “highly corrupt” and 100 is “very clean.”

No country got a perfect score but New Zealand tops the list as the “cleanest” country – meaning its citizens perceived little corruption, with a score of 89, followed by Denmark at 88.

Scandinavian countries enjoy high scores in the top 10 rankings.

Germany placed 12, behind Singapore but ahead of Australia, Iceland and the U.S. Syria, South Sudan and Somalia scored the lowest. Transparency International said their results show countries that have low civil liberties also tend to score high for corruption and that corruption is linked to “shrinking space for civil society.”

Countries that experience the worst corruption also have the least protection for press and non-governmental organisations, the group said.

Amosun woos Wasinmi community over airport project

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effort to ensure the development of the community, appealed to the Federal Government to ensure quick and appropriate compensation to those to be displaced.

IPOB not factionalised – Edoziem

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existent ‘new IPOB leader’ is because they know IPOB is the more popular than Nigeria, Nnamdi Kanu more acceptable than any politician in Nigeria.

“We reiterate our call to Okezie Ikpeazu, Nnia Nwodo, DSS and Federal Ministry of Information to ask their fake ‘IPOB leader’ to tell the world who he operates from, where he comes from or which IPOB unit he belongs to. Planting written anonymous unsigned press statements in the Nigerian media with the hope that highly intelligent followership of IPOB, the largest freedom fighting movement in the world, will succumb to such nonsensical subterfuge is mere wishful thinking.

The Oracle Today

5

Wednesday March 7, 2018

NEWS

73, 195 PVCs uncollected in C/River – INEC From ANIEKAN ANIEKAN, Calabar

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ESIDENT Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Cross River State Dr. Frankland Briyai has disclosed that all ad-hoc staff to be recruited by the commission during the forthcoming general elections in the state will have to swear to an oath of neutrality to guard against partiality during the elections.

In addition to this, the REC also disclosed that about 73, 195 voters have abandoned their Permanent Voters Cards (PVC) in Cross River and 166, 944 new voters have been added to the number of registered voters in the state.

Dr. Briyai made this known in Calabar during the monthly meeting of Federal establishments in the state.

He said this was necessary because the ad-hoc Staff will be deployed by the Commission as Supervisory Presiding Officers (SPOs) during the elections hence the need for them to be impartial.

“All ad-hoc staff are going to swear to an oath of office and this is because we want to ensure that the coming elections are different in every respect. INEC uses staff of federal establishments

My presidential ambition still intact — Duke

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ormer Governor of Cross River State, Mr Donald Duke, has said he had not backed down on his presidential ambition.

Duke made the statement in a telephone interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), said speculations that he had dumped the aspiration were untrue.

Duke said he had not officially declared for the number one seat in the country for strategic reasons.

“Sometime ago, I said I will run for the presidency of the country if the opportunity presented itself. Yes, my presidential ambition is still intact, I am only waiting for the opportunity to present itself to make the right move,’’ he said.

Asked on what platform he would run, especially as he was a member of former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s inspired “Coalition for Nigeria Movement (CNM)’’ , he said it was too early to decide.

He, however, said he was still a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

“I am still a member of the PDP, at the same time a member of the coalition which is not a political party. The coalition will definitely align with a political party to achieve its goals, otherwise it will make no sense.

“I can’t say yet the platform on which I will run if the opportunity presents itself. We are still watching and will take the right step at the right time,’’ he said.

because they are believed to be more neutral and have broader horizon, having come from other states of the federation.

“I am appealing to all election officials, including the federal government staff not to compromise in carrying out their election duties. They should respect all the ground rules so that there can be outcomes that represent the will of the people. This is INEC’s

main objective for using unbiased officials like you to conduct elections,” the REC said.

Dr. Briyai used the monthly forum to give an update of the ongoing continuous voters exercise in the state stating that so far, the total number of registered voters since the kickoff of the exercise in the state stands at 166, 944 and the total number of uncollected PVC’s in the state stands at 73, 195.

He added that 5, 344 voters failed to collect their PVC before the last general elections in 2015.

In his presentation, the chairman of federal establishments in the state, Dr. Fred Chucks Okoli of Federal Character Commission said the purpose of the meeting was to create a bond among members and to work for the progress of the country.

• Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar presents the Silverbird Man of the Year 2017 award to Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, as the governor’s wife, Justice Eberechi Suzzette Nyesom-Wike and former Akwa Ibom State Governor, Godswill Akpabio watch in admiration.

Parents in Bayelsa risk jail terms for not sending children to schools

By CLEM ONYEAMACHI, Yenagoa

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he Bayelsa State Government has told parents in the state that they now risk jail terms for not sending their children to school.

The decision followed the signing into law of the Compulsory Primary and Secondary Education Law by Governor Henry Seriake Dickson.

Addressing newsmen after the 89th State Executive Council (SEC) meeting, the Commissioner for Education, Jonathan Obuebite said with the assent of the bill, every child of school age must be enrolled into the various model schools of the government.

Obuebite maintained that any child that is seen loitering or hawking on the streets during school hours will be picked up while their parents or guardian will be dealt with as provided in the new law.

He explained that the move is to emphasize the importance the government attaches to education, adding that with the huge investment made in that sector there is every need to ensure it does not become a waste.

“We have spent over 70 billion naira building and equipping our schools. Today we have quality infrastructure and facilities across our schools in every local government area. We feel it is important to have this law to protect that investment.

“The law will be fully implement- Lagos, Abuja and other states in ed. We want to thank His Excellency this region”.

The Commissioner for Lands and for his assent and members of the assembly for passing it into law. Survey, Kuroakegha Dorgu disClearly the law is to demonstrate closed that the council resolved our commitment to education in to acquire the land opposite the Grand Pavillion in Oxbow lake to the state”.

Also speaking, the Commissioner expand the tourism site there.

Dorgu also informed that fishfor Health, Prof. Ebitimitula Etebu said the council expressed delight ing, farming, dredging and other with the law establishing the School related commercial activities has of Midwifery which was also signed been banned to allow for smooth tourist operations in the area which into law by Gov. Dickson.

According to him the law will fur- in turn will earn for the state huge ther boost primary healthcare deliv- revenue.

Commissioner for Information ery in the state while on the other hand, the new Primary Health care and Orientation, Daniel IworisoDevelopment Board will have the Markson while rounding off the responsibility of coordinating and briefing stated that henceforth any managing all health facilities that is community that is not receptive to some projects risk losing such debuilt in every community.

On her part the Commissioner for velopment in their domain.

Tourism Development, Ebiere Irene Musa noted that with the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding with Bristow Helicopters, shuttle services for the company’s sea plane from Yenagoa to other states in the Niger Delta as well as Lagos and Abuja has commenced.

“We have brought our tourism potentials out to the world. Just after the commissioning of the magnificent Grand Pavillion and Boat Club, Oxbow lake, we have today signed an MoU with Bristow helicopter. So it is a thing of joy that • Seriake Dickson, Bayelsa State from Oxbow lake you can connect governor.

Poor road: Obosi residents send SOS to Obiano

By OGE ONYEANUSI

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duke Layout Landlords Association Obosi, in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State have sent a Save-Our-Soul message to Governor Willie Obiano over the deplorable condition of their environment and road in the area is currently inaccessible to both pedestrians and motorists.

Oracle Newspaper learnt that the Igwe Nwakobi road, a major road that connects all residents in the layout and also used as an accessed road to Ezeiweka and Owerri roads respectively,, is presently in poor state.

It was also learnt that the 2-kilometer road if completed would connect the layout to Onitsha/ Owerri road and Electrical markets thereby decongest traffics at both roads.

Also, the deplorable condition of the environment has forced most of the tenants in the area and establishments like Blossom Montissori Group of Schools including people desiring to send their wards to school to relocate residence.

The landlords in a petition written to Governor Willie Obiano jointly signed by their President, Nicholas Okechukwu, and Secretary, Okechukwu Alogburu, lamented that the condition of the road brings untold hardship to them every raining season due to flooding which has rendered many homeless aside losing properties and lives.

“It is clear that as soon as the rains come, we are going to be exposed to worse sufferings of traffic, flooding, destruction of properties and possible loss of lives. That is why we are appealing to Your Excellency as a matter of urgency, and in the interest of citizens to step in and use the powers of your exalted office save us from doom.

“Our people are quite happy with the Obiano led administration. But we shall be much happier if you hurriedly come to our aid. God bless you Sir as you treat this request with the urgency it deserves. Most obliged,” the letter concluded.

Nicholas Okechukwu, while conducting newsmen round the inaccessible road, maintained that they were happy while Governor Obiano eventually awarded and moblised Tamad Construction Company to work on the affected around October 2017 only for the company to suddenly stop work on December, barely a month after November 18 gubernatorial poll.

Contributing, Chidibe Ogbuagu, a landlord and his colleague, Chief Mandela Ibenwa and Emmanuel Nnebedum, a resident, bemoaned that the situation has made life unbearable to them to an extent that it takes them almost an hour to trek from Ezeiweka junction into the layout which ordinarily should not be a thirty minutes journey. They appealed to the governor to kindly ask the contractor handling the projects to return to site so as to save their soul especially now the wet season is coming.

The Oracle Today

6

Wednesday March 7, 2018

NEWS

We’ll support Buhari for 2nd tenure, if.. - South East elders

By THEO RAYS, Onitsha

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GBO elders under the aegis of the South East Elders Forum has indicated its preparedness to support President Muhammadu Buhari for a second tenure, if the President wishes to contest even as the forum called on the President not to relent in his fight against corruption.

The decision to support President Buhari for a second tenure was part of the resolutions the organization reached in its recent meeting in Enugu where it had Sat Guru Marahaji as its special guest.

According to Dr Dozie Ikedife who disclosed outcome of the meeting to The Oracle Today, the forum acknowledged that the All Progressives Congress (APC) led Federal Government under President Buhari has done well in its fight against corruption and Boko Haram insurgents to the extent that the President should be allowed to consolidate the “good work” he had started.

The Ikenga Nnewi and one time President General of Ohaneze Ndigbo, however, said that it was not yet known whether President Buhari would be running again or not since he would not be drafted for the position when he had not

made any pronouncement in that direction.

“There are so many factors to be taken into consideration while talking about Buhari for second tenure. You have to know whether the man wants to go for a second tenure before you begin to support him. If he does not, then what is the purpose of supporting him? Are you going to draft him into the position? And you should know that between now and 2019 is a long time in political calendar, a lot of things can still happen. And there is this saying that man proposes, but God disposes.

But left with us, if he wants to run, let him go ahead. We will support him but the decision has to come from him and not foisted on him by his handlers. That is the view of the forum,” On the visit of St Maharaji J, Dr Ikedife said he preached love and unity to the Igbo. He said: Guru Marahaji J told us to inculcate love amongst ourselves. He said we should be truthful in whatever we are doing with emphasis on truthfulness, love and unity.

He assured us that a President of (From left to right): Ebonyi State Governor, David Umahi, Taraba State counterpart, Darius Ishaku during Nigeria of Igbo extraction is pos- the meeting of the Presidential Sub- Committee on the Farmers/Herdsmen Crises set up by Vice President sible, if we can unite, love our- Yomi Osinbajo, in Jalingo the Taraba State capital recently. selves, be honest and truthful.

Lawmaker empowers constituents in Igboeze North/Udenu

By THEO RAYS, Onitsha

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EMBER representing Igboeze North/Udenu Federal Constituency in the Federal House of Representatives, Hon Denis Agbo (popularly called ‘Integrity’) has carried out an impressive empowerment drive for his constituents by given out laudable items to men, women and youth.

The items include 10 tricycles (Keke NAPEP), 40 motorcycles, 12 generator sets, 45 sewing machines, 15 grinding machines and 240 bags of rice.

The items were distributed to selected beneficiaries from the 30 wards that make up Igboeze North/Udenu Federal Constituency in a ceremony held at his residence.

Igboeze North has 20 wards while Udenu commands 10 wards.

Speaking on the drive, Hon Agbo said that he is doing what he was elected for adding that the gesture was in appreciation of the massive support he enjoys from the constituents, adding that the items were his widow’s mite to the welfare and progress of the

Umahi, constituents to reach consensus ahead 2019

By CHINEDU NWAFOR

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people who gave him the mandate to represent them in Abuja.

The lawmaker who said that he inspired by what Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi is doing in Enugu State used the opportunity to give account of his stewardship stating that he has provided Constituency projects in the areas of education, rural electrification and agriculture.

He revealed that he built and equipped a 500-seater examination hall with supervisors’ office at Community Secondary School at Aguibeje in Igboeze North, built another 5 classroom block at Uda also in Igboeze North.

Other projects he executed according to him include rural electrification with new transformer at Uda and Ugbaike in Igboeze North, a storey building of 10 class room blocks at Technical School Igugu in Udenu, rural electrification with transformers at Ezim in Udenu, a massive cassava farm project on a 2 hectares of land at Aguibeje and 3 state of the art poultry farms with 1000 birds each at Uda, Okpo and Aji communities respectively.

pparently aware of the growing disenchantment among the constituents over his insistence that all the serving national and state lawmakers in the state be allowed to return unopposed, Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi state, has promised to enter into a swap deal with the constituents in order to address the issue.

The governor disclosed this at Onuebonyi Echara, Ikwo LGA of the state during a civic reception in his honour by the people of Ikwo Noyo while appealing to the people to allow the two state lawmakers from the local government to go back for another term in 2019.

“I appeal to Ikwo people to allow both members of the state House of Assembly from the area, be re-elected in 2019 which was the same demand he made in 2015.

According to Umahi, he begged a delegation that told him in 2015 that it was another community’s turn to produce the House member and allow Chike Ogiji (PDP-Ikwo South) return because he needed him at the house.

“I am still making the same appeal presently for Ogiji and Hum-

Bishop of Nnewi Diocese, Most Rev Hilary Odili Okeke told the participants that Bible did not support living in idleness and mere busybody.

He said that the summit with the theme: “Charting the future with clarity and improved Strategy,” was really an event to anchor what is right in the business world. He explained that clerics as teachers had the responsibility to help people to do the right thing that would make their

businesses progressive and successful, even though the priests, according to him, were not permitted by canon law to practice commerce.

Bishop Okeke noted that business in Nigerian society was often devastated by corruption and dishonesty which called for the intervention of the clerics to teach people to do business in honest and righteous way so that the earthly treasures gained would

phrey Nwuruku (PDP—Ikwo North) because I want the House of assembly to be intact beyond 2019,” he said.

Umahi who noticed the displeasure of the crowd after he made the appeal, promised to give the two constituencies three appointments each, if they would allow the two lawmakers to return.

The Governor also said he would run the 2019 gubernatorial elections with his Deputy, Dr Kelechi Igwe as his running mate, thereby ending the speculation that he might drop his deputy.

He described his deputy as a very special, loyal and honest person.

“He has assisted me greatly in achieving all I achieved so far as I am lucky to have him as my deputy and his position is not negotiable,” Umahi said.

At the event, over 2,000 All Progressives Congress (APC) members, including an elder statesman and former Commissioner in the Old Anambra State, Chief Nweke defected to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) describing the party as a sinking ship.

Meanwhile, the Ebonyi State Governor, David Umahi has challenged members of the National Assembly from the state to emulate the member representing

Nnewi Catholic concludes summit on business development

By THEO RAYS, Onitsha

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NTREPRENEURS received a dossier on business development and sustainable income expansion through hard work and application of right business principles, as the oneday Nnewi Business Summit 2018 organized by the Catholic Diocese of Nnewi, concluded, Saturday.

In his address at the maiden edition of the Summit, Catholic

be also be qualification for eternal gains.

Coordinator of the Summit, Very Rev Fr Augustine Obiagbaosogu in his submission said that so many able-bodied men and women in society today were either unemployed, underemployed or unemployable for some obvious reasons noting that the aim of the programme was to find solutions to the hunger and economic challenges facing the populace especially the youth.

Ohaozara/Onicha/Ivo Federal constituency, Hon. Linus Okorie, who he said was the only federal lawmaker from the state that has brought needed development and leadership to his constituents.

Umahi stated this yesterday at Akaeze in Ivo local government area of the state during the official flag off of free medical outreach and welfare programme organized by the lawmaker through his Caring Heart Foundation.

Represented by his deputy, Barrister Kelechi Igwe, he noted that Okorie’s welfare programmes were a challenge to other National Assembly members from the state, adding that it was expected that they call the state government from time to time to come and witness the programme they have developed for their people.

“Men have been going to National Assembly before Hon. Linus Okorie but I’m sure they never brought these to your people. Linus Okorie is the only lawmaker that remembers that he’s coming from somewhere. I am also aware that he is not the only one that was sent to Abuja by the people of Ebonyi state but I am standing on the land of Akaeze to throw it as a challenge to all the members of the National Assembly from Ebonyi state, that we expect that from time to time, they will call us as state government to come and witness the programmes that they have developed for their people”.

“I believe that what we are doing here is bringing down leadership and politics to the grass root that people may be able to understand why you are always enjoined to look for a credible candidate to vote for in an election because when you vote them into power whether the chamber is green or red, they will remember that they are coming from somewhere”.

The Oracle Today

7

Wednesday March 7, 2018

NEWS

2019: Ukwa/Ngwa set to endorse Ikpeazu, Friday

By BONIFACE OKORO, Umuahia

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CULTURAL summit tagged; the Ukwa Ngwa Great Declaration holds this Friday as speculations are also rife that the indigenes may use the platform to unanimously endorse Governor Okezie Ikpeazu for a second term.

Chairman of the summit planning committee, Chief Reagan Ufomba, told newsmen

at his ‘Heaven is real’ home in Umuogele, Isiala Ngwa North local government area, that the gathering would take a critical look at contemporary issues as they affect the Ukwa/ Ngwa nation and come up with farreaching decisions.

“We have this event on Friday and it is what we have always done. It brings all our kith and kin together to look at where we are as a people, look at where we are headed as a peo-

ple, and that involves the entire nine local governments of Ukwa/Ngwa. So, we are simply replicating what we have always done,” he said, stressing, “we do it when it becomes necessary for us to gather, reason together, plan together and ex-

ecute together as a people.”

“The decision that will be made on Friday is nothing new.

The last we had was at Enyimba Township Stadium in 2003. This time it is happening at Okpuala Ngwa in Isiala Ngwa North, the ancestral home of Ukwa/Ngwa

people,” he added.

The Chief Executive Officer of Reagan Cement made it clear that the gathering would not be partisan, adding, “the fact remains that you cannot divorce or divest politics from human activities.”

FG donates relief materials to IDPs in Edo

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he Federal Government through the National Commission For Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), on Tuesday donated relief materials to the Internally Displaced Persons, (IDPs) in Edo. The IDPs received the food and educational materials in the camp located at Uhogua, in Ovia North-East Local Government Area of the state.

Mrs Halimat Musa, Special Assistant on media to the Federal Commissioner, NCFRMI, Sadiya Umar-Farouq, presented the materials on behalf of the commission.

Umar-Farouq said it was the duty of commission to ensure that lasting solutions were provided for persons and communities displaced.

“We have worked assiduously and had interventions in 28 states and FCT where humanitarian crisis were identified. In those areas, we have in short run, provided care and maintenance to alleviate the suffering of persons of concern.

“While on the long run, we continue to plan with a view to providing durable solutions to them,” she said.

She said, “Based on the information provided about the children, the commission dispatched a desk officer to carry out need assessment of these

children.

“It is on this premise that I lead the team to identify and flag off the distribution of food and educational materials for the purpose caring for these children,’’ she said.

According to her, NCFRMI would continue to make sure that its activities take into account the serious protection issues faced by the children.

“I want to use this opportunity to thank the management of International Christian Centre who has managed the Uhogua camp in keeping the children together,” she added.

Umar-Farouq listed the food items donated to include, 80 bags of 50kg rice, 80 bags of 100kg beans, 80 bags of 50kg gari.

Others are 26 cartons of groundnut oil, 26 cartons of red oil, 10 bags of salt and 10 cartons of Maggi.

In addition to these were 140 branded school bags, 140 food flasks, 430 dozens of 20 leaves notebook, 430 dozens of 40leaves notebook, and four cartons of pen.

Also speaking, Gov. Godwin Obaseki thanked NCFRMI for its efforts in consolidating on the campaign to resettle and re-integrate victims of human trafficking who returned to the country.

• Ondo State Governor Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, being decorated as the “Grand Patron of the Ondo State Cultural Troop, last Thursday, in Akure.

Ugwuanyi signs N103.5b 2018 Budget into Law

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OVERNOR Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, last Monday, signed the N103.5 billion 2018 budget recently passed by the House of Assembly into law, with a firm promise to fully implement the appropriation law for the benefit of the people and rapid and sustainable development of the state.

Signing the budget at the Government House, Enugu, in the presence of his Deputy, Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo and other members of the State Executive Council; members of the House of Assembly led by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Edward Ubosi; State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Augustine Nnamani, among other top government functionaries, Gov. Ugwuanyi noted that the House after due deliberation on the budget and consideration of the defence by the various ministries, MDAs, Parastatals and all concerned with the budget, increased the budget size from N98,563,500,000 to

Bakassi: Monarch, others endorse S’Court directive to INEC

By ANIEKAN ANIEKAN, Calabar

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aramount Ruler of Bakassi Local Government Area, Etinyin Etim Okon Edet has commended the Supreme Court over its recent decision directing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to delineate constituencies in Bakassi Local Government Area and uphold the right of the state House of Assembly in adjusting local government boundaries.

The Monarch similarly charged the Commission to do the needful as directed by creating two state constituencies from the area, one for the riverian area and one for the mainland or face another round of litigation.

He warned politicians as well

as the commission against misinterpreting the judgment emphasizing that they were asked to do what is necessary in the area.

According to him, “the court judgment threw a challenge to INEC to create another state constituency so that people in the riverine area of Bakassi can be represented in the State House of Assembly as well as those in the mainland part of the Local Government Area.

“It is indeed shocking that some Bakassi Politicians with devious intentions have started formulating a position that is alien to the judgment (of the Supreme Court).

“It is important that INEC adds the three wards of Akpabuyo (Ikang North, Ikang Central and Ikang South) to the

ten wards in Dayspring I & II as well as Qua Island to make it thirteen wards with two state constituencies. Anything short of this, we will return to the Supreme Court to seek the interpretation of the judgment,” the monarch said.

What INEC needs to do now, he said, is to add the three wards of Akpabuyo earlier mentioned above to the ten wards of Dayspring earlier delineated by it to make it thirteen wards with two state constituencies.

Also speaking, Senator Prince Bassey Otu, former senator who represented the area in the 7th Session of the national Assembly stressed that with the court’s decision, the people area have a sense of belonging and their votes will no longer be attributed to another area.

N103,563,500,000.

The governor commended the members of the House for the speedy and considerate passage of the budget and the “wonderful” cooperation they have accorded the state government since inception.

He also expressed appreciation to the people of the state, who he described as the true heroes of democracy, for the opportunity to serve and their “unwavering” support and prayers for his administration, reassuring them that his promise to deliver good governance and selfless service to the state remains sacrosanct.

“Mr. Speaker, Honourable Members, I equally wish to assure you of our commitment to the full implementation of this budget as we are fully aware that this will enable us realize all the objectives that we have set down in it for the benefit of our people and for the rapid and sustainable development of our

dear state”, Gov. Ugwuanyi said.

Earlier in his remark, the Speaker commended Gov. Ugwuanyi for the modest budget, which he said reduced both the internal and external borrowing to 16 percent, describing the governor as a good manager of finance.

Ubosi, who stated that the budget will not put the state in “a very tight condition” and “cannot hang any debt on us”, also explained that the appropriation law was increased by N5 billion to accommodate road projects that need urgent attention such as the Nkalagu-Eha-Amufu federal road at Isi-Uzo Local Government Area and other roads across the three senatorial districts of the state.

He also applauded the state’s Board of Internal Revenue led by Prince Emeka Odo for its innovation and resourcefulness in generating income for the state saying: “They are trying in reducing the stress on the state”.

CMD blames government for security lapses From ANIEKAN ANIEKAN, Calabar

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he Chief Medical Director of the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital in Calabar, Dr. Joseph Okegbe has attributed the recent security lapses faced by the institution to the government’s policy on outsourcing.

The CMD stated this in Calabar while reacting to the robbery incident which occurred in the hospital which is one of the oldest medical centres in the state.

He stated that since the federal government outsourced security matters, nothing has been paid to the contractors, thus endangering the lives of both workers and patients in the hospital.

“We are exposed to danger because since the federal government outsourced security to contractors in 2015, they have not been paid. The situation is so bad that patients are at risk here in this hospital,” he said.

He appealed to the government to aid the hospital by paying contractors so that they can resume work and help secure the hospital, workers and patients. He emphasized that until this is done, the hospital would be susceptible to attack.

Speaking on the robbery incident, Dr. Okegbe said: “Four young men, suspected to be cultists last Sunday evening stormed the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital in Calabar and made away with phones and laptops.”

8

The Oracle Today Wednesday March 7, 2018

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9

The Oracle Today Wednesday March 7, 2018

POLITICS

Why I want to be gov- Cattle colony is madness, ernor again, by Ikedi by Lekan-Ojo Ohakim Pg 10

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Cattle colony is a continuation of the Dan Fodio agenda – Achuzia • THE LAST ACHUZIA INTERVIEW: Achuzia who died on 26 February 2018 granted this interview on 24 January 2018 to The Oracle Today JONATHAN AWANYAI, in Asaba, spoke with elder statesman and former officer of the defunct Biafran Army, Col. J.O.G. Achuzia (rtd), on the crisis of leadership in Nigeria, with particular reference to the Fulani herdsmen menace, which President Muhammadu Buhari, a Fulani himself, would appear to have refused to do something about. Condemning plans by the Buhari administration to establish grazing reserves and cattle colonies in each State of the federation...

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chuzia who spoke with The Oracle Today in Asaba wondered why herdsmen should be given preferential treatment to the disadvantage of other Nigerian farmers and livestock business people.

“Do Fulani herdsmen submit their profits to the national or state treasuries? Why can’t they do business like other farmers and livestock business people in Nigeria?” quipped the Octogenarian.

According to the elderly Biafran War hero, the interpretation that would easily be given to the obvious preferential treatment given to the herdsmen by Buhari that the President’s sole agenda in the present political scheme of things is to ensure that Hausa-Fulani herdsmen occupy prime and strategic locations across the country to ease Islamic agenda of Fulani colonization of Nigeria through a bloody jihad in the future.

“If not so, why are the APC and President Buhari giving special attention and huge funding to Hausa-Fulani livestock farmers to the detriment of their counterparts across the country?Where are the goats colonies, fish colonies, chicken colonies and pigs colonies?

Don’t they come under one form of farming or the other? Is cow meat the only source of protein in Nigeria? Why does Mr President want to create division, disunity and acrimony among Nigerians?” he asked While insisting that President Buhari is only pursuing the Uthman Dan Fodio agenda, Achuzia noted that the idea of cattle colonies is a ploy to favour the Hausa-Fulani folks in preparations for future jihad.

“It’s bad and horrifying,” Col. Achuzia declared. “It’s deadly as it is detrimental to the unity and progress of Nigeria.Once a State accepts, it becomes almost a local government in the State dedicated to the Fulani herdsmen.

First, we have not given them space and they already took so much space, what happens then when we create a community for them?

Their rate of production is even more than the Chinese are doing now. In other words, in a few years they will outnumber us and then we can do nothing about it. The sooner we reject any cattle colony the better. If they say cattle colony, isn’t that masquerading the whole issue because cattle don’t move on their own.

They are moved by cattle herders who look after them. Those people have families and so they go with their families.That brings us back to what the Koran says,when Abubakar said what they should do when they go on a jihad; he said take all your families because there is no reinforcement. If you get there and you feel that they are more numerous than you, you surrender and live with them. But, in doing so, inflict as much damage as you can by killing their young ones from the age of eight upwards for the male, marry their widows because you are entitled to marry four wives and bring their children into Islam and within a short time you will overpopulate the place and then you can continue the jihad. So, who

is fooling who? How can we allow cattle ranch under these conditions? It is not possible. If anybody in our area says he cannot accommodate it (not having cattle ranches), then it means that the person is not part of us. Any government in the South East that offers land for cattle colonies is doing so out of ignorance, because they don’t understand what the whole exercise is all about.What is happening in Nigeria is the clarion call by Usman Dan Fodio long ago and that clarion call is what the Fulani’s are implementing.”

While speaking on Buhari and Igbo presidency in 2023, he regretted that the Igbos are treated as second class citizens.

“How long ago did the war end?” Achuzia agonised. It’s about 50 years ago.Within that period, signs have not reflected that the apex leadership of Nigeria will be given to Ndigbo, how do they think that it is now when the Fulanis are trying to complete the Dan Fodio agenda that they are looking forward to the leader of the jihad, President Buhari who in his cabinet from the onset made sure that there is no dilution of the people he chose to be his advisers and cabinet members? Yes, he might hand over to the territory occupied by South East but then it would have been a Fulani colony.

Achuzia while speaking on herdsmen killings accross the country, expressed satisfaction that the Global Terrorism index labelled Nigerian Fulani militants as fourth terror group in the world, following killings in Nigeria and parts of the Central African Republic as a result of clashes between farmers and the littleknown group, formed of individuals from the semi-nomadic pastorial ethnic group.

“They used the same cattle herdsmen to move into the north thereby pushing the Hausas who are the owners of the land into the Islamic religion and at the same time almost appropriating the Hausa man into a moslem who became almost a Fulani.The same thing they have done by pushing the middle belters and till today it is only a small area left and they are now using all force at their disposal to displace them and claim that territory. Ours is to look, if they succeed, our area becomes the next place that they have to go after and that is where my concentration lies.

“First, if you noticed what happened to us towards the end of last year, when we were invaded by the army under the guise of Operation Python Dance and Operation Crocodile Smile. Shortly, after that operation, the next

• Col. Achuzia (Rtd.) thing they did was to proscribe the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).Who are the IPOBs? It is we the easterners and then you say that we are terrorists, but Fulani herdsmen and all those killing people in the Middle Belt are not terrorists. We in the South East that haven’t wielded any weapon are terrorists. If you go into the Nigerian history and the migratory system, you will understand that Benue people are not northerners. Do the Middle Belters look like people with Fulani tradition? Though they fought a war on the side of Nigerians when they thought that Yakubu Gowon was in control, today, they are facing what we faced about 50 years ago but instead we are in sympathy with them because we are watching events and we will not let them down because if they capitulate, the burden will fall on us.You kill people to dispossess them and that is what the cattle ranching is all about.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan got to Aso Rock by accident and accidents don’t happen every day and he also exited through accident in time for Buhari to enter. Buhari knew that time is not on his side hence the speed of creating a cabinet that is majorly his kinsmen with instructions that they should accelerate the time sequence of possession.They are tackling it in several ways; through military incursion on two sides, the Boko Haram on one side and the cattle herders on the other side. Also,they have taken over the political mantle. In other words, he has put the whole problem he wants to solve into a nutshell and he is cracking the nut just as he deems fit and better,” he alledged.

Speaking further, he also alleged that “the country has already been colonized by the

“They used the same cattle herdsmen to move into the north thereby pushing the Hausas who are the owners of the land into the Islamic religion and at the same time almost appropriating the Hausa man into a moslem who became almost a Fulani.

northerners.Look at our economy;is the bank working for us?The former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria,Sanusi created an economic system he described as Islamic banking.

Islamic banking has pushed other banking institutions out of the way.In the Islamic system they know the avariciousness that exists between none moslems in terms of trade.Their bank lends money without interest rate and this attracts the southerners and that is why the other banks we have are collapsing.”

On the way forward for Nigeria,the octogenarian stated that he wouldn’t want to opt out of Nigeria. “IPOB is not asking to opt out of Nigeria, but we are saying is that there should be restructuring so that we can have a breathing space. There is nothing in this world that cannot be negotiated. Anybody saying that Nigeria cannot be negotiated is a totalitarian and it is only jihadists that don’t negotiate because as far as they are concerned, you are either a muslim of their own persuasion or you are killed off,” Achuzia said.

On restructuring, he said: “The country was packaged not by the Fulanis or anyone but by the colonialists.They packaged us based on what they saw on the ground showing major ethnic groups. In each of the three divisions, they had ethnic groups of linguistic differences but cultural similarity.These are what they looked at in partitioning the country into three spaces. And when we got independence, that is what we looked at within the southern hemisphere to produce Midwest making it four regions.Under that regional arrangement, if you take a vehicle going by road to connect these four regions,you will notice what each region put in place what enabled them to survive before the oil economy came to play.So,what we are asking is let us get back where we went wrong.”

It would be recalled that a lot of reaction had trailed Federal Government’s decision on cattle colonies with the governors of Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Ekiti, Akwa Ibom, Eboyi, Abia, Enugu, Cross River and many other states making it public that they do not have lands where cattle colonies are to be established.

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The Oracle Today Wednesday March 7, 2018

BOLD n BLUNT In 2010, the whole state and the nation shook with the allegation that you personally beat up a Rev. Father. That allegation is believed to have played a major role in your losing the 2011 governorship election. Eight years after, the Catholic Church gives you a performance award in recognition of your exploits in the education sector. How does it make you feel?

I thank the Catholic Church for recognizing the reforms we brought to bear in Education. When we brought the idea of handing schools back to the missions so as to increase the standard of education, remove cultism from our schools, people thought it was impossible. But, the most important thing is that we did it securing the buy-in of every stakeholder--the NUT, the people themselves and the missions. There were series of concentric meetings and there was agreement. There were night meetings, moving here and there and having meetings.

People may forget, but every programme we carried out while we were in government, we never pushed them down the throat of the people. We brought them to the people and then we got them implemented.

In a democracy, things take time. That was why it took us time to achieve that goal. We handed schools back to the missions and the government took up the payment of salaries of the affected teachers in the 44 schools we gave back to the missions for two years. Not only taking up the payment of their salaries for the first two years, we also instituted by law a special grant to the schools to enable them go back into being the first class schools they were known for before the military took over the schools.

Let us look at the issue of the Judges you took up recently. You had a dinner with journalists where you called on the governor of Imo State to pay the Judges of the state their 16-month accumulated salary arrears.

You sounded so serious that you said you would go naked to protest if the governor did not pay at the end of March. We have read in the newspapers that the governor has paid Judges 6-month salaries. What is the situation now?

Thank you for that question. Before I came out with that threat, I considered several things. One is that I never played politics with it. Judges are in a profession where they cannot speak for themselves. It is unthinkable that Judges could not be paid their salaries for 16 months – one year and four months. It is abominable and unthinkable, and it had never happened before in the Federal Republic of Nigeria or anywhere in West Africa. Judges are the people in the Temple of Justice and they decide our fate. They must be shielded from hunger and corruption and should not be owed the component of their salary. I, then, took up the challenge – because as the former governor that handed over to the Okorocha government, I owe it as a duty to speak for the downtrodden and the voiceless--to tell Imo people the truth and the challenges we have in this state. I did my homework and I have documents to show that they are being owed. I cross-checked it over and over.

I even interacted with some of the Judges and I knew they were dying in silence. I had no alternative than to come out with that threat. And I really meant that I could go naked on Wetheral Road to make sure that the Judges were paid. As the beginning for truth and reconciliation in this state, people must tell the truth. And when I opened the social media website for the protest, over 12,000 people registered to join. It may surprise you that our citizens from the USA and Britain demonstrated their willingness to join in the protest by registering.

I petitioned the Presidency. I sent a letter to the Chief Justice of the Federation, acknowledged letters. I sent a letter to the Governor Okorocha only for me to read in the newspapers the following day that I should be taken to the psychiatric hospital, because I spoke truth to power. I took it as one of the prices we must pay. I have been paying such prices, but I stood my ground and continued to arrange for the protest, and it could have been the mother of all demonstrations in the country. Fortunately,

Why I want to be governor again, by Ikedi Ohakim

Former governor, Chief Ikedi Ohakim recently declared his intention to return to the Imo State Government House in 2019 ‘to finish his second term’. He also courted controversy when he accused Governor Rochas Okorocha of owing Judges in Imo State 16 months in salary arrears and threatened to mobilise the people, even go naked, to protest against the ill-treatment meted out to the Judges. Although Governor Okorocha quickly paid six of the 16-month salary arrears to the Judges a few days after his government denied it was owing judges, Dr Ohakim, in this interview with COLLINS UGHALAA in Owerri, assures Imo people of better deal should they elect him to finish his second term as governor, which was truncated by Governor Okorocha’s ‘regrettable’ election.

