Wednesday April 25 Edition

The

VOX POPULI SACRUM

WEDNESDAY April 25, 2018

racle

Today

www.oraclenews.ng

ISSN: 2545-5869

VOL.3 No.16 N200

Ifeajuna – Time to recognise a sports legend

E

MANNUEL Arinze Ifeajuna is an enigma, little doubt that his name is mentioned in whispers, or sentences cut to exclude him, only to be continued, if they vilify him. There cannot be another Ifeajuna.

Born in Onitsha, he attended Dennis Memorial Grammar School, DMGS, in his home town and displayed the characteristics that would later define his life. He trained in the high jump under his

THE ORACLE COMMENT games teacher, and he also took part in a protest that closed down the school for a term. He graduated from high school in 1951.

The 1954 Nigerian Athletics Championships saw him establish himself among the nation’s best high jumpers. A jump of 6 foot 5.5 inches (1.97

m) meant Ifeajuna was chosen to represent his country at the 1954 British Empire and Commonwealth Games, alongside Nafiu Osagie. Nigeria performed well internationally in the high jump in that period – Joshua Majekodunmi had been runner-up at the 1950 British Empire

Games, and three Nigerian jumpers made the top twenty at the 1952 Olympic high jump.

At the 1954 Games in Vancouver, he competed wearing only his left shoe yet managed to clear 6 ft 8 in (2.03 m), which was both a Games record and a British Empire record

for the discipline. The resulting gold medal made him the first Black African to win at a major international sports competition. The high jump had an African sweep of the medals that year, with Uganda’s Patrick Etolu finishing behind Ifeajuna and Nigeria’s Nafiu Osagie taking third place – the only time that has happened in the history of the Games, in a sport considered so technical, that these

More confusion I on2ndNigerBridge

Cont’d on page 24

From JONATHAN AWANYAI, Asaba, CHUKS COLLINS, Awka, and IBE NWACHUKWU, Onitsha

•Concerns over financing •Project over politicised •No completion date •Site out of bounds to public

S work going on at the construction sites of the 2nd Niger Bridge? Yes. Is it possible to calculate work in percentages? Yes, but the controversies that approach introduces to an over-politicised project will not add anything.

The campaigns are months away. It seems that some people realising that have re-opened the unending stories about the completion of the 2nd Niger Bridge. They have succeeded in dousing the proj-

Cont’d on page 2

• 2nd Niger Bridge as at June 2015, when work was stopped on the project. More photos on pages 41 & 42

Nnamdi Kanu: April 26 awaits Abaribe T HE countdown to Friday 26 April 2018 has begun for Senator Enyinnaya Harcourt Abaribe, representative of Abia South Senatorial District, Jewish religious leader High Priest, Emmanu El- Salom Oka BenMadu, and an accountant, Mr. Tochukwu Uchendu: they could be in jail on that date.

A challenge before them is to produce Nnamdi Kanu in court failing which Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja would decide whether or not to commit the trio – sureties to the ‘missing’ leader of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra, IPOB, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, to prison.

The court said they should

be served with the order to enable them appear before it on April 26 to show cause why they should not be committed to prison over Kanu’s repeated failure to appear for continuation of his trial, or why the N100 million they individually de-

Page 11

posited to secure his bail should not be forfeited to the Federal Government.

Alternatively, the court said the sureties were at liberty to produce the IPOB

Cont’d on page 2

Igwe Ojoto: Okafor heads to court

2

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 25, 2018

NEWS

More confusion on 2nd Niger Bridge Continued from Pg 1

ect in a new round of confusion about the work done, and what is left undone. The Oracle Today did immediate investigations on Wednesday, and showed pictures of the work that had been done so far but some still insisted on their beliefs.

When the controversy broke last week, The Oracle Today can reveal that the published as indicative of the extent of the work done bear little or no resemblance to what is actually on the ground, going by what our team saw on both sides of the sites during the week.

The pictures our correspondents got were a continuation of the work that had been done before the Federal Government stopped the construction in June 2015. The bridge was originally billed to be completed by 2017.

The Oracle Today had run two cover stories on the 2nd Niger Bridge on its editions of 1 November, 8 November 2017, detailing

the abandonment of the work and the confusions that were trailing resumption of work or completion of the bridge, with another done when work resumed.

Among the best signs that work was resuming on the bridge were the workers on site, the hordes of labourers who are turning up at the site for casual work, and the quantity of equipment on site.

However, we also got pictures of some of the works that have been done recently.

“If it was possible to build the bridge secretly,” a government source had told The Oracle Today, “that is what the government would have done. It would have only invited people to the commissioning. When it is time to talk about the bridge, we will.”