• Ikedi Ohakim Governor Okorocha on Monday, February 12 hurriedly paid the Judges but demanded that I must know about it. They were paid 6 months out of the 16 months they were being owed. I thank him for that. But Imo people will now note that I am not the person to be taken to the psychiatric hospital. 10

months is still outstanding and by the end of February, 11 months would be outstanding.

And I want to demand that the governor pay the Judges their complete entitlement. On February 12, a prominent retired Imo Judge died. He died without adequate medicare and without receiving his outstanding pen-

‘Another thing few people are afraid of is that I harbour hate or that I am coming to loot the treasury. But, if I did not loot before, I don’t think I will loot now. I left N26.6bn in interest yielding account, which I handed over to Governor Okorocha. I did not loot the money. I was governor for four years and I did not allocate any land to myself and did not confiscate anybody’s land. I did not revoke anybody’s C of O. And there will be nothing left to loot after Okorocha. If a government cannot pay salary, it means that that government has gone bankrupt. In a bankrupt situation where there will be no land left, no money left but a debt overhang of N200bn, including judgment debts, which is about N9bn, anybody talking about Ohakim coming to loot is afraid of his shadows’

sion and gratuity.

You could recall that in my threat to go on protest, I mentioned that the immediate past Judge of the Court of Appeal died without his entitlement and proper medicare. You could also recall that when we took over in Imo State, we had 30 Judges and 52 magistrates, and the 52 magistrates did not own any car as at 2007. The first thing we did was to buy cars for them. Judges in Imo had cars but none of them had a car that was less than 10 years old when we arrived, and we made sure we bought new cars for them.

Our survey also showed that most of them did not have generators in their homes.

Judges must work at night to write judgments, and if you are creating an environment where you expect investors to come in, the dispensation of justice must be done as quickly as possible. We had interactions with the Judges and bought 25KVA generators for each of the Judges and continued to supply them diesel. We increased their remuneration and those of the magistrates.

In fact, we flew a Judge abroad for medicare.

We did everything, sent them on courses and paid. We started equipping their library. It was then that we tarred all the internal roads at the Owerri High Court. We did enough for the Judiciary in our reforms. We came as a reformist government.

People might forget and begin to ask, what did Ohakim do? But there are silent things that a government is supposed to do – things that are not brick and mortar that are supposed to be 70% or even 80% of an administration. But the issue is the Judges.

Not only the Judges, pensioners and workers are being owed, and in the hierarchy of human needs, you must, to begin with, eat by means of your wages, and you must have shelter, medicare and security. These are the basic needs of every human being and they are the things that every government should achieve. Any government that neglects these and begins to think that brick and mortar, town-halls or buildings that have nothing in them are the requirements of that society, that government has failed.

Still on the dinner with journalists. On that day, you threw your hat in the ring by declaring to run for governorship in Imo State in next year’s general election. It is causing ripples here and there as some people think that you should by now be a statesman and leave the position of the governor for others. What assurances are you giving to the people of Imo State that you will not disappoint them but will perform if they elect you again come 2019?

Before I go into the specifics, I think that the question everyone in Imo State should be asking is, what would be the job of the next governor of Imo State in 2019? The job requires a statesman, which you have identified me as one. The job that Okorocha will leave in Imo State will require a man with the learning curve experience. It would take a man with the institutional memory. For example, in 2019 no civil servant in Imo State

11

The Oracle Today Wednesday March 7, 2018

Bold n’ Blunt

• Chief Ikedi Ohakim

‘In 2010, we started the implementation of our Masterplan by starting the flyovers. For seven years, those flyovers have not been completed. What we see today is that columns are being erected because they are collapsing. When I raised alarm over the flyovers, some people thought that I was talking nonsense. I know the nitty-gritty, the nuts and bolts of Imo State. We require somebody with institutional memory like me to govern Imo State’ would remember any records. If you remember that management cadre in the civil service begins from level 13, those who were in government when we had Due Process in governance will be retired by 2019. Nobody would know where the records were in 2019.

I know what I left. I did the handover note.

I, Ikedi Ohakim, I am statesman enough and I have records to be able to know whom I would invite from here and there to bring back the civil service and law and order, to bring back Due Process and to renegotiate all the shenanigans going on in the state today.

Another thing few people are afraid of is that I harbour hate or that I am coming to loot the treasury. But, if I did not loot before, I don’t think I will loot now. I left N26.6bn in interest yielding account, which I handed over to Governor Okorocha. I did not loot the money. I was governor for four years and I did not allocate any land to myself and did not confiscate anybody’s land. I did not revoke anybody’s C of O. And there will be nothing left to loot after Okorocha. If a government cannot pay salary, it means that that government has gone bankrupt.

In a bankrupt situation where there will be no land left, no money left but a debt overhang of N200bn, including judgment debts, which is about N9bn, anybody talking about Ohakim coming to loot is afraid of his shadows.

I am the only person that can recover – without disrupting governance set up a committee, go home and pick up those who had left, with institutional memory. I know my signature. Anything anybody brings up and says that I signed it, I would know what I signed and what I did not sign. I will know how to recover the assets of this state, giving everybody chance. I do not harbour hate and I do not believe in vendetta. I have no scores to settle with anybody. You know I enjoy the learning curve experience and I do not need to learn the ropes of governance any longer. It will take a new person two years

or three minimum to begin to learn how to govern. The greatest problem we have at the national level was a situation where a government came, the confusion they met, before they could grasp the governance two years had gone.

I promise Imo people that I will grow the Imo IGR beyond PAYE. I will recreate the middle class, which is the engine of growth.

I will restore the participation of our state in counterpart-funded programmes, both by international agencies and the Federal Government. Today, Imo State has lost out in all counterpart-funded projects. The basic reason for the state’s exit is because those development programmes require due process, and this government says it doesn’t believe in due process. I will bring back due process into governance. In the area of tourism, I am going to resuscitate most of our policy programmes and we will reform it. Tourism strives on clean environment. We will bring back the sanitary inspectors which we had. In the area of water, we are going to quickly restore the 1,950 water schemes that have gone comatose.

When some people ask, what did Ikedi Ohakim achieve, I tell them that we achieved a lot in terms of water infrastructure. There is no community we did not give water. Today, there is no water in Imo State, and water they say, is life. So, we are going to do a lot.

We will change the character of the resource base of our state. We will not depend solely Federal Allocation to develop our state. We will bring back the middle class and private investors. We will set up industries. We had laid down the foundation and did feasibility reports. We only need to dust and revive them. We are going to come out with the government of the people by the people and for the people. Many people were young when we came in 2007. We set up a 164-member committee, which we segmented into education, agriculture and so on. The committee was headed by the late Justice

Oputa and they came out with a document, the strategic pathway of what Imo people wanted, which we dovetailed into our 14-Point Agenda and we started the foundation of what Imo people wanted. If we had built on that, Imo State would have been ranked not more than number 5 in terms of economic growth in the whole federation.

But what did we get?

In 2010, we started the implementation of our Masterplan by starting the flyovers.

For seven years, those flyovers have not been completed. What we see today is that columns are being erected because they are collapsing. When I raised alarm over the flyovers, some people thought that I was talking nonsense. I know the nitty-gritty, the nuts and bolts of Imo State. We require somebody with institutional memory like me to govern Imo State. It is a sacrifice I am prepared to make. All the pressures I have been getting are from those who know what we are going through in the state. Afew days ago, I read a press release from the government where they were telling me to list my achievements and I laughed. It then means that something is wrong somewhere, if someone from the government says that Ohakim should list his achievements. I had a 300-page handover note where my income and achievements were tabled. We had a brief of about 50 pages, and somebody is sitting down somewhere and asking me to list my achievements, when the documents are with him.

The total income of my government for four years was not more than N240b.

Okorocha’s administration has got N1.3trl. I have all the documents. If I was opportune to have 30% of that, Imo State would have been heaven, but Okorocha got N1.3trl with a debt overhang of N200bn. It is a record, and I cannot see where we have actually deployed that money. Go to Ngor-Okpala for example, my administration linked NgorOkpala with their brothers in Etche Rivers State, and that road is 11 kilometers of solid road, and there is no pothole on that road today. If you go to Ogboko, we did a road in the governor’s village with a spur to his house. That road has no pothole, and somebody would be in Ogboko and ask me what I achieved. The Governor’s Office where he is sitting was designed and constructed by me.

And somebody would sit down in that office and ask me, what is Ohakim’s achievement?

From Isiekenesi to Osina, 32 kilometers with a spur, with six bridges, constructed by Nigercat, a quoted company in the Nigerian

Stock Exchange. Somebody would ply that road today and ask me, Ohakim, what did you achieve?

We put smile on the faces of the people and money was circulating. We had the middle class, we had contractors from the 305 wards, known contractors with addresses and they were doing the jobs. I did not do any job, I did not award a single contract to myself and no single contract failed, like we had JPROSS. No contractor ran away with one kobo. We never paid any company without Advance Payment Guarantee or without Performance Bond. But you can see companies that were paid money under this administration even before they were incorporated.

Yes, I forgot something in Government House. We have to begin to implement the Masterplan – Owerri Masterplan, Orlu Masterplan and Okigwe Masterplan. These are pending issues. We redesigned the Orlu Masterplan and Okigwe Masterplan. The Owerri Masterplan was done by Finger Hurt and Partners. It was designed to be a twin city and we started the first phase of the development by moving government to the new city. And if we had finished the Inner-Ring Road, Outer-Ring Road and the Outer-Outer Ring Road and moved the government house to the New Owerri, anybody coming to the Government House through the airport wouldn’t need to come to the city. Anyone coming from Onitsha also would not come into the city. Anybody coming from Enugu would not enter the city.

Owerri would have been de-congested and become the best transport zoned city in the whole federation, with trees and grasses planted everywhere. Go to Calabar and see, just a snippet of what a city looks like.

In terms of salary payment, workers salary will not be part of the negotiation. By 25th of every month civil servants will get their salary. There will be training and manpower development for the workers. They are entitled to their wages. We will put the state back to rail. That is what I am coming to do.

We will deploy our youths and make them the fulcrum of our development. We will make investment in agriculture to the extent that we will implement our programmes like Okpara did. Our commerce and industrialization programme, which we had started from Owerri West will be replicated in all the 27 local governments. And my assurance to Imo people is that we are going to create 600,000 jobs. I repeat, we are going to create 600,000 jobs. I am not saying I am going to offer, but that we are going to create.

In education, we will continue with our reforms. The balance of the schools that have not been handed over to their owners will be handed over to their owners. We will bring back rural development and rural roads will be motorable again. We will banish potholes on our roads. Our maintenance structure and culture will come back. We will maintain the things we have.

But most importantly, we will bring back law and order. We will bring back due process. We will renegotiate all the debts. All the contractors that are being owed have nothing to fear. They will be in our first line consideration. We will obey all court judgments.

Above all, we will also make sure we bring back equity in our governance. Luckily, I am the only person who can put my hands on the bible and tell you that I will not do more than one tenure. It is practically impossible in our laws for me to go more than four years.

And four years is very short, before you close your eyes and open it four years is gone.

A governor is not a contractor. A governor is a man that maintains law and order, peace in the communities, reforms, developments, making sure that contracts are executed the way they were designed, and that no contract fails. There are over 250 cases against the government. We will sit down with those people and renegotiate. And the international community and investors will believe in us, because our records are clean. I ran a government that was not corrupt and no contract failed. In our contracts, we will make sure that local contractors are considered first.

We will make sure that money circulates again by paying contractors and civil servants and keeping to all government contractual agreements.

12

The Oracle Today Wednesday March 7, 2018

Feature

Cattle colony is madness, by Lekan-Ojo Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, Zaki Ahmed, said cultism is the biggest challenge confronting security agencies in Rivers State. How can cultism be curtailed?

The Commissioner of Police is right. The explosion of cultism can be traced to the people’s lack of confidence in their government. People are now resorting to selfhelp. In any country in the world, self-help will never give rise to positivism; self-help can only lead to negativism and that is what we now have in our society. We should be concerned with the cause of cultism.

So, in your estimation, what is the cause of cultism?

Poverty is the main cause of cultism. And the second cause of cultism is the role of politicians seeking elective political offices.

A young man that has a job that occupies his time from 8 am to 5 pm, on weekdays, will not have time for cultism. He will be busy at his place of work most of the day and on getting home he will be more interested in getting some rest to enable him wake up strong and healthy to go to work the next day.

Cultists are very vulnerable in the hands of politicians. They are the first people to be recruited by politicians before elections. And they are also the first set of people to be offloaded or dispensed with by the same politicians after the elections. Politicians in the pre-election period provide these boys with arms and ammunition, but find it difficult to retrieve the arms after the elections. And since these politicians can’t accommodate these cultists after their electoral victories, these boys turn around to use these weapons for criminal purposes. Cultism leads to kidnapping and other violent crimes in the society, including armed robbery. x So, what is the solution to cultism?

Government needs to carry out a comprehensive re-orientation and re-indoctrination of these boys. Unfortunately, the National Orientation Agency (NOA), which is supposed to lead this campaign, is in a state of comatose. Nigerians should now be bothered with providing solution to the menace of cultism.

Is amnesty a solution to cultism?

Amnesty is a short-term measure. Government cannot sustain the payment of salaries to cultists. It is not proper to continue to pay a group of people for doing nothing; no government can defend a policy of paying people who contribute nothing to the growth and development of the society. An amnesty programme should be supported by a skill and vocational acquisition programme where repentant cultists will be trained in underwater pipeline welding; electrical-electronics; plumbing; vulcanizing; panel-beating; mechanics, among other vocations so that they can be useful to themselves and the families.

Government should partner with private businesses, corporate bodies and multinational companies to give them employment. The best form of amnesty is to prepare cultists for gainful employment.

But the activities of cultists are scaring away investors from the state?

That is why the state government, the security agencies, private investors, corporate bodies and the multinationals should strike a synergy in combating cultism. The state governments should not be the only institution finding solutions to cultism. Amnesty that relies solely on the payment of monthly stipend is just a momentary solution to the problem.

What about long-term of imprisonment and death sentence recently pronounced by some state governments?

Jackson Lekan-Ojo is a security expert and fellow of the International Institute of Professional Securities (FIIPS); Certified Golden Member of the International Securities Association, Switzerland. National Coordinator of Yoruba Youth Alliance (YYA), he spoke to NATH OMAME, Jr. on the rise of cultism in Rivers State, cause and solution thereto and former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s letter to President Mohammadu Buhari not to seek re-election, among others. Excerpts: and communication gadgets. We need to look deeply into this angle. Why were nomadic herdsmen peaceful all along only to turn violent in the past 10 years.

I grew up with some of these nomadic herdsmen and I feel their ranks have been infiltrated by some Boko Haram insurgents.

We need to hold a national security summit comprising the military, Police, intelligence and security experts operating in the private sector to take a holistic approach at the troubling violence that has suddenly embroiled the activities of the herdsmen Has President Buhari done well so far?

In some areas he has done well. In the fight against corruption he has performed above average, but there is still room for improvement. In the area of the economy, Buhari has not done well. So, he has a lot of work to do to improve the economy. President Buhari needs to focus on the area of insecurity. No one will invest in an environment that is not secure. There should be a security and economic summit. Insecurity adversely affects religion, politics and economy. Buhari’s government will be better appreciated if he can curtain the spate of insecurity in the country.

Do you think President Buhari is being properly advised by his aides?

President Buhari’s aides are not telling him the truth. The aides that make up the institution called the presidency are not being fair to Buhari. His aides have disappointed him. His aides deceive him a lot. They are the ones urging him to seek a second term, yet, most of his aides cannot win their wards in an elective political contest.

• ONICCIMA President, Mr Don Ebubeogu

Sending cultists to jail will only harden them.

Long jail terms will make them become more deadly and forceful in their criminal ways. If you prescribe death sentence, how many cultists will you kill? How many of these cultists do you know that you want to kill? The best approach is to give them fresh orientation about life and re-orientate them.

What are your views on the Cattle Colony proposed by the federal government?

I think cattle colony is madness. And I sympathise with the Minister of Agriculture, Chief Audu Ogbeh. With all due respect, let Chief Ogbeh first of all volunteer his family land in his village to demonstrate how it would work. Going by historical antecedents, cattle colony would not work. Cattle ranch makes more sense to me. Anyone who wants a cattle ranch can approach the state government which will then reach out to the local government chairmen, or relevant land officials in the state to contact those who inherited lands from their families to discuss the modalities for the leasing of such lands. And payment must be made to those who own the land.

I believe in cattle ranching and in this case not only the Fulanis will be on those lands.

I am aware cattle-ranching operates in Europe and other countries. Cattle ranching

is practiced in Holland. Nomadic herdsmen value their cattle because it is their only source of income. The Nigerian government has not gotten it right. I grew up with the children of these nomadic herdsmen in the early ‘60’s in my village at Emesi Ille, in Osun State. I attended secondary school with some of their children. They were not violent, then. So, why are they violent now?

My suspicion is that some of the Boko Haram insurgents that were displaced from Sambisa Forest by the military may have infiltrated the ranks of the nomadic herdsmen. Could some of these Boko Haram fighters have killed some of the herdsmen and taken over their cows, and now perpetrating mayhem in the guise of tending their cows? Now, all these years, there were no problems between the indigenes and the herdsmen. So, why the sudden hatred and intolerance being exhibited by these herdsmen?

This other supposition sounds really terrifying?

I am suggesting that the federal government should organise a security summit.

When the military decimated Sambisa Forest and recaptured the local governments that were hitherto controlled by the Boko Haram insurgents, some of them fled. Some of them could have fled with their weapons

Who are those running the country as it is?

Buhari is a good man, but a cabal made up of ministers, special advisers, some governors, among others is running the institution referred to as the presidency.

There have been torrents of cross-carpeting from the PDP to the APC, and from the APC to the PDP. Do you foresee the emergency of another formidable political party before the 2019 general elections?

Yes, of course! A positive Third Force, not Obasanjo’s Third Force will emerge before 2019. And Members of the National Assembly and former governors will constitute 95 per cent of the leadership of that Third Force. These politicians have formidable electoral value and political goodwill.

Will the Third Force coalesce into a political party?

Oh, Yes, it will! Politicians will defect from PDP to APC; politicians will decamp from APC to PDP and from wherever they are move en masse to the positive Third Force.

As a chieftain of the APC, I can tell you that a progressive Third Force will emerge.

Will the Third Force give a direction about who becomes the next president in 2019?

Yes, mark my words!

The Oracle Today

13

Wednesday March 7, 2018

NEWS Extra

Go beyond social media activisms to liberate Imo – Ohakim to youths

By COLLINS UGHALAA

F

ORMER Governor of Imo State, Dr Ikedi Ohakim, has called on the people of Imo State to rise up to the task ahead, saying that the job expected of them in 2019 requires all hands to be on deck. ]In a statement, Monday, the former Governor who is running for a second term in office in 2019 also said that though God has abandoned the state, it requires the truth to free the state and return it to God’s hands.

“Clearly, God had turned His back on us leaving us to our peril. But the truth shall always set our people free, and it is in your hands my dear brothers and sisters to help guide our people and state back to the Hands of God”, he said.

Ohakim added: “We can no longer allow our people to erroneously believe in the lies of 2011. It is our duty. We who

know the truth should liberate our people from the bondage of lies which even God Himself is not happy about, as is evident with the present condition of things in our dear state”.

He urged the youths to go beyond Facebook activism and help open the eyes of the people to the truth everywhere.

He said: “It goes beyond coming on Facebook to make comments of support and encouragement. The task ahead requires boots on the ground.

It goes beyond typing on the keypad of your phones or laptops. It requires you to take the gospel to the people online and most importantly offline.

“Open the eyes of our people who are still hoodwinked with lies by giving them facts.

Let our people know the truth everywhere you go. It could be in the church, it could be at the market place, it could be at your joints or recreation areas.”

• Ebonyi State Governor, Chief David Umahi and wife, Chief Mrs Rachel Umahi, at a grand civic reception organized for them by the Ikwo clan at the Ikwonoyo stadium which also witnessed the governor’s installation with the chieftaincy title of Okwooha 1 of Ikwo clan in Ebonyi Central Senatorial zone of the state.

Don’t envy my wealth – Okorocha Herders/farmers clash: Ebonyi bans night grazing E G

By COLLINS UGHALAA

overnor Rochas Okorocha has warned the people of Imo State not to envy his wealth, saying that doing so might mean envying God who created him.

In a press statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Sam Onwuemeodo, Monday, OKorocha said: “Let me make a confession.

Giving has not made me poor. Giving has rather made me rich. So I stand bold to say today that I am a wealthy man. And let no one envy me because you may be envying the God that created me. The more I give, the more I get and no one can stop me from giving. And I have transferred the spirit of giving to my children. First, to my wife who has never stopped building houses for indigent widows and has built over 270 houses to that effect”.

The Governor’s warning came

as the Rochas Foundation during the weekend celebrated its twenty (20) years of existence with its founder, Governor Rochas Okorocha, saying that giving, especially to the less-privileged ones, has made him rich instead of making him poor.

Governor Okorocha also said: “But today, crazy as I am, in my ideas and thoughts I have extended Rochas Foundation to Africa.

I’m in a hurry because I will not live in this world forever. I could be in pain when I must have passed through this world and still having a lot of children of Africa not educated because opportunity is not provided for them. I will not sleep well neither will I depart this world until every child in Africa finds a classroom to go into.

He noted that “The biggest problem of Africa is not hunger, the biggest problem of Africa is illiteracy. So, join me today as I launch Rochas Foundation vision 2050 to

take 1 million African children especially those who have no food to eat and give them education. If it could be done in 2030, we could have made an attempt in solving Africa’s biggest problem.”

A

ssociation of Ebonyi indigenes in China has adopted Governor David Umahi as its preferred candidate in the forthcoming 2019 General Election in the state.

Chairman of the Association, Mr Godwin Ude-Umanta, who stated this during a press conference at Monabliss Hotels and Suites, Abakaliki, the state capital, noted that the continuity of the Governor in office for another 4 years would enable him (Umahi) to carry on with his good governance, transfor-

mation and total turnaround of the infrastructural development of the state.

“After all what we have seen these few days that we have been around, Association of Ebonyi Indigenes in the PRC hereby endorse and adopt Governor David Nweze Umahi as our governorship candidate come 2019 elections to carry on with his good governance, transformation and total turnaround of infrastructure in the entire state” the statement partly read.

“It is also heart-warming to note that Ebonyi State has been greatly transformed in various

bonyi state government has banned movement of cattle at nights across the state by Fulani Herdsmen.

Okopoly sacks librarian, appoints new deputy Rector

G

overning Council of Federal Polytechnic Oko led

by Chief Lasbry Amadi has suspended the Chief Librarian of the institution, Dr. Fredrick Obodoeze, for his inability to manage the affairs of the institutions ultra-modern library.

The suspension was decided at the plenary session of the council held recently on Oko campus.

The Council at the plenary also appointed a new Deputy

2019: Ebonyi indigenes abroad adopt Umahi for second term

By CHINEDU NWAFOR

By CHINEDU NWAFOR

facets by the Governor in so short a time to the admiration of all including his ardent critics.

“The psychological effect of this positive development is far reaching, so much so that it has instilled an irrepressible sense of pride in most of us in the Diaspora who hitherto were taunted by our friends from other states, who saw nothing good about Ebonyi but guinea worm, poverty and underdevelopment.

The group later visited some orphanages in Abakaliki where they made donations of various items including food, industrial products among others.

Rector for the Polytechnic, in the person of Dr. Izuchukwu Onu following the expiration of the tenure of his predecessor, Mr Ejike Nwabuona.

Handing down the council’s resolution on the matter, the chairman on behalf of the council warned other erring staff of the institution to sit up and take their duties seriously in order to justify their pay.

He explained that academic activities on campus especially the library remained a very key aspect of the system in the area of building and molding quality students.

Amadi further reiterated the resolve of the council to ensure delivery of academic excellence in the institution.

“We can no longer tolerate some anomalies in the Polytechnic’s Library because that section is a very important arm of the Institution. We cannot watch the standard go down when we were appointed to improve standard of education. This disciplinary measure should serve as a deterrent to other academic and non-teaching staff who may think that this place is a banana republic.

Discipline is our watch word and we will not compromise it.”

Onu before his appointment was a chief lecturer in the department of Urban and Regional Planning.

The ban followed a report that herdsmen move with their cattle at night, a development that has led to road accidents.

Worried by the development, Governor Umahi ordered that such movements be banned immediately to forestall the accidents and prevent the security threats it poses.

In a statement signed by Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Internal Security, Dr. Kenneth Ugbala, all herdsmen in the state were asked to abide by the ban.

The government noted that it has alerted security agents of such movements and urged the people of the state to take note of the ban and reports any further movements of cattle at nights to the security agents.

It therefore warned that any herdsman who disobey the ban, will be dealt with accordingly, adding that it has set up committee across the wards and local government areas of the state to monitor such night cattle movements.

14

The Oracle Today Wednesday March 7, 2018

NEWS

Tributes for Biafra hero, Col. Achuzia Continued from Pg 2

from being annihilated. The statement by IPOB read in part: “With deep sense of loss and sorrow the entire family and leadership of IPOB join the immediate family members, relatives and Biafrans both home and abroad to mourn the sudden demise of our icon, hero and great Biafran warrior of our time Chief (Col.) Joe Achuzia.

“Hannibal and Air Raid as he was fondly called till his death, was an extraordinary and exceptional charismatic personality and finest battle-field commander of towering repute.

“He and his war-time colleague Timothy Onwuatuegwu most represented the spirit of bravery and patriotism, which characterised the military campaign that prevented the annihilation of the Biafran race.

“He led the gallant Biafran soldiers who inflicted heavy defeat on the enemy at Abagana; he masterminded the recapture of Owerri, the then capital of Biafra from a better equipped British backed, Russian armed, Nigerian Army.

“From his heroics in the famous Abagana sector victory over Murtala Mohammed to his recapture of Owerri, Col. Achuzia left an indelible

•

Players of Bendel Insurance of Benin at the re-branding of the team on Tuesday on Benin City

mark that would be acknowledged by every generation of Biafrans until the end of time. He is our icon and all time hero.

“Chief (Col.) Joe Achuzia marched his footsteps on the hallowed soil of Biafra during his youthful days for

the liberation and betterment of Biafra. He left a legacy this generation will forever be grateful to him for. We pledge to peacefully continue from where he left off until Biafra is fully restored the same way he restored our dignity in the battle-

field against all the odds.

“Our hero Achuzia came, saw, fought and overcame our enemies.

We his children IPOB family members worldwide, owe it to him and posterity to continue this great fight he fought for all his life until

tured in the on-going process.

Among those who registered their frustrations to our Correspondent were individuals who had just attained 18, those who relocated to the State and needed to revalidate their cards as well as citizens who had lost their voter’s cards or had them mutilated.

The Oracle Today investigation showed that INEC officials were absent at virtually all the original registration points and polling stations visited, which had hitherto served as registration points in the State.

At each visit, citizens were seen clustering around those centres in anticipation of possible arrival of INEC officials to attend to them.

And to make matters worse, majority of the populace lacked information about INEC’s operation as regards the on-going process, leading to a situation reminiscent of the type popular singer Omawumi sang about in her ‘If You Ask Me, Na Who I Go Ask hit, as irritated citizens were seen asking one another the whereabouts of INEC personnel or their present operational centres in Enugu.

The Oracle Today visited The Uwani Cheshire Home; Nnaji Park; Enugu South Local Government Headquarters; Government technical College, in Enugu North Local Government Area, among others, where citizens were seen looking confused and frustrated, after searching for INEC registration centres, to no avail.

While residents around Nnaji Park informed said officials had stopped coming to that centre since January this year, those at the Cheshire Home, mostly physically challenged individuals, said they had not seen them at all since the exercise started, meaning that except something is done before the exercise winds off, many of the inmates at the centre, their caretakers as well as other in the neighbourhood, may end up being disenfranchised during the 2019 election At Enugu East Local Government Area, the situation was a bit different, as our Correspondent met INEC

officials on duty at the council secretariat as well as Amorji Ward.

But the issue of inadequate deployment of staff and materials was still.

At both centres, there was huge number of people but only one Data Capture Machine (DCM) and three personnel to attend to the multitude.

Council Chairman/Ward Councillors provide logistics, feeding: It was gathered that the Executive Chairman of Enugu East Local Government Area (EELGA) Hon. Alex Okezie Ugwu, in conjunction with Councillors in the twelve wards in the local government, agreed to provide generating set, patrol, feeding and other tips to encourage INEC officials to show commitment to duty.

According to reports, INEC personnel who were deployed to carry out CVR in the area had complained about sundry issues including lack of power in their machines and lack of mobility among others, which the Chairman and his Councillors agreed to provide.

At Amorji Ward, The Oracle Today actually witnessed how the Councillor, Nzeribe Mbada Gerald was running around to fix generating set for the exercise to commence.

He later confirmed to that they chose to provide those logistics after INEC personnel deployed to the local government complained of lack of power in their machines.

According to Nzeribe, who expressed joy at the number of citizens that trouped out to get captured in the exercise, “They initially complained about lack of power in their data capture machines, which we promptly tackled by providing generating set for them. We also make them comfortable in various other means. You can see the number of people that came out for the exercise; that is how people have been trouping out to get registered. So, we would have to go to INEC to request for more days” Stressed the Chairman, Hon. Ugwu: “We are doing everything to ensure that INEC officers do not

have any reason not to carry out effective registration of eligible voters in our area. We provide generating sets and fuel them to ensure there is steady power supply to their machines. We also feed them and we are ready to do more to make them happy. And fortunately, they have been cooperating nicely”.

Hon. Ugwu stated that the INEC personnel are offering four days registration per ward in his local government, adding that they usually open at 9: am and close by 5: pm daily. But he corroborated the position of his Councillor that four days per ward was inadequate.

“The number of personnel and materials that INEC deployed to us for the exercise are grossly inadequate, and we all know that time is running out. So, I am calling on INEC to designate all secondary schools and all polling centres for the exercise, in order for them to record a comprehensive result,” he said.

Meanwhile, efforts to get the views of the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Enugu State were unsuccessful as he was said to be away in Abuja on official function.

None of his subordinates was willing to speak to our reporter as they insisted that the REC was the only person that could give exhaustive explanation of any issue that concerns the on-going CVR or any matter that concerns INEC in Enugu State.

In Awka, fights broke out at some registration points, where INEC staff were accused of accepting money to facilitate registration for those willing to pay. The fees were between N500 and N1, ooo. “Those who wanted to return to work, or could not wait had to pay,” some of those who tried to register told The Oracle Today.

“First the INEC staff would arrive so late, and make the process difficult for those waiting. It was later that we learnt that they were doing it so that they could extort money from those who wanted to register.”

The INEC office in Awka said it was investigating the allegations.

PVC: More hurdles for voters...

Continued from pg. 2

people that registered were asked to come back the next day because their machine was not capturing.

But later, they were able capture as many as they could,” he said, an indication that after initial hitches, the registration was now sailing smoothly in the area.

In the same vein, President-General of Umuaku Youth in Umunneochi local government area, Frank Obinna, said INEC has scheduled to conduct the registration exercise in Umuaku on Wednesday, February 28.

He said the people were taken unawares by their first visit, leading to poor turnout.

“INEC has promised to be in Umuaku tomorrow (Wednesday, February 28, 2018). We have sensitized and mobilized our people, hoping that they will be there tomorrow,” Obinna said in an interview Tuesday morning.

Onyike Felix Chimaobi, while speaking with The Oracle Today, stressed the need for the state government and political leaders to show greater interest and commitment to getting the people to register and equally assist INEC to overcome some of the logistics problems they were experiencing.

“Asking everybody to come out and register through the radio is not enough. I think our leaders should show greater interest in how the actual registration was going on. A lot of people who feel frustrated may not come back to register,” the electrician said.

He suggested that INEC staff should undergo retraining to enable them to be courteous to the public while more hands (may be ad-hoc staff) and machines should be provided for them for a smooth registration exercise,” he added.

In Enugu State, checks by The Oracle Today indicated poor outing by INEC in the State as there were lamentations across the State capital Enugu, from eligible voters who had been eager to get themselves cap-

the liberation of Biafraland, from the vicious grip of the oppressors, is irreversibly accomplished to his memory and glory of God”.

It added that Achuzia would be remembered by history as one of the finest and bravest soldiers the world has ever seen, adding that though his exploits were in a quickly forgotten war in black Africa, the magnitude of his accomplishments put in context ranks among the greatest military feats of the modern era.

Among those who have also paid glowing tributes to the late Achuzia are the Ogirisi Igbo, Chief Rommy Ezeonwuka, and Pastor Andy Okoji, Area Administrator (Area 1) of the Brotherhood of the Cross and Star, where the late Col. worshipped.

Ezeonwuka said Achuzia not only participated actively in the defence of Biafrans during the Civil War but also took active part in the burial of war heroes at the inception of Governor Willie Obiano’s administration.

According to Ezeonwuka, who is a member of Board of Trustees of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, “The good news about his death, however, is that he had attained salvation for eternal life through his active participation in the burial of the war heroes, which was instrumental to the adequate security of lives and property which Ndi Anambra are enjoying today because it was after that burial ceremony that the spirits of those dead war heroes rested and stopped instigating insecurity among the living.”

“There is no cause to mourn as “Colonel Achuzia will be reincarnated and he will continue where he stopped or where the Almighty Father will reassign him,” Pastor Okonji said. According to him, the late Biafran war lord was baptised into the Brotherhood of the Cross and Star before his demise.

Hon. Arinze Awogu, the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Willie Obiano on Political Matters, recalled that he had personally paid a courtesy call on Achuzia late last year at his country home in Asaba, Delta state where Achuzia expressed appreciation on behalf of the Biafran war veterans to Obiano for fulfilling the duty the living owes the dead, by taking the bold step on January 12, 2015 to bury those that died during the Biafran/Nigerian Civil War. Awogu further quoted Achuzia as saying: “Few months into the life of Obiano’s administration, he summoned Col. Ben Gbulie, Col. Emma Nwobosi, Col. E. M. Udeaja, myself and others and asked us to join in the drawing of programmes for the formal burial ceremony of dead Biafran war heroes Christened: ‘Ozoemezina’ and I laughed and asked Obiano ‘can you stand the heat from the Federal Government?’

And he bluntly told us ‘if burying those that died during Biafran War will take me to jail, I’m ready.’”

He noted that Achuzia lamented that the Nigerian authorities had continued to frustrate and undermine the Igbo/Biafra existentialism by upturning nearly every date that matters to Ndigbo. “The civil war ended on 15 January and we planned to be marking every 15 January but the Nigerian authorities hijacked it by making 15 January Armed Forces Remembrance Day. When we chose

Continued on Pg 41

The Oracle Today

15

Wednesday March 7, 2018

NEWS Extra

Lawmakers inspect Asaba Int’l Airport

By JONATHAN AWANYAI, Asaba

T

HE Delta State House of Assembly Committee on Works led by its Chairman, Hon. Chief Evance Ochuko Ivwurie has expressed gratitude to the State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa for re-awarding the Asaba International Airport project to Setraco Nigeria Limited.

Speaking to newsmen during the inspection tour, Ivwurie said the visit was to ascertain the level of work done at the site, even as he explained that it was the constitutional responsibility of the House to exercise oversight functions on the Asaba International Airport project and other infrastructural developmental projects across the state.

“This inspection is to ascertain the level of work done so far on the Airport by the new contractor and we have no modicum of doubt that the Airport will be completed, delivered and opened for 24 hours uninterrupted flight operations before the end of April 2018 which the

contractor has assured the Committee.”

Hon. Ivwurie said before now there was a recalcitrant and irresponsible contractor handling this project and the contractor frustrated Deltans and Nigerians using the Airport until the Delta State House of Assembly Committee on Works intervened legally and forcefully.

“The Committee is using this medium to express its heartfelt gratitude and thanks to the Delta State Governor, His Excellency Senator Dr. Arthur Ifeanyi Okowa for listening to the Delta State House of Assembly Committee on Works by re-awarding the Asaba International Airport to a world class and competent company, Setraco Nigeria Limited,” Ivwurie said.

While thanking the Commissioner for Works, Chief James Augoye with his team, the Consultant in charge of the Asaba International Airport, Olayiwola Rasheed, as well as the Special Project Director, Hon. Austin Ayomidejor for their sacrifices,

A/Ibom youths issue 30-day ultimatum to ExxonMobil

T

he Nigeria Youth Initiative Forum, a conglomeration of youths in Akwa Ibom, has issued a 30-day ultimatum to ExxonMobil over failure of the company to employ those of them from the catchment area of the oil firm.

The ultimatum contained in a letter addressed to the Chairman and Managing Director of ExxonMobil Nigeria threatened to barricade QIT road and the Mobil airstrip should the company ignore the demand.

The letter was signed by the forum chairman from Eket, Comrade Sammy Bassey and his secretary, Comrade Godwin Edwards. Other signatories to the ultimatum are the forum chairmen and secretaries from Esit Eket, Ibeno and Onna local government areas of Akwa Ibom.

The forum urged ExxonMobil to commence the immediate rebuilding of Qua Iboe Terminal (QIT) jetty and also start immediate review of ExxonMobil community relations guidelines of 2007.

It lamented that some community liaison officers (CLOs)

appointed by labour committee had yet to collect appointment letters from the contracting firms, meaning that they are not accepted, just as it called for payment of adequate compensation to some of the youths laid off by some contracting firms working for ExxonMobil.

It noted that the companies working for ExxonMobil had violated of the Akwa Ibom Oil Companies and Vessel law 2007 and the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act 2010.

They further noted that the contracting firms were breaching the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) Act 2007 and the Merchant Shipping Act 2003 and the Inland and Coastal (Cabotage) Shipping Act 2003 as well as ExxonMobil Community Labour Relations Guideline 2007.

“It is disheartening and pathetic to note that GREMOORE LTD on the instruction and directive of your Public and Government Affairs Department has blatantly and strictly refused to accommodate and integrate the indigenous contractors in the project,” the forum alleged.

By CLEM ONYEMAECHI, Yenagoa

Ogbise-Erhisere, however lamented the poor awareness among residents of the state on the operation of the Family Court.

“The Family Court is now operational. But the challenge is that a lot of people don’t know that we have such court in place. The Court is already sitting with a magistrate and a High Court Judge. But people seem not to be aware that they can seek quick justice in the family Court”, she noted.

The FIDA Chairperson assured that the association will support the State Judiciary to ensure that issues of child trafficking, kidnapping, theft and sexual violation are filed for quick dispensation of Justice.

“The advantage of the Family Court is that privacy is guaranteed,

Ivwurie encouraged them to continue to put in their best efforts until the airport is completed, delivered and put into 24

T

had Yaghi; Joseph Halby, Project Manager and other staff of the company their dedication to their duty.

• Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa (4th right); Chief Celebrant, HRM. Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom, Dr Emmanuel Sideso (3rd right), his wife Queen Patricia Sideso (2nd right); former Governor, Chief James Ibori (3rd left), Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor (2nd left); immediate past Deputy Governor, Prof. Amos Otuama (left) and others cutting the tape as part of the 10th coronation anniversary at the Kings Palace in Uvwie, Uvwie LGA. Photo: Jonathan Awanyai.

Peace, tonic for investors – Okowa

By JONATHAN AWANYAI, Asaba

D

elta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has described the peace existing in different parts of the state as a tonic for investors.

According to the Governor, “when the different kingdoms and local government areas are peaceful, I will have less need to hold security council meetings, and I can tell you that with the peace that exists in all parts of Delta State, investors from different parts of the world are doing business in our state.”

The Governor spoke weekend at the 10th coronation anniversary ceremony of HRM Dr. Emmanuel Sideso, Abe I, the Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom, Uvwie local government area of Delta State.

“Your Royal Majesty, I am happy with what you are doing for peace to be sustained in Uvwie, this area is very attractive to investors, what we need is sustained peaceful, the area is developed in terms of infrastructure and natural resources,” he said.

FIDA commends Bayelsa Govt over establishment of Family Court he International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), has expressed appreciation to the Bayelsa State government for setting up a Family Court in the state to ensure accelerated hearing on cases of child rape, violence against women and children, child trafficking and kidnapping among other ills against women and children.

Speaking in an interview with journalists in Yenagoa, Chairperson of FIDA in the state, Barr.

Dose Sheila Ogbise-Erhisere, said the establishment of the Family Court will accelerate prosecution of perpetrators of violence against children and women in the state.

hours uninterrupted flight operations in April 2018.

He also thanked Setraco Nigeria Limited Area Manager Ji-

the issue of publicity is not there and the child will be protected from Media and Camera because of privacy needed by the kids”, she pointed out.

While stressing that FIDA, Bayelsa State chapter has secured over 30 per cent conviction of perpetrators of violence against women and children in the state, OgbiseErhisere expressed concern over the non-existence of child care and juvenile homes in the state.

“Most of the victims are not getting the kind of support needed.

More children homes needed to be built. Thank God for the last Ministerial briefings where the Commissioner for Women Affairs announced that the State Government has secured a site to build such a home. “

The Governor continued: “We support investors to enable them carry on with their businesses because, there are multiplier benefits of having investors in different parts of the state.”

He congratulated the Ovie for his numerous achievements within his 10 year reign, observing that the floating of scholarship for his subjects will ensure more enlightened individuals who will contribute meaningfully to the growth of the society.

The Governor at the well-attended ceremony personalities which included Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, former Gov-

ernor James Ibori, former Deputy Governor, Prof. Amos Utuama, traditional rulers, commissioned the ultra-modern palace of the Ovie.

Minister of State, Petroleum Resources, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu on behalf of President Mohammadu Buhari, congratulated the Ovie and wished him happy more years on the throne.

Earlier, the Ovie thanked Governor Okowa for the numerous development projects his administration has executed in his kingdom, especially in the area of construction of Roads and the completion of the Palace.

Lassa fever: WHO, NCDC laud Edo Govt. for Emergency Operation Centre at Irrua Hospital

T

he World Health Organisation (WHO) delegation in Edo State drafted to support the state’s team handling the outbreak of Lassa Fever has commended the Edo State Government for its swift response to the public health emergency, especially with the setting up of the Emergency Operation Centre at the Irrua Specialist Hospital, in the state.

The team which also included officials of the Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC), led

by Dr. Emmanuel Musa, commended the state-of-the-art equipment deployed by the state government to the Institute to fast-track the management of cases of Lassa Fever disease, which have halted deaths from the disease in the state.

It would be recalled that in the wake of the outbreak, the Edo State Government launched a state-wide, multi-pronged approach that culminated in the purchase of two dialysis machines, an x-ray machine; a ventilator and Personal Protective

Equipment (PPE) for the hospital.

The state’s response team is led by the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Philip Shiabu, who has been coordinating efforts to stem the spread of the disease in the state.

“The Emergency Operation Centre at the Institute of Lassa Fever Control and Research at Irrua has been commended by the WHO delegation in the state, who are on ground to assess our preparedness to handle the Lassa Fever health emergency,” Shaibu said in a visit to Irrua Specialist Hospital.

16

The Oracle Today Wednesday March 7, 2018

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The Oracle Today

17

Wednesday March 7 , 2018

BU$IN£SS •

Energy

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Finance

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Stock

Insurance

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Aviation

Saving Nigeria’s telecoms sector via tax concessions

Energy

By VICTOR NZE

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P20

Travel A/Ibom dissolves management deal with Marriott, renames Le Meridien P26

• Telecomms mast For President of the Association of Telecoms Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), Mr. Olusola Teniola, the problems bother on inability to access foreign exchange, refusal to ROW, insufficient investment in broadband infrastructure, as well as the dearth of investment in broadband infrastructure by government.

While for Chairman, Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Mr. Gbenga Adebayo, it has to do with indiscriminate levies imposed on operators and the incessant closure of telecoms base stations by federal and state government agencies.

Adebayo said such closure in some states of the federation due to the refusal of the telecoms operators to pay the huge levies, adversely affected telecoms growth and expansion, just as he equally attributed the sluggish growth to the refusal of some state governments to grant telecoms operators ROW to lay fibre optic cables for high speed data and voice connectivity, a situation, he said, still persists.

It is against this backdrop,

CBN EXCHANGE RATES FEB. 27, 2018

Currency Buying(NGN) Central (NGN) Selling(NGN) US DOLLAR 304.95 305.45 305.95 POUNDS STERLING 427.7229 428.4242 429.1255 EURO 375.9729 376.5893 377.2058 SWISS FRANC 326.0451 326.5797 327.1143 YEN 2.8559 2.8606 2.8652 CFA 0.5527 0.5627 0.5727 WAUA 441.6375 442.3616 443.0857 YUAN/RENMINBI 48.3272 48.4068 48.4865 RIYAL 81.3113 81.4446 81.578 SOUTH AFRICAN RAND 26.3081 26.3512 26.3943 DANISH KRONA 50.4834 50.5662 50.6489 SDR 442.3605 443.0858 443.8111

therefore, that the call by digital entrepreneur and Chairman of Zinox Group, Leo Stan Ekeh, to the Federal Government to seriously consider extending exceptional tax concessions to the technology sector as a means of encouraging the huge undoubted youthful potential in the sector to create a new economy, should be viewed with concern.

According to Ekeh, the tech sector which presently is driving leading economies in the world, is struggling seriously in Nigeria.

For Ekeh, in spite of the great and sincere efforts of the present administration, the Nigerian economy is also fatigued as a result of its predominantly analogue nature, noting further that millions of Nigerian youths nurse big dreams and have the capacity to thrive in a new and futuristic economy that is technology-driven, but urgently need government support in terms of structured capital and tax concession during their incubation period.

Ekeh, who opened up on issues challenging the sector during last Friday’s Silverbird Man of the Year

Awards ceremony which held in Lagos, affirmed that these young men and women have globally certified education and need the right environment to exhibit their capacity, further noting that if the country cannot provide it, the situation will create unfortunate ones who would resort to scientific robbery, kidnapping and many other vices. He also warned that the nation may not experience all-inclusive peace until we provide for these brilliant kids.

“Technology is the only profession in the world today that can make the son of the poorest man the richest man in the world.

Though still struggling, I am a practical testimony of the possibilities in the sector, having led several technology teams that deployed in Iraq, Libya, Guinea Bissau, and so on. However, I am still Nigeria-based. It is not just its lifestyle nature but technology is the only profession in world today in which you can experience miracle wealth.

ITH the controversies surrounding the fate of the embattled 9Mobile telecommunications firm, as well as the doubts over the stalled listing of MTN at the Nigerian bourse, the country’s information and communications technology (ICT) sector may not be swimming in economic boon after all.

This is as many have also expressed the surprise as to how the sector has weathered the storm of infrastructural deficiencies that has characterized the Nigerian business environment for decades and which in effect has crashed many business ventures.

The operating environment, to say the least, is not conducive and may also be at the root of the challenges confronting the likes of Glo Mobile and Airtel that have seen growth and expansion stall in the face of stifled infrastructure development by government.

Aside the oil and gas, banking sectors, the telecommunications environment is perhaps biggest and most capital intensive in the country, in addition to the hospitality. These sectors require massive and stable infrastructure to be firmed in place by the government.

Last year alone, contribution of the sector to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) dropped to 7.4 per cent in 2017, compared to 9.3 per cent contribution in 2016, according to the third quarter report of the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

This is also as stakeholders in the sector have attributed the challenges faced in the industry to the inability of operators to access foreign exchange, refusal by government to approve Right of Way (ROW) for telecoms expansion, multiple taxes, indiscriminate closure of telecoms base stations, theft and willful destruction of telecoms infrastructure, among others.

Energy transition: Windows closing on Nigeria

Insurance

Insurers’ Committee meetings meant for CEOs only – NAICOM P28

Cont’d on Page 18

Stock Market Highlights As At 27th FEBRUARY, 2018

Summary ASI DEALS VOLUME VALUE EQUITY CAP S/N

42,299.56 5,433.00 438,651,434.00 N8,799,951,176.34 N15,179,809,472,106.76

Coy (By Volume) Volume

TRANSCORP DIAMONDBNK FBNH FIDELITYBK ACCESS

45,085,649 43,354,871 42,704,375 40,019,011 27,390,566

Value(N) N93,035,535.86 N105,728,572.50 N490,908,057.15 N119,995,140.62 N355,310,266.45

5 Top Gainers NESTLE TOTAL MOBIL CONOIL CCNN

N1378 N217 N180.5 N32.1 N16.85

N1400 N232 N183.9 N35.25 N18.2

22 15 3.4 3.15 1.35

1.60% 6.91% 1.88% 9.81% 8.01%

N657.9 N57 N257 N50 N24.85

-13.5 -2.85 -2 -1.3 -1.1

-2.01% -4.76% -0.77% -2.53% -4.24%

Five Tope Losers SEPLAT INTBREW DANGCEM WAPCO JBERGER

N671.4 N59.85 N259 N51.3 N25.95

The Oracle Today

18

Wednesday March 7 , 2018

BUSINESS

9Mobile: NCC keeps mum over Teleology

By SAMSON AKINTARO

D

espite the widely reported emergence of Teleology Holdings Limited as the preferred bidder for 9Mobile, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has yet to confirm or deny any development in the elongated bidding process for acquisition of the embattled telecom company. Media reports had quoted an unnamed source from the Barclays Africa, the financial adviser handling the sale of 9mobile, as confirming Teleology as the preferred bidder in the sale of 9mobile.

The reports further stated that Barclays had issued a letter directing Teleology Holdings to make a non-refundable cash deposit of $50 million within 21 days from the date of the letter, dated February 21, 2018, or lose the bid to the reserve bidder, Smile Holdings Limited. “It was also given access to 9mobile’s records and financial books as well as the opportunity to seek further clarifications concerning 9mobile from the management of 9mobile, within the 30-day window, which started counting from January 26, when the first letter on the third phase of the auction process was transmitted to Teleology Holdings.

Based on the official letter written

to Teleology, informing it as the preferred bidder and to also make the initial cash deposit, the ball is now in the court of Teleology to prove its financial status and capability to buy 100 per cent stake in 9mobile” the reports noted.

However, NCC in a statement apparently reacting to the reported acquisition, reassured Stakeholders of its commitment to ensure that the nation’s fourth largest Mobile Network Operatoris duly taken over by investors with the requisite technical capability and pedigree to manage then organization. The statement was however silent on the emergence of any preferred bidder yet, but suggested the process is still ongoing The statement signed by the Commission’s Director of Public Affairs, Mr Tony Ojobo, read in part: “The Board of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has Rising from its Board meeting held in Abuja on Thursday, February 22, 2018, the Board affirmed its determination to avoid the recurrence of any missteps that may have led to the current situation. The Board also made it clear that pursuant to the powers conferred on the Commission by the provisions of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003 and other instruments in that regard, the Commission will ensure that

Aviation industry, catalyst for economic growth – CPC

D

change for their patronage and reward for their loyalty.

Irukera encouraged the airline to renew and redouble its commitment to the best possible service and deference to consumers, adding that they were the key to unlocking further and enduring growth.

all relevant statutory and regulatory processes are duly complied with in the process leading up to the emergence of new owners for the company.

“The Board therefore assured all Stakeholders that the Commission will apply all necessary diligence to see the ongoing sale process through to its logical conclusion in

Continues fom P17 “Our kids have read, seen and worked in tech companies or techdriven companies in the world that became multi-billion dollar companies within five years and they are smarter than many of these foreign entrepreneurs but their only sin is that they are Nigerians and living in Nigeria.

“I have experienced this frustration for over 30 years and it is too late for me to complain. These kids are 21stCentury youths and the majority of them are not interested in agriculture and will never be forced to adopt it because of its unstructured nature. Youths today are faith-driven and can anticipate the future better than their parents and leaders.

My research shows that over 85% of them would rather prefer to make money only from tech-driven platforms which certifies them as global citizens or do nothing.”

“If the Federal Government of Nigeria can invest 20 per cent of what she has invested in the Agricultural sector in the Tech sector, over 75% of present unemployed youths would become employed

a manner that protects the overall national interest and the seamless operation of the national telecommunications network.”

GE, NYSC announce SIYB initiative for corps members

By VICTOR NZE

G

E, the world’s premier Digital Industrial Company has announced a partnership with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to empower Youth Corps members with valuable entrepreneurial skills in line with its commitment to skills development in Nigeria.

Known as the Start & Improve Your Business (SIYB) training programme,

the initiative which is based on the curriculum of the International Labour Organization (ILO), will see thousands of youth corps members receive critical entrepreneurial training.

The overall goal is to improve on and increase the capacity of the youth in building Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) that can operate effectively and be sustainable long-term. It has been recognized that even at the best of times, employers

Saving Nigeria’s telecoms sector via tax concessions

irector-General, Consumer Protection Council (CPC, Mr Babatunde Irukera, has said the country’s aviation industry remains one of the most vital catalysts for economic growth and shared prosperity.

Irukera who said this in a statement, Monday, in Abuja, while congratulating Air Peace for acquiring a Boeing 777 aircraft, stressed that reinforcing confidence in safety and institutionalising innovative products and respectful customer service were the fundamentals for industry expansion and perpetuation.

The CPC boss also commended the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) for the landmark achievements being recorded in the nation’s aviation industry.

“Maintaining FAA CAT-1, the highest level of IOSA certification for both our regulatory processes and domestic airlines are significant factors for safety, security and consumer satisfaction.

We urge the NCAA to sustain the tempo,’’ he said.

Irukera referred to the Boeing 777 as tried and tested equipment with a legendary reputation for comfort and versatility, as well as a remarkable record of safety.

“Air Peace’s acquisition of this world class aircraft and how it has grown both its fleet and routes in an almost meteoric manner is a testament to the possibilities in the Nigerian market and the abiding custom of our consumers.”

According to him, Nigerian consumers are as sophisticated, as they are loyal, and they deserve the best attention and care in ex-

• Governor Ibikunle Amosun, receiving a delegation from the First City Monument Bank (FCMB), led by its Managing Director, Mr. Adam Nuru, during a visit to him on Friday, at his office in Abeokuta.

or self-employed in a profession that has a future. I am not against investment in the Agricultural sector, but it is a sector of extreme passion today due to its present analogue nature. Our leaders should ask their children who trained in quality institutions if any of them would want to do farming, for example. I’m sure the answer you will get is 100% NO. So, who do you expect his child to go into farming? Farming is good, but it is a profession of passion. You can’t force a young man or woman to farm,” Ekeh said.

While commending the government and its agencies, especially the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) for improving the tax revenue base of the country, Ekeh pleaded with the Federal Government to encourage a new and prosperous economy by allowing entrepreneurs in the ICT sector a decent tax-free period of at least ten years – an incentive that will see Nigeria prosper immensely in the technology front.

“If this is granted, this country will experience, within the next five years, an army of tech billionaires whose one year tax payments shall significantly be more than our present ten years’ collections. We

must see the bigger picture and prepare for tomorrow instead of frustrating people at incubation period.

IT companies in today’s Nigeria are the poorest corporates and slowly disappearing – a situation which I find very unfortunate. Tech kids are restless and need time to develop, experiment and deliver products into the market successfully.

“Most times you succeed with one out of the thirty you invested money and time in. It takes time to stabilise in a country that is not digitally-driven.

I am in a better position to tell this story because I have been in same sector for over 30 years. The sector is full of hype because it is a youth-dominated profession and when the FIRS personnel read, they come to the conclusion that you are a multi-billionaire and then go after your company.

“I plead with the Federal Government to grant tax concessions to the technology sector. Tech guys have the potential to create sustainable wealth and transform this country for good. I challenge the people in government, including the few present here such as the Deputy Senate President, distinguished senators and several Governors.”

of labor in the economy will not have the capacity to absorb all the entrants.

This has led to a need to promote the development of small and medium scale enterprises, to create self- employment opportunities and expand the scope for job creation, as research findings indicate clearly that 60-70% of new jobs are created by the SME sector.

Speaking when he led a team on a courtesy visit to the Director General of the NYSC in Abuja on Monday, Managing Director of GE Gas Power Systems in Nigeria, Mohammed Mijindadi, explained that the initiative was one of the many ways GE is supporting skills development in Nigeria.

“We are committed to the sustainable development of Africa and Nigeria in particular, and as such we invest in skills development initiatives that empower people with valuable skills, equip communities with new tools and technology and elevate ideas that are helping to solve Africa’s challenges,” Mijindadi said.

Giving more insights, he explained that the program works using a Train the Trainer approach where NYSC personnel and facilitators are trained utilizing an international curriculum benchmarked to global standards.

Following that, the facilitators are supported to execute training programs for all youth corps members across the country.

The initiative, Mijindadi added, “is a practical business management-training programme with a focus on starting and improving small businesses.”

The SIYB program initiative is part of GE’s commitment to skills development in Nigeria in support of the Federal Government’s job creation objectives. The government plans to create 15 million jobs by 2020 as indicated in its 2017 Economic and Recovery Growth Plan (ERGP) and for Nigerian youth to embrace this opportunity they need to have the right skills.

The Oracle Today

19

Wednesday March 7 , 2018

BUSINESS

Fidelity Bank’s corporate governance certification will boost investments – Ebi F

SEC moves to extend free e-dividend registration

F

idelity Bank Plc has expressed optimism that the Corporate Governance Rating System (CGRS) certification of the bank and its directors will boost investors’ confidence and enhance business opportunities.

The bank’s Chairman, Mr Ernest Ebi, who stated this Lagos on the sidelines of CGRS certification ceremony by the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) and the Conven-

Ambode signs N1.046trn Appropriation Bill into law Governor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State has signed the 2018 Appropriation Bill of N1.046 trillion into law.

The state House of Assembly had on January 30 passed the state’s Appropriation Bill into law. The Commissioner for Finance, Mr Akinyemi Ashade, briefed newsmen shortly after the signing. Ashade said that the focus of ‘Budget of Development and Progress’ would be to complete all ongoing projects.

Ashade put the projection for the internally generated revenue (IGR) and federal receipt at N897 billion, while the remaining part of the budget would be funded by deficit financing.

“Today is a good day in our state; the governor has just signed the 2018 Appropriation Bill into law. For the first time, the law has about N1.046 trillion as the total amount that we will spend in 2018. “The Budget is tagged “Budget of Progress and Development. We have 63 per cent for capital expenditure and 37 per cent for recurrent expenditure; and that shows that we are really big on infrastructural renewal. “In terms of revenue, we are expecting N897 billion from both the state and federal receipts; so the rest will be funded through budget deficit financing,” Ashade said.

Also, the Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Mr Olusegun Banjo, outlined the key components of the budget He said that the capital expenditure would gulp N699.082 billion, while N347.039 billion would be dedicated to recurrent expenditure.

According to Banjo, this represents a Capital/Recurrent ratio of 67 per cent to 33 per cent and a 28.67 per cent increase over year 2017 budget.

He also listed key projects captured in the 2018 Budget to include: the Agege-Pen Cinema Flyover; the alternative routes through Oke-Ira in Eti-Osa to Epe-Lekki Expressway.

tion on Business Integrity (CBI), said that the bank would leverage on the gains of the certification to strengthen business opportunities to ensure maximum returns to its stakeholders.

According to him, the CGRS will open a lot of business opportunities for the bank. He said the bank would not rest on its oars.

“You know the beautiful thing about this certification is that it boosts investors’ confidence in the bank, because when they know that you have been through this process, there is a lot to gain. Going through the test itself brings out a lot of issues about corporate governance, investor relations, among

others.

“So, for eleven directors to go through this process, it is going to be a great morale booster for us and will encourage a lot of investors to look to our direction,” Ebi said.

He said that the bank would maximise all available business opportunities by engaging investors for desired growth and development.

The chairman said that capital, risk management and corporate governance are three things upper most in the minds of the bank’s board and management.

He explained that the bank would remain committed to good corporate governance practices

• Co-founder and President, World Confederation of Businesses (WORLDCOB), Mr. Jesus J. Moran (left), Awardee and President/CEO, Standard Insurance Consultants Limited, Dr. Ahmed Salawudeen, his wife, Mrs. Tolulope Ahmed-Salawudeen and Mr. Ajmal Khan at the presentation of The Bizz Inspirational Award to him at Burj Al Arab Hotel, Dubai.

NSE launches Corporate Governance Index he Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) has launched a new Corporate Governance Index to promote decency and good corporate governance by listed companies on the Exchange. The launch of the index was held alongside a certification ceremony for 35 companies and 437 directors that made it over the 70 percent threshold for the Corporate Governance Rating

System (CGRS) process.

According to the NSE, the Index will track the performance of the 35 CGRS rated companies using their market capitalization, free float and corporate governance rating scores. “The Index will be reviewed on a bi-annual basis at which point other companies that have become CGRS rated in the interim may be added to the Index or companies that have had their ratings suspended or withdrawn

busi.

Commissioning the outlet, Governor Obiano aide said the establishment of the one stop shop for everything about fish and poultry particularly feeds is a welcome development in line with his call for think home investment philosophy code named ‘Akulueuno’.

Obiano whose Senior Special Assistant on Fisheries, Emeka Iloghalu noted that fish and poultry farmers problems have lessened by the establishment of the one stop shop for everything fish and poultry in the state’s capital territory, also lauded the Chairman/CEO, Prince Emeka Christian Emeka and Managing Director, Princess Ngozi

Emeka for thinking home with their investment.

He said Oasis farms and Agro Services limited offer of free consultancy services to its first clients/ customers is a welcomed development, urging them to spread the good news which is the major distributor of Olam Company in the state.

He described agro business as a lucrative venture that has placed food on the tables of many agro farmers in the state and beyond, calling on others to key into the governors’ transformation agenda on agriculture and agro businesses including fishery and poultry farming.

By SAMSON AKINTARO

T

Obiano opens Olam fish distributing outlet in Awka

By OGE ONYEANUSI

G

LOBAL agri-business Giant, Olams Company (Crown Flour Mill) has opened its distributing outlet, Oasis Farms and Agro Services Limited at Aroma Junction in Awka, the Anambra State capital.

Olam growsn sources, trades and processes food and industrial raw materials across 16 product platforms. The agro-based shop located at Lamb of God plaza Aroma, Awka was commissioned by an aide to State Governor Willie Obiano and dedicated to God by the Vicar, Church of Holy Spirit, Awka , Rev Canon Jason O.Z Onyeakag-

for competitiveness.

Fidelity Bank and its directors were among 35 companies and 437 directors that made over the 70 per cent threshold for CGRS process.

Some of the bank’s directors that were honoured with Fiduciary Awareness Certification Test (FACT) which is a key component of the CGRS are: Mr Adeyeye Adepegba, Mohammed Balarabe, Robert Nnana-Kalu and Mr Alex Ojukwu.

Others are: Mr Nnamdi Okonkwo, the bank’s Managing Director; Mr Kayode Olowoniyi, Mrs Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, Mr Nnaeto Orazulike, Mrs Chijioke Ugochukwu and Umar Yahaya.

ollowing the low investor response to the ongoing free e-dividend registration exercise ahead of its deadline day of February 28 deadline, indications have emerged that the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) would likely extend the process for the third time.

The commission would likely extend the free registration deadline to give room for enrolment of more investors as indication points to extension due to low response of investors going by the available statistics.

The e-dividend simply refers to an online system of paying dividends to investors when companies declare dividends.

The dividends, which are the profits meant for investors, are wired to the investor’s bank account, instead of sending it by post as was the old practice.

The advantage of the e-dividend is not only to enable investors collect subsequent dividends electronically but it allows all accrued dividends to be credited to investors’ bank accounts.

This will stem the rising unclaimed dividends in the capital market. The free registration may be extended for about three months, noting that the decision underscores SEC’s strong focus on market development and enhancement of investor confidence.

It would be recalled that the SEC in June 2017, extended the underwriting cost of investors’ e-dividend registration to Dec. 31, 2017, against the earlier underwriting deadline of June 30, 2017.

It also on Jan. 18, extended the period for the free e-dividend registration to Feb. 28, 2018, to encourage more shareholders participation in the initiative.

SEC said in a statement that the extension became necessary to encourage more shareholders mandate their bank accounts.

may be removed. The Index is expected to be an important tool for investors keen on investing in well governed companies as well as corporates eager to distinguish themselves on the ground of governance” it said.

Speaking on the newly introduced Index, Oscar N. Onyema, CEO of NSE said: “The launch of the CG Index is an important milestone to strengthening listed companies by tracking their corporate governance practices. This index will increase transparency in our market and provide investors additional data points upon which to make sound decisions. I congratulate the companies that have successfully completed the process and I expect that they will be more positively looked at whilst trying to raise and access capital within or outside of our jurisdiction.”

On the newly CGRS certified companies and directors, Soji Apampa, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Convention on Business Integrity (CBi) said “this is a triumph for collective action in the fight against corruption and unethical practices. I congratulate the companies and directors being honoured today and I urge them not to relent in their efforts to sustain the high level of corporate governance that has brought

them thus far. Today’s celebration is not a destination but a continuous process that should be consistently maintained and further improved upon. I encourage other listed companies still on this evolutionary process to keep at it and conclude the process during this new review period which is now open.”

The CGRS was launched on November 3, 2014 after a successful pilot phase involving a number of companies listed on the NSE some of which are now listed on the Premium Board. The CGRS was designed to rate companies that are listed on the NSE based on their corporate governance and anti-corruption culture. The process comprises three segments: an independently verified, self-assessment by the company; a certification of director awareness of their fiduciary duties; and, a corporate integrity assessment where feedback on actual company behaviour is sought from internal and external stakeholders.

Combinations of the 3 segments with attendant weighted scores are collated and companies with a score of 70% and above accorded the CGRS certification celebrating the degree to which they have evolved the quality of their corporate governance.

The Oracle Today

20

Wednesday March 7 , 2018

ENERGY

Energy transition: Windows closing on Nigeria

• MD Seplat Petroleum Plc, Mr. Austin Avuru

By SOPURUCHI ONWUKA

S

TRINGS of gloomy projections about the role of hydrocarbon resources in the future global energy mix raise alarm over the economic viability of resource dependent economies across the globe; and Nigeria has remained particularly in focus as industry captains, economists and investors play the logic cards.

Nigeria, just like most members of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and other major exporters, relies on oil revenue to meet government funding requirements. Receipts from oil and gas exports account for over 90 percent of government’s total foreign exchange income, about 80 percent of total government revenue and nearly 100 percent of the country’s total export.

At a petroleum industry summit which ended last weekend in Abuja, panel discussants tried to find the middle point between caution and confidence as they married topics on peak oil demand, global shift to green energy, gas opportunities and domestic energy security.

These topics beamed Nigeria’s economic future through investors’ crystal ball and projected healthy short term and morbid long term images.

Overdependence on oil income means that the fate of the country is tied to the performance crude oil prices in the international markets where resource dependent producing countries are forming a superalliance against the industrialised America, Europe and Asia gathered under the aegis of Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).

Oil producing members of OECD, armed with cutting edge technology, are breaking OPEC’s control on the oil market with increasing supplies from unconventional oil shale and tar sands. Today, the United States which was the key market for Nigerian light sweet crude oil grades is not only producing similar grades from its shale oil and gas fields, it has also become a major competitor to Nigeria in the export market where it has played key role

• Minister of State for Petroleum, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu

in moderating prices.

OPEC’s counterpoise, International Energy Association (IEA) which coordinates energy policies and market intelligence for OECD, declared on Tuesday that United States would overtake Russia and Saudi Arabia to become world’s leading crude producer by 2019, ahead of 2020 when predictions of global demand curve is expected move against OPEC and its 10 country allies.

Also, other holders of shale oil and gas assets across the globe are currently working towards energy independence, dampening long term economic outlook of oil dependent economies.

To peg a wedge in the consequent price slope, OPEC is caught in a loss position as it struggles to in vain to create artificial demand in order to suspend energy prices at comfortable level. The group has since 2016 formed alliance with 10 other key producers led by Russia suffer production restrictions in a desperate move to rein in some 1.8 million barrels per day of supply.

The prevailing fierce battle for market control has significantly tamed crude oil and natural gas prices, cutting energy cost for consumer countries and tightening oil revenue flow to exporting countries. This has short term implication on Nigeria which is recovering from economic recession and still faces threats from insurgents. OPEC has advised restriction on the country’s output at 1.83 million barrels per day even though the government’s budget for the year is planned on output of over 2.3 million barrels per day. Thus any slide in oil prices would worsen the debt position of the budget.

The second gloom on the Nigerian economy is long term. It holds enduring market value erosion for the country’s vast hydrocarbon assets.

It challenges OPEC’s logic of hoarding oil and gas fuels at a time of energy transition. It is raising caution on long term investment outlook for petroleum industry. It is threat to oil itself. It is global campaign for green, renewable energy.

Following increasing commitment of most powerful and richest countries of the world to arrest climate

change and global warming by curbing output of solid, liquid and gaseous pollutants across the earth, international collaborations are on course to steer energy models from hydrocarbon fuels to cleaner, renewable and sustainable sources.

Already, a cluster of European countries have agreed to phase out oil fired vehicles by 2040 and technology developers and automobile industry players have started investing in technology for commercial production of electric vehicles to meet the deadline.

The shift towards battery powered electric vehicles has also attracted huge investments in ancillary industries for automobile accessories to achieve the required level of efficiency to meet load and distance goals for vehicular transport.

Also, economies, societies and governments are positioning for the energy transition from oil by developing the infrastructure and facilities for charging electric vehicles with speed charging lines, long lasting batteries and high capacity durable storage.

According to industry experts, climate change, the rise of renewable energies and the prospect of peak oil demand are already knocking dents into the long-term investment outlook for the oil sector, as prospect of a widespread retreat from funding by multilateral lenders and investment from sovereign wealth funds is emerging as a new threat.

Norway’s sovereign wealth fund announced plans to cut its exposure to the petroleum industry by dropping oil and gas stocks from its $1.0 trillion fund. Citing “catastrophic climate change”, the decision stands as a benchmark for countries and funds keen to promote clean energy.

The World Bank also announced that it would cease to finance upstream oil and gas after 2019, citing a target to bring its lending in line with Paris climate agreement goals.

Decision by global insurers and pension funds to divest from fossil fuels also compounds funding stricture for upstream oil and gas operations in the medium to long term.

Even within the league of oil ex-

• MD NLNG, Mr. Tony Attah

porting countries, governments are repositioning their economic strategies to cope with the predicted energy transition with key Arabian countries announcing strategies for eventual peak oil.

Saudi Arabia, for instance, announced plans IPO of its national oil company, Saudi Aramco, as part of longer term programmes to cut its dependence on oil. Abu Dhabi has also floated plans to move away from reliance on fossil fuels to establish itself as a “global center of excellence in the renewable energy.”

Irish parliament passed a vote in favour of legislation that would drop fossil fuel investments from its Eur8 billion strategic investment fund.

According to a report by Platts Energy intelligence group, global investment in new upstream projects plummeted by nearly 50 % since 2014 due to belt-tightening amid the price slump, yet the IEA estimates that $640 billion is required in upstream spending every year between 2017 and 2040 to avoid a potential shortfall in global oil supply.

Fears are high among resource dependent economies that acute supply gaps could even fast tract energy transition to renewable sources.

Even the multinational oil companies are taking positions in development and commercial production of clean renewable energy, probably pulling funds from oil proceeds for deployment in new energy ventures.

The emerging scenario raises a pile of questions about the future of Nigeria’s economy, and Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, expressed confidence at the summit in Abuja that Nigeria’s oil would still be relevant to the global energy mix in the foreseeable future.

He said Nigeria and OPEC would continue to collaborate in ensuring that supply gaps in the global market would translate to opportunities for local investment in new development.

Managing Director of Seplat Petroleum Development Company, Mr. Austin Avuru, declared that Nigeria still has opportunity within the energy transition frame to shift the role of crude oil in the country from being revenue earner to becoming eco-

nomic development enabler.

In tasking government to take conscious steps in developing the midstream and downstream ends of the industry, he said the contributions of the upstream end of the industry to the country’s gross domestic product has remained insignificant due to poor linkages.

He restated that the focus on crude oil export and massive import of refined products has led to decades of economic stagnation, adding that urgent steps have to be taken to maximise the economic benefits of the country’s petroleum resources ahead of the dreaded energy transition.

He called on government to quickly develop the relevant infrastructure, facilities and expertise for the automobile in order to position the country for local production of oil fired automobile should the developed world move ahead of the country with electric vehicles.

He pointed out that it would still take huge investments to develop the right infrastructure for electric vehicle if the country failed to invest in building its automobile industry for application of its huge petroleum resources.

Managing Director Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG), Tony Attah, said projections put gas in the top quartile of the most competitive and strategic investments in the global energy market. He urged Nigeria to position for gas investments as the world transits to cleaner fuels.

“Global energy consumption will increase in the future but on the other side of the fence, we also see the clamouring for cleaner energy rising and that is where gas comes in. Coal will be totally displaced as a source of energy, followed by crude oil. Oil will still be in demand but (particularly as a source of power) will go down by about 50%. Countries like the United Kingdom, Sweden, Norway and many other countries are making moves to significantly reduce their carbon footprint. Norway aims for all new passenger cars and vans sold in 2025 to be zero-emission vehicles while Sweden has committed to 100% renewable energy by 2040.”