The new wave of publicity for work on the bridge is controversial, especially because there appears to a secrecy about the type of bridge being built, financing, the controversial tolling for motorists, so much so that taking pic-

tures of the works is not allowed.

“Is this a new contract? Is the bridge being built under the public private partner under which Berger started building it? Has the financing arrangement changed?

If the Federal Government is financing it, where would it get the money to complete a bridge that would have cost N108 billion in 2012?

There are no answers.

Work so far shows the iron works for the preparation of the casting for the beams that would hold the bridge. They were being done at the Atani side, by Harbour Industrial Estate in Onitsha.

That stage of the work, so far, is on the hard soil, between the River Niger, flowing left through Atani in Ogbaru Local Government Area, to the Atlantic Ocean.

The work has not gone into the waters of the River Niger, where the bridge would pass.

Between where the iron works are going on, and the River Niger on the right side that passes Onit-

•Chairperson of the National Women’s Football League, Aisha Falode, dancing after the 40th day prayer for her mother Princess Ketumi Akohia, who passed on at 92. The event in Ebie South, Auchi, attracted sports personalities and politicians, including Deputy Governor of Edo State, Prince Philip Shaibu

Nnamdi Kanu: April 26 awaits Abaribe Continued from Pg 1

leader on April 26.

Justice Nyako had on April 25, 2016, released Kanu on bail on health grounds after he had spent a year and seven months in detention.

To secure Kanu’s release, Abaribe (leader of the South East Senate Caucus), El-Shalom (a Rabbi) and Uchendu (an accountant), who all met the criteria of people that Justice Nyako said could stand surety for Kanu, on April 28, signed an undertaking to ensure his attendance in court.

Nevertheless, the whereabouts of the IPOB leader has remained unknown since September 2017.

Abaribe had earlier prayed the

court to de-list him as one of the sureties in the matter, stressing that Kanu “has not been seen again or reached on phone by the Applicant, neither is he reported in any news media as seen by any person nor made any statement on any issue”.

Kanu was facing five-count treasonable felony charge alongside four pro-Biafra agitators - Bright Chimezie, Chidiebere Onwudiwe, Benjamin Madubugwu and David Nwawuisi.

Aside allegation that he imported Radio transmitter known as TRAM 50L, which was concealed in a container that was declared as used household items, for the purpose of using same to disseminate

information about secession plans by the IPOB., the FG also alleged that Kanu had “on or about the 28th April, 2015 in London, United Kingdom did in a broadcast on Radio Biafra monitored in Enugu, Enugu State and other parts of Nigeria within the jurisdiction of this honourable court, referred to Major General Muhammadu Buhari, GCON, President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as a pedophile, a terrorist, an idiot and an embodiment of evil, knowing same to be false and thereby committed an offence contrary to section 375 of the Criminal Code Act, Cap C. 38 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004”.

sha to Lokoja, is the road, still in use that sand diggers use. They are still doing their work, uninterrupted. From the height of the wrought irons, the height of the bridge would not impede sand dredging when the bridge is completed.

Containerised offices of the contractors, disused sand filling pipes, equipment, and heaps of sand, on the right, form boundaries between the River Niger and the work to the left dot the landscape.

At the Asaba end, not much has been done beyond the beams that had been cast earlier. Tractors are leveling the grounds. We could not get pictures at a closer range as taking pictures is not permitted.

Indeed, other than the River Niger dredging, the late Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe’s Mausoleum, no other project in contemporary Nigerian history would appear to have been enmeshed in so much controversy as the planned second bridge across the Niger at Onitsha.

At one point, the issue of its design--whether it would done by local or foreign engineers—was the subject of heated debate, but in the end, the government of the day settled for ‘local’ designers.

Additionally, the issue of cost of the design also arose, with the estimated cost of the design reported to have ‘outstripped’ the actual proposed cost of building the bridge itself.

Unable to explain the delay in the take-off of the project, the then Minister of Works under the late General Sani Abacha’s government and former Lagos State governor, Alhaji Lateef Jakande was to blame the self-same ‘local’ engineers for the delay.

Once asked by journalists why there was delay in the take-off of the construction of the Second Niger Bridge, Jakande, who was apparently caught off guard, replied that ‘local’ engineers who were ‘graciously’ given the design contract by the government had not completed their assignment and this, according to him, constituted an impediment to the immediate take-off of the project.

But, miffed by the Minister’s answer, a local engineer who was a member of the design team and an executive of the local engineering body that fought the battle for the privilege, countered the minister, insisting that the design was completed in record time and that the Federal Government through Alhaji Jakande’s office had already paid for the job more than two years earlier!

He added that many of those whose properties were to be destroyed to create the right of way for the project had also been compensated.

Since then, the controversy over the 2nd Niger Bridge has lingered.