Cont’d on Page 21

The Oracle Today

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Wednesday March 7 , 2018

ENERGY

Hyundai scores first Nigerian downstream contract

By SOPURUCHI ONWUKA

H

YUNDAI Heavy Industries Company (HHI) which took position in Nigeria with a world class fabrication yard in Lagos has started taking local orders from a line of oil and gas processing facilities under projects stages.

The company which is already working to deliver Africa’s first in-country integration of the topsides of floating production vessel was awarded a $58 million contract to build LPG storage tanks for Dangote Group which developing a midstream chain for petroleum refining, petrochemical industries and fertilizer production plants.

The Oracle Today reports that there have been concerns over steady flow of jobs to justify the huge investment made by the Korean firm and its local partner, Ladol, in integrated maritime and petroleum facility development in a country that currently has issues around investor confidence.

Development of the fabrication yard by HHI trails the $16

• (4th Left) Deputy Managing Director of Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG); Honourable Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu; President, Nigerian Gas Association, Mr Dada Thomas; and other speakers at the Nigeria International Petroleum Summit (NIPS) in Abuja. billion Egina deepwater field development which has set new local content benchmarks with local topside fabrication and integration into the mail hull of the floating production, storage and

offtake (FPSO) vessel.

Major components of the FPSO were fabricated in Nigeria and shipped to South Korea for integration into the FPSO while six topside processing modules

were fabricated in-country and would form basis for the record breaking topside integration of its nature to be delivered anywhere in Africa.

With the order from Dangote

Group which is also grappling with facility development for its string of midstream processing plants in Lagos, HHI might play a key role in the new policy strategy by the Minister of Petroleum Resources, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, to revive the country’s midstream and downstream segments to form the engines of resource value delivery.

Under the contract HHI is committed to deliver 15 units of LPG storage tanks that can contain 75,000 cubic meters of gas in total.

The 15 gas cylinders, each with a diameter of 8 meters and a height of 95 meters, will form part of the critical facilities at the highly hyped Dangote Refinery and petrochemical plants currently under construction.

However, the new order might queue after the Egina FPSO topsides integration which is expected to be completed by end of the year or early 2019. Consequently, HHI has scheduled to deliver on Dangote’s orders in May and supply the first batch in April 2019.

Aje development sees £500,000 capital boost

P

ARTNERS in the development and production of the 350 million barrel Aje oilfield located offshore Lagos State will inject additional £500,000 to drive integrated oil and gas facilities and optimise asset commerciality.

Key funding partners, MX Oil, declared weekend that it has secured public equity funds to meet its funding cash calls with Yinka Folawiyo Petroleum which operates the field in agreement with the Nigerian National Petroleum Petroleum (NNPC) and Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR).

MX Oil stated in a declaration that development of integrated oil and gas development plan of the field’s Turonian reservoir is now being discussed, explaining why it is seeking seconday equity listing at the London Stock Exchange (LSE).

The Oracle Today reports that the Aje gas and condensate field lies in Oil Mining Lease 113 (OML 113) in the Benin Basin, in water depth of about 3,000 feet approximately 24km offshore western Nigeria.

Aje is primarily a gas condensate field formed in a four-way dip closure trap. It contains gas and oil in the Turonian and Cenomanian reservoirs and an additional gas layer of the Albian formation.

Gross contingent resources of the Aje field are estimated at 380 million boe. Of this 28% is oil / condensate, 20% is LPG and 52% is gas.

Yinka Folawiyo Petroleum (YFP) is the operator of OML 113 with a 60% interest. The remaining 40% is owned by a joint venture comprising Chevron Nigeria Deepwater, Vitol Exploration Nigeria, Panoro Energy, Energy Equity Resources and Jacka Resources.

Chevron was appointed as the technical adviser to the operator for the project, and was also assigned the responsibility to prepare a development plan for the field.

Providence Resources Oil and Gas earlier held a 2.667% interest in the OML 113. It was sold to Jacka in December 2011. During the same period, Chevron announced its plans to sell its interest to Energy Equity Resources.

The field came on stream in May 2016 and is expected to achieve a plateau production ranging between 50,000 and 80,000 barrels of oil equivalent (boe) a day.

OML 113 was originally known as Oil Prospecting License (OPL) 309 and was awarded to YFP in 1991 to encourage the growth of Nigerian oil industry. Following the successful discovery of the Aje field, the licence was converted to OML 113 in 1998 with a term of 20 years.

Aje was discovered by the Aje-1 well in 1996. The well encountered oil and gas over three zones of the Cretaceous Turonian age. It flowed at the rate of 60.2 million standard cubic feet of gas a day (mmscfd), 1,729 barrels of condensate a day (bcpd) and 2,389 barrels of oil a day (bpd).

In 1997, the Aje-2 appraisal well was drilled 1km east of the Aje-1 well. It confirmed the presence of oil and gas in the Turonian reservoir as discovered by the Aje-1 well and encountered a deeper separate additional zone of the Cenomanian formation.

A third well, Aje-3, was drilled by Transocean’s Sedco 709 semi-submersible rig in 2005. Although the reservoir quality was not optimum, the well encountered an oil and gas bearing column within the Turonian and Cenomanian reservoirs.

In the first quarter of 2008, another appraisal well called Aje-4 was drilled by the Transocean Deepwater Pathfinder drill-ship to carry out a complete appraisal of the field. Aje-4 well was drilled to assess the extent of the field and identify additional exploration targets. The well encountered hydrocarbon reserves in the

main Turonian reservoir.

Drilling of the Aje-4 well confirmed the field contains a laterally extensive reservoir structure. The field was declared a commercial prospect in February 2009.

Appraisal of the field was based on 915km of 2D seismic data, 700km² of 3D seismic data and an electromagnetic survey.

The field was developed as a subsea tie-back to a floating, production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel.

The Aje-1, Aje-2 and Aje-4 wells were developed as producers. The production wells are connected to subsea wellheads and associated flowlines and manifolds in water depths of 320ft. The flowlines are connected to the FPSO through risers.

Produced hydrocarbons are processed by the FPSO and exported through the West African Gas pipeline or through a direct pipeline to connect to the Lagos gas infrastruc-

ture.

Ocean Installer received a field development contract in December 2015. The contract involved the installation of umbilicals and flow-lines.

Panoro Energy contracted Saipem for Scarabeo 3 drilling rig to perform the drilling programme at the Aje Field.

MX Oil has acquired an interest in OML 113 in July 2015.

MX Oil said raised £500,000 before expenses via a placing of 100 million new ordinary shares at a price of 0.5 pence per share. The funds raised will enable further development of the Aje project in OML 113.

The Aje field within the OML 113 license area commenced production in 2016. On February 5, MX Oil announced that it would be updating its Competent Persons Report (CPR) as a result of the production data that has been generated.

This report is expected to be available during March 2018.

Cont’d from Page 20

tonnes per annum (Mtpa) in 2017 to an envisaged 50Mtpa.”

“The real investment opportunity was last year when prices were low; but is not too late. That is why we need to take the decision on Train 7 now so we can stay within the Top 5 space. The future is gas and NLNG is ready to play. It is time for gas.”

He added that for Nigeria to remain competitive in the global oil and gas industry, upstream investmentneeds to be increased, stating that “it’s time to prepare for the likely demand outlook that’s positive, and has out-performed projections in the last 3 years. Let’s get back to E & P activities.”

Other strategies recommended

by Attah includestable regulatory framework and ease of doing busi-

Field production has now stabilized at around 3,300 bpd and, on the basis of this level of production, combined with a focus on reducing operational expenditure, the company has calculated that lifting costs are currently around $40 per bbl.

One of the two current production wells, Aje-5, has been producing from the Turonian Oil Rim since May 2017. Based on the data gathered from this well, the company now believes that there are significant oil volumes to recover from this interval which it believes will be confirmed by the updated CPR and the development of integrated oil and gas development plan of the Turonian reservoir is now being discussed.

Application has been made to the LSE for the placing shares to be admitted to trading on AIM. It is expected that admission will become effective and that dealings in the placing shares on AIM will commence on or around March 6.

Energy transition: Windows closing on Nigeria Mr. Attah however warned that Nigeria is losing the competitive space in the LNG global industry, stating “Nigeria started 24 months after Qatar. Qatar now produces 77 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) and is the number one LNG supplier in the world, while Nigeria is still on 22 MTPA. Australia is already flooding the market and will knock down Qatar to the third or fourth place.

In Africa, significant gas finds in excess of 127Tcf in Mozambique have created the potential for another African super player.Mozambique is expected to become the secondlargest exporter of Liquefied natural gas (LNG) by 2025, as the country steps up production from 10 million

ness as well as strategic implementation of Cost Management by developing projects that are competitive under current pricing, implementing structural cost-saving measures, such as standardized, modular approaches to plant construction, andembarking on new E & P projects that have shorter payback periods.

All panellists including the head of oil companies in the country at the discussion agree that global energy transition has gone beyond debate and urged government to evolve comprehensive energy policies that would incentivise commercial investments in the country’s hydrocarbon resource optimization with the prevailing demand window.

The Oracle Today

22

Wednesday March 7 , 2018

e-Platform 16 more ISPs may close shop this year Stories by SAMSON AKINTARO

T

HE Nigerian internet ecosystem may witness more losses this year as the licences of 16 Internet Service Providers (ISPs) expire between February and November 2018, The Oracle Today has gathered. Although the ISPs, like other licensees of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), have the right to renewal by paying the sum of N500, 000 (five hundred thousand naira) which is the licensing fee for another five years, it is unlikely that all the licensees would want to renew, giving the biting challenges that have seen many ISPs gone under in recent years.

According to records obtained from NCC’s database, the licence of ACC Broadcast Multimedia Ltd expires on February 28, 2018, same as that of Adiv Networks Nigeria Limited, while EMC Networks Nigeria Limited, Internet Solutions Nigeria Limited and Trinitas Apo Limited’s licences expire by April 30. Those of Ambion Wireless Limited and Atlantic Geodynamics Nigeria Limited expire by May 31.

Others include VPS Technologies Ltd; Samira Communication Systems Limited; Suburban Broadband Ltd; and Sea-Net Technologies Nigeria Ltd, whose rights to operate expire June 30.

Telcoworks Communications Ltd and Chinto Technologies Limited’s licences expire October 31, while those of E-Sense Technology Solutions Limited; Kropmann Communications Limited; and Excelsimo Networks Limited expire by November 30 this year. All the 16 companies are part of the remaining95 ISPs with active licecenses, even though only about 37 are actively operating presently.

• Umar Danbatta EVC NCC The industry regulator, NCC, had recently lamented that the number of licensed ISPs in the country is decreasing by the day and that the number of active ISPs that are renewing their licences is also declining, a situation, it said, would continue to affect broadband penetration

and growth in the country, if not addressed. The Director, Licensing and Authorisation at NCC, Ms. FunlolaAkiode, in her presentation at a recent forum to discuss challenges facing the ISPs, had disclosed that between 1996 and 2001, the NCC licensed over 170 ISPs to provide internet services

to Nigerians, but from 2002 to date, the number of ISPs issued licences has dropped drastically and the number of renewal of licences also dropped heavily, a situation, she said, raised serious concern within the regulator and the industry stakeholders.

“NCC has witnessed a tremen-

dous decline in the number of applications for the ISP licence. The renewal rate of the licence category also dropped drastically. In the past five years, the Commission has licensed a total number of 103 ISPs nationwide, but only about 10 per cent have applied for renewal of the licence” she said.

The ISPs over the years have come under serious pressures from the Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) who are regarded as the big players but are also playing in the ISP space as their Universal Access Service Licence (UASL) also permits them to do so. The intense competition coupled with other operational challenges such as increasing capital and operational expenditure have been cited as the bane of the ISPs in the country.

But the President of Association of Telecommunications Companies (ATCON) OlusolaTeniola in his reaction to the challenges facing ISPs expressed the belief that that ISP business is still viable in Nigeria, noting that what the operators need to do is to change their business approach and focus on niche areas of the market that are not threatening to the (MNOs). According to him, the MNOs are not to be blamed since there is no policy limiting them from offering same services as ISPs. Meanwhile despite the challenges facing the existing operators, the regulator has this year licensed two new ISPs, which increased the number of licensees to 95. The two companies, which include Bava Network and Technologies Limited and Netzplan Resources Limited were licensed February 1 and January 1, 2018 respectively. NCC’s record also shows that 16 new ISPs were licensed in 2017.

NITDA alerts Nigerians on EU data protection regulation T HE National Information Communication Technology Agency (NITDA) has warned Nigerians using European Union General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) to beware of possible negative impacts.

Dr Isa Pantami, Director-General of NITDA said this in a statement. The EU’s GDPR is the result

• D.r Isa Pantami, DG NITDA

of four years of work by the EU to bring data protection legislation into line with new and previously unforeseen ways of data usage.

Currently, the UK relies on the Data Protection Act 1998, which was enacted following the 1995 EU Data Protection Directive, but this will be superseded by the new legislation. The new legislation introduces tougher fines for non-compliance and breaches, and gives people more say over what companies can do with their data and it also makes data protection rules more or less identical throughout the EU. The GDPR will apply in all EU member states from May 25, because GDPR is a regulation, not a directive, the UK does not need to draw up new legislation – instead, it will apply automatically.

The GDPR applies to controllers and processors of data. A data controller states how and why personal data is processed, while a processor is the party doing the

actual processing of the data.

“NITDA will like to bring to the attention of Nigerian businesses, especially those that collect, store and process personal data of EU citizens for the provision of goods and services, and the general public, the implications of the new EU GDPR. “The regulation, which was adopted on April 27, 2016 and becomes enforceable from May 25, is replacing the data protection directive of 1995.

“It applies to the data controller or an organisation that collects data from EU residents or processor. “An organisation that processes data on behalf of data controller such as data centres or the data subject. “The person whose personal data has been collected is based within or outside any EU member state, if they collect or process personal data of EU citizens and residents.

“The agency has realised that this regulation may have huge impact on Nigerian businesses or

individuals that use information technologies to collect, store, process and transact on EU citizens personal data in EU territory or elsewhere. “It is in the utmost interest of the agency to protect Nigerian businesses from unnecessary exposure to the risks of this regulation and any regulations that might have negative impact on their businesses.

“This can also affect the rights of Nigerians that have dual citizenship of any EU member state,” Pantami said. “NITDA calls on Nigerian organisations that are controllers and processors of personal data of EU nationals to note that companies must not have offices in an EU member state. “Those organisations should have more than 250 employees and have fewer than 250 employees, where its data processing impacts the rights and freedoms of data subjects,” he said.

Pantami said the regulation re-

quired that data controllers and processors must seek consent from data subjects in an intelligible and easily accessible form.

According to him, the consent should clearly specify the purpose for the collection and stipulate distinguishable format from other matters and presented in clear language.

Pantami said a breach of the regulation could attract a fine of up to four per cent of a company’s annual global turnover or an equivalent of 20 million Euros.

“Companies can be fined up to two per cent for not having their records in order, not notifying the supervising authority and data subject about a breach or not conducting impact assessment.

“The regulation also gives data subjects the right to obtain from the data controller confirmation as to whether or not personal data concerning them is being processed.

The Oracle Today

23

Wednesday March 7 , 2018

e-Platform

Why local web hosting is costlier – Operators Stories by SAMSON AKINTARO

G

ROUP photo Caption: From left: Ejieke Ezeadugu, Head of Marketing and Communications, Rack Centre (left); Ezekiel Egboye, Director of Operations, Rack Centre (second left); Ike Nnamani, Managing Director, Medallion Communications Ltd (second right), and Gbenga Adegbiji, General Manager, MDXi, during Nigeria Information Technology Reporters’ Association monthly breakfast meeting with CEO held in Lagos recently.

Data center operators in Nigeria have blamed low patronage of local hosting firms for the higher cost of hosting in the country compared to overseas hosting. Over the years, most Nigerians have shown preference for hosting their websites abroad, such that only a small fragment of websites owned by Nigerians are hosted in Nigeria.

Recent statistics from the Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NiRA) also revealed that 98.7 per cent of the .ng domain registered

by Nigerians and non-Nigerians are hosted in other countries such as the United States, the Netherlands, South Africa, Britain and Germany.

Many Nigerians have blamed high cost of local hosting and reliability of local data centers due to the country’s power challenge for their choice.

But the data center operators, while speaking at a forum organized by the Nigeria Technology Reporters Association (NITRA) said the rush to host abroad means higher cost for the few that choose to host locally. According to the

• Group photo Caption: From left: Ejieke Ezeadugu, Head of Marketing and Communications, Rack Centre (left); Ezekiel Egboye, Director of Operations, Rack Centre (second left); Ike Nnamani, Managing Director, Medallion Communications Ltd (second right), and Gbenga Adegbiji, General Manager, MDXi, during Nigeria Information Technology Reporters’ Association monthly breakfast meeting with CEO held in Lagos recently.

Chief Executive Officer of Medallion Communications, MrIkechukwuNnamani, cost of hosting locally is higher compared to foreign hosting because only a few Nigerians are hosting locally. “If more people are hosting in Nigeria, it means cost will be shared among higher

number of people and it becomes cheaper. This is because whether you are hosting just one website or 50 in your data center, the cost is almost the same and when you share the cost, it becomes cheaper” he said.

While encouraging Nigerians to

host locally to boost the nation’s economy and also to deliver the best online experience for Nigerians, Nnmani noted that hosting Nigerian websites in Nigeria ensures quality experience for the users because the server is closer. “Hosting in Nigeria comes with a huge

advantage and low latency. If you are doing anything that has to do with videos, you are able to stream the video due to the low latency” he said.

Dismissing the fear of capabilities of local data centres to maintain 24/7 uptime due to power challenge, the General Manager of MDXi, MrGbenga Adegbiji said local data centres are now achieving 100 percent uptime due to strategic partnerships with distribution companies for stable power from the grid. Citing MDXi as example, he said the data center is getting at least 22 hours of power supply a day from the national grid while the power generators cover for the two hours of outage.

Also speaking, Chief of Operations at Rack Center, Mr. Ezekiel Egboye, said the company has moved beyond the challenge of power as it has a dedicated 33 KV direct private utility provision and a gas generating power plant.

He said due to its capability, Rack Center was the first and only carrier neutral colocation facility in Africa to be certified by Uptime Institute. “The key value proposition that Rack Centre places at the fore front as a business resonates with clients who are looking for reliability. As it stands, since inception of Rack Centre in October 2013, we have not had a single down time.

We are also able to aggregate multiple carrier requests and do a deal with the ISP or the carrier provider then share the bulk deals amongst our clients” he said.

Google rebrands mobile money app

Expert raises cyber-security concerns over Lagos e-payment directive G A n expert in the Nigerian ICT industry has advised Lagos State Government to put in place a good cyber-security policy for a successful implementation of its cashless directive. Mr Jide Awe, the Nigeria Computer Society (NCS) Conferences Committee Chairman, said that that the directive was commendable but required a good cyber-security policy that would safeguard the government and the citizens. Awe also advised that the initiative should be introduced with caution and not imposed on the citizens without some incentives to them.

Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State on Feb. 19 directed that all taxes and levies due to the state government should be paid through banks and online banking platforms such as webpay, USSD as from March 1. Ambode gave the directive shortly after paying his personal Land Use Charge at the Guaranty Trust Bank at Opebi, Ikeja. He said that such payments would reduce fraud and encourage people to embrace cashless economy. “In order to ensure that government improves on quality of service to the people, effective from March 1, no payment of taxes will be made by cash anymore across the state,’’ Ambode had said.

However, Awe said that there should be a good cyber-security policy and a proper implementation of the policy for the achieve-

ment of the aim of the directive.

“The cashless economy has already been introduced by the Federal Government, and Lagos State being the most advanced technologically, and the biggest economy toeing the line, is good. “The state is ready for the initiative, but government needs to put some things in proper place such as a cyber-security policy for the initiative to work.

“At this level, such an initiative should be introduced with caution and not imposed on the citizens

without some incentives to them,’’ he added. The Information Technology (IT) expert also said that Lagos State did not have the best in terms of broadband for effective implementation of the directive.

Awe said that there was the need to create adequate awareness on the new initiative to ensure inclusion since a large number of Lagos residents used cash for transactions. “There should be a lot of sensitisation for the residents to let them know the benefits of

the new initiative. “The media for awareness creation should extend beyond the newspapers which are bought by people, who are already aware and familiar with the benefits of going cashless. “The sensitisation should include the market places, where people, who do not use or understand what going cashless is all about, are operating,’’ he said. Awe listed the benefits of cashless economy to include ability to track revenue and reduction in transaction costs.

9mobile boosts data experience with ‘moreblaze’ reload

N

igeria’s customer-friendly and innovative telecommunications company, 9mobile, is again delighting its customers with its reloaded all-encompassing data package, moreblaze which enables subscribers to enjoy a much richer and much faster online browsing and streaming experience 24-7.

Available as data plans, smartpaks, smartphone offers, timebased plans and video streaming plans, moreblaze offers tremendous benefits for individuals and businesses that rely on data to do more, even as it gives customers true value for their money through consistent and reliable internet experience.

Speaking on the data service, VP, Marketing, Adebisi Idowu, dis-

closed that moreblaze is currently the fastest, most reliable, most consistent and highest quality data service in the Nigerian telecoms industry that delivers unrivaled positive online customer experience.

He added that with moreblaze, 9mobile is set to consolidate its leadership of the data segment.

He had this to say, “At 9mobile, we are passionate about consistently delighting our customers with innovative offerings because they deserve the very best. That is why we always ensure that the services we offer enrich customer experience at every touch point.

Individuals and businesses can enjoy crystal clear voice calls and HD video streaming without buffering

to enrich their online experience on our network.”

Idowu continued, “moreblaze is revolutionizing the market with innovative data offers including a video streaming plan with pause and resume feature. For 9mobile subscribers and other users of data services, moreblaze is the preferred internet service that offers unmatched and reliable browsing and streaming experience, and I encourage customers to sign up for moreblaze, to experience the true power of ‘more’”, he stated.

Idowu assured further that 9mobile will continue to increase its investment in innovative services that give unhindered access to superfast and affordable data for all customers.

oogle has revealed that it is rebranding its mobile money platform, changing the name of Android Pay to Google Pay. This is not the only thing new about the platform, as a part of the update saw a number of new features added such as a new Home and Card tabs.

In a post on the Google blog, Gerardo Capiel, Product Management Director, Consumer Payments and Varouj Chitilian, Director, Consumer Payments explained the new features and rebranding.

“Google Pay’s new Home tab gives you the info you need, right when you need it. See your recent purchases, find nearby stores, enjoy easy access to rewards, and get helpful tips.The Cards tab is an easy way to keep everything you need at checkout organised and at the ready. It’s where you’ll store your credit and debit cards, loyalty programs, offers, and even that stack of gift cards from last year’s birthday,” read the Google post in part.

The platform now also includes a way to pay for travel fare in certain cities, with more to be added soon, increased security and encryption and all the previous features of the platform. “And more features are coming. If you live in the U.S. or the UK, you’ll be able to use it to send and request money within the next few months. In the meantime, the Wallet app is now called Google Pay Send, and we’re giving it a fresh coat of paint to go with the Google Pay brand,” concluded the Google post.

24

The Oracle Today Wednesday March 7, 2018

ISSN: 2545-5869

VOX POPULI SACRUM

www.oraclenews.ng

EDITORIAL

Where are 2019 candidates?

Cont’d front page 1

•

3 December 2018 Last day for submission of nomination forms by politiin their daily existence. cal parties ALL the things that ought to be public are being 7 January 2019 kept secret. They would be public so late that the • Publication of official voters register people would have little opportunity to react.

17 January 2018 The timetable for the elections was first released • Publication of list of nominated candidates in March 2017, two years to the elections. At a 1 February retreat for its new Resident Electoral Commission- • Submission of names of party agents ers on 8 December 2017, in Uyo, INEC Chairman, 14 February 2019 Professor Yakubu Mahmood, repeated the dates. • Last day of campaign THEN on 9 January 2018, INEC Secretary Mrs. Augusta • 16 February 2019 Ogakwu announced the full time table for the Presidential election elections. We have reproduced that timetable to show the electorate, and candidates that the elec- Governorship & State Assemblies 2 November 2018 tions are a matter of days, even if we reckon them • Last day for submission of form CF001 and CF002 at in months. The elections are here.

INEC national headquarters HERE is the INEC schedule: • 9 November 2018 • 17 August 2018 Publication of personal particulars of all candidates Notice of election form CF001 • 17-24 August 2018 • 1 December 2018 Collection of forms by all political parties Last day for withdrawal/replacement of candidates by • 1 August - 17 October 2018 the political parties Party primaries and resolution of issues from the Commencement of campaigns by political parties primaries • 17 December 2018 Presidential & National Assembly Last day for submission of nomination forms by politi• 18 October 2018 cal parties Last day for submission of form CF001 at INEC na• 2 January 2019 tional headquarters Publication of notice of polls (all elections) • 25 October 2018 • 31 January 2019 Publication of personal particulars of all candidates Publication of list of nominated candidates for the election CF001 • 16 February • 17 November Electoral officials for the Area Council or Local GovernLast day for withdrawal/replacement of candidates ment Areas by the political parties • 28 February 2019 • I8 November 2018 Last day of campaign Commencement of campaigns by political parties • 2 March 2019 Election Governorship, State Assembly Area Council in Federal Capital Territory

BY August when the notice of the elections is given, it would have been too late to know the candidates. Everything from that point would be in a matter of weeks. The intrigues by the parties are easier to execute because everyone would be working towards deadlines.

Excuses about the shortness of time become the major weapon for curry favour and avoiding exposure to the public.

A DELIBERATE ploy of politicians is to wait out the demands of the electorate and turn up at the last minute as the messiah. It would be the same story in 2019 unless we start now to ask what individual politicians, across the political parties are offering.

THE choices are clear. We would choose between progress and further regression. The mistake that is often made is to make the choices counting only on the words of those we hear more. The louder voices tend to be mistaken for those capable of achieving results.

EXPERIENCE, recent experience does not bear this out. Many of those running for office do not understand the issues, as they belatedly say in explaining their failings. They make fantastic promises.

They delivery is often short of what they promised. By then, it would have been late for the electorate; they would be in office, asking for patience, and some-

times blaming the voters for showing no understanding of how government works.

PARTISANSHIP of politicians has been held up above issues that affect the ordinary people. The prism for reaching decisions has increasingly been based on regions and religions. National interests that constitutional provisions were meant to guarantee have been rejected. In their place have been laid layers of contradictions about what Nigerians need to live better lives than the imprecations they receive from elected officials.

A LOT is at stake, particularly the future of Nigeria, and the shape in which that future would arrive. The national question is what some call it. Others talk in terms of restructuring the country. There are agitations for outright dismembering of the country so that different parts could pursue their different interests.

DEEP issues would not find much accommodation in the election debates unless we start raising them early.

With all the media attention that corruption gets, for example, there is no proof that there are any meaningful efforts to minimise it. With all the songs about the importance of transparency in government’s decisions, they are becoming more opaque by the day.

ATTEMPTS to abridge freedoms of association and speech are dangerous, not just for the elections, but our future. Power is being abused constantly in this regard. Opposition candidates and grows do not have access to official national or state media.

In some instances, they are denied use of venues for their political meetings. There are no initiatives to stop these breaches that harm democracy and growth of our political practices.

CANDIDATES for the elections should make these known. They should engage the electorate. They should have creative ideas about managing the challenges that Nigeria faces. The challenges are increasing, but the will to check them is weltering.

AWAY from the hunger issues that would dominate the campaigns, Nigerians need to elect candidates who have personal values for lives, who care, and who thinks that lives of Nigerians matter, always – not just when their votes are needed.

Our Vision TO BE among the top five newspapers in Nigeria and, in due course, the Numero Uno; to be a newspaper of records that effectively caters to the information needs of all segments and sections of the Nigerian society as well as all social classes and cultures. Essentially, we want to be a responsible corporate citizen, a commercially viable, properly organised media business, which meets its obligations to society, government and the workforce.

Mission WE INTEND to contribute to the development of an inclusive Nigerian society, with a view to getting rid of the dark sides of our national life (slothfulness, greed, corruption, nepotism, totalitarianism, etc); to continually engender and sustain national debates that would ultimately lead to the enthronement of healthy national values--hard-work, justice, equity and fairplay, transparency, good governance, resulting, in themselves, the egalitarian Nigerian society of our dream. We will give voice to the voiceless and at all times, strive to be balanced, objective, honest, truthful and fair to all sides; so that through The Oracle Today, our people, the Nigerian people can see a bright light at the end of what has been a very dark tunnel. And we shall do all this in absolute trust in God who blesses good intentions.

25

The Oracle Today Wednesday March 7, 2018

OPINION On the Incense Route find in Negev Desert N IR HASSON writes on the discovery of a previously unknown stretch of 2,500-year-old Incense Route in Israel’s Negev Desert.

The path of the overland trading route from southern Arabia to Gaza was known to researchers, but they thought this 7-kilometer stretch lay elsewhere A section of the ancient Incense Route, stretching seven kilometers and marked with weather-beaten Roman-era milestones, has been discovered in the barren heart of Israel’s Negev desert.

The path of the trading route has been known all along, mainly from remnants rather than well-preserved tracks and signage. The exception was the section in the Negev – it was assumed that it had been destroyed by modern development. It turns out this was not the case. Surveyors now realize they had been looking for it in the wrong place.

International business has flourished around the Mediterranean Sea, along the European coast and northern Scandinavia, and around the Indian Ocean for thousands of years.

The section of the Incense Route, also known as the Perfume Route, that passes through the Negev was part of a vast overland network more than 2,000 kilometers long, stretching overland from the southern tip of Arabia Felix – modern-day Yemen – hugging the Arabian coast of the Red Sea as far as Petra in Jordan and then crossing overland to the Gaza Strip.

From Gaza, goods could be transported to other parts of the Levant and Europe by ship.

The frankincense route The overland Incense Route was plied by the Nabateans, who were initially disorganized nomadic tribes roaming northern Arabia and the southern Levant and later became a slightly more organized kingdom, which never had clear boundaries.

From around the 3rd century B.C.E. to the 2nd century C.E., Nabatean traders, often on camels, transported incense from Arabia to the Mediterranean Sea coast, and returned with other merchandise.

Myrrh and frankincense, which are made using sap from trees native to North Africa and southern Arabia, were widely used in pagan Greek and Roman rites after being imported northward, and later, in Christian rituals as well.

Other common articles of trade included spices, gems, fine textiles, pelts and metal ingots.

(Nabatean tribes are believed to have operated the so-called King Solomon’s copper mines in the Negev 3,000 years ago, though who controlled the mines at different times remains controversial.)

The Roman author Pliny the Elder, who lived in the 1st century C.E., wrote that traversing the Incense Route took about 62 days. He described the ancient mania for frankincense in great detail, and wrote at length about the similarity of frankincense drops to genitalia. He explained the pains-

taking manner of frankincense production, the rules of trade and how to avoid being taken in by fakes. You can still buy counterfeit frankincense and myrrh in local Middle Eastern markets and online.

When the Nabatean kingdom became a province of Rome in the early 2nd century C.E., under Emperor Trajan (who ruled from 98 to 117 C.E.), the Romans upgraded parts of the Incense Route for their armies.

They didn’t pave the road with stone – this was windswept desert, after all – but widened the path from 1.5 meters, which was convenient for camels, to about 4 to 4.5 meters to accommodate Roman garrisons.

Along the route were about 65 reinforced rest stops, Pliny writes, four of which developed into major, wealthy Nabatean cities: Haluza, Mamshit, Avdat and Shivta. The hunger for Arabian incense helps explain how these cities prospered in the inhospitable rocky desert.

Almost 2,000 years later, only two sections of the ancient route through the Negev, at Makhtesh Ramon and Avdat, have been preserved. The newly found section connects those two preserved parts of the road.

The unknown stretch of the Nabatean trading route was discovered northeast of Makhtesh Ramon by an Israeli-Jordanian survey and research team armed at least part of the time with two camels. Led by Shuka Ravek, 86, the team spent five days trekking on foot from Petra to Avdat – about 100 kilometers – in order to survey

the remaining signs of the ancient road.

They found the missing stretch during their trek, succeeding where dozens of previous surveys had failed.

Ravek says that on earlier treks, researchers had been captive to their own preconceptions and had insistently followed a different route, seeking signs they never found. They now know that the missing section was further west than they thought, explains Prof. Chaim Ben David, historian of the Kinneret Academic College, who was also on the trek.

The study was jointly organized by the Sde Boker Field School, the Hevel Eilot regional council and the Dead Sea and Arava Research Institute.

One of the Roman milestones still bears all-but-indecipherable writing, which seems to be in Latin or Greek. Ben David believes that the milestones date back to the 2nd or 3rd century C.E. The origins of the Nabateans remain shrouded in the fog of time. They are considered ethnically Arab and their kingdom may have arisen from an alliance of unrelated tribes rather than a single one.

The Nabateans are first mentioned in a battle report from the 3rd century B.C.E., but eventually fade from the annals of history.

Many of them converted to Christianity.

HASSON is a correspondent of HAARETZ, Israel’s English language newspaper

2019: El-Rufai, Senators’ misuse of power

By EHICHIOYA EZOMON

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hat’s happening (happened) in the Kaduna chapter of the All Progressives Congress, and at the Senate of the National Assembly is what warrants the charge of politics being a dirty game.

Whereas it should be otherwise: the politicians, and not politics, are dirty!

How do you classify the action of Governor Nasir el-Rufai of Kaduna State in ordering, and allegedly personally supervising the pulling down of a house belonging to Senator Suleiman Hunkuyi (Kaduna North) because the lawmaker heads a faction of the state APC, which queried and suspended the governor for six months “for anti-party activities”?

Similarly, how do you justify the sacking of Senator Abdullahi Adamu, as chair of the Northern Senators’ Forum, on the strength of his leading some senators to question the Senate reordering of the sequence of elections for 2019?

Let’s give the backgrounds to the plots.

The Kaduna State APC has been factionalized from the get go of the government of Governor el-Rufai, first between the governor and his bloc of the party and that of Senator Shehu Sani (Kaduna Central), and later between el-Rufai’s group and the camp of Senator Hunkuyi.

Meaning there are three factions tugging at the heart and soul of the APC in the state. Flowing from this division, accusations and counter-accusations, queries and counter-queries and suspensions and counter-suspensions have taken the place of advancing good governance, and growth of the party in Kaduna.

The culmination of these political skirmishes was the suspension of Governor elRufai by the Senator Hunkuyi APC faction, and el-Rufai’s government’s retaliatory destruction of the lawmaker’s house that served as his group’s secretariat, which

opened shop barely a week earlier.

And what reason was advanced by the Kaduna State Urban Planning and Development Agency (KASUPDA) for the leveling of Hunkuyi’s house? According to the Director General of the Kaduna Geographic Information System (KADGIS), Mr. Ibrahim Husseini, the property was removed for “flagrant violations of land use and nonpayment of ground rent since 2010.”

Why was it so compelling for the KASUPDA to resort to pulling down the property over indebtedness just after its owner, Senator Hunkuyi, chaperoned its APC faction to query and suspend Governor el-Rufai from the party? Why didn’t the agency seek lawful redress in court or, in the worst-case scenario, seal off the property until the ground rent was settled?

If we are pissed with Governor el-Rufai’s authoritarianism that brooks no impeachment of its absolute power, we should also scoff at the bellipotent display by the Senate, which threatened to deal with the Senator Adamu-headed recalcitrant members for insinuating that the new sequence for the 2019 elections was “directed at an individual.”

But unlike Governor el-Rufai that shoots from the hip, and doesn’t hide his hand in the cookie jar, the Senate has initiated its “punishment for the disgruntled senators” through a proxy - the Northern Senators’ Forum that Senator Adamu chaired until last Wednesday.

However, employing the el-Rufai tactic, the senators suddenly remembered that the Adamu executive had “chopped” the N70 million it inherited coming into office.

So, if the former governor of Nasarawa State did not accuse the Senate of directing its reordering of the election sequence at checkmating President Muhammadu Buhari’s aspiration for a second term, the forum would bury the “fraud” from public knowledge?

How about Senator Ali Wakil’s debunking of Adamu’s removal as a collective decision of the Northern Senators, whose letter to the Senate was read by the presiding officer and Senate Deputy President, Dr. Ike Ekweremadu, without publicizing the number of signatories and their names?

Doesn’t that smell of forgery, perhaps abetted by the Senate?