Under the 1999-2007 Obasanjo Administration, former Minister of Works, Chief Tony Anenih was also asked why the government had not revived the 2nd Niger Bridge project, to which he replied “that is not a priority project of this administration.”

Indeed, a former Anambra State governor once told a cream of South East journalists who paid him a courtesy call that a delegation of South East Leaders of Thought who met with Obasanjo at Ota withr a request for the building of the 2nd Niger Bridge was plainly rebuffed by Obasanjo who told them that he would not build the bridge.

But almost when Nigerians thought the matter was over for

the project under Obasanjo, it was dusted up again, apparently owing to pressure from Andy Uba whom the former President was propositioning as the next governor of Anambra.

While on a helicopter flight that ferried him home from Aso Rock that night, May 29, 2007 after his eight-year tour of duty as President, Obasanjo made a detour to Ogbaru to “flag off” construction of the second Niger Bridge!

However, questions as to who was the contractor, when the contract was awarded, when the project would be completed and such other details, were never answered.

But, what many saw as “a fraud” was magically emblazoned on strategic covers of key national dailies the next day.

And the controversy continues…

Sought to throw more light on the present state of the project, especially in view of his recent statement that 44.6% of the job had been achieved in consonance with what eye witnesses and laymen met on ground, the Federal Controller of Works in the State, Innocent Alumona who assumed office in Awka in March this year, could not be reached after repeated visits.

He would also not answer his calls or respond to text messages to his cell-phone.

But, while commending the Federal Government for re-commencing work on the Second Niger Bridge, the Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO), Anambra State chapter, urged the government to expedite action on the project to ensure its completion before next year’s general elections.

In a press statement issued in Onitsha, Anambra State, during the week, CLO’s state Chairman, Comrade Vincent Ezekwueme noted that it would be more appropriate for the project to be completed before the election so that it would not be seen as a political campaign strategy by politicians.

Ezekwueme recalled that over the years, presidential candidates of various political parties, both those who won and those who lost the elections, had used the project as their campaign subject in the South East zone only to abandon it after the elections.

He regretted that campaigning with the project dated back to former President Shehu Shagari era and stretched to former President Olusegun Obasanjo, to Umaru Yar’Adua, Goodluck Jonathan and now to the Muhammadu Buhari era.

In its own reaction, another human rights group, Campaign for Democracy (CD), described the Second Niger Bridge project as a subject of politics, insult and caricature to Ndigbo in particular and concerned citizens of the entire South East and South South zones of the country in general.

National Publicity Secretary of CD, Dede Uzor A. Uzor who disclosed this to newsmen in Onitsha, Anambra State, said it took China only $1.5b to build an over 100-kilometre bridge, but it is taking Nigeria a whopping $15b to build a much shorter Second Niger Bridge.

Uzor lamented that for over 20 years now beginning from 1999 when former President Olusegun Obasanjo awarded it and ruled for eight years, to between 2007 and 2009 when the late former Pres-

Cont’d on page 41

The Oracle Today

3

Wednesday Apri 25, 2018

NEWS

R

IVERS State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has called on the Government of the United States to partner with the State Government to develop the agricultural sector.

Speaking during a meeting with the United States Consul General in Nigeria, Mr. F. John Bray at the Government House Port Harcourt on Tuesday, Governor Wike said investments in the agricultural sector will enhance employment opportunities.

He said that the Rivers State Government has developed a flexible land allocation scheme to agricultural investors.

The governor added that the Rivers State Government has also improved on security across all the state, noting that all foreign direct investments will be protected Governor Wike also called for partnership with the United States Government in the area

Wike woos U.S on agriculture

of Information and Communication technology.

He further said that the Rivers State Government will be interested in partnership in the area of waste management.

The Consul General of the United States Embassy in Nigeria was accompanied by embassy officials and Founder/President of Belemaoil Producing Limited, Mr. Jack-Rich Tein Jnr,.

Meanwhile, Rivers State Governor recently said Federal Government and Security Agencies plot to rig elections in Rivers State, Governor Wike .

He said available credible intelligence indicate that strategies have been mapped out by these illegal agents.

The governor urged the international community to take a

deep look at the overwhelming evidence that the Federal Government, INEC and Police plan to rig the 2019 elections in Rivers State.

He said INEC has refused to respond to the fraudulent release of two separate original

Rivers East Senatorial District result sheets which led to use of Police for the theft of the people’s mandate.

He noted that there is a plot to unleash violence on the state using SARS and other security agencies, so that the elections

are not held alongside other states. He said this will pave way for their rigging plan. But he maintained that the people of Rivers State will not allow anyone to steal their mandate under any circumstances.