To think that in the wake of the destruction of Senator Hunkuyi’s property, the Senate was very vocal in condemning Governor el-Rufai and his APC-led administration’s action, as related by Senator Sani, a professed Nemesis of el-Rufai! This was how Senator Ekweremadu summed up the governor’s exploit at plenary: “This is not open to debate. We need to condemn this action. I send my sympathies to Hunkuyi. This democracy has no place for tyranny and impunity. If we decide to go on the road of democracy, we must accept some of the things that come with it.

One is the rule of law. If we have any grievances, we should use the courts.”

A noteworthy and timely admonition, only that the lawmakers sooner fell into the same trap of employing “tyranny and impunity,” which “democracy has no place for.” Wouldn’t this rank them among the hypocrites, whom Jesus describes as those who give alms (Matt 6:1-4), pray (Matt 6:56), and fast (Matt 6:16-18) in public “in order that people may see them”?

Besides, the senators appear to forget the adage: “What’s sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander,” which Wikipedia says meshes well with the Golden Rule, or ethic of reciprocity, often stated as “Do unto others as you wish to be done for you.” (See Matt 7:12; Luke 6:31) All said, it’s clear, even to the most apolitical in the society, that the fights in the Kaduna State chapter of the APC, and the shadow-boxing in the Senate have all, and everything to do with the 2019 elections in

less than one year away.

But while pursuing their aspirations, politicians should heed Senator Ekweremadu’s entreaty “not to overheat the polity and imperil our democracy... Our courts can be trusted to deliver justice. We hope this (malicious destruction of property) will not happen again.”

That’s a word being enough for the wise, and especially for politicians to make politics clean rather than dirty!

Mr. Ehichioya Ezomon, Journalist and Media Consultant, writes from Lagos, Nigeria.

THE GROUP Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief Ikeddy Isiguzo Editor Felix Oguejiofor Abugu Deputy Editor/Head, Lagos Bureau Sopuruchi Onwuka Abuja Bureau Chief Tony Ailemen Head, Graphics & Designs Nnamdi Alex Chukwu Advert Manager Andrew Udeh Circulation Manager Felix Oti

The Oracle Today

Wednesday March 7 , 2018

Travel & Hospitality

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A/Ibom dissolves management deal with Marriott, renames Le Meridien Stories by VICTOR NZE

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KWA State Governmentowned hospitality property, Le Meridien Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort has dissolved its management agreement with the United States-based hotel chain, Marriott International, in a bid to return to local management of the facility. The brand will now be known as the Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort.

The hotel in a statement assured that the change would not affect the brand as it is ‘committed to delivering on its avowed promise to the public, which is standard and quality service with adherence to international best practice in hospitality business.’

The hotel, which has for some years now served as the home of Nigeria’s senior football team, Super Eagles, has, further retained some senior management staff under its previous Marriott agreement just as it has co-opted a few hospitality experts from other areas to strengthen the staff capacity for enhanced performance.

The new General Manager of the hotel is Ronald Stilting, a seasoned professional with hands – on experience in hospitality, boasting over 30 years of experience in hotel management in six African countries, including; Rwanda, Ghana, Liberia, Tanzania, Kenya and Nigeria, where he once headed Golden Tulip Essential Lagos Airport Hotel.

Igbo language not going extinct – Experts

By MADUABUCHI KALU

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gbo leaders have reiterated the call for parents to communicate with their children in their mother tongues in order to improve the cultural development of the child.

This is also as they dismissed the concerns by the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) that the Igbo language may go into extinction soon over lack of usage.

The various opinions were raised during last Wednesday’s 2018 UNESCO International Mother Tongue Day celebration which held at the Ndigbo Lagos Foundation, Victoria Island, Lagos organized by the non-governmental organization, Youth Orientation for Development, in conjunction with the Organization for the Promotion of Igbo Language and Culture, to commemorate this year’s UNESCO International Mother Tongue Day. The Theme of this year’s UNESCO Mother Tongue celebration was “Asusu Igbo Ga Adi. Speakers at the one-day event maintained that children learn better if communicated with by the parents in their mother tongues, further absolving the children of any ‘blame for not speaking their mother tongue as it is the language that parents communicate with their children that they understand.’

In his opening remarks, the Chairman of the occasion, Professor Anya O. Anya said Ndigbo should adopt the strategy which the Jews adopted in the past to ensure that the Igbo Language does not go into extinction as predicted by UNESCO. “There was a time that the UNESCO predicted that ‘Hebrew’ which is the language of the Jews was in verge of going into extinction but in order that Hebrew did not go into extinction, what the

Jews did was to put themselves to task and today Hebrew is a well-known Language spoken by the Jews.

“The old people among the Jews who still speak the language ensure that they organize themselves and ensure that they go to schools that have Jewish children population and taught them the language once they are not having any lessons and at the same time established centres where the language was taught and by so doing, they revived Hebrew Language.

“So, now that UNESCO has predicted that Igbo Language will go into extinction in the nearest future if nothing is done, I suggest we should adopt the Jewish strategy in order to avert the looming danger of Igbo Language going into extinction,” Prof Anya said.

On his part, the key note speaker, Mazi Chigozie Nnabuihe, a lecturer from the University of Lagos declared the UNESCO prediction as fallacy.

According to him, by the definition of UNESCO in terms of any language that faces extinction, there is no way the Igbo Language could be categorized as one of the languages that faces extinction in the nearest future.

“Well, for those who have predicted that Igbo Language could face extinction in the nearest future, all I can say is that they are only trying to help us teach our children the language but for extinction, I totally disagree with them.

“To start with, the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Oragnisation (UNESCO) described or defined any language that faces extinction as that which speakers are not more than five hundred (500).

“As we speak Ndigbo are the most populous nation in Nigeria.

Ndigbo are more than 25 million in number to put it conservatively.”

• (From left to right): Representative of the Chairman, House Committee on Finance, Hon. Naheem Adams; Chairman, Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS), Mr. Ayodele Subair; Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Akinyemi Ashade; Solicitor General, Mrs Funmilola Adesola Odunlami representing Attorney-General and Hon. Commissioner for Justice; and Hon. Commissioner for Tourism, Arts & Culture, Mr. Steve Ayorinde during a Stakeholders’ meeting on Fiscalization of Hotel Occupancy & Restaurant Consumption Tax Law at the Banquet Hall, State House, Alausa, Ikeja last Thursday.

Ford Foundation supports Lagos Museum Project with $.6m

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agos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode has lauded an international organization, Ford Foundation for donating $600,000 towards the architectural design and commencement of the iconic Lagos Museum Project to be located in Presidential Lodge and Lagos House in Marina.

The Governor has also unveiled plans by the State Government to build a modern museum in Ikeja to promote arts and sciences in addition to the Marina museum.

Speaking at Lagos House in Alausa, Ikeja when he received a delegation from Ford Foundation led by its Executive Vice President in charge of Programs, Ms. Hilary Pennington, Governor Ambode said the two iconic tourism structures, which are in line with the vision of his administration to transform the State into worldclass tourist destination, would be completed within the next two to three years.

The Governor commended Ford Foundation for the confidence reposed in the State with the partnership, saying that the collaboration, coming from an internationally reputable organization such as the foundation, had served as a motivating factor for the State Government to do

more for the people in the sector.

“There is a National Museum in Lagos but it does not belong to Lagos State and so we are very proud that we want to sustain our own heritage and we are very proud also that Ford Foundation has also decided to do a road show for us to go across Europe and other parts of the world to bring interested donors to come and partner with us to make the museum a reality.

“In addition to the Lagos Museum which we have decided will be within the Lagos House and Presidential Lodge in the Onikan axis, it is our intention also to construct another museum in the Ikeja axis that will be called the Contemporary Museum of Arts and Sciences and it will be in the location where the Lagos Arts Council is presently,” he said.

The Governor said the efforts to build iconic tourism structures for the State were in line with the promise of his administration to put the State on global tourism map and use the sector to promote excellence in the State.

“All these are in line with our Project THESE which stands for Tourism, Hospitality, Entertainment and Arts and Sports to promote Excellence in Lagos which we promised our people. I want

to thank Ford Foundation for this partnership which I know will be beneficial to most Lagosians “With the efforts of the Ford Foundation, I am inspired to put my hands in putting two iconic structures within the State in the next two to three years and I believe strongly that this support will actually make us to fast-track the number of years that these projects can come into fruition,” Governor Ambode said.

Earlier, Pennington said the delegation was at Lagos House in furtherance of the partnership with the State Government on the Lagos Museum project, saying that the foundation was honored to be collaborating with the State.

“We are honoured to partner with you and to support your vision for the Lagos State Government to build an iconic cultural space to make available to all diverse cultures and protect the heritage of this great city and to create space that will be opened to people from all over the world to see and learn about the heritage of this city.

“This is a great city; it’s one of the world’s great cities and it deserves the kind of iconic space that you are creating and we are very honored to be part of this,” Pennington said.

The Oracle Today

27

Wednesday March 7 , 2018

AVIATION

AIB investigates Dana Air’s P/Harcourt incident Stories by VICTOR NZE

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HE Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB) has commenced investigation into the Dana Air incident at the PortHarcourt Airport on Tuesday February 20.

The spokesman of AIB, Tunji Oketumbi said a team from the Commission led by the director of operations of AIB, Capt, Dayyabu Danraka is in Port Harcourt for the investigation into the incident.

The team is expected to unravel the remote and immediate cause of the incident and make recommendations to forestall future occurrence.

The commencement of the investigation followed the official report of the incident by the Airline to AIB. It will be recalled that a Dana aircraft with registration number 9J0363, from Abuja to Port Harcourt airport skidded off the runway at the Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagba, Tuesday.

The airline attributed the incident to bad weather arising from torrential rain at the time of landing.

No casualty was recorded as all passengers and crew disembarked safely.

The Dana incidence is coming barely a week after Delta Airline also had serious incident and had

to make an air return to the Murtala Muhammed International Airport for an emergency landing.

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•(From left to right): Air Peace Chief Security Officer, Mr. Monsuru Akinbola, Assistant Customer Relations Manager, Mrs. Patricia Ebilah, Cabin Services Manager, Florence Opia, Corporate Communications Manager, Mr. Chris Iwarah, Nigeria High Commissioner to The Gambia, Ambassador Oluwasegun Ibidapo-Obe, Air Peace Brand Ambassador, Kcee, Deputy Human Resource Manager, Mr. Ume Ume (behind), Airport Coordinator, Mrs. Clementina Ukonze and Revenue Manager, Ihuoma Ukairo cutting the cake to mark the airline’s inaugural flight to Banjul, The Gambia, last Monday.

Onyeama harps on seamless air travel in W/Africa

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hairman /chief executive officer of Air Peace, Mr. Allen Onyema has stated that seamless air connectivity is pivotal to the socio-economic development of countries within the West African Coast and other nations on the continent.

Onyema stated this during the airline’s inaugural flight to Freetown, Banjul and Dakar.

Onyema, who was represented by the airline’s Corporate Communications Manager, Mr. Chris Iwarah assured that the carrier was resolute in its determination to end the challenges of air travel on the West Coast of Africa. He said Air Peace would soon commence flight operations to many international destinations, including Dubai, Guangzhou-China, London, Houston, Mumbai and South Africa. Air Peace, he said, recently increased its fleet size to 24 aircraft to build its capacity in proportion to its massive expansion project.

Onyema, who was represented by the airline’s Corporate Communications Manager, Mr. Chris Iwarah assured that the carrier was resolute in its determination to end the challenges of air travel on the West Coast of Africa.

He said Air Peace would soon commence flight operations to many international destinations, including Dubai, Guangzhou-China, London, Houston, Mumbai and South Africa.

IATA woos African airlines on SARPS

Onyema added that Air Peace recently increased its fleet size to 24 aircraft to build its capacity in proportion to its massive expansion project.

The chairman/chief executive officer of Air Peace said the carrier was determined to unlock the economies of countries on the West Coast of Africa with the launch of its Freetown, Banjul and Dakar services.

He pointed out that Africa needed seamless air connectivity to untie its economies.

Onyema said the airline was committed to unlocking the economies of Africa, offering air travellers on business and leisure trips seamless connectivity as well as creating jobs for the people “This broad route network, we believe, will form a solid base to link Africa. The launch of our Freetown, Banjul and Dakar services brings our regional network to four routes and a total of 16 domestic and West Coast destinations with more than 80 daily flights. In the next few weeks, we hope to add five more services to expand our regional route network to a total of nine destinations. This broad route network, we believe, will form a solid base to link African nations and connect the continent to the rest of the world by air.

“This broad route network, we believe, will form a solid base to link African nations and connect the continent to the rest of the world by air,” he said.

Speaking while receiving Air Peace delegation to Freetown International Airport, Lungi, Sierra Leone’s Minister of Transport, Mr Balogun Koroma commended the carrier for extending its operations to the country.

“We are looking for in-flight quality service, on-time service and adherence to our local content laws in terms of employing our people.

And Air Peace has given us the assurance that they would adhere to that,” Koroma said.

Also at the Banjul International Airport where the flight landed after departing Freetown, the Director of Operations, The Gambia Airport Authority, Mr. Abdoulie Colley assured Air Peace that it would be accorded the needed support to succeed in the country.

In his remarks, the Nigeria High Commissioner to The Gambia, Ambassador Oluwasegun Ibidapo-Obe said the coming of Air Peace would strengthen bilateral relations between Nigeria and The Gambia.

The Ambassador said the Gambia has a lot of potential Nigerians could exploit, adding that the connectivity provided by Air Peace would boost the socio-economic relations between Nigeria and The Gambia.

Also speaking for banks in Banjul, the Relationship Manager, Corporate Banking of First Bank of Nigeria, FBN Gambia Limited, Mr. Mike Junior Emeh said Air Peace’s expansion of its route network to

The Gambia and other West Coast countries was a big relief for travellers.

He urged the airline to maintain its on-time reputation and consistency, assuring that the carrier would succeed in its West Coast flight operations.

In Dakar, the Director-General/ Chief Executive Officer of LAS, Mr. Xavier Mary, who spoke on behalf of the operators of Senegal’s new airport, Aeroport International Blaise Diagne, said Air Peace’s Dakar service was a good opportunity for improving businesses between Nigeria and Senegal.

In his own goodwill speech, Minister in the Embassy of Nigeria, Dakar, Mr. Lot Egopija said he was pleased that Air Peace was fulfilling the cardinal agenda of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to bridge the gap among its member-states.

“Air Peace coming into Dakar is to create access to the people of both countries and also to further the ECOWAS agreement.

Nigeria has Bi-lateral Air Service Agreements (BASAs) with many nations, and having a population of 180 million people, it is a good way of ensuring Nigerians have access to these people and also their businesses. Many people have preconceived notions about Nigeria, and I hope that Air Peace will be able to allay their fears by connecting them to the country to see our vast potentialities,” said Egopija.

he International Air Transport Association (IATA) has released data for the 2017 safety performance of the commercial airline industry showing continued strong improvements in safety.

The agency also called on African governments to accelerate the implementation of ICAO’s safety-related standards and recommended practices (SARPS), which it noted has so far registered 25 signatories.

“2017 was a very good year for aviation safety. Some 4.1 billion travelers flew safely on 41.8 million flights. We saw improvements in nearly all key metrics—globally and in most regions. And our determination to make this very safe industry even safer continues.

“In 2017 there were incidents and accidents that we will learn from through the investigation process, just as we will learn from the recent tragedies in Russia and Iran. Complementing that knowledge are insights we can gain from the millions of flights that operate safety. Data from these operations is powering the development of predictive analytics that will eventually enable us to eliminate the conditions that can lead to accidents. The industry knows that every fatality is a tragedy. Our common goal is for every flight to take-off and land safely,” said Alexandre de Juniac, IATA’s Director General and CEO. According to IATA, sub-Saharan Africa continued to make strong progress on safety.

“Airlines in the region had zero jet hull losses and zero fatal accidents involving jets or turboprops for a second consecutive year. Both the turboprop hull loss rate and the all accident rates declined against the average of the previous five years.

However, the turboprop hull loss rate increased compared to 2016 (5.70 vs. 1.52). In turn, this largely was responsible for causing an increase in the all accident rate compared to 2016 (6.87 vs. 2.43).

“Airlines in Sub-Saharan Africa continued to improve their safety performance. The goal is to achieve world-class safety. For a second year in a row, airlines in the region experienced no passenger fatalities and no jet hull losses. But there is still a large gap to cover in the safety performance of the continent’s turboprop fleet.

“Global standards such as the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) are making a difference.

Counting all accidents, the performance of African airlines on the IOSA registry was more than three times better than non-IOSA airlines in the region. That’s why we continue to encourage African nations to incorporate IOSA and the IATA Standard Safety Assessment (ISSA) into their safety oversight systems. ISSA, which is intended for those carriers that are not eligible for IOSA, also offers a one-term opportunity to operators of aircraft that would otherwise fall under IOSA, enabling an incremental approach to achieving IOSA.”

The Oracle Today

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Wednesday March 7 , 2018

INSURANCE & PENSION Insurers’ Committee meetings meant for CEOs only – NAICOM Stories by VICTOR NZE

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OMMISSIONER for Insurance (CFI), Alhaji Mohammed Kari, has warned that the Commission will no longer admit representatives at meetings meant for Chief Executive Officers of insurance companies.

Kari made this known at the First 2018 Annual Insurers’ Committee’s Retreat held in Abeokuta on Saturday.

The theme of the retreat is: “Repositioning the Insurance Industry in Nigeria for Self-Actualisation and Growth’’.

“The idea of the Insurers’ Committee was borrowed from the Bankers Committee and it is a platform for the highest echelon of the insurance industry. It consists of top management of NAICOM and the CEOs of insurance companies who are to dialogue on issues, challenges and proffer solutions for the development of the insurance sector.

Kari said that the commission expected that attendance at the committee’s meetings and retreats should be imperative and not optional. ”However, it is sad to note that this is not the case. Even when notices were given, some CEOs would give reasons not to attend and would send representatives. ”These ‘representatives’ have no voice or mandate to accept or disagree a decision because they need to report back to the CEOs. This would no longer be accept-

able, you are either present with us or absent against us. ”There is need to involve those being regulated in policy making and initiatives of the industry.’’

Kari said.

The commissioner said that the retreat would redefine the industry and increase its contributions to national development.

”The industry has come short in its contribution to national development and other expectations like evolving financial services to the deprived part of the Nigerian population. However, in the last few years, the insurance industry has witnessed series of changes due to reforms embarked upon

by NAICOM.

”These reforms include Financial Reporting Reforms, No Premium No Cover; Corporate Governance Code, Risk-Based Supervision, Information and Communication Technology Advancement, Financial Inclusion and Claims Settlement, all aimed at building confidence, among others, ” he said.

Osun govt. releases N200m for payment of gratuities

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Executive Director, Wapic Insurance Plc, Femi Obaleke (left); Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Yinka Adekoya; and Executive Director, Bode Ojeniyi at a press conference to announce the Wapic Safety-on Wheels initiative in Lagos.

Lagos SUBEB disburses N139m death insurance benefits

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agos State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) has disbursed over N139 million as death insurance benefits to families of 40 deceased teaching and non-teaching staff.

The Executive Chairman of the Board, Dr Ganiyu Sopeyin, made this known while presenting

cheques to relatives of the deceased staff at the SUBEB office, Maryland, Lagos on Sunday.

Sopeyin who disclosed that the members of staff died between October 2016 and October 2017, said that the State Government had always set the pace for other states to follow.

Embrace insurance for stability, continuity – Sovereign Trust boss urges entrepreneurs

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anaging Director, Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc, Mr Olaitan Soyinka, has urged young entrepreneurs to embrace insurance for the stability and continuity of their businesses.

A statement by the company’s Head, Corporate Communications and Brand Manager, Mr Segun Bankole, Wednesday, quoted Soyinka as making the appeal during the 5th Moreklue All Youth Awards (MAYA) recently in Lagos.

According to the statement, Soyinka said the award was in-

According to him these changes are imperative and have added considerable impact on efficiency, market structure and performance in the insurance industry. ”We are not also ignorant of the huge potential available for the industry to attain a lofty height within and outside the Nigerian economy. These potential would remain in our imagination if we do not take advantage of them.

For us as the industry regulator and supervisor, we have chosen to elevate the regulatory ladder.’’

Kari said

stituted to honor young Nigerians and other African descents doing exploits in entrepreneurial space, while stressing that insurance was needed to prolong their businesses.

“Insurance is very pivotal for whatever business a young entrepreneur embarks on. Getting insurance policy for your business is the smartest decision that an entrepreneur must take, especially in this terrain.

“Insurance will keep the business running despite all shocks and I encourage you to educate yourselves on ways insurance works,” Soyinka said.

According to him, while some states are struggling to pay salaries, the state government has planned for its staff, who died while in service.

“May our prayers ease you through this moment. Words may not suffice to express our heartfelt sorrow over the passage of your loved ones. The gesture we have shown you today is an indication that this government cares,’’ he said.

The chairman urged the beneficiaries to use the money judi-

ciously.

Sopeyin said that the state government was doing a lot to uplift the standard of basic education.

He said that the government had established six additional primary schools, recruited more teachers, provided additional training for teachers, provided infrastructure, and many more.

Sopeyin urged both the teaching and non-teaching staff of the state’s basic education system to reciprocate the government’s gesture by always putting in their best at all times.

PAL Pensions launches ‘retire with a smile’ campaign

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AL Pensions has launched a new campaign tagged; ‘Retire with a Smile.’

While addressing journalists in Lagos last week, Managing Director, PAL Pensions, Morohunke Bammeke, said the product was also part of efforts aimed at promoting financially secure future and encourage more Nigerians to save towards retirement. “‘Our vision is to be the leading Pension Fund Administrator in Nigeria creating value. At Pal Pensions, we are constantly focused

on creating value and delivering superior customer service to our clients. We are driven by the passion to be the leader in attracting new clients and retaining old ones.

“For us, it is crucial that every time our clients interact with us, they can be assured of the highest quality of service delivery. The Pal Pensions brand exudes empathy, warmth, partnership and integrity.

We are driven by the passion to make things easier for our clients,” said Bammeke.

sun State Government says it has released N200 million to settle part of the outstanding gratuities due to the 2011/2012 retirees in the state.

Media Adviser to State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola, Mr Sola Fasure, said this last Thursday in Osogbo in a statement released after the State Executive Council meeting.

Fasure said that the 2,006 retirees that were expected to benefit from the money would receive N100, 000 each on ‘first come, first served’ basis.

He listed the beneficiaries to include 801 high school teachers, 704 civil servants and 501 others from parastatal agencies.

Fasure who said that the payment would commence on February 26, also said that all retirees from local governments, elementary schools and middle schools would have their entitlements settled in instalments from Feb. 26.

Fasure said that the state government also released N1 billion for the payment of 142 pensioners under the Contributory Pension Scheme.

The governor’s aide said that among the beneficiaries were 100 high school teachers, 30 retirees from MDAs and 12 others from parastatal agencies.

He further said that the council had dispelled the rumour that the state government was collecting fees in public schools in the state.

According to him, government is only charging students and pupils maintenance levies in the new state-of-the-art elementary, middle and high schools in the state.

“Elementary school pupils are required to pay N2,000; middle school pupils, N3,000; and high school pupils N6,000 maintenance levy every academic session.

“Nevertheless, a flat rate of N1,500 education trust levy is required from every pupil in public and private schools in the state every academic session, “Fasure said.

The Oracle Today

29

Wednesday March 7 , 2018

INSURANCE & PENSION

Cyber security identified as top risk management priority

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EW organizations are highly confident in their ability to manage the risk of a cyber attack, despite viewing cyber security as a top risk management priority, according to a new global survey conducted by Marsh and Microsoft Corp.

In the global survey of more than 1,300 senior executives, two-thirds ranked cyber security among their organizations’ top five risk management priorities, which is approximately double the response to a similar question Marsh asked in 2016.

A vast majority of survey respondents – 75 percent – identified business interruption as the cyber loss scenario with the greatest potential to impact their organization, said the report ti-

NAICOM advises consumers to report non-claims payment to CBU

T

he National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), has advised consumers with genuine unsettled claims problems to channel their grievances through its Complaint Bureau Unit (CBU), which has been upgraded to listen to aggrieved of consumers in Nigeria.

Commissioner for Insurance, Mohammed Kari, gave the charge while responding to an allegation

by Dangote Group that some insurers have refused to settle its N400million claims since 2012.

According to Kari, the Complaint Bureau Unit has been upgraded, and is now headed by a Deputy Director in the Commission to settle such matters in the industry.

“The Commission had signalled the issue of effective and efficient service delivery to consumers as a key priority with its establishment of Complaint Bureau Unit, to deal with complains from members of the public against any insurance operator. This Unit had recently been upgraded, and is headed by a Deputy Director to attend to aggrieved consumers.

“Many aggrieved consumers have continued to access this desk to register their complaints with us. We advise the general public to take advantage of the desk and report challenges, and we assure that any company found in default shall be compelled to do the needful,” he said.

Kari, who was also not happy with consumers over some practices that are not in sync with insurance rules, accused them of connivance with Brokers to allot a proportion of risk to local underwriters without due cognisance of the insurers’ capacity, preferring to place the risk abroad even when the local market is not saturated.

He also alleged that some consumers in alliance with intermediaries choose to exclude some underwriters from participation in underwriting certain risks without cogent tenable justification.

tled “By the Numbers: Global Cyber Risk Perception Survey.” This compares to 55 percent who cited breach of customer information, which has historically been the focus for organizations.

Despite this growing awareness and rising concern, only 19 percent of respondents said they are highly confident in their organization’s ability to mitigate and respond to a cyber event. Moreover, only 30 percent said they have developed a plan to respond to cyber attacks.

“Cyber risk is an escalating management priority as the use of technology in business increases and the threat environment gets more complex,” said John Drzik, president, Global Risk and Digital, Marsh. “It’s time for organisations to adopt a more comprehensive approach to cyber resilience, which engages the full executive team and spans risk prevention, response, mitigation and transfer.”

An important step toward this goal is risk quantification. According to the survey, fewer than 50 percent of respondents said their organization estimates financial losses from a potential cyber event and, of those that do, only 11 percent make their estimates in economic terms. Such calculations are a key step in helping boards and others develop strategic plans and investment decisions, including those related to cyber insurance purchase, the report noted.

At the same time, responsibility for cyber risk management continues to lie primarily with the information technology (IT) department, with inconsistent involvement of other stakeholders across the enterprise. According to the survey, 70 percent of respondents pointed to IT as a primary owner and decision-maker

for cyber risk management, compared to just 37 percent who cited the president/CEO or the board of directors, and 32 percent who cited the risk management function.

“While technology is the foundation of any good cyber security strategy, companies can benefit from investing in non-technology solutions like risk management as

part of a holistic approach,” said Matt Penarczyk, vice president and deputy general counsel, Microsoft. “Through advanced technology, tools and training, for example, companies can better protect the data in their networks and be ready for the business interruptions and reputational risks associated with cyberattacks.”

Director, Pal Pensions, Fola Laoye; MD/CEO, Pal Pensions, Morohunkes Bammeke and Director, Pal Pensions, Funmi Omo during the Pal Pensions media campaign tagged Retire With a Smile’s launch in Lagos.

Wapic Insurance unveils ‘Safety-on-Wheels’ initiative W

apic Insurance Plc has launched ‘Safety-onWheels’ campaign in the country, in an effort to tackle the menace road accidents.

Managing Director of WAPIC, Yinka Adekoya, who made the disclosure at a media parley in Lagos, noted that accidents on the nation’s roads, had taken more lives than the deadly malaria disease.

According to her, the campaign, which commenced February 17, had over 1,000 drivers across Nigeria, who were educated on safe road-use practices, the importance of adherence to road traffic regulations, and appropriate road and vehicle maintenance cultures.

“We are aware that road accidents have far-reaching emotional, financial, and psychological effects on families and the workforce, which in turn have significant negative effects on socioeconomic facets of the society.

“As an organisation, Wapic Insurance is triggered by this awareness to collaborate with other stakeholders to combat this menace with the ‘Safety-on-Wheels’ Initiative. Our plan is to take the campaign across the country starting with Lagos State,” she said.

As a social-focused risk advisory initiative, the ‘Safety-on-Wheels’ campaign, she said, is conceived

to empower Nigerians with relevant knowledge and appropriate skills that will reduce road accidents, and raise general awareness about our collective road safety responsibility.

Targeted at raising collective consciousness on the need for road-users to imbibe and practice appropriate road-use culture in Nigeria, the initiative, she maintained, is an educational advocacy campaign executed

in partnership with the relevant government agencies including, the Federal Road Safety Corp (FRSC), and Lagos State Transport Management Authority (LASTMA).

Adekoya posited that in the ‘Safety-on-Wheels’ initiative, drivers will not only benefit from the road-use trainings, they will also participate in a series of eye and blood pressure tests, conducted by a team of qualified medical

personnel to determine their personal physical roadworthiness.

She added that participating drivers will undertake specialised trainings, which will equip them with working knowledge of road use and safety rules.

Wapic Insurance explained that it invested in this initiative and has built a credible partnership with state and federal road-safety bodies to provide quality trainings to all beneficiaries.

SICL relocates to new Lekki office

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tandard Insurance Consultants Limited (SICL) has now relocated to its new corporate office in the Lekki axis of Lagos.

Namd; Standard Group House, the two-storey edifice located in Lekki Phase 1, boasts of modern facilities to serve its numerous customers better.

Explaining, CEO/ President of the company, Ahmed Salawudeen said apart from the expansion which is an indication of a company that is doing well, he added that the movement became imperative to be able to serve its numerous customers better.

The company’s track record of excellence has not gone unno-

ticed, as the company has won many laurels across the globe. In November last year, the company was awarded with one of the world’s most important business award, “The Bizz Awards”, in an annual recognition awards organised by the World Confederation of Businesses (WORLDCOB), while the CEO, Dr. Salawudeen went home with an inspirational award for his contribution to the insurance field.

With this, the company became an elite member of WORLDCOB alongside large corporations such as Sohar Bank (Oman), Dubai Duty Free (UAE), Doha Bank (Qatar), Saudi Telecom Company (Saudi Arabia), BBK BSC (Bah-

rain), National Bank of Kuwait (Kuwait), Emirates Identity Authority (UAE) and Ethiopian Airlines amongst other notable companies.

30

31

The Oracle Today Wednesday February 28, 2018

CRIME Landlord arrested for burglary A landlord, who is also a community development association executive member, has been arrested in Ogun State for serial burglary incident in his area.

The suspect, Femi Adesola Amos, 48, owner of House No. 40, Oludande Street, Ilo-Awela area of Sango-Otta, Ogun State, was arrested last week at Iyana-Iyesi, Otta, sequel to improved community policing efforts of the residents.

Femi was, at the time of his arrest, the Social Secretary of Iyanu-Oluwa Community Development Association (CDA), Ilo-Awela, Sango-Otta, His arrest and confession,our source said has become has become talk of the town, both in Ilo-Awela and Iyana-Iyesi, where he rented an apartment for his second wife.

Most stigmatized by the ugly development is his first wife, Bukola, who is the Head of Interpreters in the Dalemo Region of a popular church in Sango area of Ogun State.

Femi was caught in the act with multiple keys with which he and his accomplice simply identified as , Kazeem, now at large, used to gain entry into their targeted apartment with ease.

The Oracle Today gathered that, the duo of Femi and Kazeem had gone out on operation on the fateful day and, as was their modus, Femi was on standby in his Peugeot 306 Station Wagon car, while his partner-in-crime went on operation in a house.

Unfortunately for him, some vigilant members of the community suspected the positioning of the car and

…caught with multiple keys

•

Amos

challenged Femi, who could not give convincing account of his mission in that neighborhood, a development that further heightened the residents’ suspicion.

Suspecting that he was on a mischievous mission around, the residents alerted men of the Onipanu Police Division, Otta, who whisked him away.

He is currently in the custody of operatives of the Federal Special

•

The bundle of keys recovered from him

Anti-Robbery Squad (FSARS), Abeokuta, on the instruction of the state Commissioner of Police, CP Ahmed Iliyasu, In his confession to police, the suspect said theirs was a two-man gang with specialty in burglary.

He said there was no apartment they could not gain entry into, if they so wished, adding that that was made possible with the bunch of keys, numbering over 100, at their

Guard kills colleague over N1,000 Stories by XAVIER NDAH

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oshood Adigun,a security guard at Oko Agbon, Iwaya, Yaba area of Lagos, has been detained at the State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department for allegedly killing his colleague, Ahmed Oyesiji.

Adigun, reportedly stabbed Oyesiji in the neck with a broken bottle and the victim bled to death at the spot.

The Oracle learnt that Adigun, sometime in the past, had borrowed N4,000 from the deceased but failed to repay.

It was gathered that a quarell ensued between the two around 8am on Monday over the sharing of N1,000 gift a passerby gave them at their duty post. The money was reportedly kept

by Oyesiji who was on night duty.

However, as he wanted to close from work in the morning, it was gathered that Adigun asked him for a N500 share. But Oyesiji allegedly refused, explaining that he had converted Adigun’s share to the part payment of the N4,000 debt.

A resident, who gave his name simply as Mayowa, said the ensuing argument between the duo led to a fight, during which Adigun smashed a bottle and stabbed Oyesiji in the neck.

“They worked as security guaxrds in the community. Moshood (Adigun) owed Ahmed (Oyesiji) N4,000. Somebody gave them N1,000 while they were on duty on Monday. Instead of them to share the money, Ahmed said he would not give Moshood his share. He said Moshood’s debt remained N3,500. They argued over it and fought.

“After they were separated, Moshood went for a bottle, broke it and stabbed him in the neck and he bled to death.”

The suspect was later arrested by the police from the Sabo division

•

Adigun

while the corpse was deposited in the morgue of the Mainland General Hospital, Yaba.

The deceased’s elder sister, Kehinde, described him as a diligent man, saying that he was also into Disk Jockey business.

Kehinde lamented how painful his death was to the family. She said it was unfortunate he had no child who could have been a solace to them and urged the police to bring the suspect to justice.

“He was 27 years old and was very hard working. He was a DJ and a lot of people know him in the community and environs. He was returning home from work that morning when his colleague ran after him. He (Adigun) stabbed him from the back because

my brother refused to give him N500 out of N1,000 somebody gifted them.

Meanwhile, he owed my brother N4,000 which he did not want to refund.

“Our mother lives in Abeokuta, Ogun State. She is aware of his death and is very devastated. Ahmed is very precious to us.”

The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Chike Oti, said investigations had commenced on the incident.

“The suspect stabbed and killed his colleague over a minor disagreement.

He has been arrested and investigation is in full swing. The case has been transferred to the Homicide Section of the SCIID,” Oti said.

disposal.

According to him, to commence the criminal act, himself and his fleeing member, whom he claimed introduced him to the business, contributed money and bought various types of keys, saying that was there major instrument.

The suspect further hinted that, they always struck in the day time when their would-be victim must have gone to work, adding that they started the operation at Egbeda in Lagos and moved to Iyana-Iyesi last year October.

Commenting on the arrest, CP Ahmed Iliyasu, commended the eagle-eyed residents for their vigilance, adding that, “that singular act was the dividend of community policing I have been preaching.

He further stated that police could not be everywhere at every time, maintaining that the job of policing is everybody’s business.

For the other gang member, the police boss said he had directed operatives of FSARS to track him down, and reiterated that Ogun State is not a place for criminals to hibernate.

Ex - convict impersonates Ogun director of finance

A

n ex convict, Surajudeen Adeleke Balogun has been arrested by men of Ogun state police command for impersonating an Ogun state director of finance on Facebook.

The suspect, a fashion designer from ijebu ode in Ogun state posed on Facebook as an NNPC staff with the picture of the said finance director through which he has been defrauding unsuspecting members of the public.

The 46-years old suspect had earlier been arrested for similar offence when he duped one Bimpe Akinmade of N950,000 having claimed to be an NNPC staff based in Porthacout and that the woman should borrow him the said amount to secure the release of his brother who is being detained at Ibara prison with the promise to refund her when he comes back to Abeokuta.

He came to meet the victim under the pretence of running an errand for the Porthacout based man which he collected the money and blocked the woman on his Facebook page.

He was later traced and arrested by the police, charged to court and sentenced to prison.

As soon as he came out of prison, he started his nefarious activities again.

Luck ran against him when he was trying to defraud another woman on Facebook under the same guise unknown to him that the woman is a police officer.

The officer played along with him until Saturday February 17,when he was arrested while trying to collect money from the woman.

On interrogation, he owned up to the commission of the crime, he informed the police that he down-

loaded the picture of the finance director and use it as his displayed picture in order to deceive his victims.

Meanwhile, the commissioner of police CP Ahmed Iliyasu has ordered that the case be thoroughly investigated and charged to court as soon as possible. He appealed to members of public to beware of fraudsters on social media.

•

Balogun

32

The Oracle Today Wednesday February 28, 2018

CRIME

Police in Lagos commence clampdown on cultists’ arrests 70 Stories by XAVIER NDAH

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T

he Police Lagos command has commenced clampdown on cultists just as it has arrested 70 in its efforts in ridding the state off cultism.

Making this known was the Commissioner of Police Lagos command Edgal Imohimi while parading the suspects Monday at the command headquarters.

He said this is in a bid to stem the wave of cultism which has reached an alarming rate among youths stating that it was not ignorant of the fact that a large number of our youth have joined several cult group. “ Some joined because they feel it is the fad while others joined because they feel it put them at advantage, socially, over other youths. Whatever may be their reasons for joining these cults groups, the bottom-line is that they are a bunch of misled youths who are amendable to the manipulations of criminal elements within the group and the larger society” Edgal explained.

According to him, in view of the development, the command has started a massive clampdown on the criminal gangs with the resolve to arresting and diligently prosecuting its member. “ It gives me much pleasure to announce to you that that efforts in that direction has started yielding fruits with the arrest of over 70 cult members including those that mur•

The cultists dered late Monsuru Bolaji, an officer of the Lagos state Neighbourhood and Safety Corp LSNDC) at Aguda, Surulere on February 21.

Of the arrested suspects Imohimi said 57 of them were arrested based on credible intelligence information that the members of the dreaded Aiye Confraternity were performing their initiation rites at a shrine in a thick forest part of Abule Egbanu in Elemoro, Aja area of Lagos.

Edgal said the Divisional Police Officer, Superintendent of Police SP, Mohammed Shehu Limawa was

detailed to mobolise his men for an immediate operation to dislodge the youths who are in their teens.

The CP said the DPO who acted as instructed mobilized his men with support from the undercover operatives to Area ‘J’ area command and the men of the Anti –Cultism unit of the command who stormed the area and arrested 57 members of the notorious Aiye confraternity.

Some of them were arrested out of their mind after taking an over dosed of drugs as at the time of the arrest.

Recovered from them are two lo-

cally made cut to size guns, three live cartridges and 22 expended cartridges.

Other items recovered from them are two Suzuki mini buses with registration number LND 893 XV and EPE 189XV ,one Volkswagen bus marked EPE 580 X9,one Mitsubishi space wagon wine coloured marked SMK 455 AL,one Toyota Camry grey coloured with registration number BD9760 DH and a Toyota Camry car with registration number LSD 506 EC. Edgal said the suspects will soon be charged to court.

NDLEA celebrities drug free club induct new members

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n the spirit of intensifying the war against drugs the “NDLEA CELEBRITIES DRUG FREE CLUB has welcomed new members to its fold.

At the induction which took place at Abuja last week , the Convener of the club who double as the president of The Drug Salvation Foundation Mr. Wilson Ighodalo, said, he was impressed and overwhelmed with joy with its tremendous achievements so far.

According to him, “ initially, the journey appeared lonely because there were few travelers on the route. Today, when I look at the personalities championing this cause with me, I feel deeply fulfilled that the once lonely road is now becoming pleasantly congested with credible stakeholders, A list of celebrities comprising of men and women who are making different impact in the society’.

According to him, these notable celebrities have three things in common which include the desire to make change, living positive life and courage to chase their dreams.

Ighadalo named new member into the club amongst them are Gbenga Adeyinka(Comedian), Dedon(Comedian) Acapella(Comedian), David Jones David(Actor), Greg OJ efua(Actor).

Speaking at the induction ceremony the President said the journey began with his compassionate heart to help young men and women overcome drug and substance abuse problems by educating them on the danger of drugs.

“I was moved seeing future of our young ones destroyed and young people with bright future abandoned their education due to battle with substance abuse related health issues. It was equally painful to me that a good numbers of prison inmates were drug addicts.

“At this point as a young man, I became trouble in my heart on what

Police Officer bags 3 months jail term over visa fraud

I can do to save one person from the captivity of drug addiction. I still remembered my first meeting with NDLEA over a decade ago, besides working as official media consultant to NDLEA 2004, as my company (Questlink Media & Ad Ltd) was appointed to handle NDLEA media and Advertisement. I became so passionate to champion the cause and carry on under non-profit and non-government organization.

“My main motivation was the number of lives that will be transformed by our NGO. Determine to articulate our goals for a drug free lifestyle generation and shaped humanity. Guiding young men and women in making informed choices on the danger of drug and substance abuse, we partner with NDLEA to create this great club.”

NDLEA celebrities drug free club, is a group of credible men and women who are indigenous and a list of celebrities of proven track records

known to have risen to the top of their career by dint of hard work and dedication.

“They serve as role models, mentors and champions of worthy of emulation based on the influence celebrities has on young people we have no doubt that their involvement in the sensitization against the menace of drugs in Nigeria will yield positive results as years go by.”

Listing the gains of the club Ighodalo mention amongst others as serving as role models to colleagues and youth in the society, increased understanding of the dangers posed by drug and substance abuse with their platform, encouraging young people to resist drug use, identify those who use and encouraging them to seek help.

Others are support/promote youth oriented activities that promote healthy lifestyle in the society, promoting positive youth oriented programs that provide alternative

activities to drug involvement and encouraging young people with substance abuse issue to break the silence and stigmatization.

He also use the opportunity to thank the celebrities once again for accepting to lend their voice, use their public status, platform, time, resources to this campaign against drug and substance abuse in our society. They speak the truth all the time, they are good listeners, they hardly take offense, they are reliable, they have appetite to help all the time, they are supportive and above all they have the fear of God. Ighodalo further said drug use is linked to risky behaviour like unprotected sex leading to HIV/AIDS, urban violence, impaired drivers that result to road accident which cost loss of lives, school drop-out, homelessness, insanity, cultism, rape, kidney/liver failure, terrorism, thugery , burglary amongst others.

he Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Uyo zonal office, has secured the conviction of one Elijah Joseph John on a two-count charge of fraud and identity theft.

The convict was prosecuted before Justice Fatun O. Riman of the Federal High Court sitting in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

John, a former staff of Diamond Bank was alleged by a certain Aniebeit Daniel Udeme (a customer with the bank), to have moved a sum of N400,000 from his (Udeme)

account same day the money was deposited.

According to the complainant, the unauthorised transaction was reported to the bank, but was told that it could not be reversed.

Hence, he petitioned the EFCC. Investigation revealed that it was John that moved the fund for personal use by fraudulently activating mobile banking on his phone, using the victims banking details under the pretext that he was assisting the victim in resolving a mobile banking issue.

John pleaded guilty to the charge and opted for a plea bargain.

Consequently, Justice Riman in his judgment delivered on February 20, 2018 convicted John and ordered him to pay a fine of N100,000 (One hundred thousand naira), warning the convict to always steer clear of crime and to always be of good conduct.

Meanwhile, the convict had paid a sum of N400,000 as restitution to the owner.

Court convicts banker for identity theft, fraud T

Lagos High Court sitting in Ikeja, has sentenced a police officer, Mrs. Ngozi Onwuka, to three months imprisonment over visa fraud.

Onwuka was charged before Hon. Justice Mojushola Dada, by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) on a one-count bordering on making false statement to a constituted authority.

The court was told by ICPC that the offence committed by the police officer violated Section 25(1) (a) of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000 and was punishable under the same section.

The court also heard that the convict presented a false bank statement of account to the Consular and Visa Officer of the British High Commission in Nigeria, with the intent to mislead the High Commission into issuing her a travel visa to United Kingdom (UK).

Counsel to the convict, Mr. C. Ubani, pleaded with the court to show mercy to her, saying she was a firsttime offender and had cooperated fully with the prosecution.

Justice Dada, in his ruling, sentenced her to three months imprisonment with an option of fine of N10, 000.

Police foil one chance robbery, arrest suspects

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agos State Police Command has arrested two one - chance robbery suspects after their failed bid to rob a lady passenger who boarded their vehicle heading to Badagry.

The suspects, Awusu Olusegun ‘m’, 47 years old and Adeosun ‘m’ 52 years, who were operating with a grey coloured Mazda 323 saloon c with registration number KTU 356 CE were arrested around 7:30 p.m today after their attempt to rob a lady of her goods was foiled.

The suspects were arrested at AP Filling Station, Aradagun, along Lagos/Badagry Expressway. Awusu was the driver of the cab while Adeosun posed as a passenger.

The victim boarded their car believing they were genuine men, unknown to her that they were criminals.

Police image maker , Lagos state, SP Chike Oti stated “as the journey progressed, they began to dispossess the victim, who raised the alarm thus attracting people to her plight.

Sensing that the lady’s scream would spell their doom, they pushed her off the car while on motion”.

The lady sustained injuries as a result and was rushed to an undisclosed hospital for treatment. Meanwhile people who heard the lady’s cry for help among whom were Police undercover operatives, pursued the robbers until the driver lost control of the car and fell into a ditch.

The Divisional Police Officer of Badagry Division was called in and he arrived the scene and arrested the suspects. The robbers’ car and the victim’s goods comprising of bags of rice have been recovered and taken to the police station.

Oti said investigation into the matter is in progress while advising Lagosians to board commercial vehicles at approved motor parks only to avoid falling into the evil hands of unscrupulous elements in the society.

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The Oracle Today Wednesday March 7, 2018

Love and Living

...With Ireto Temofeh

MODEL OF THE WEEK

LOVE NEWS

Wife, 79, is arrested for murder of her 82-year-old husband who had been suffering from terminal cancer

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Name: Ruth Kadiri •

If you want to be our next ORACLE GIRL, e-mail or forward your photos/data to ireto007@yahoo.com. Call 07031028714.

ODD NEWS

How parents can make their child a MILLIONAIRE

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financial expert has revealed how parents can make their child a millionaire - by saving just £5.50 a day.

Rob Gardner, 39, who is based in London, says that if you put the sum aside every day until your child reaches the age of 10, this can grow into a £1million pension pot by the time they reach 65.

In his new TEDx talk, he explains how parents should open the pension for their child on the day they are born.

They should then contribute £5.50 a day every day until the child turns 10, which is essentially the same as contributing £6.88 a day due to tax breaks.

By the time the child reaches 10 years old, the pot will have grown by £50 a week, or £2,500 a year - making a total of £25,000.

With the help of wise investments, the pension pot could have grown to between £35,000 to £40,000 by that point.

If left alone, this pot will roughly double every decade due to compound interest, growing to a million

79-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of murdering her 82-year-old husband after he was found dead at their bungalow.

The pensioner, named locally as Mavis Eccleston, was arrested on Wednesday after the man, named by neighbours as Kenneth, was found the previous day.

He was discovered in their bungalow in Raven Close, Cannock, Staffordshire and it is believed he had been diagnosed with terminal cancer.

The cul-de-sac where he was found has a mixture of bungalows, detached and semi-detached houses.

There was a police presence outside the property for a number of days whilst forensics examined the scene.

Mavis Eccleston has since been released as police continue to investigate the circumstances around the death.

Mr Eccleston, who is also known as Dennis, is a former pitman at the Middleton gravel pit.

He was believed to have had terminal bowel cancer and was known as a quiet man who loved tending to the garden of their bungalow, according to neighbours.

It is thought the pair lived in Raven Close for more than 20 years and have at least three grown up children who have since moved away.

Neighbour Suzie Templeman, 44, said: ‘This is shocking news. It is a nice leafy neighbourhood and for this to happen, it is shocking.

‘We never really saw Dennis much. I think he had a son.’

One resident said: ‘It is his wife who is the only suspect, police didn’t disclose anything - it was inhouse, she is the only suspect.’

Another neighbour added: ‘She was a bit shouty, if anybody had deliveries she would be on the doorstep shouting.

‘I hardly ever saw him, they loved gardening, they were both fully mobile.’

Another neighbour said: ‘Police

were there on Thursday morning, when I got up about 10 o’clock there was a car sat on the drive with an officer in it and no movement.

‘Yesterday lunchtime a forensics van pulled up. We never saw much of him, he was quite a quiet chap.

‘Like any pensioners they would go once a week shopping, get the car out of the garage and come back.

‘Other than that they rarely left the house.

‘He used to do the garden but in the last 12 months he had someone doing it as he lost a lot of strength - in the last few months he got old quick.

‘He was quite a robust fella.

‘She used to stand at the end of the cul-de-sac at 5am waving her stick.’

Lee Ford, 49, who lives near to the bungalow, said: ‘She is cuckoo, I have lived here for two years and I have just ignored her.

‘Last summer on some mornings she was outside pointing her stick, saying, “I am keeping an eye on you”.

‘She is an old lady so you say, “yeah, whatever”.

‘The husband, I was told he had cancer but he seemed fit and able to me - he kept the garden pristine.

‘Police were outside the house for three days and nights and CID were knocking on every door.

‘She walks with a stick, he can hardly walk - it is shocking.

‘They have a kid but they very rarely come, I would say they have a son or daughter.’

A spokesman for Staffordshire Police said: ‘Following the death of an 82-year-old man from Cannock on Tuesday (20), we arrested a 79-year-old woman from Cannock on suspicion of murder on Wednesday.

‘The woman has since been released under investigation as we investigate the circumstances of the man’s death further.

‘Specially trained officers are providing advice and support to the family at this difficult time.’

Romantic Joke YEARS OF MARRIAGE by the time your child is 65.

Father-of-two Rob, who is CEO of pensions consultancy firm Redington, has described the money saving hack as the ‘one thing’ parents should leave their children.

Even saving £2.50 a day, put away daily over the same amount of time with no other contribution after the child turns 10, could grow into a half a million pound pension pot by the

time they’re 65.

Rob, who is also the co-founder of financial education charity RedStart, said that people are amazed about his savings tip because they don’t understand compound interest.

‘People are always shocked to hear my millionaire savings hack and discover that they can grow such an

Continued on Page: 34

In the first year of marriage, the man speaks and the woman listens.

In the second year, the woman speaks and the man listens. In the third year, they both speak and the neighbors listen.

34

The Oracle Today Wednesday March 7, 2018

True Confession

“M

ama, I’ve made my choice.

Precious is the one I want to marry and nothing will make me change my mind.” That was how I forced my mother to agree to my marriage to Precious eight years ago.

My mother gave her blessing to the marriage, though she observed that Precious acted strangely.

My mother said that she couldn’t wait till the next nine months for Precious to give birth to her grandchild.

But to our disappointment, years passed, and still we remained childless. After five years without a child, my relatives began to question my manhood. “Ben,” my eldest sister said, “if you can’t impregnate your wife, why not see a fertility specialist?”

I went to see a fertility specialist. But the doctor said there was nothing wrong with me and my wife and that maybe our problem is spiritual.

After waiting for two more years to have a child in vain, my eldest sister advised me to marry a second wife.

My mother supported the idea, and it was left for me to inform my wife about it.

However, to my greatest surprise, Precious totally rejected the idea of my marrying a new wife. I reminded her that we were Africans and that an African man was incomplete until he had a child, especially a male child.

But she swore that any woman who married me would have herself to blame.

I went ahead and married a second wife.

But to my horror, from the very night my second wife moved in, she started suffering spiritual attacks.

She said that in the middle of the night, evil forces would press her down and try to suffocate her.

There was this particular night that my second wife almost died in her sleep and I had to take her to church.

At the church, the pastor saw a vision that my first wife is a witch and is responsible for the bad things that have been happening to my second wife.

I told the pastor that I had to marry a second wife because I suspected that my first wife is a witch.

I told him how it had been revealed to me in the former church I was attending that my first wife’s witchcraft is the cause of our childlessness, because she had sacrificed her unborn children at the witches’ coven.

With prayers, the attacks stopped for some time. Three months later, my second wife became pregnant and I thought we had finally overcome.

But six months into her pregnancy, the spiritual attacks started again and she had a miscarriage one night and lost so much blood in the process that I feared for her life.

‘My first wife’s attitude made me marry a second wife’

Her relatives accused my first wife of masterminding the attack. They came and took my second wife away from my house, claiming that I couldn’t guarantee her safety.

The child that refuses to let its mother sleep will also not sleep.

Precious, my first wife is still acting

strangely. I know she is out to ruin me.

But I’ll make sure she doesn’t succeed in preventing me from having a child by my second wife.

The witch can’t bear me a child, yet she won’t let someone else do it. She keeps fighting me all the time and wants to wipe out my name from the face of the earth

when I die.

But I won’t let her succeed. I’ve told her to move out of my house before the end of this month or else...

Do you have a story or comment about this confession? Call 07031028714.

How parents can make their child a MILLIONAIRE Continued from Page: 33 amount for retirement’, he said.

HOW TO MAKE YOUR CHILD A MILLIONAIRE 1. Make a start: Parents should open a pension for their child on the day they are born.

2. Persist: Contribute £5.50 a day into the pension pot every day from birth until they are 10 years old. Because of tax breaks, this is essentially the same as contributing £6.875 per day.

3. Stop: When they turn 10 years old, stop contributing. By this point the pot will have grown by almost £50 a week, or £2,500 a year, to a total of £25,000.

With a bit of investment performance in those first 10 years you could have grown it to between £35,000 and £40,000.

4. Wait: Because of the miracle of compound interest, if left alone this pot will grow (roughly doubling every decade) to over £1million by

the time your child turns 65.

‘This is because many don’t understand, or take advantage of, compound interest.

‘Without compound interest, saving £1m by putting £5.50 “under the mattress” every day would take almost 500 years.

‘Albert Einstein called compound interest the eighth wonder of the world and said: “Those who understand it, earn it, those who don’t, pay it.”

‘The secret is to start saving into a pension as early as possible, even with relatively small amounts.’

However, he added: ‘As with all investments capital is at risk and the value of investments and the income from them can go down as well as up.’

In his talk, Rob also identifies the growing savings gap and financial problems people have in the UK and around the world.

A third of people in the UK have problem debts and more than 16million have less than £100 in savings.

Increased life expectancy and the growing pensions crisis mean that individuals are now in

charge of the money they have for the present and the future.

The savings gap, which is the difference between the amount saved and what is required to give people a healthy income in retirement, currently stands at £6trillion in the UK and is set to rise to over £25trillion by 2050.

WHAT IS COMPOUND INTEREST? Compound interest is where interest is made on the interest each year, as well as the initial sum put on side.

For example, if you save money into an investment account, e.g. an ISA or a pension, any returns are re-invested and earned back again.

This means that next year, money is earned on both the original amount saved and the interest earned.

This then happens again the following year, and the year after that, with the amount increasing each time.

A rule of thumb is that a 7 per cent return for 10 years doubles the original money.

If it is then left for a further 10 years at 7 per cent, it doubles again.

Speaking about the importance of financial education in schools, Rob said: ‘Our children are heading towards a bleak financial future if we don’t do something to solve the problem soon.

‘The solution is simple enough, but tragically too few people understand crucial money concepts through lack of engaging financial education in schools.

‘We need to put financial education on the primary school curriculum, because children learn their money saving habits by the age of just seven, and in the meantime empower more parents to help their children have a financially secure future by starting a pension as soon as possible and teaching their children about money from an early age.’

Rob founded financial literacy charity RedSTART in 2012, which aims to teach one million children about important money concepts through fun and engaging games.

He has also written Save Your Acorns, a financial education book aimed at four to six year olds.

35

The Oracle Today Wednesday March 7, 2018

Relationships and Love Advice

What should I do to feel okay that I earn more than my boyfriend?

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Dear Love Doctor, I’m a woman in my early thirties. I work in Lagos and I have a boyfriend who really cares about me. He’s amazing and I love him, but I grow to resent him because of the money issue, no matter how much I try to brush the feeling off, the fact is that he makes less money than I do. So what should I do to feel okay about the fact that I earn more than my boyfriend?

Call Love Doctor: 07031028714, 08131161840, 08077821830 for Counseling, infertility & Direct Hookup.

Thanks, Catherine.

Love Doctor’s Advice: Dear Catherine,

T

he problem is that you feel that he is less a man because he earns less money than you do. The problem is not with him but with you!

First you need to change your perception. If you truly love someone, you need to accept him the way he is. However, one thing you can do to help you feel okay is that you need to tell yourself everyday that love is worth more than money and the amount of money you earn doesn’t make you a better person. Again you need to focus on the personality of your boyfriend and take gaze off the amount of money he earns. Ask yourself if that man is your ideal man. Ask yourself if he is really the person that gives you happiness. Focus on his personality because money might come and go, but people hardly change. If you feel he is right for you, then focus on his being right for you and lay less emphasis on his finances.

However, if you just can’t face the re-

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ality that your man earns less than you, then you might need to (1) Find someone else, or (2) Try to make your boyfriend “upgrade” himself by improving his education and learning new skills that could help him get a better job with a higher pay that you would love.

If he “upgrades” himself through education/learning and/or gets a better job with a higher pay (that might even be higher than what you earn or at least more respectable), you will definitely stop resenting him because he earns less than you.

True love does not really care how much money you make, if the car he drives is the latest car, if the house he lives in or the house he purchased is the best house or upto your standards.

Love helps each person understand them selves better, it helps each other grow to a more spiritual, more loving, accepting, understanding person.

What you are feeling towards him,

about how much he is earning or not earning, has nothing at all to do with him, it is something that you are feeling, something stemming from your own inner beliefs or insecurities. Find the why within yourself, is it because we are conditioned to believe a man should always earn more, is it that you are embarrassed that if the people around you knew the gap or difference of each of your pay checks that you would feel embarrassed. The lesson is in your question, you must find the answer within yourself. Let go of conforming to traditional beliefs or what you think the next person will think aboutyour love. Grow together in love, accept him warts and all. He may start earning more then you one day, will that then stem resentment because now he is above you, this may be something to do with control issues, look deeper within.

Do you have advice on this problem? Please share your thoughts. Call 07031028714 or 08131161840.

Email: ireto007@yahoo.com Do you have a marriage/wedding, birthday, anniversary or club or town meeting announcement to make? Call 07031028714 now!

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36

The Oracle Today Wednesday March 7, 2018

It happened to me:

S

ince I was a little girl, I always dreamed of the day I would become a mother. I remember playing with my dolls, pretending to walk them in their strollers, dressing them and doing their hair.

When I met my husband, we were on the same page when it came to having kids. I was in my late 20s, and with him being eight years older, he was ready. I remember when we got engaged, he told me that when he picked out the ring, he pictured us married and the ring sparkling on my hand while holding my belly.

One month after marrying my husband, it looked like my dreams were about to come true when we took the pregnancy test and got the “faint positive.”

Of course we obsessed over the “faint positive.” Did this mean we were really pregnant? Could this be a mistake? After a trip back to the pharmacy and multiple positive tests later, we finally started to believe we were pregnant.

We called our family doctor the next day and ran to have a blood test. With blood confirmation, we were pregnant!

We were so excited we told both of our parents and siblings that weekend. Our child was going to be the first grandchild on both sides. The next day I called the OBGYN to make our first appointment at six weeks -- the first time we would hear our baby’s heartbeat.

However, at the end of week five, on a Friday night, I started spotting blood. We decided to go to the emergency room. I couldn’t make it through the entire weekend not knowing.

Going to the emergency room is never fun. We waited hours until we were finally seen. They took us back to a room where we were about to have our first internal ultrasound -- this was not how we had pictured it. On television, the wife looks up at the husband, who’s holding her hand, and they gaze at the monitor as they see the image of their baby for the first time; we were in a freezing room, scared to death.

We were informed in plain terms, “There is no heartbeat. You lost the baby.

There is a pill we can give you to get rid of the baby.”

It felt like I was just punched in the stomach. Although I was only close to six weeks pregnant, this baby was part of us.

This just could not be happening. Why us?

What did I do wrong? I kept thinking, what if we can’t ever carry a baby? My husband and I just sobbed. She then explained that she would have the doctor come in and confirm her findings.

Wait, what? You aren’t a doctor, and you just told us we lost our baby? We asked to immediately see the doctor.

She explained that she was a resident at the hospital and that she was confident the doctor would back up her findings.

Thanks for the compassion.

Unfortunately, when the doctor, who seemed like he was in a hurry, came in, he did not have different news for us. Along with the resident, he highly recommended that I take a pill to “get rid” of the pregnancy, as the miscarriage would be very painful naturally.

The decision was an easy one for us: no matter what the pain was, we wanted to go through this naturally. We just couldn’t pull the trigger and take a pill. I tried my best to prepare myself for the pain of going through the loss both mentally and physically.

The rest of that weekend went by in slow motion. We both tried to stay strong for each other. I did not know how my body would react to the miscarriage. I was in emotional pain and scared of the coming physical pain. Our families tried to say the right thing. “Everything happens for a reason... You will have a baby when the time is right.” We knew they meant well, but nothing could stop the pain.

On Sunday night we realized we had our six-week appointment at the OBGYN that

‘I gave birth to the baby I was told didn’t have a heartbeat’

we had looked forward to so much. We decided we should go to the appointment and let them know what had happened in the emergency room. Perhaps they would be able to give us a plan for trying to conceive again in the future.

When we saw our doctor that Monday, we explained what happened at the emergency room. The last thing we wanted was to hear the bad news again, but we went ahead with an ultrasound to confirm.

To our shock, there it was: the most beautiful sound we ever heard. Our baby had a heartbeat! How could this be?

The doctor asked me if my menstrual cycle was regular. When I told her I had a history of having longer cycles than usual, she explained to me that was the reason -- the heartbeat was delayed and not formed yet when we’d gone to the hospital just three days prior.

I could not believe that the emergency room doctor never thought to ask me that question. What if we went ahead and

took the pill they so highly recommended?

I remember leaving that appointment so angry about what had happened in the emergency room but at the same time we were literally jumping up and down in the streets of Manhattan.

I had a pretty easy pregnancy from that point forward, physically. Mentally, we kept thinking we were going to lose the baby. We paid for a ridiculous amount of ultrasounds just so we could hear the confirmation of that beautiful beat that brought all our dreams back to life.

In March 2009, I went into labor. As I was in the midst of pushing, the doctor informed me that a resident would be observing the birth. To our shock, it was the same one who had told us we lost our baby and recommended we take a pill to get “rid of it.” She did not act like she recognized us or remembered that awful night. I wanted to tell her about the pain she caused she us. I wanted her to feel that pain. Most of all, I wanted her to witness the birth of our baby she recom-

mended we kill with a pill. There was so much I wanted to say to her. I was so angry. We were so angry. But seeing her was like seeing a ghost. We both just froze and couldn’t get the words out of our mouths.

The next sound we heard was our son’s cry.

Almost six years later, this experience is still a sensitive subject for me and my husband. Does this happen all the time?

How can a resident be diagnosing patients without a doctor? How can a doctor not be paying attention enough to ask the right questions?

I am so thankful that I am not telling a different version of this story. Instead I am telling this story because something inside me told me not to take that pill that would have taken my healthy son’s life before it even started.

Do you have a story or comment about this confession? Call 07031028714.

37

The Oracle Today Wednesday March 7, 2018

Love & Living

Another kind of baby mama

A

N unwed lady gets pregnant and we are supposed to understand that she is human and therefore can make mistakes sometimes. It’s alright. And then, the second time... Oh, it’s just a slip and why don’t we at least praise her for not giving any place to shame and opting for an abortion. But this third time... No excuse would cut it. What can she possibly be aiming at again! No, it must be her calling in life.

This lady, Ijeoma struggled through secondary school and was forced to quit when she took in the first time. Then, it was considered a mistake. Now she’s on the third pregnancy right in her father’s house. She claims that the men always took off on learning of her pregnancies. And what does she gain for all her troubles? Nothing beyond pleasurable sex, assuming that sex could could be pleasure in her dire circumstances.

She goes through the rigours of pregnancy, the nightmare of childbirth and yet she’s into all kinds of menial jobs struggling to cater for herself and the children. That’s what I call revelling in self-inflicted hardship. Do you blame those who sneer at her, saying that making babies in this manner was her calling?

What explanations could she have for this habit, lifestyle, or her culture, as someone else added?

Proper baby mamas are not smiling, they have commercialised child bearing and made it an industry. Many of them target celebrities and when successful,

A

COUPLE of months ago, the internet and streets of major cities of Nigeria where agog with celebrations as the much anticipated #NotTooYoungToRun bill was passed, thereby making it possible for newer, fresher and younger minds to run for political offices in the country to do so. Those who jammed the streets were tired of the recycling of persons who occupied the helms of affairs in the States and the nation at large.

However, this was with mixed opinions as some of us who knew the pattern of thoughts of an average Nigerian foresaw a trend where these same young people would have issues and lots of doubt about the capabilities of a younger person who would eventually declare his or her intention to run for a political office.

Barely a few months after these concerns were raised; we are faced with exactly the same set of problems.

Fela Durotoye, who based on my opinion, is one of the bright young minds Nigeria has produced, has declared his intentions to run for President of Nigeria and social media has been thrown into a frenzy and e-fights have erupted as many are raising dusts for and against his decision.

While I understand their grouse and concern, especially as they have been through abusive relationships with the previous governments, what I fail to understand is some of the reasons they are raising to back up their uproars, here are some of them: • “He should at least begin with smaller offices, so he can learn the ropes and patterns of how government in Nigeria works”.

Ify ARONU ifyaronu@gmail.com

The trend over the years is that February 14 spikes birth rate in places where it is an item like Nigeria. You can’t imagine how many November- December babies were conceived on that date. The statistic will blow your mind. In fact, if your birthday is like mine, which falls within that interval, your parents are suspect. they get famous and the rest is history.

But beyond the money and means, those children will still question the context of their birth and that’s not a question a thoughtful parent would want to hear.

Ijeoma’s kind of baby mama is horrible to say the least. Nothing to show for all the trouble. Is it the lack of common-

sense or just the sad outcome of untamed sexuality? It’s her life though. The least that we can do is allow her live it.

Does she deserve to be scorned for forcing an unfair course of life on those children? Absolutely! In many cases, children born that way end up as bullies to their parents. Who wants that kind of mum or dad anyway? Who wants selfish,

self-serving parents who only cared for few minutes of sexual pleasure? Such children can even get too vindictive that the society wouldn’t be sparred their wrath. Think of all kinds of atrocities unleashed on the society by deviants who didn’t come from a proper family and there you have it, the repercussions.

That is how it is, the man contributes a chromosome and runs away. The woman accepts just one chromosome and it becomes a part of her life that she can’t in good gate run away from.

It’s not the men but the women who let that happen but is it worth it in the end.

Absolutely not. There are ways around it and it is not by abortion.

These days, unwed women get pregnant only because they want it. That’s how come we have baby mamas. If she really didn’t want it and it happened then she was probably raped or plain stupid.

What! With the threat of STDs and all kinds of contraceptives all over, you can’t still protect yourself? If you can’t live without it and still refusing to play it safe, then you don’t mind dying. And after death, no sex, so choose wisely.

Your best bet is to stay here, where it’s certain, for as long as possible.

A woman really doesn’t need a complicated life. The pains, stress and possible terrible effects on the children can even be more disastrous than a volcano.

Please send your comments to ifyaronu@gmail.com

Fela Durotoye: Nigerian youths, their confusion

M

e& ore

Maureen Alikor maureenalikor@gmail.com

Of recent interest, so many social media platforms have recorded the massive intrusion of politicians and would be aspirants on its streets, as many of them are now interfacing with the younger generation that have found themselves a new nation; the internet. Politicians know how to fit into the age of their audiences.

This mindset to me is shocking and I keep wondering if these same patterns they want him to learn are not the same patterns that have kept us as an underdeveloped world for so long a time.

• “He is only a motivational speaker and has nothing to offer to Nigeria” This is another shocker, because the

Fela Durotye I know is a NATION BUILDER and that was how I got to encounter him the very first time I did and he has been one who has had the growth and development of this great nation at heart and he has been training and retraining others and gearing them, me inclusive on responsibilities ahead as we

envisage building a nation we would be proud to call home.

Through the Gemstone Nation Builders Network, Fela Durotoye has been actively involved in building the nation, and also building other nation builders, because he understand that the development of a nation begins with the mind, and also with the younger generation.

He has also been involved in doing other things. A trip to Google would help us.

Instead of finding out, some of us speak based on what other people have told us about what they heard he does.

All of these recent happenings have shown that many of us young people, who are clamouring for a better nation, would not be able to identify the better nation we say we want when we see it, neither can we recognise a vehicle that can at least help in driving us towards that great nation we say we want.

It is also very evident that while we are clamouring for a new nation, we really do not mind staying with what we have, because our fear of stepping out in faith is greater than our disgust and weariness for where e are today.

I ask, dear Nigerian youths, what do we really want?

Please send comments to maureenalikor@gmail.com

38

The Oracle Today Wednesday March 7, 2018

The Law and You

With Barr. Ken Akpom 08162016410

Negligence and duty of care

A

lot of these tortious crimes have been going on in the country for a very long time now that one starts wondering if the authorities concerned with taking care of such crimes are living up to their expectations. When citizens of this our great country, Nigeria, decide to leave their different pressing needs and problems and “file out” during any election processes to vote for those to represent them in government, what they mean is not to be neglected or abandoned by these representatives. This representative owes these citizens the duty of care and removal of negligence whatsoever.

Likewise in our various families, institutions, religious organizations, communities and even government institutions and establishments, we are not exempted from this topic of negligence and duty of care.

WHAT DOES LAW DEFINE NEGLIGENCE TO BE? Negligence can be defined as any act of carelessness. According to Lord Wright, “Negligence means more than heedless or careless conduct, whether in omission or commission; it properly connotes the complex concept of duty, breach and damage thereby suffered by the person to whom the duty is owed”. Furthermore, negligence may be generally defined as the breach of a legal duty to take care which results in damage undesired by the one who causes it, to the one affected by the act.

The tort of Negligence is made up of three elements as; i. A duty of care by the one who causes the act to the offender. ii. Breach of that duty by the person(s) who causes the offence. iii. Damage to the petitioner or complainant (known as the Plaintiff in Law) resulting from the breach.

In Nigeria situation today, this aspect of crime is being perpetrated too much, especially on the part of the different authorities entrusted to ensuring that the lives and safety of the citizens of this our great nation is protected and preserved. There have been series of unlawful killings, murdering of innocent citizens, kidnapping and other criminal offences which to my mind, is a result of negligence on those supposed to enact and enforce the laws that will terminate such crimes very early before they escalate to the present level they have attained. The perpetrators of all these crimes are human beings living and existing in our midst and whose vocations and avocations ought to be known by their neighbours and the negative aspects of them nipped in the bud before all those nasty stories that fill our daily news start.

Come to think of it, before the introduction of GSM in Nigeria, it appeared that the crime rate was high but when the GSM was introduced and monitored the crime rates drastically reduced as crimes are very easily detected. Likewise, the Cyber Crime rates were on the high side earlier before the close monitoring of this type of crime and the perpetrators identified and apprehended easily. The aspect of bank and other important institutions and facilities’ attacks by criminals were drastically reduced with the introduction of CCTV within and around these facilities and institutions. It appears then that the inventors and innovators are doing great in their own works while the human authorities in the country are negligent of their own obligations to ensuring that the tortious crime of negligence is not breached.

The country spends yearly huge sums of money to fight crime and terrorism. A sum of one billion US dollars was intended to be spent in fighting Boko-Haram insurgents in the North Eastern part of the nation by providing arms and ammunition to the military and not to empowering the scientists in this our country or even outside the country to devise a system that will monitor easily the movements and plots of these criminals from the onset before they execute them before any battle can take place. This lapse to me is an aspect of negligence by the various authorities concerned to protect the lives and prop-

erties of God-created good citizens of this great nation in the hands of ‘sacred’ offenders. I used the word “sacred” because it appears the authorities are scared of them by allowing their illegal and criminal activities to continue at an alarming rate uncontrolled. I am strongly against the advocacy for State Police in the country because the aspect of negligence in our administration has not been taken care of. It is expected that every Nigerian should be a police to the police to forestall crime in the country, but is it so? No. You can imagine what it will look like when some of the Arewa Youths in the North, the OPC in the West and the IPOB in the East are turned to State Police, what the nation will look like. Anarchy, I hear someone say. Our police problem borders on negligence, lack of duty and causing damage to informants.

I was almost kidnapped by some IGP IRT Police on April 16, 2017 with one of my clients because of property issue of a family and I personally visited Abuja and submitted my client’s petition to the authorities concerned, I mean from the head to the tail, and none of them even showed concern on such a sensitive matter but were only waiting for death to happen before they will come in to commiserate. Is this not the negligence we are talking about? It was after seven months when the matter is already in court and after a former president of the nation had accused the authorities of negligence that my kidnapped client was called to appear before a panel of investigation into his matter, which he turned down for contempt of court. You can imagine this attitude – negligence and lack of duty of care.