UUTH to improve medical care delivery, staff training

By INI BILLIE, Uyo

B

oard Chairman of the University of Uyo Teaching hospital, Senator Salihu H. Egye has said the 5th board of the institution will work to improve the hospital in the area of medical service delivery and staff training.

Speaking, Tuesday, in Uyo after an inspection of facilities in the hospital and visit to the leaders of the host community, Egye said there was much work to be doen in the hospital.

Noting that UUTH has been operating under gross paucity of funds which was evident in the general state of the hospital, he said the board would tackle the two major challenges of funding and poor staff attitude plaguing the institution.

He added that inadequate funding was responsible for the general outlook of the institution and noted that staff members would be engaged in ways that will help improve service delivery.

“I feel it is important that we conduct the affairs of the board in such a way that will improve the hospital in terms of medical care delivery, training of our medical students and workers. The impression I have after the inspection of the hospital is that there is plenty of work to do.

“Generally, the environment needs more attention and so far, the Acting Chief Medical Director has done a lot to improve sanity because I learnt that before he took over, it was worse than what I saw. We will try and see what we can do despite the fact that there are no funds. The hospital is trying to grapple with delivery of service and training, and at the same time paucity of funds.

“The immediate challenges are two: one is funding and the other is the attitude of staff. This issue is not restricted to only this hospital; it is the general attitude of Nigerians towards government services and the job they have been assigned to do. So, we intend to grapple this issue headlong”.

Reacting to the visit of UUTH board members to the community leaders, Clan Head of Oku, Etebom Dr. Enefiok Effiong said the community has been very accommodating of the hospital and very peaceful.

Complaining that inadequate

funding was the bane of the hospital, Effiong encouraged the board Chairman to use his office to attract more funding to the institution and tackle the problem of uncompleted structures doting the landscape of the hospital.

•WHEN PDP MEETS: Two former Senate Presidents, David Mark, his predecessor Anyim Pius Anyim, with Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, former Speaker, House of Representatives, now Governor of Sokoto State, Senate Dr. Bukola Olusola, met at Mark’s 70th birthday event, chances are that they talked about PDP.

A/Ibom PDP frowns at vandalism of public utility

By INI BILLIE, Uyo

P

UBLICITY Secretary of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) , Akwa Ibom State, Mr Ini Ememobong, has condemned the spate of vandalism of public utility in the state by hoodlums.

He said the continuous destruction of such properties was detrimental to the growth and development of the state, adding that it made government spend more.

Speaking in Uyo, Tuesday, Ememobong said the practice is dragging the state and the country at large backward, noting that there was need for the collective protection of government properties by citizens.

Wondering how the state and the country would meet up with the developed economies of the world when few of its citizens vandalise government properties, he said it would amount to double spending in replacing the destroyed infra-

structure.

“It is fool hardy and the easiest definition of madness for people to begin to vandalise public utility, it does not make sense. The whole stretch of the airport road from Nsit Atai junction to the airport, all the solar panels have been vandalized and the batteries stolen.

That could not have been done by government; when the light comes on in those places, it is enjoyed by the people who live

he was laid in state at an event which was attended by prominent Igbo people and leadership of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo, with its President General, Dr. Nnia Nwodo, Vice President General Sylva Ebigwei. Several of such leaders paid tributes to the late war hero and his commitment to equal rights and justice among Nigerians and in particular the well-being of the Igbo people.

In Asaba, last Thursday was a day of tributes for the late Biafran warlord.

The ceremonies continued on Friday with a funeral service conducted by the Brotherhood of the Cross and Star at his residence.

The preacher at the service, Chukwuma Dike, cautioned against material acquisitions, which he described as vanity.

“Everything is vanity in this life.

Your children cannot use your PhD to earn income when you are gone. They cannot access your bank accounts unless they follow the processes to change the signatory,” he said.

Dike described the name, ‘Achuzia’, as a key that could open doors because of the legacies he left behind.

He urged his children to remain

united to sustain the values Mr Achuzia represented.

Governor of Delta State, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa was represented at the event by his Commissioner for Water Resources, Mr. Fidelis Tilije.

President General of Ohaneze Ndigbo, Chief John Nnia Nwodo led other top executives of the socio-cultural organization to the events.

Achuzia, also known as “Hannibal”, was be buried midnight according to Asaba tradition in his family compound at No. 2 Idumojei Quarters, Asaba.

At a reception held at St. Patrick’s College, Asaba, Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa was represented by his Commissioner for Water Resources, Fidelis Tilije.

However, the family received condolences from the governors of the five South-Eastern states, while the President-General of Ohaneze Ndigbo, John Nwodo, led executives of the socio-cultural organisation to the ceremonies.

In a condolence message published in the burial brochure, Gov. Okowa, in a statement signed by Ovie Agas, the Secretary to the State Government, described Mr Achuzia as an epitome of virtues.