Recently, I paid a visit to Onitsha, Anambra State for a matter I had there. I paid a visit to the office of the Assistant Registrar of the High Court to collect some information on my matter. The Registrar offered me a seat (not the executive type of seats) and as we were discussing I heard a noise of movement inside the ceiling of the office room. Within some minutes something fell on top of my head and I discovered it was a male agama

This lapse to me is an aspect of negligence by the various authorities concerned to protect the lives and properties of God-created good citizens of this great nation in the hands of ‘sacred’ offenders. I used the word “sacred” because it appears the authorities are scared of them by allowing their illegal and criminal activities to continue at an alarming rate uncontrolled.

lizard pursing a female that fell down from one of the big holes within the deteriorated roofing sheets. I started wondering that if it were to be a very serious and dangerous reptile that fell on me, what would have been my fate. Also, I wonder if the authorities concerned never knew of the deteriorated ceiling to repair it to avoid such an embarrassing situation and give respect and dignity to such an executive office as that of Court Chief Registrar. Is this not also an aspect of negligence and lack of duty of care that I am discussing herein that occurred? Some persons and authorities are vested with the authority to oversee the infrastructure in these courts but they neglect it and never exhibit any duty of care. Or, can I put it that the judiciaries are very poorly funded as they are not given their own autonomy? The next rumour we will hear is that the judiciary is not performing. How can it perform when it is being neglected and shown no duty of care?

To this end, it is very pertinent for me to discuss some of the four elements to breach of duty of care. They are; a. The likelihood of harm; b. The seriousness of the injury that is risked; c. The importance or utility of the defendant’s activity; and d. The cost and practicability of measures to avoid the harm.

THE LIKELIHOOD OF HARM Lord Wright summarized this aspect with the words “The degree of care which the duty involves must be proportioned to the degree of risk involved if the duty of care should be fulfilled.”

THE SERIOUSNESS OF THE INJURY THAT IS RISKED In this situation, the gravity of the consequences if an accident were to occur must also be taken into account.

In conclusion, this foreseeability test on duty of care was laid down by Lord Atkin in the celebrated case of Donoghue v. Stevenson (1932) A.C. 562 at p. 597. In Anns v. Loudon Borough of Merton (1977) 2 All E.R. 492 at pp. 498, 499, and is known as “the neighbour principle” which states that: “The rule that you are to love your neighbour becomes, in law, you must not injure your neighbour; and the lawyer’s question, ‘Who is my neighbour?’ receives a restricted reply. You must take reasonable care to avoid acts or omissions which you can reasonably foresee would be likely to injure your neighbour. Who, then in law is my neighbour? The answer seems to be persons who are so closely and directly affected by my acts that I ought reasonably to have them in contemplation as being so affected by my acts or omissions which are called into question.”

In all this, I see the problem of Nigeria as negligence and lack of duty of care.

• Do you have questions or seek legal clarification on issues concerning your marriage, probate, property, etc? Call or send a text message to Barr. Ken: 08162016410, 08075763840. Email: kenakpom@yahoo.com

39

The Oracle Today Wednesday March 7, 2018

ENTERTAINMENT

With Douglas Omoyooma

Why I’m in love with Juliet Ibrahim – Iceberg Slim

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Ever since they found each other, Juliet Ibrahim and the new man in her life, Iceberg Slim, it would seem, just can’t get enough of each other. Indeed, they were the most popular lovebirds of 2017 on social media as far as the NIgerian entertainment scene is concerned. After Juliet Ibrahim announced she had finally found love again after her break up with her ex-pilot husband in the arms of rapper, Iceberg Slim, the pair had flooded social media with their romantic pictures and even went on to have matching tattoos in the US while on vacation. In this interview with DOUGLAS OMOYOOMA, in Lagos, Iceberg Slim, the new man in Ms Ibrahim’s life, opens up on their romance, declaring that he is not jealous of her success.

Juliet & Iceberg

“I am not the jealous type.

Also, where there is love and trust, I believe there should be no jealousy,” Iceberg Slim begins open opening up on their affair. “She is an incredibly talented woman and I find her brain to be the most exex citing. She is so talented, creative and intelligent and above all sexy.”

They are both very busy pursuing their careers. How do they get to spend quality time together. Is he not scared distance might impact their romance negatively? “No, I do not believe so,” he says waving his hands. “People make time for the things they care about, and they make time for the people they love.”

He and Juliet recently had matchmatch ing tattoos while on vacation in the US. What do the tattoos mean to him? “The tattoos are a symbol of our love for each other,” he expains breaking out in smiles, “hence the “LO” on my arm, and

been? “Wow! I would describe my sound as unique and one-of-a-kind. The response to Oluwa has been amazing. I am honestly humbled by the reception and I thank everyone that has been Music supporting the song and video. I will be Growing up in New York, Iceberg Slim was exposed to a lot of Sunny Ade, Fela, releasing a mixtape or an E.P. this year.

An album should come maybe next year.

Obesere and the likes but he couldn’t How does he get inspiration for songs? speak Yoruba. His says his dad played a “I am inspired by the music I listen to. lot of music at home.

I listen to a lot of music and whenever a “I appreciated the instrumentation song touches me I am inspired to make and melodies simply for what it was, great music. I played the drums and the a song that will touch someone the keyboard in church and it was the things same way. Music is spiritual and it’s all about the feeling it gives you.” that I learned from those songs that I Any plans to go into movies like his lovreplicated. I also sang in the choir and I would often use the harmonies and mel- er? “I don’t know what the future holds but for now I am focused on the music. odies that I heard from those artists.

However, I took acting classes in high “When I became a fan of hip hop, I was influenced by the likes of Jay Z, Em- school, maybe, one day I will showcase what I have learned.” inem, Kanye West and Drake. I always Is there any plans to tie the knot anywanted to make music like them; music that cuts across the world and connects time soon with Juliet Ibrahim? A smile creases his features as he responds: with so many people.”

“Right now Juliet and I are very much in love and we are enjoying this wonderful Oluwa After a much anticipated wait, he recent- feeling. We are not particularly thinking of marriage for now but just enjoying ly released a single entitled Oluwa to wide acclaim a while ago which won him each other’ company and watching our love grow.” rave reviews. What has the response the “VE” on hers. Put it together and you get love; we are truly in love with each other.”

40

The Oracle Today Wednesday March 7, 2018

Entertainment

Beauty of Africa International Pageants (BAIP) flags off projects for 2018

T

he international Organising Committee of Beauty of Africa International Pageants (BAIP), one of Nigeria’s most prestigious pageant platforms in Nigeria has flagged off its campaign for 2018 at a world press conference which was held on Saturday, February 24, at BAIP corporate office located on Allen Avenue, Lagos.

Themed AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM, PEACE AND FRIENDSHIP, the press conference kicked-off with a rendition of the national anthem which was followed by an opening speech delivered by Kenneth Oghodalo, PR Marketing Consultant to BAIP. According to Oghodalo, as the 12th edition of the pageant unfolds, corporate organisations and credible stakeholders should take advantage of the huge and well packaged marketing platform of the pageant in order to sell their products/services as this year’s edition promises to be bigger and better.

Speaking, Mr. Dan Opuene, president, BAIP, said: “Registration is officially open to all young Nigerian women who are between the ages of 18 and 25 years of age.”

According to him, the STAR PRIZE winner gets a brand new car, mouth watering cash price and wardrobe allowances for one year including a one year modelling/marketing contract and an opportunity to represent Nigeria at the Miss Tourism International 2019 world finals. For the first RUNNERS-UP, it is a cash prize, wardrobe allowance, modelling/marketing con-

tract and an opportunity to represent Nigeria at the Miss Supranational 2019 world finals. The second RUNNERS-UP also gets a cash price, wardrobe allowance, a marketing/modelling contract and a chance to represent Nigeria at The Miss Globe 2019 world finals. The third RUNNERS-UP gets a cash prize, a modelling/marketing contract and will represent Nigeria at Miss Tourism Queen of the Year International 2019 finals, while the forth RUNNERS-UP gets a mouth watering prize, a modelling/marketing contract, an opportunity to represent Nigeria at the Look of the Year 2018 world finals.

Among others, Opuene disclosed that a total budget of N86, 658, 304

has been projected for the event.

He said: “Screenings will take place across Nigeria. Beginning in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory on July 14. The train moves to Edo State on July18. It will berth in Enugu on July 21 and hit Port Harcourt on July 25 before berthing in Lagos on July 28.”

Opuene also disclosed that the platform is being promoted as an agent of national development and peace in Nigeria and the world at large stating that the objective is to align pageantry in Nigeria with global trends, attracts investment in the entertainment industry and contribute and improve the local content of the Nigerian modelling industry.

Fresh crisis as NCC asks Tony Okoroji to step aside

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nother front has been opened in the crisis facing collective management in the country.

Weeks after Tony Okoroji survived a coup, NCC boss, Afam Ezekude has called on the CMO to return to the status quo as of December 7, 2017 when Efe Omorogbe and six other members of the CMO struck in a failed coup and the implication of the statement is that Tony Okoroji should step down as COSON chairman while Efe Omorogbe takes over the running of the CMO. A letter addressed to COSON from the office of the NCC dated February 19 and signed by the commission’s Director General, Afam Ezekude, stated that the organisation should return to the status quo ante as at December 7, adding that it was acting within its oversight function and will examine the books of COSON and advise as appropriate.

However, in a swift reaction, COSON, writing through famed Guitar Boy, Victor Uwaifo, has fired back admonishing the NCC to steer clear of its internal business and concentrate on regulating the industry.

Said a source familiar with the matter: “Serious crisis is about to rock the industry and if care is not taken, all the achievements of the last couple of years would be eroded as all parties involved a battle ready.”

Okoroji, a former president of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN), was returned as COSON chairman at an extraordinary general meeting held on December 19, 2017, days after he was asked to step aside by the organisation’s board.

His return was endorsed by music veterans like Sir Victor Uwaifo, Sir Shina Peters and Ras Kimono among a host of others.

O

claimed for producing chart bursting films.

“Today,Tunde Kelani is acknowledged for his dexterity in handling the camera and also versed in the knowledge of Yoruba culture and tradition, which he is using to promote our rich culture.

“Also, with a touch of adire in his

A

Wave making act, Prince Lawman collaborates with Bracket

A

• Tony Okoroji

dressing, he has relentlessly identified with his root, Abeokuta, which is known as the home of adire clothe.

For this, we, in Ogun state, are proud of him as our culture ambassador”, Amosun added.

He wished Kelani more prosperous and health years as he celebrates his 70 years.

Prince Lawman collaborates with Bracket for Baby Girl

nuforo Cyracus Chinonso aka Prince Lawman is set to raise the bar as he has recorded a new song featuring Bracket entitled Baby Girl.

Commenting, the German based singer who has a couple of singles to his credit said that fans should expect greater tunes and also expect more local and international collaborations.

I

taly-based afro hip hop Nigerian act, Fresh Green has dropped a hot new single entitled Asiri (gossip) featuring Wizboy, according to a statement from his management, Fresh Green Entertainment.

Currently on massive rotation, the statement reveals that Asiri is a love song which tells a girl to forget about the gossip and concentrate on developing their love because he is in love with her and that is all that matters.

Fresh Green has dropped several singles including One In A Million, featuring fast rising R & B act Homie J, Issue featuring Slow Dog and Skelebe which dropped in the third quarter of last year. Also, last year, video of One In A Million was dropped.

In a telephone chat, Fresh Green, who spoke from his base in Italy appeals to his fans to listen to Asiri and get another feel of Fresh Green. He appreciated the radio DJs, on air personalities (OAPs) and all his fans who are helping to build the Fresh Green brand promising them that the best is yet to come and that he will surely keep representing.

Ben Emeh the artiste manager of Fresh Green also revealed that Fresh Green Entertainment will be releasing the full album in the second quarter of 2018. He also revealed that Fresh Green is currently in the studio working on a track dedicated to praising God. Ben Emeh, an actor, script writer, film producer and director is also the coordinator of Nollywood Welfare Forum.

nuforo Cyracus Chinonso also known by his stage name as Prince Lawman is a German based Nigerian artiste. Born and brought up in owerri, Imo state Nigeria before relocating to Germany.

Prince lawman is a talented artiste who knows his onions at using his indigenous language and English to deliver a good melody to his fast rising fans. His debut single Away Boiz enjoyed a massive airplay in the eastern part of Nigeria.

Prince Lawman is here to stay as he collaborates with the Bracket Duo on his new single that was released recently, Baby Girl. He promises his fans good music as he is ready to take over the industry.

In his words, my fans should expect greater tunes and also expect more local and international collaborations.

Ogun State celebrates Tunde Kelani @ 70

gun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, has rejoiced with renowned cinematographer and photographer, Mr. Tunde Kelani, as he turns 70.

Amosun, in a statement signed by the state Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Otunba Adedayo Adeneye, described Kelani as an epitome of cinema, who has also used his exemplary skills to promote the rich Yoruba cultural heritage worldwide.

The governor said the story teller and filmmaker, who was appointed the chairman of the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB),

by President Mohammadu Buhari, is a worthy Nigerian, distinguished Yoruba man and a pride to Ogun State.

He said Kelani deserves commendation and celebration, for rising from a local photographer and now sitting as the head of his privately owned film producing company, Mainframe, ac-

Fresh Green releases Asili

Born and brought up in Owerri, Imo State, a statement from his management stated that before relocating to Germany, Prince Lawman, a talented artiste blends his indigenous language and English to deliver good melody to his fans. His debut single, Away Boiz, enjoyed a massive airplay in the eastern part of Nigeria.

Eucharia Anunobi graduates from Bible School

A

ctress Eucharia Anunobi, despite burying her son recently has graduating from the Redeemed Christian Church of God’s School of Disciples on Sunday, February 15 alongside 900 other students.

And to celebrate the milestone, the actress posted pictures from her graduation on her Instagram handle with the following message: “Beloved ones, join me and celebrate Jesus Christ who saw me through the completion of the Redeemers School of Disciples course 2017 / 2018 session.

“The devil wanted to stop me from finishing, for my son died while I still had four papers to sit for but thanks to God who had promised that in these things, I am more than a conqueror (Romans 8: 37). I graduated with 900 other disciples last Sunday 25th February 2018. Please help me hala ‘Jesus na you be oga, all other gods na soso yeye.’”

And then she added: “If you keep looking at the mountain, it becomes overwhelming. Go to the base and start climbing, don’t look down and don’t look up, just keep at it and before you know it, you are at the top. If I could finish my exams while burying my son, what is stopping you from completing your studies. I prophesy as commanded may all satanic agenda put in place to stagnate your destiny be truncated now in JESUS name.

41

The Oracle Today Wednesday March 7, 2018

NEWS

Tributes for Biafra hero...

Continued from pg. 14

When we chose 29 May as the day to commemorate the genocide against Ndigbo, the Nigerian authorities chose to make the date Democracy Day. “That was why Ohanaeze Ndigbo shifted Igbo Day to 29 September instead of 29 May,” Awogu quoted the late Achuzia as saying.

Achuzia stressed the need for Anambra state and other states in the old Eastern region to always observe January 12th as public holiday in honour of those that died during the Biafran war since it was on January 12th that they were formally buried.

Col. Achuzia who expressed his thoughts on the burial of the Biafran war victims recalled that when the war ended, anyone who saw his fellow Biafran would say to him ‘happy survival’.

He went on to ask “What then do we say to the dead who were not fortunate to survive the war; is it happy dead? Therefore, all we had to do for them was to formally give them a rest which no one had the bravery to do, except Governor Willie Obiano!”

Achuzia further declared: “And considering the courage with which the governor buried the Biafran war victims at the expense of his office in worst case scenario, it will be preposterous for anyone to accuse the governor of being against the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, not to talk of having hands in the death of any Biafran activist or not doing

anything at all to prevent the killing of pro-Biafra activists in his State”.

He revealed the motive behind the formation of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, maintaining that the survival of the political platform should be a concern to all Ndigbo.

He frowned at the notion that tended to suggest that APGA is a mere political party, while insisting that APGA is the soul of Ndigbo, which is at the heart of Igbo survival as an identity vehicle for Igbo quest to manage their own affairs politically.

Achuzia recalled that the two legacies bequeathed to Ndigbo by Dim Ojukwu were Biafra and the APGA, adding that Ojukwu’s soul rested on these two legacies.

He recalled that Ojukwu’s thought on Biafra was for a final abode where nobody could cross into to harass his people, while APGA was lately founded as a platform to resist political limitations against Ndigbo in Nigeria.

He posited that since the First Republic, Ndigbo were not only denied a shot at the presidency as no political party was willing to give them presidential ticket but were also prevented from having ideological political platform to rally round their own people.

Achuzia, a British trained aeronautic engineer and one-time Secretary General of the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, commended Gov. Willie Obiano for living up to the dreams of APGA’s found-

NSUKKA VULCANIZERS ASSOCIATION

ing fathers, despite the challenges in human management.

He implored Obiano to ensure that APGA produced presidential candidate in 2019 general election if Biafra has not been restored or actualized by then.

The fiery war commander revealed that it was Ojukwu’s desire for it to be on record that an Igbo ran for the presidency of Nigeria in every election year and that the Igbo come together under a political unity and nurture same to national mainstream.

Achuzia who was until his death the Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Elders of the Indigenous People of Biafra, SCE of IPOB world-wide, absolved Obiano of being a party to the gruesome murder of unarmed members of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB at Nkpor and other locations in Anambra state on May, 30, 2016.

He recalled that the Amnesty International, AI had in its November 2016 report accused Nigerian security forces of killing unarmed IPOB activists. Makmid Kamara, the Interim Director of AI Nigeria was quoted as saying: “By far the largest number of proBiafra activists were killed on Biafra Remembrance Day on 30 May 2016 when an estimated 1,000 IPOB members and supporters gathered for a rally in Onitsha, Anambra State. The night before the rally, the security forces raided homes and a church where IPOB members were

•

Leke Oyinsan, right, Content Director of Veboo with Emma Osotonwa, media content developer, visiting the Veboo exhibition at Landmark Centre, Lagos. The exhibition on the next phase of radio runs to Friday sleeping. On Remembrance Day itself, the security forces shot people in several locations. AI has not been able to verify the exact number of extra-judicial executions, but estimates that at least 60 people were killed and 70 injured in these two days. The real number is likely to be higher”.

But in absolving Obiano of any involvement in the said killings, Achuzia said that he held a meeting with the then Anambra state Commissioner of Police, Hosea-Hassan Karma, now Assistant Inspector-General of Police in-charge of Zone 9, Umuahia, on the 29th of May 2016 where they agreed on police non-interference with the event of the following day, May 30th.

He stressed that in that

meeting, Karma had assured him that the police would stay away from the Biafra Remembrance Day event of 30 May 30, but that while himself and others had secured police consent and understanding for a hitch-free Biafra Remembrance Day celebration, they forgot that there was the army too.

Achuzia, who at 90 was still mentally sound, thanked Awogu for deeming it fit to visit him as he marked his 90th birthday, saying that he bore the brunt of the civil war as he was thrown into jail for seven years after the war ended on the orders of the Federal Government under Gen. Yakubu Gowon.

He bemoaned that those that were in power at the end of the civil war did everything against his person

because of his role in the civil war except that they didn’t harm him which he attributed to God’s will, and for him to live to clock 90 years could only be by God’s extraordinary grace.

Achuzia, who never minced words on topical issues, demanded that he, as a person, should be addressed as “a Biafran” as that reflected his true identity.

On his part, Dr. Elvis Idu of Delta State University, Abraka expressed sadness at Achuzia’s death.

The University don said he was deeply touched by the passing of the Biafran war lord, who played active role in the Nigerian civil war, adding that he was no doubt, known for speaking his mind, no matter whose ox is gored.

PUBLIC NOTICE AND CHANGE OF NAME

This is to inform the general public that the above named Association has Applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for registration under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. OJOBOR GODWIN CHIJIOKE 2. ODUME FELIX CHINWEIKE AIMS & OBJECTIVES 1. To faster the Spirit of comradeship among members of the association.

2. To promote peace and harmony among the members in particular and the town in general.

3. To show people the benefit of togetherness by sharing not only in the periods of joy but also in the periods of sufferings.

4. To promote the safety of road users with our perfession.

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street Maitama, Abuja within 28 days from date of this publication.

Signed OJOBOR GODWIN CHIJIOKE

CALVARY REVIVAL AND MIRACLE CHURCH

This is to inform the general public that the above namedchurch has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for registration under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. PASTOR SAMUEL UBAN KALU 2. PASTOR THOMAS CHUKWUDI NNAJI 3. BRO DANIEL NWABUNIKE ODIMEGWU 4. SISTER ESTHER NNENNA UBAN 5. SISTER ROSEMARY CHIKAODILI NWAFOR AIMS & OBJECTIVE 1) To preach Jesus Christ as the Foundation of our Faith and win souls for the Kingdom of Heaven.

2) To revive the Calvary purpose and making-Heaven consciousness in our members.

3) To operate an Educational system from nursery to University Level.

4) To operate a Welfare Organization to take care of the members physical needs.

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed TRUSTEES

FELLOWSHIP OF CHRISTIAN MEDICAL LABORATORY PROFESSIONAL

The above named fellowship has applied to the Corporate Affair Commission for registration under part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Act No:1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Professor Zacheaus Awortu Jeremiah (Chairman) 2. Mrs. Dorothy Amanamba 3. Rev. Dele Popoola 4. Professor Oluyemi Akinloye 5. Chima Onwuka Kalu (Secretary) AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. To raise a godly generation of professional that will transform the society.

2. To encourage Christian Fellowship among the medical Lab. Practitioners.

3. To facilitate and create channel for wholistic medical care and corporate social services like medical outreaches, visiting the sick/indigent patients.

Any objection thereto should be addressed to the Registrar General, Corporate Affair Commission, plot 420, Tigris crescent off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja, P. M. B. 198, Area 11 Garki Abuja within 28 days.

Signed GABRIEL OSYCHUKWUENE ESQ.

I formerly known as CHUKWUKANNE JOSEPHINE OGE LEBECHI. now wish to be known as EMEDO JOSEPHINE OGE. All former documents remain valid general public take note

I formerly known as IFEOMA MARTINA ENWELUZOR Now wish to be known as IFEOMA MARTINA NWEKE. All former documents remain valid, General public take note.

I formerly known as MISS EKWEALOR VIRGINIA NWAMAKA Now wish to be known as MRS OGBONNA VIRGINIA NWAMAKA All former documents remain valid, Banks and General public take note.

I formerly known as MISS UZOEZIE ODINAKA FRANKMARY now wish to be known as MRS DIJEH ODINAKA FRANKMARY All former documents remain valid, Banks and General public take note.

I Formerly known as MISS ILOKA HOPE ONYINYE now wish to be known as MRS NWUNE HOPE ONYINYE All former documents remain valid.

Banks and General public take note.

I formerly known as OGBOSO NWACHUKWU MOSES now wish to be known as NWACHUKWU MOSES EMMANUEL. All Former documents remain valid . Banks and general public take note.

I formerly known as OSISIOMA KOSISO EMMANUEL. Now wish to be known as OSISIOMA KOSISOCHUKWU EMMANUEL. All former documents remain valid,Banks and General public take note.

I formerly known as NWANKWO PRINCE OGBONNA. Now wish to be known as NWANKWO PRINCE STANLEY OGBONNA. All former documents remain valid,Banks and General public take note.

I formerly known as DICK CHIEGOSIKE. Now wish to be known as DICK CHIEGOSIKE REUBEN. All former documents remain valid,Banks and General public take note.

THIS SPACE IS FOR SALE

I Formerly known as NWACHUKWU PROSPER CHUKWUMA now wish to be known as NWACHUKWU PROSPER OGANIRU. All former documents remain valid .Banks and General public take note.

For your change of Names, Public Notice & Announcements Please call: 08037741102, 08036682255, 09078310060 Or Visit our office at: 116 Awka Road, Onitsha. Lagos Office: 25 Remi Fani-Kayode Street, GRA Ikeja. Abuja Office: 1st Floor, Plateau House, Central Business District, Abuja, FCT. Email:oraclenews@oraclenews.ng

The Oracle Today

42

Wednesday March 7, 2018

NEWS

Over 16,000 Christians killed under Buhari administration – Intersociety

By THEO RAYS, Onitsha

A

human right and pro-democracy group , International Society For Civil Liberties and the Rule of Law (Intersociety) has written to President Muhammed Buhari, accusing him of superintending the slaughtering of over 16,000 Christians in Nigeria through the activities of Herdsmen and Boko Haram since he assumed office in 2015.

In the letter which was copied to prominent world organisations and leaders such as Donald Trump, President of United States of America (USA), Antonio Gutteres, Secretary General of United Nations (UN), Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, among others, the group told President Buhari that the killing and burning or destruction of churches had recorded a viral increase in Northern Nigeria by 62 percent since June 2015 when he assumed office.

They lamented “the worst of it all was that the central Government under your leadership had done little or nothing to end the killings and destructions and fish out and punish the perpetrators especially the members of Fulani Herdsmen under the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria”.

Intersociety in the letter signed by its Chairman, Board of Trustees

Ebonyi South plans Umahi mega rally

By CHINEDU NWAFOR

T

he people of the Southern Senatorial Zone of Ebonyi state will on March 17, 2018 hold a mega rally to formally adopt State Governor David Umahi for a second term in office come 2019.

President of the Ebonyi South Development Political Office Holders’ Forum and Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt.Hon. Obasi Odefa Obasi, disclosed this to newsmen during the group’s meeting which held at the Osborn Lapalm Hotel, Uburu in Ohaozara Local Government Area of the state, weekend.

Obasi said that the five council areas and 57 council wards of the zone would converge on the Government Secondary School, Afikpo to honour the Governor and his wife for their comprehensive and statewide developmental strides which he said have turned the state into an enviable state in the country.

The lawmaker further stated that over 15000 people would attend the mega rally which he said would be such a kind as never witnessed before in the entire political history of the state.

He noted that banners, posters and fliers should have the pictures of the Governor and his wife Rachel alone even as he warned that anybody who engages in any act of lawlessness will be arrested and prosecuted.

Also speaking, the Secretary of the forum who doubles as the state Auditor -General for Local Government of the state, Barr. George Ukpai said, added that the forum would use the occasion to commend the Governor for the appointment of numerous sons and daughters of the zone into positions of power.

• Abia State Governor, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu, Thursday, cutting the tape to reopen the General Hospital in Aba, which has not been in use since 2010.

(BoT), Nze Emeka Umeagbalasi, told Buhari that he made a firm promise on his swearing in that he would uphold and abide by the 1999 constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended including its secularity which he had observed in

utter breach.

The group in the letter further pointed out that States and places with sizeable Christians population in the North such as Yobe, Borno, Bauchi, Adamawa, Taraba, Southern Kaduna, Plateau, Benue, Niger, Na-

sarawa and Kogi n State were facing steady persecution and decimation and recorded further intensity since 2015.

The Intersociety alleged that investigations carried out by both reputable and international rights groups and Christian organisations

Man kills his 4 children, sister-in-law, self

By IBE NWACHUKWU & THEO RAYS

T

RAGEDY struck, last weekend, at Awada Obosi,in Idemili North local Government Area, Anambra state, when a man, Mr Stephen Nnadiogo, reportedly ran berserk, killing his four children, including his sister-in-law and ended up taking his own life over allegations of infidelity.

All the deceased were said to reside at No. 21b Ntueke Street in Awada Obosi at the time of the incident.

According to sources close to the family, the wife had the habit of announcing to neighbours whenever she had a fight with her now deceased husband that the man was not the biological father of her children, and also that she had them from her extra marital affairs because he (husband) was impotent.

The man in response would call her a prostitute who could not be satisfied with one man.

When, last weekend, therefore, the wife left the house for her medicine store leaving their four children behind, her husband, according to sources, re-examined the children against the backdrop of the wife’s revelation, and reportedly resolved to end their lives so that, in his thinking, ‘the unfaithful wife can now go to the biological father of the kids and live there.’

He allegedly stabbed the unsuspecting children with a knife in-

cluding his sister-in-law, who was present at the time of the incident and they all died instantly.

Satisfied that they were dead, he allegedly hid himself in one of the rooms of the same flat located within the four-storey building where he subsequently took his own life by reportedly drinking a poisonous substance The incident came to the fore when the family’s house help who was sent on an errand by the man

before committing the crime returned and on opening the door, saw everybody in a pool of blood, thereby raising an alarm, which attracted passers-by, including the wife at her store.

Confirming the incident when contacted, the Awada Divisional Police Officer, DPO, Mr Martin Mbajunwa said that investigation was on going stating that the corpses of the deceased have been deposited at the morgue.

By CHINEDU NWAFOR

Ngbo people” He said the ugly scenarios that have enveloped Ngbo people outweighed their achievements. He attributed it to leadership failure, lack of fear of God, proliferation of cultism and idleness among the youths.

He called for a re-think among the people and advised that a summit was necessary where the people would discuss their fate.

“Life has become so cheap and death. Youths now smoke Indianhemp and pick up a gun or dagger and end the life of a human being and walk away remorselessly; nature is completely obliterated in Ngbo; every manner of wild life is extinct, our once sprawling glorious vegetation are all gone, even palm trees that last standing testimony of nature’s abundant free gift to us are being summarily failed; no common wealth of nature; our rivers and streams have had their

revealed direct involvement of Nigeria’ s Federal Government under Buhari’’s presidency in the killing of Christians in Nigeria.

“Our writing Mr. President is to express our deepest dismay, shock and sadness concerning the continuation and intensification of the butchery highlighted as well as condoning if same by the Federal Government under your presidency through caliphate and Islamic policies and actions.” Intersociety said.

Quoting relevant sections of the Constitution Buhari has breached in allowing the killings to go unabated, the group called in the President to immediately stop the slaughtering of defenceless Christians in the country under any guise and proscribe the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association.

They also asked the President to be far reaching in fishing out those behind these killings and press appropriate charges against them.

Ex lawmaker laments cult killings

F

ORMER senator representing Ebonyi North Senatorial District in the National Assembly and chieftain of All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Anthony Agbo, has lamented incessant cult related killings that has claimed the lives of over one hundred and fifty persons in the last two years in Ngbo, Ohaukwu Local Government Area of the state.

Agbo, a former 2015 governorship candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) before defecting to APC, disclosed this during the funeral of Rt. Hon. Nwegede Nwangbo at Ndulo Umuezeaka Ngbo in a write-up titled: “ A letter to Rt. Hon. Nwegede Nwangbo in commemoration of his rite of passage, and a message of condolence and admonition to his family and

gorgeous courses either closed or destroyed through criminal patrimonial infringement and trespasses; all pointing to the blatant savagery of unguided human elements that have no leaders to point them to the direction of sanctity.

“Extreme evil, violence, hypocrisy, falsehood and deceit reign in our midst: over hundred and fifty human beings were violently killed in the last two years in Ngbo and Izziah through the blatant terror of misguided and disoriented youths initiated into cultism,” he said.

43

The Oracle Today Wednesday March 7, 2018

FEATURE

How it all began I took ill after I came back from work sometime in late July last year and went to a nearby Chemist to buy drugs. I had vomited all through the night and had loss of appetite. When I got to the Chemist’s shop at Akpor Street in Okpoko area of Onitsha, he gave me some tablets. I went home after taking the drugs and was still feeling feverish, coupled with a huge loss of appetite. I had to go back to the Chemist the next morning to complain that I was still not okay after taking the drugs he gave me the previous night. That was when he recommended an injection for me.

He had asked me to come back in the evening for the injection and I did.

On getting to his shop, he mixed some liquids in a syringe and then injected me on my right arm. Immediately after the injection, I fell down and lost consciousness. For more than 30 minutes, I couldn’t stand on my feet as he began pouring water on my head to revive me.

When I regained consciousness, I got up to my feet, feeling very tired. Soon after, I vomited, messing up the whole shop.

I managed to go home that night very tired and in pains. That night I felt as if my right arm was bathed with acid and cried in pains such that I couldn’t sleep.

I had to go back to the Chemist the next morning to tell him I wasn’t feeling ok.

He then gave me some drugs to take.

He told me the drug would relieve the pains I was having. I then woke up the next morning and noticed my arm had swollen to a frightening degree. I had to call the Chemist on phone to tell him the development when he told me to rub ice block on the arm to enable it dissolve. My hand had changed colour at that point. I then went back to him and he punctured the boil with a needle and there was discharge of purrs from my hand. My condition worsened the next day with my arm swelling and black in colour. I had to go to BEX memorial hospital located along Owerri Road Onitsha for further treatment when I couldn’t bear the pains any more.

No effort to get the Chemist arrested before further medical treatment…

There was no effort to get the chemist arrested because I was in pains at that time. But at BEX Hospital, they did a series of lab tests on me and discovered I was injected with an expired drug. The doctor at BEX Hospital was furious about the discovery and demanded the Chemist’s phone number, which I gave him. He then called him and asked him to come over to the hospital, after he had made arrangement with the Police to pick him up when he comes. But on smelling a rat, the Chemist never showed up at the hospital and since then has been at large as all efforts to reach him on phone have proved abortive. He has also locked up his shop since then and possibly relocated out of Onitsha. I was on admission at BEX Hospital for two months. Doctors had earlier recommended my hand be amputated but following appeals from my relatives, they rescinded and we had to pay N740,000 for medical treatment. The money was raised by my elder brother, myself, friends and well wishers. I am a trader at the Mgbuka spare parts market Obosi in Anambra State.

After that, my business nosedived as I could not continue with treatment due to the huge cost of treatment and was discharged as a result of that.

BEX Hospital to the rescue?

There was an improvement because the hand reduced from its previous size. But it still has sore and cannot bend at the

How a quack chemist rendered man’s arm impotent Thirty-eight-year-old Emeka Umeasiegbu, father of three, a native of Akpo in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State has a bitter story to tell about life. Fate dealt him a fatal blow after he went to a Chemist shop for treatment of malaria and was given an injection that had his right arm practically paralyzed. Umeasiegbu came to The Oracle Today office at Awka Road, Onitsha, and, amid tears, narrated his ordeal to OLIVER UDEOGU.

•

Emeka Umeasiegbu

I also find it difficult to eat and when I eat, food usually scatters everywhere because I can’t use the left hand well.

The pains persist and as a result, I can’t go back to my business because it is such that requires lots of manual work, which I won’t be able to handle. The burden has become much on me as I have to carter for a wife and children, coupled with the harsh economic condition in the country, which is really biting indeed. elbow region which is giving me sleepless nights. As a result of that I can’t bath myself or wear clothes without someone’s assistance. I also find it difficult to eat and when I eat, food usually scatters everywhere because I can’t use the left hand well. The pains persist and as a result, I can’t go back to my business because it is such that requires lots of manual work, which I won’t be able to handle. The burden has become much on me as I have to carter for a wife and children, coupled with the harsh economic condition in the country, which is really biting indeed.

Other efforts to get better treatment When I was discharged from BEX Hospital, I was advised by a friend to go to the orthopedic hospital. I then went to the National Orthopedic hospital Enugu and after examination, they told me a correc-

tive surgery will cost a whopping sum of N1.2m naira or I risk the hand being amputated. I have been drained of finances since this ordeal began as I am left with nothing now. Those that contributed to offset my medical expenses at BEX hospital I cannot go back to them again and start asking for more money. Putting all these into consideration, I couldn’t take further steps towards raising the 1.2m they asked me to raise. Somebody then directed me to a local bone mender and I was able to raise N20, 000 which am using for the treatment. Though I am being treated there now, the problem still persists as I am yet to feel life in my arm.

I don’t want my limb to be amputated as that would compound the whole issue.

I am using this medium to appeal to kind-hearted, public-spirited individuals, corporate organisations, religious bodies and philanthropists to come to my

aid. I really need prayers and financial assistance to come out of this situation and I pray that God will reward everyone abundantly in Jesus name.

Lesson from this incident This has served as a big lesson to me and as such I advise people to go to certified hospitals when they are sick for treatment, rather than patronizing roadside Chemists who are not well-trained in medicine. They should be wary of the kind of drugs being administered on them. A lot of people have died as a result of malpractices by these untrained Chemists and drug hawkers--which is most unfortunate. Government on its part should force regulatory bodies to tackle the circulation of fake and adulterated drugs in the Nigerian market. In that way, precious lives would be saved in the country. As for the Chemist that put me in this condition, I pray for him to repent and know God just as I leave everything in God’s hands. For this reason, I leave him to his fate.