South East governors shun Achuzia’s funeral N

By JONATHAN AWANYAI, Asaba

igerian Civil War veteran, Col. Joseph “Hannibal” Achuzia (rtd), who died at the age of 90, was laid to rest at his residence in Asaba, Friday, in a colourful ceremony which gathered dignitaries from parts of the country but with the conspicuous absence of the South East Governors.

Achuzia, one of the soldiers who joined the Biafran Army in May 1967, died last month at the Federal Medical Centre, Asaba, Delta State.

The South-East geo-political zone is generally regarded as Biafran territory, and the fallen warlord was said to have made enormous sacrifice to protect the people of the region defend Igbo race in today’s Nigeria.

Besides, Achuzia was a former secretary general of the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohaneze Ndigbo where he further propagated the ideas of Igbo nation which he stood for till his transition on February 26, this year.

The week-long activities marking his burial started with a service of songs last Monday at the Enugu Sports Club, Enugu, where

around. That light is also very helpful in terms of security.

“Even if government were to have all the resources, the least you can do is that when they vandalise, you replace them but government will spend money twice and we have only one.

Even in Ewet Housing, people go around stealing armoured cables from the transformer.

Some go about draining the oil, it does not make sense”.

He appealed to citizens to be security conscious and protect government properties in their domain, noting that it was a way of participating in governance.

He added that the state governor was working hard to advance the fortunes of the state, and citizens have a collective responsibility to support him to succeed.

“So I think we owe society a duty to appeal to them to stop vandalism of public utility, it is their money and that starts from the way people use official vehicles. So there is need for citizens’ participation in governance, there is need for citizens to police and protect public utility in their environs. If we continue to act in very barbaric ways, we will go nowhere.

“Incidentally, where we are on the ladder of development is very far from where the world is and all countries of the world are still climbing, they will not wait for us to meet up with them. So, if we are moving in a speed fast enough to catch up with the last countries on the developing cadre, when will we ever get to a state that we will say Nigeria is a developed country”.

4

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 25, 2018

NEWS ACROSS THE NATION Nigerians have lost confidence in military – Taraba monarch tells Army T

By VICTOR NZE

he Aku Uka of Wukari and Chairman Taraba State Council of Chiefs, Dr. Shekarau Angyu Masa Ibi (Kuvyo II), Monday, said Nigerians have lost confidence in the country’s military following their involvement in unthinkable acts.

The monarch disclosed this when he received the Army Probe Panel investigating the allegations of military collusion with armed bandits in attacking innocent citizens in Taraba and other parts of the country.

Rtd. Gen. TY Danjuma had recently accused the Armed Forces of colluding with bandits to kill Nigerians, urging people to rise up and defend themselves.

Aku Uka who thanked the military leadership for setting up the panel noted that, “it is a known fact that citizens of Nigeria have lost confidence in the military in spite of their track record of successful peace missions in other parts of the world.

“I want to remind you members of the panel that Nigerians who are crying for justice are expecting much from you. Also, the armed forces are looking up to your report to help them restore our citizens confidence in the Nigeria military.

“As umpire, Nigerians expect you to be just and fair in your assignment and only a fair, just and transparent report of your panel can restore the lost image of the military,” he said.

Presenting the position of the Wukari traditional council before the panel, the Adviser to the Aku Uka on Media and Legal Affairs, Barr.

Danjuma Adamu said the high expectations of the people of the area upon the deployment of Army on Exercise Ayem Akpatuma have not been met as the attacks and killings are still ongoing.

Danjuma who cited several cases of alleged military collusion noted that on several occasions the military deployed to the area refused to act in the defense of the farming communities despite many pleas by the council Chairman and the traditional council, giving credence to the insinuations that they are taking sides with the killer herdsmen.

According to him, on October 19th, 2015, armed fulani militia attacked Sondi in Kente district killing 30 people, adding that residents of the village said soldiers deployed to the area aided the militia in the execution of the pogrom.

“On 10th April, 2018 Gbeji was attacked and five people were killed.

On the same day Sontyo village was attacked and destroyed by herdsmen who took over the village and are grazing there as their permanent abode.

“The following day 11th April, 2018 Fulani militia attacked Jandeikyula village killing over 25 people. The soldiers and policemen attempted to face them, but the militia escaped without a single attacker arrested.

“On the whole 200 people have been killed between April 2013 to date, 401 villages destroyed, thousands wounded or maimed and farmlands destroyed.

“The fulani herdsmen have illegally and forcefully taken over the areas and turned them into grazing

fields,” he submitted.

While alleging that the attacks and killings were meant to wipe out the indigenous occupants of the area to pavé way for full fulani occupation, the Wukari traditional council appealed to the Federal Government to give the crisis the seriousness it deserves.