Emeka Umeasiegbu, indeed, needs assistance from kind-hearted, public spirited individuals, for him to get back to his feet. He can be reached on this mobile number 07067088583. For donation, his bank details are as follows Umeasiegbu Emeka, Skye Bank. Account Number 1018846052

44

The Oracle Today Wednesday March 7, 2018

HEALTH

To save children born with cleft lips from death...

Smile Train Ambassadors, Miss Universe Nigeria, Stephanie Agbasi and Miss Universe Ghana, Ruth Quashie played a vital role in creating awareness for the Cleft Week recently observed in Anambra State as well as observing a life-changing cleft surgery firsthand at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Awka.

Millions of children in developing countries, including Nigeria are born with cleft lip deformity and discriminated agaist, isolated and in some cases killed. ROLAND OGBONNAYA writes on this rare deformity in children

“W

e are honoured to work with Miss Universe Nigeria and Miss Universe Ghana and look forward to their support in Nigeria,” said Mrs. Nkeiruka Obi, Programme Director for Smile Train West and Central Africa about the efforts of the two beauty queens. “We believe that together we can reach more children suffering needlessly (thereby) not only creating new smiles, but also giving these children a second chance at life.”

At the Smile Train partner hospital, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Awka, you could see the smiles of parents after the corrective surgery on their children and wards, the few ones who had the opportunity to have a second chance at life.

Some other children born with such deformity never had the opportunity to survive as they were killed by their parents immediately after birth or their mothers chased away from the family they were married into just because they were born with cleft lips and palate deformity, which can be corrected with simple and minor surgery.

Yes, cleft lip and palate deformity can be detected in a child before birth through the use of Ultra Sound (Scan). However, the deformity is still a medical mystery as there is interplay between many genetic (internal) and environmental (external) factors. Some clefts are isolated (sporadic) and others Syndromic (associated with genetic mutations). It is genetic, as parents who have family history of cleft have a high risk of giving birth to cleft children.

Research by Smile Train, a charity organisation with the mandate of a sustainable approach to solving the problem of cleft lip and palate, said the deformity could be as a result of environmental causes: the use of drugs (anti-epileptics, oral contraceptives, some medicines for acne (pimple) treatment, folic acid deficiency, infection – Chickenpox, Rubella, syphilis, habits – smoking and high alcohol in-take, diabetes, exposure to ionizing radiations and parental age.

There is the theory that for most people that have inter-marriage relationship, their children likely end up having more cleft deformities. It could also be environmental, where a woman is exposed to all kinds of radioactive emissions, which affects the foetus of the womb. It could also be poor nutrition, a reason why pregnant women are advised to ensure they get antenatal care as much as they can. The only solution today to the deformity is a simple life transformation surgery that costs as little as $250 and lasts as short as 45 minutes.

As typical of Africans with cultural beliefs/superstition, children born with clefts are still being killed in some rural areas in different parts of Nigeria. Recall the killing of twins or multiple births before the Missionary Mary Slessor helped to de-mystify it. There is almost a similarity with clefts, though it varies from region to region. Some would say a child is born with cleft because the mother sighted the moon/solar power at a wrong time or as a result of ancestral curse on his/her family and the pressure on parents often leads to killing the baby, divorces or the banishment of the family from the village, while others are branded witches and often driven away, forced to live as outcasts.

The list is endless but it doesn’t detract from the fact that some of these children who survive would lead lives filled with shame and isolation, pain, and heartache. Those affected may not live past their first birthday, have difficulty eat-

ing, speaking and breathing.

According to Mrs. Obi, “you will also find that in as much as we are trying to catch them young (catch them before they know that they have cleft) there are as many adult clefts. This means there is a lot of this problem that we need to address. So, with Smile Train coming, we have been doing a lot of this, and we are catching as many young babies as possible.

“Cleft is the most common congenital malformation. Research has shown that 100,000+ children are born with cleft every year (estimated 170,000+ babies are born with a cleft in the developing world each year (World Bank, 2013).

Cleft is a major problem in developing countries where there are millions of children suffering with unrepaired clefts.

“Also, one in 1200 children estimated cleft incidence of Africa/Africa descent, 19,000 cleft children are born every year in Africa, out of which 12,000 are in West Africa and 6,000 in Nigeria alone and with huge backlog (adults clefts) of unrepaired cleft as barely 50 per cent get any surgical intervention.

“Almost half who do, get botched up surgeries yet and so we see a lot of adults showing up for secondary revision. The figures are relatively under represented because they are based on registered births (babies born in hospitals with records). How about the babies born at homes or in farms? Cleft babies are usually born to parents of low socio-economic status. Many are in the rural areas, with poor access to care. The problem is enormous but with the support of Smile Train, it is quite surmountable.

“Our vision of a cleft-free nation is to have a robust medical infrastructure and personnel easily and readily accessible to as many cleft patients, especially the children for early intervention so they can begin a great future without having to deal with all the stigma, discrimination associated with cleft and go on to live and contribute productively as members of their communities (and also to adults to give them a second chance to look at life and smile.”

Medically, Mrs. Obi explained that it is important for early intervention particularly for pallet (the gap on the roof of the mouth), “lest the children will have problems with breathing, feeding and speech. Even if you close it, at a later stage in their lives they already have speech problems.

In that case you now need speech therapy.”

Many cleft affected children, she added, need continuous support even after surgery. This is because they may need nutrition, dental care, orthodontics and speech therapy amongst others. And where these services are available at the Smile Train partner hospitals, the organisation will do everything to provide the support to the patients.

To deal with the problem, the international charity organisation created such strategies as the Smile Train Cleft Week Awareness Initiative during which they engage all relevant stakeholders. The week is dedicated to cleft awareness in any targeted area or community.

During the week, “there is a mass campaign, community sensitisation and education about cleft. “We drive to de-mystify cleft, that it is not a curse or bad omen. Cleft patients are not witches or demons and any evil spirit. They are just being stigmatised unjustly. The families need not be discriminated.”

Smile Train distributes handbills and posters to show that Cleft can be easily corrected and the person can go on to live a full; meaningful

•

Mrs. Nkeiruka Obi

•

Cleft lip victim

and productive life, and no child should be killed because of cleft. Such victims should rather be referred to any Smile Train local partner hospital.

“In Nigeria, we have partners and surgeons in all the 36 states and FCT Abuja. We have our programs running actively in countries like Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroun, Cape Verde, Central Africa Republic (CAR), Chad, and Cote d’Ivoire.

Others are Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Republic of Congo, Senegal, Sierra Leone and Togo.

“The child will be treated and given a smile.

Indeed, it has been working out. During the awareness week like the one just concluded in Awka, we pay courtesy visits to community influencers. Yes, because they are important.

Without them, you can’t do much,” Mrs. Obi further explained.

She said that Small Train has been in Nigeria for the past 10 years and the organisation’s im-

pact has been so significant in the treatment of cleft lip and palette patients, providing comprehensive care, as well as building the capacity of the local medical practitioners.

“Instead of spoon-feeding the surgeons of the hospitals, SmileTrain empowers the local medical professionals through training and provision of resources and equipment. And by so doing they are able to provide free cleft care to as many patients as possible all year round,” she disclosed.

This has helped because the organisation doesn’t have to take patients from West Africa to Europe or the US or fly anybody from Europe to Africa to perform any surgeries. And as it were, Smile Train has done close to 30,000 cleft lip surgeries in West Africa. Despite some challenges like incessant strikes by Nigerian hospitals, Mrs. Obi said that the impact of Smile Train in Nigeria and West Africa has been very phenomenal.

45

The Oracle Today Wednesday March 7, 2018

SPORTS

You can’t distract me, Akpeyi tells critics

FIBA W/Cup Qualifier:

Nigeria humble Mali F

• Says “I’m working hard for World Cup” Stories by MADUABUCHI KALU

S

UPER Eagles and Chippa United of South Africa goaltender, Daniel Akpeyi has replied his critics who have ruled him out the Super Eagles squad to the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia following his howler against Argentina in an international friendly played in Krasnodar, Russia late last year, November to be precise.

According to the former Gabros goalkeeper, those who are of the view that he won’t make it to Russia cannot distract him from his focus which is to continue to work hard to ensure that he does well for club and country.

As a result the Anambra State born goaltender has vowed to give everything to earn back his place in the team even as he declared that he yet to reach his peak as far as goalkeeping is concerned.

Akpeyi maintained that he will

never allow himself to be overpowered by negative criticisms as he continues to work hard to make Nigeria’s team to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia.

It is recalled that the 31-yearold conceded two mischievous goals as the Super Eagles fought hard to defeat Argentina 4-2 in a November international friendly.

However, the Chippa United first choice is resolute to always give his all for the country despite the harsh criticism that greeted his performance against Argentina’s La Albiceleste in Krasnodar in November last year.

“I am not competing with any goalkeeper in the team; I am grateful to the coach for always extending an invitation to me and also giving me an opportunity to play,” Akpeyi told media.

“You don’t have to talk me down with stories or lie against me on the pages of newspapers because you need to promote

someone.

“I have not come this far in my career by mistake though I wasn’t given a chance to get here; but I was positive about myself and I worked hard for it and with God’s grace, I reached the level I am today.

“I haven’t reached my mark yet. Yes, I made mistakes; some of the world’s best goalkeepers have made worst slips but they didn’t quit because they were criticized and condemned, they fought through it to become the best they are today. So, I’m not an exception and I will keep

NFF/AITEO ‘Legend XI’ excites Chukwu

F

ormer Enugu Rangers and Green Eagles’ skipper, Christian Chukwu has expressed excitement over last week’s maiden edition of Nigeria Football Federation and AITEO Award Legend XI Award that he was one of the recipients.

According to the immediate General Manager of Enugu Rangers, the award was a welcome development even as he declared that the award will spur the younger generation of players to do more for the country knowing full well that one day will be recognized for their contributions for the development of the round leather game.

He gave kudos to Amaju Melvin Pinnick’s led Board of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) describing the initiative as first in the annals of Nigerian Football.

He acknowledged the fact that some mistakes were made as being pointed out by some stakeholders such as the omission of late Rasheed Yekini and late Stephen Keshi.

He, however, defended the NFF on the omission of Keshi and Yekini saying he does think that the awards were posthumous.

Chairman, as he is fondly called by his admirers believes that subsequent edition will be better than the maiden edition even as he urged those who did not benefit from this inaugural edition to exercise patience as they are to

benefit in subsequent editions.

“I must start by saying that I am excited with the NFF/AITEO Legend XI Award. I am also delighted that I am one of the beneficiaries of the maiden edition of the Awards,” Chukwu began.

“I can’t say it is long overdue because before now no board of the Federation have ever deemed it necessary to institute the award.

So I give kudos to the Amaju Pinnick-led board of the NFF for this laudable award.

“I am even more delighted of this award because it is recognition of one’s contributions to the development of the game in the country. So I appreciate the award,” Chukwu said.

Continuing Chukwu said: “You know this is the maiden edition of the awards, there are bound to be mistakes. So, I don’t want to dwell

on mistakes people are pointing out as it regards the awards.

“You should remember that there has never been anything like these awards before now, so there must be one lapse or the other that I agree; but that should not be over emphasized.

“On the issue of omission of two great players on the list, all I want to say is that this is just the maiden edition of the awards.

Who knows by next edition they may be included and more importantly, I don’t think that the NFF/ AITEO Legend XI Awards are for postmortem.

“If you check the award list you will discover that there was no late player on the list. So, those making a case for Keshi and Yekini should look at the list of awardees and find out if there is any dead player on the list.

“Nobody knows what plans the NFF have for them. We should exercise patience because I know that this award is not going to be one off thing,” Chukwu admonished.

fighting,” Akpeyi declared.

It is the wish of every wellmeaning Nigerian to see Akpeyi and any other goalkeeper do well for both country and club.

Like he said, many great keepers have experienced more embarrassing slips than he did in the game against Argentina but the difference now lies on what he himself recognized as their ability to overcome such slips. It is the hope of The Oracle Today Sports that Akpeyi will actually rise above the Argentina slip and become a world class goalkeeper. May he realize his dream of rising above the Argentina slip.

Carabao Cup: Guardiola beat Wenger to secure first England trophy

P

ep Guardiola on Sunday secure his first England trophy after ending last season without any trophy as his boys humiliated Arsene Wenger’s side in the final of this year’s Carabao Cup final played at Wembley Stadium.

The runaway league leader handed Guardiola his first trophy as Manchester City Manager by thrashing Arsenal 3-0 in the final of the Carabao Cup. It was the first time Arsenal and City will be meeting in a major Cup final. While the Gunners had triumphed in recent meetings between both sides at Wembley, Arsene Wenger and his team were simply overpowered on Sunday.

City got off to a bright start with Sergio Aguero giving them the lead in the 18th minute.

While no more goals were scored in the first half, the Cityzens continued from where they stopped as Vincent Kompany doubled the lead just before the

Westgarth dies after heavyweight bout

B

ritish boxer, Scott Westgarth, has died after falling ill following heavyweight bout on Saturday.

Westgarth looked uncomfortable as he was interviewed ringside after his points victory over Dec Spelman in Doncaster and was taken to hospital, having deteriorated backstage.

ormer African Basketball champions, D’Tigers of Nigeria Sunday ended their first phase of their effort for the 2019 Federation of International Basketball Association (FIBA) World Cup with a resounding 82-59 win over hosts Mali in their last Group first round qualifying tournament in Mali.

The Nigerian Men team led by Captain Ike Diogu finished top of the group with maximum six points and will head next phase of qualifiers in June unbeaten as they had defeated Uganda 102-86 in their first match and Rwanda 108-53 in their second group game.

According to the basketball international governing body (FIBA), the 12 teams who qualified from the first round, will play home and away games to determine the five teams that will represent the continent at the 2019 World Cup in China.

In Sunday’s game, Nigeria dominated the first quarter, which they took 21-5 but the Malians rallied back in the second quarter to earn a 16-16 draw against D’Tigers. The hosts took a slim lead in the third quarter 21-20 but Nigeria completed the game in the last quarter winning 25-17.

Captain Ike Diogu weighed in 22 points, eight rebounds and one assist to lead the charts for Nigeria while Christopher Obekpa had 10 rebounds and Michael Efevberha had 11 points, five rebounds and eight assists. Obi Emegano accounted for 15 points and Bryant Mbamalu scored 14 points.

The 31-year-old who had been chasing an English title fight died in Royal Hallamshire Hospital.

Stefy Bull, Westgarth’s promoter, wrote on social media on Monday “God bless Scott Westgarth. To promote a boxing show and a young man doing a job he loves losing his life, I have no words.”

hour-mark.

Any hopes of Arsenal mounting a fight back was extinguished when David Silva made it 3-0 in the 65th minute.

With City claiming the Carabao Cup otherwise known as the League Cup, a domestic double is on the cards as Guardiola’s men are on course to also win the Premier League title.

With barely 10 games to be played, Manchester City have a massive 13 points lead despite playing a game less compared to their closest rivals.

City are also one leg in the quarter final of the Champions League after their first leg triumph over Basel.

As for Arsenal, their only hope for silverware is in the Europa League, where they are in the Round of 16 but have a mountain to climb against AC Milan even as fans and stakeholder wait to see how their European campaign will end.

46

The Oracle Today Wednesday March 7, 2018

SPORTS

2018 W/Cup: Croatia to play Senegal for Eagles

Stories by MADUABUCHI KALU

S

UPER Eagles opponents at the 2018 FIFA World Cup are not leaving anything to chance hence most of them want to prepare well before confronting the three time African champions, Nigeria.

The West African are grouped alongside two time world champi-

ons, Argentina, Croatia and debutants Iceland.

Nigeria’s first group opponents at 2018 FIFA World Cup Croatia are not sleeping over the titanic battle that will definitely shape the colour of the group in respect of who qualifies and who does not qualify for the next stage of the tournament. And as a part of their preparations for the World Cup,

the East European country, have announced an African team to get them ready for the battle against Nigeria. According to them, they have secured a friendly tie with one of continent’s football super powers, Senegal. They are to play the Teranga Lions of Senegal few days before the kickoff of the Mundial in order to ensure that they get some tips on what to ex-

pect from Nigeria.

According to their Coach, Zlatko Dalic, playing Senegal will give them a good experience about Nigeria since they are a good African football playing nation and they are also in the same region as Nigeria.

The Croatian Football Federation confirmed last week that Dalic will face Senegal at Osijek City Garden Stadium on 8th of June in their last warm up match before heading to Russia.

The match is aimed at preparing the team for their opener against the giant of Africa, Nigeria at the FIFA World Cup. “Senegal is an excellent preparation for Nigeria and is one of the best African teams. I am sure there will be great atmosphere in Osijek before leaving Russia.

“I believe in the strength of Croatia and we want to be able to play with the strongest teams in warm for Russia. And the match with Senegal fit great in our preparations for the World Cup,” Dalic said.

“The Nigerians are an unknown team and we have to study them well.”

Playing against Senegal in a friendly would give the Croatians a measure of the physicality the

No date yet for CNS – Williams T

he President of the Nigeria Aquatics Federation, Mr. Babatunde Fatayi Williams, says the date for the Federation’s flagship annual elite swimming championship, the Chief of Naval Staff Swimming Championship (CNS) has not been determined.

According to the Vice President of the continental aquatics governing body (CANA), the Federation are still waiting for signals from Lagos State Government who are their partners as they pledged to play host to the 2017 edition after the State of Aquatic Splendour successfully played host to the annual championship in 2016.

Williams made the declaration in exclusive telephone interview with The Oracle Today Sports even as he expressed optimism of getting information on that sooner than later.

“No! There is no information

• Fatayi Williams

on the Chief of Naval Staff Open Swimming Championship yet.

We are yet to get any information from our partners, the Lagos State Government,” Williams started.

“Of course you are aware that Lagos State ought to have played host to the 2017 edition of the annual Chief of Naval Staff Open Swimming Championship (CNS) but the competition could take hold last year..

“As we speak, there is no information in that regard and we are still waiting. This is a carry-over tournament because it couldn’t hold last year. And since it is an annual event in honour of the Chief of Naval Staff, there is need for the 2018 edition after the carry over event because as the name applies, it is annual competition which should take place annually.

“Like I said, we are still waiting to hear from Lagos State. We have just returned from Kaduna where National Council for sports meeting took place. So, who knows we have some good news in that regard sooner than we expect.

“Of course you may have heard about some of the decisions reached at the meeting.

The meeting discussed Nigerian Sports challenges and solutions.

Of course the biggest news is the fact that cross River State has been stripped of the hosting of the National Sports Festival after their failure to host the festival

for six years. The festival hosting right has been granted the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja and it is expected to hold in November.

“You are aware that throughout

last year except for the African Zone II Junior Swimming Championship that the Federation played host to in October, there was no other event that took place.

Rohr dispatches Enrico to Spain for Uzoho F

rom every indication, it’s like Deportivo La Coruna B Team goalkeeper; Francis Uzoho has booked his ticket to this year’s Federation of International Football Association (FIFA) as Super Eagles’ Technical Adviser Gernot Rohr has dispatched one of the team’s goalkeeper trainers, Pionetti Enrico to Spain to do some work with young goalkeeper ahead of the 2018 FIFA World Cup finals.

Enrico, who came into the Nigeria senior team’s mix ahead of the B squad’s 2018 African Nations Championship qualifying fixture against Benin Republic six months ago, arrived in Spain some days ago to commence work with Uzoho as di-

• Francis Uzoho

rected by Rohr.

It is recalled that Uzoho was reserve goalkeeper as Nigeria’s Under-17 boys won the FIFA Under-17 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates in 2013, even as Leicester City striker, Kelechi Iheanacho emerged the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the tournament.

Uzoho won his first senior cap in a friendly against Argentina in Krasnodar last November. As a matter of fact, there is no gain saying he impressed Coach Rohr in that encounter as he replaced Akpeyi.

It is no longer news that Nigerian crazy football fans have never hidden their concern about Super Eagles’ goalkeeping duties at the FIFA World Cup in Russia, with Carl Ikeme (who was between the pipes for the qualifying matches against Swaziland and Zambia at the beginning of the race) still undergoing treatment for leukemia.

Reports from Spain has it that Uzoho has kept 10 clean sheets out of 14 matches for the Deportivo La Coruna B squad this term and showed tremendous confidence and agility in the Eagles’ comefrom-behind defeat of two time world champions, Argentina.

West African team possesses.

Continuing he said: “They are the first in their qualifying group without defeat; they are young, with the German leader at the helm. We have time to prepare everything, including the choice of camp.

“We are starting with the analysis to be ready for the World Cup, and the most important thing is for our players to be healthy and true, and we will be looking for friendly rivals outside Europe, from Africa, because we all know most about Europeans. Argentina, but our strategy has to come down to strong rivals and strong matches,” Dalic declared.

Just like the Croatians are getting prepared for the game against Nigeria with a tune-up game against Senegal, their opponents, the Super Eagles have also lined-up a friendly against the Czech Republic on June 5 – their last tune-up match before their first ever confrontation with Croatia on June 16.

The Croats as a part of their preparations will also face Mexico and Peru in America next month in the first of their warm-up matches before the World Cup in Russia.

Our focus is on 2022 Olympics, Nigeria’s bobsled team

D

espite not winning any medal at the just concluded Pyeongchang Winter Olympic Games in South Korea, the Nigerian bobsled team last Wednesday declared that they left with their heads held high after an emotional Olympic debut in the crackpot winter pursuit.

The team finished 20th in Pyeongchang, more than seven seconds behind gold medallists, Germany in a sport where success and failure is measured in hundredths of a second.

Even as the team ended the Olympic campaign without a medal, the Nigerian representatives believe that 2022 Olympic will be far better as they plan to commence preparations for the Beijing Winter Games in earnest.

“By God’s grace you will see Nigeria in Beijing,” said the Texasbased Adigun, after failing to improve on her Tuesday’s personal best.

“It’s quite amazing, I’m overwhelmed with joy and overwhelmed with the idea of knowing that history was made and we gave everything we had to do it,” said Adigun, after bumping off several walls in a ragged final run.

“This was just one of those days that you can’t really describe,” she added. “Full of all kinds of emotions — full of relief, full of history.”

“We did everything we could.

People are super-stoked back in Nigeria. We just pray all of our resilience does foster into some future athletes.”

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The Oracle Today Wednesday March 7, 2018

SPORTS

Buhari, Ambode to host CHAN Eagles Stories by MADUABUCHI KALU

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RESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari will today, play host to members of the silver winning Super Eagles at the just concluded Championship of African Nations (CHAN) tournament that held in Morocco.

The team who were humiliated in the final of the championship by the hosts, Morocco are going to be hosted by the President Buhari led Federal government at a dinner ceremony in Abuja today Wednesday, according reports.

Team coached by Salisu Yusuf achieved Nigeria’s best feet at the championship despite losing scandalously to hosts and eventual winners, Morocco. The hosting of the team by President Buhari is a reward of the hard work they put in the championship by playing in the final for the first time in the history of the championship that started in 2009.

The CHAN Eagles as they are called be hosted by the President alongside members of his cabinet for doing the country proud even when they were not

• President Buhari given any chance of making it to the semifinals of the championship.

Meanwhile, the team will also

be hosted by the Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, who was with the team in Morocco as a way of encouraging

them.

The team and their officials are expected to move down to Lagos after they have been hosted by the Presidency, where they will also be hosted by Governor Ambode of Lagos State.

The hosting of the team by the Lagos State Governor is in fulfillment of the promise he made to the team while they were in Morocco.

There is no gain saying that the participation of the Yusuf led Super Eagles Team B in this year’s CHAN tournament came with much criticisms following what many consider as below average performance of the team.

While some are of the view that despite not playing good football, the team were able to reach the final of the competition for the first time and as a result deserve commendation but others did not see it that way even as some called for probe of the team’s selection as they believed that the players selected for the tournament were not the best the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) could boast of.

Shell wins Nigeria Oil/Gas Industry Games F

or the third time running, Shell has won the Nigeria Oil and Gas Industry Games (NOGIG), posting a commanding victory streak in the history of the 30-year old triennial competition. At the end of the week-long NOGIG 2018 in Lagos, Team Shell topped the medals table with 11 gold, 12 silver and 11 bronze, leaving the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and Chevron in second and third places respectively.

“Team Shell’s record win is welldeserved,” said Osagie Okunbor, Managing Director, Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria (SPDC) Ltd and Country Chair, Shell Companies in Nigeria, while reflecting on the performance of the contingent.

Continuing he said: “The games present a good opportunity for all of us in the oil and gas industry in Nigeria to be physically active and network in an atmosphere of healthy rivalry, and we wish to commend Team Shell for the hard work and commitment which have earned them a top place at the medals table for three consecutive years.”

The Nigeria Oil and Gas Industry Games which is in its 7th edition, held February 18 – 24 with 13 companies competing in football, squash, table tennis, lawn tennis, scrabble, chess, snooker, swimming, golf, basketball, 100 metres dash 200 metres and 4x100 metres relay. The games came to a climax at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, Lagos with the finals of a football match, 100 meters sprint (men/women), 200 metres sprints (men/women) and 4 X 100 metres relay.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, the NNPC GMD, Dr. Maikanti Baru, chief host of the games, commended the athletes

• Sunday Oliseh

L-R: General Manager External Relations of Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), Mr. Igo WelI; Group Managing Director of Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation, Dr. Maikanti Baru; and SPDC Community Relations Coordinator and Vice Chairman Nigeria Oil and Gas Industry Games (NOGIG) Organising Committee, Mr. Alex Onumbu, at the presentation of the 2018 NOGIG Overall Tournament Champion trophy to SPDC in Lagos.

for competing keenly and fairly, and hoped that the quality of the games would continue to improve in the coming years. Both

the Minister of State for Petroleum, Dr Ibe Kachikwu and the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Ambode Akinwunmi echoed the same sen-

I can outbox Joshua-Parker J

oseph Parker insists he can outbox Anthony Joshua as he eyes victory in their heavyweight title fight on March 31.

Parker, who holds the WBO belt, and Joshua, who holds the IBF and WBA ‘super’ belts, will put their titles on the line when they clash at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff next month.

Joshua is the clear favourite for the fight, but New Zealander is confident he can upset the odds.

He said: “I can outbox Anthony Joshua. I think I have the skills to outbox him but I haven’t

really shown that. That’s why I’m excited - this is a big stage to put on the best performance of my life.

“I can knock him out. I can outbox him. Words can’t explain how excited we are.

“We’re fighting in his backyard and we’re fighting another champion who’s undefeated.

That makes it a great fight.

“But also, the opportunity to fight in front of 80,000 people is very appealing. A lot of people say it’s going to be overwhelming and I’m going to be nervous and scared. But I see it differ-

timents in the goodwill messages they sent to the ceremony. General Manager, External Relations, Igo Weli represented Shell at the event and received the winner’s trophy from the NNPC GMD amid cheers and jubilation.

Manager Team Shell, Alex Onumbu who is the also the Vice Chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) of the games, thanked the management of Shell companies in Nigeria for their support and the athletes who made Shell proud. He said: “The amount of hard work and discipline that underpin our participation and victory can only be imagined. We want to pay tribute to our athletes, who in addition to their normal work, took the time and pains to train, compete and win. And of course, we also own a huge debt of gratitude to our management, because without their untiring support, we would have gone nowhere. This record victory is not just for Team Shell – it is for all of us!”

ently. I see it as us making the most of the occasion.”

Parker’s trainer Kevin Barry is equally confident his man can beat Joshua when the two boxers put their unbeaten records on the line.

He said: “It won’t matter if there’s 800, 8,000 or 80,000 people at this fight. It will be the same Joseph Parker that walks to the ring. I’m not one bit worried about the occasion getting to him.

“He wins the fight with speed and movement. He wins the fight with a higher level of skill.

Parker has far better skill than Anthony Joshua. He has a far better selection of punches.

He is very durable.

Bolt to make his footballing debut at Old Trafford

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sain Bolt is set to make his much awaited and talked about football debut as he captains a team of celebrities and footballers for the Soccer Aid match on 10 June.

According to excited Bolt: “It’s my dream to make it as a professional footballer. To play against some of football’s biggest legends is going to be remarkable,” the Jamaican sprint king said.

Bolt has spoken previously about wanting to get into professional football after retiring from athletics last year.

And over the weekend, he put out a cheeky tweet - which led to much speculation - hinting he’d been signed to a club.

“Robbie and his England team better watch out as I won’t be going easy on them,” said Usain, adding that he’s got a “special celebration” planned should his team win.

“I always said that I want to cope in more of a team sport because the track is individual,” he told the football club.

“I catch along easily and understand what I need to do when I get a job. When I get instructions, I can carry them out really well,” he said.

The Soccer Aid game at the team’s home ground will see celebrities and former world-class footballers playing together on the same team.

The event, which takes place biannually, has raised £24 million to help children since its launch in 2006.

The match has seen the likes of footballers Maradona, Alan Shearer and Ronaldinho play alongside celebs like Mark Wright, Jack Whitehall and Olly Murs. Will Ferrell, Gordon Ramsay, Mike Myers and Craig David have also played in previous years. “Reclaiming the title for England this year is going to taste so much sweeter with Usain leading the Soccer Aid World XI,” said Robbie Williams, who co-founded Soccer Aid. “I can’t wait to lead out the England team.”

Uzoho to man post for Eagles against Poland

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arring any unforeseen circumstances, Deportivo La Coruna’s team B goaltender, Francis Uzoho will be in-between the sticks when three time African champions, the Super Eagles file out in friendly ties against Poland and Serbia next month.

From every indication, it’s like the team’s gaffer; Gernot Rohr has ended his pursuit of erstwhile Eagles’ captain, Vincent Enyeama to return to the national team, even as the Franco-German tactician has shifted his focus Uzoho as the team’s first choice keeper for the 2018 FIFA World Cup which Russia will be playing host to.

The Deportivo La Coruna’s Team B goalkeeper, seem to have been penciled down to commence his journey to the Russia 2018 World Cup as Eagles’ keeper in the game against Poland and Serbia.

It is recalled Rohr has already sent his goalkeeping assistant, Pionetti Enrico to Spain to prepare the youngster for the project ahead and the extent of the work will be known when the shot stopper goes into action in those two friendlies.

However, it is expected that the German football tactician will release a list of 25 players that will prosecute the two matches this week with the bulk of footballers that feature in the Eagles’ last matches November expected to make the list.

WEDNESDAY March 7, 2018

The

www.oraclenews.ng

J

OKES apart, Alhaji Laiwola Mohammed appears unhappy when he is not in the news. He has been in the news for too long. His main weapon is to reduce propaganda to sophistry. He does not know when to stop. He really likes the ring of his voice.

Who can forget the hostility he generated across the country with incendiary speeches that Nigerians ignored? We are Nigerians, though tribe, tongue, religion, region differ. If we behaved like Alhaji Mohammed suggested since the All Progressives Congress began its ferocious journey to power with incremental intensity since 2013, matters would have been worse in every manner. He is abusive. He is annoying.

He addresses Nigerians condescendingly. He is a Minister of Information, but he would rather say whatever pleases him. It is not in his place to give an answer that could soothe a situation. He prefers convolutions, for their sake.

Alhaji Mohammed is the leader of presidential information panjandrums who delight too much in their importance that they forget that the President serves the public through them. In almost three years of blaming the previous administration for everything that is wrong, they have changed the narrative to mean that President Muhammadu Buhari could not be held responsible for the country drifting under his command.

Bafflement is their best strategy.

They play the victim. In a sense they are. They are victims of their own ambitions, their exaggerations about their abilities, their outright distortion of information, just to gain power.

The O’Jays 1973 hit song, “Now that we’ve found love, what are we gonna we do with it?, variously redone by reggae band Third World (1978) and Heavy D (1991), could be reworded to ask what the All Progressives Congress, APC, intends to do with power, now that it has found it, and holds it.

Apparently these duplicitous utterances have assumed a life entirely theirs.

There are relay stations waiting to take the messages further, chiefly, that Nigeria was so gone, that but for the remedial work President Buhari had done in the past three years, the country would have collapsed without trace.

What are the evidences? Corruption had infiltrated the system to a point that it was killing Nigeria. Appropriately, when members of the government are involved in suspicious undertakings, or woefully fail to act differently from the government it changed, and had spent its entire tenure maligning, the response is that corruption was fighting back.

Anyone who suggested, criticised, or queried the bases for the government’s position on issues, was either ill-informed (no thanks to the government’s concealing of its supposed activities), or bellyaching because he had no further access to corruption.

They take liberty in tagging people corrupt, something only a competent court should. They simply regurgitate

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racle Today

VOX POPULI SACRUM

ISSN: 2545-5869

Lai Mohammed can’t make us terrorists

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What could Lai Mohammed be telling Buhari?

the trite lines about the endless sins of the previous administration, deify President Buhari, agree that Fulani herdsmen were such a blessing to Nigerians that they have to be placed above all laws - present, past, future - agree that Buhari’s presidency was ordained, divine, and was the panacea to the woes of Nigeria, invent ways of cataloguing how Buhari has changed Nigeria, and agree with Alhaji Mohammed that he has never lied.

Aware of what Nigerians think of the regime, disinterested in the welfare of Nigerians, and unabashedly committed to inventing new reasons why President Buhari has woefully failed to fulfil promises he made to the electorate, the latest tactics of Alhaji Mohammed is to resort to threatening Nigerians. He worsened the threat by casting a legal veneer on it.

Alhaji Mohammed said hate speech (another name for any view that opposes government’s position) would no longer be tolerated. President Buhari, on his return from a long medical vacation, last August, similarly threatened

Nigerians with a line he drew for hate speech.

The President had warned that anyone who crossed the line would be punished. Even if the President could be pardoned for imperialising his presidency, after all he was a military President, and consistently behaves as if his present office is not different, Alhaji Mohammed should know better.

Alhaji Mohammed is a lawyer. He also wears his democratic credentials like epaulettes, emphasising that he is on the progressive side of democracy.

Words are everything. Or so he thinks.

How would a lawyer be threatening to prosecute Nigerians under non-existent laws? Is he suggesting that the days of diktat, Buhari’s homely base, are on their way?

His address to the Nigeria Union of Journalists, in Kano, the other week, was another confirmation that the Buhari administration had little to offer Nigerians, other than taking away whatever they have. Their major target has been the right of Nigerians to access free speech. If we disagree with the

regressive steps of the administration, which began with its failure to appointment a government in more than six months, it is terrorism.

Yet anyone who knows Alhaji Mohammed would not be disappointed. His resort to sheer abuse, threat, is part of the Lai legend. But must he find recourse in a non-existent law? What does that say for him as a renowned lawyer?

Alhaji Mohammed warned against hate speech. I am also against hate speech. Anyone who violates Lai’s law, he said, would be charged under the Terrorism Prevention Act of 2011.

Lai’s law is that hate speech is terrorism. The Terrorism Prevention Act of 2011 does not have these words “hate, speech”. The law does not define hate speech. How can it be used to prosecute Lai’s offenders?

I strongly suspect that Alhaji Mohammed, lawyer, and all, has not read the Terrorism Prevention Act of 2011.

He appropriated it. He thought that the mention of his intention of making terrorists out of Nigerians, through prosecution, with a non-existent law, would frighten the opposition, and the media. He expects that his principal would be impressed, seeing Lai unleash his terrorism on Nigerians.

The Terrorism Prevention Act of 2011 cannot be deployed to Lai’s aid what would he do? Does he understand how his utterances affect the image of the administration that he serves? Does he have concerns about his own image?

What recommends his brand of communication?

Nigerians are not terrorists. Not even the instigations of the likes of Alhaji Mohammed will make them terrorists. We are on the verge of discussing salient issues that affect our present and future.

Strident voices would be heard.

Nobody should muffle them by tagging them terrorists. Nobody should, under the guise of protecting fair speech, abbreviate our rendition of the woes the Buhari administration has visited on Nigerians.

If anyone is to champion a war against hate speech, it cannot be Alhaji Mohammed, who does not know what hate speech is, and is so immersed in it, that he has appropriated immunity as his clan is wont to in all matters.

When Alhaji Mohammed calls Nigerians terrorists because they disagree with the government he serves, we shall assume that is not hate speech because he is a Minister, and he has often told Nigerians that he has never lied, in his life.

The Oracle Today is published by The Oracle Newspapers Limited. Head Office: 116 Awka Road, Onitsha. Lagos Office: 25 Remi Fani-Kayode Street, GRA Ikeja. Abuja Office: 1st Floor, Plateau House, Central Business District, Abuja, FCT. ISSN: 2545-5869 Email: oracletoday2016@yahoo.com, Twitter: @oraclenews.ng Facebook: oraclenews.ng@facebook.com Website: www.oraclenews.ng Advert hot lines: 09078310060, 09061836916. Editor: FELIX OGUEJIOFOR ABUGU.