In the same vein, Chairman of Wukari Local Government Council, Hon. Daniel Adi in his submission

also alleged the complicity of the military in the killings in the area and enjoined the panel to check with the Police Area Command in Wukari for some of the case files involving military personnel aiding movements of the attackers.

Earlier, Chairman of the Probe Panel, Rtd. Maj. Gen. Joseph Nimyel sympathised with the Aku Uka over the loss of lives and destruction of property as a result of series of crisis

in the area.

He informed the Monarch that they were in the State as an independent panel to investigate allegations of collusion leveled against the military by Rtd. Gen. TY Danjuma.

Nimyel said the panel will report its findings to the Army Headquarters Abuja, the Taraba State Government and the Federal Government to helping the authorities in their future dealings.

•Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike and Minister of Agriculture at the at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, Sunday to receive their Zik leadership awards

NSC, Oyo Govt, Chinese investors partner for N72bn dry port project he Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has entered into partTnership with the Oyo State Gov-

ernment to establish a $200m (N72bn) modern dry port, as well as a truck transit park in the state, in conjunction with some Chinese investors.

This was made known when the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of the council, Mr. Hassan Bello, visited the State Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, in his office, in Ibadan, Wednesday.

Bello, therefore, solicited the release of 60,000 hectares for the dry port and another 35,000 hectares along the Oyo-Ibadan road for the proposed park, which, he said, would improve the economic development of the state and the nation in general.

He said, “We are here because Oyo State is critical to development in transportation in Nigeria.

Since 2006 the Federal Government had taken a decision to establish inland port in the six geopolitical zones of the country, of which Oyo State is important. We have others in Abia, Jos, Kano, Maiduguri and Funtua.

“Because of the strategic importance of Ibadan, we have had inquiries from a serious Chinese investor for the project. Five days ago we signed a Memorandum of Understanding to develop this very important Ibadan dry port

project.

“What we are looking for from the state government is to have, along the railway line that is currently ongoing, a 60,000 hectares of land to develop a modern dry port, while the transport transit park will require 35,000 hectares of land.”

Enumerating the advantages of the modern dry port project, he said it would provide job opportunity for 10,000 people, adding that the truck transits park would equally generate 25,000 jobs.

Bello said that the project was heavily dependent on the ongoing Lagos-Kano rail project, which would decongest the heavy traffic on road transportation of goods from the Lagos port to the rest of the country.

He disclosed that the proposed park alone would gulp N4.8billion, through the Public-Private-Partnership (PPP).

According to him, apart from helping to diversify the country’s revenue base, it would enhance the internally-generated revenue of the state government, as well as provide security for cargoes through seamless tracking of goods.

When completed, he said that the park would have hotels, motels, resident doctors, restaurants, shopping mall, commercial banks, among other facilities for the con-

venience of transporters.

In his response, the governor, who said he was marveled by the concept of modern dry port and TPP, promised the support of the administration and called on the council to hasten the paper works required for the project to commence soon.

The governor said that the projects would cause a remarkable reduction in road carnage, improvement in economic activities and maximization of employment opportunities, but called for strict enforcement of rules guiding parking of trucks on completion of the park.

Ajimobi said, “We will be glad to start as early as yesterday, as we are ready with our representatives to go the whole hog. We have the highest reasons to have the project sited here in Oyo State.

“There is no reason the state should not have been considered earlier, looking at the geographical and human capital advantages we have over other states in the country.

“We are supporting these projects because of the advantages and its overall economic benefits.

I am appealing that we should not just witness the marriage of this project, but the birth of its baby.

The PPP arrangement you said would be adopted for the project has mitigated my fear and doubts.”

Stop acting like ‘a weeping President’ – Fayose kiti State Governor Ayodele Ehammadu Fayose has told President MuBuhari to stop ‘behav-

ing like a weeping president’ by lamenting his predecessors’ failures and blaming them for the inability of his administration to fulfill his campaign promises.

The Governor, who described the president’s statement on Sunday while receiving members of the Buhari Diaspora Support Organisation in London, as shameful, said; “it appears he (Buhari) has forgotten that he is also among the past leaders of Nigeria because blaming past leaders for the country’s economic problems amounts to blaming himself. The negative foundation the likes of President Buhari laid caused the problems of the country.”

In a statement issued in Ado Ekiti, Monday by his Special Assistant on Public Communications and New media, Lere Olayinka, the Governor said: “It is appalling that Buhari, who at his very young age was Military Governor of the North Eastern State, Petroleum Minister, Head of State and later Chairman of the Petroleum Trust Fund (PTF) under the Abacha administration is the same person that is blaming past leaders of Nigeria.

“What difference did he make as Governor of the North Eastern State? What was his role as Minister of Petroleum and Chairman of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) when it was created in 1977?

“It is on record that it was during President Buhari’s tenure as Minister of Petroleum that N2.8 billion went missing from the accounts of the NNPC in Midlands Bank in the United Kingdom.

N2.8 billion as at that time is like $2.8 billion (over N1 trillion) now.

“It is also on record that President Buhari was a key player in the Abacha government that the country is still recovering its loots up till today. Interestingly, our Mr. Integrity President once said that Abacha never stole.

“Fact that President must face is that he has blamed everyone, including the late President of Libya, Muammar Gaddafi. He is now blaming himself as part of the past leaders of Nigeria, it is shameful.

“If the President is someone who faces reality, he would have realized that his goodwill has declined to the lowest level. He will also realize that in 2015, Nigerians did not really vote to elect him as President. Rather, it was a vote from the North against PDP’s failure to pick a northern candidate that made him President.”

5

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 25, 2017

NEWS ACROSS THE NATION

U.K interested in Ekiti polls – Envoy

British Government has it is interested in the July T14, hesaid 2018 governorship election in

Ekiti State, adding that its conduct must not fall below acceptable standards.

The British Government said this, Monday, when the Deputy British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Laure Beaufils, paid a courtesy visit to the State Governor, Chief Ayodele Fayose, at the Government House, Ado-Ekiti.

Beaufils, who was accompanied by her Political Adviser, Wale Adebanjo, also said Britain was also interested in regional integration as bring canvassed by state governments in the Southwest geopolitical zone.

In a statement by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr Idowu Adelusi, the British envoy noted that since the Ekiti poll would precede the general elections in the country, nothing short of transparent, fair and credible poll would be acceptable.

While she expressed delight at the opportunity to learn some things about the state, she stated that Britain was interested in increasing trade with the country as a whole.

“This is my first time in Ekiti State. We are interested in how Ekiti develops. It is a great opportunity to learn certain things about the state. We want to increase trade and commerce with the state and Nigeria as a whole.

We had a rich conversation with the governor and we are interested in regional integration and the coming election in the state,” she said.

In his remarks, Governor Fayose said the coming election in the state must not only be credible but conducted in a peaceful atmosphere.

Fayose used the occasion to call on the British Government not to fold arms and watch things go wrong in Nigeria.

He charged the British leadership to speak out when Nigerian leaders don’t do things right.

“It is important that we get it right as our poll precedes the general polls. We want peace in the country and for the country to stand united,” he added.

NSC, Oyo Govt, Chinese investors partner for N72b dry port project T he Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has entered into partnership with the Oyo State Government to establish a $200m (N72bn) modern dry port, as well as a truck transit park in the state, in conjunction with some Chinese investors.

This was made known when the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of the council, Mr. Hassan Bello, visited the State Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, in his office, in Ibadan, Wednesday.

Bello, therefore, solicited the release of 60,000 hectares for the dry port and another 35,000 hectares along the Oyo-Ibadan road for the proposed park, which, he said, would improve the economic development of the state and the nation in general.

He said, “We are here because Oyo State is critical to development in transportation in Nigeria. Since 2006 the Federal Government had taken a decision to establish inland port in the six geo-political zones of the country, of which Oyo State is important. We have others in Abia, Jos, Kano, Maiduguri and Funtua.

“Because of the strategic impor-

tance of Ibadan, we have had inquiries from a serious Chinese investor for the project. Five days ago we signed a Memorandum of Understanding to develop this very important Ibadan dry port project.

“What we are looking for from the state government is to have, along the railway line that is currently ongoing, a 60,000 hectares of land to develop a modern dry port, while the transport transit park will require 35,000 hectares of land.”

Enumerating the advantages of the modern dry port project, he said it would provide job opportunity for 10,000 people, adding that the truck transits park would equally generate 25,000 jobs.

Bello said that the project was heavily dependent on the ongoing Lagos-Kano rail project, which would decongest the heavy traffic on road transportation of goods from the Lagos port to the rest of the country.

He disclosed that the proposed park alone would gulp N4.8billion, through the Public-Private-Partnership (PPP).

According to him, apart from helping to diversify the country’s

revenue base, it would enhance the internally-generated revenue of the state government, as well as provide security for cargoes through seamless tracking of goods.

When completed, he said that the park would have hotels, motels, resident doctors, restaurants, shopping mall, commercial banks, among other facilities for the convenience of transporters.

In his response, the governor, who said he was marveled by the concept of modern dry port and TPP, promised the support of the administration and called on the council to hasten the paper works required for the project to commence soon.

The governor said that the projects would cause a remarkable reduction in road carnage, improvement in economic activities and maximization of employment opportunities, but called for strict enforcement of rules guiding parking of trucks on completion of the park.

Ajimobi said, “We will be glad to start as early as yesterday, as we are ready with our representatives to go the whole hog. We have the highest reasons to have the project

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Book on Nigeria dazzles at London Book Fair N

•Kebbi State Governor, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu (second left) addressing the 2018 National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) National Tyre Conference under the theme: Strategy for resuscitating the Tyre industry in Nigeria, which held, Tuesday, at the Tahir Guest Palace, in Birnin Kebbi

Afenifere berates FG over objection to Boko Haram’s trial by ICC an-Yoruba organisation, Afenifere, has expressed shock over the Federal Government’s refusal to allow for the trial of Boko Haram suspects at the International Criminal Court (ICC) for crimes against humanity.

Afenifere’s spokesman, Mr Yinka Odumakin, in a statement, Friday said the organisation was reacting to a story published in a national newspaper quoting the Attorney General of the Federation, Mr Abubakar Malami describing ICC’s escalation of the eight potential cases involving the Boko Haram and the military as uncalled for.

Six of the eight cases are against the Boko Haram while the remaining two are against the military.

Malami was quoted as saying: “Presently, the ICC has escalated the eight potential cases against Nigeria – six against the Boko Haram and two against the military, from

sited here in Oyo State.

“There is no reason the state should not have been considered earlier, looking at the geographical and human capital advantages we have over other states in the country.

“We are supporting these projects because of the advantages and its overall economic benefits.

I am appealing that we should not just witness the marriage of this project, but the birth of its baby.

The PPP arrangement you said would be adopted for the project has mitigated my fear and doubts.”

the initial preliminary examination to preliminary investigation.

“This is worrisome, as Nigeria has demonstrated beyond doubt, and in absolute cooperation with the ICC, that it is willing and able and, as a matter of fact, it is indeed arresting, investigating and prosecuting anyone that commits any offence that falls within the Rome Statute of the ICC. “The above being the case, Nige-

ria views the escalation of the eight potential cases as uncalled for in the circumstance.”

However, Afenifere in its statement said the statements credited to Malami while receiving the ICC president, Professor Chile Osuji, was shocking and unfortunate.

“It also explains the kid gloves treatment this administration has given to the group to the extent that they are now hailed like Super

Eagles arriving with African Nations Cup as we saw in Dapchi. Is Malami’s protest against the Boko Haram trial by the ICC a continuation of the pronouncement that anyone who touches Boko Haram touches the North and by extension now Nigeria? “It may also means that the recent freedom granted by some courts to Boko Haram kingpins could not have been accidental,” Afenifere said.

No life lost in Shiites Abuja protest -- Police

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olice Command in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) said, Monday, it arrested 115 members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) following a violent protest in Abuja.

The police also debunked stories in the social media that some lives were lost.

“No life was lost in the violent

protest as the police operatives deployed to quell the protest were professional in handling the situation,” police spokesman,DSP Anjuguri Manzah said.

The leader of the sect, Sheikh Ibrahim El-Zakzaky was arrested by the authorities after a clash with the convoy of the Chief of Army Staff in

December 2015.

Shiites had organised several protests across the country demanding the release of their leader.

DSP Anjuguri Manzah, in a statement, said that the protesters also injured 22 policemen and destroyed government and police vehicles during the protest.

igeria made a strong showing at the 2018 London Book Fair which ended over the weekend in London, United Kingdom with a book entitled; “Nigeria on the Precipice: Issues, Options and Solutions”.

The book which proffers enduring solutions to Nigeria’s protracted political crisis was among the books that were showcased at this year’s Book Fair.

A total of 650 print and e-book titles were presented at the Book Fair where “Nigeria on the Precipice: Issues, Options and Solutions”, was the only book on Nigeria with specific historical and current political development, making it a focal point and high interests for visitors to the Fair, including Nigerians in diaspora.

Authored by Michael Owhoko, a seasoned media and public relations practitioner, the book has also been scheduled to feature at the New York City BookExpo/Rights Bookcon and New York Rights Fair from May 30 – June 3, 2018.

In a welcome address jointly signed by the Group Exhibition Director, London Book Fair, Jacks Thomas and President, Combined Book Exhibit, Jon Malinowski, they said: “We are pleased that you have taken the time to visit this special exhibit and invite you to peruse the hundreds of titles and publishers on display”, adding: “We are proud to present upwards of 650 print titles and e-book titles.”

According to the organisers, the London Book Fair is a platform where publishers showcase their books, engage with readers, network and reach out to new customers. It hosts exhibitions of a very wide scale where publishers from over 142 countries participate and create new opportunities for international publishers and authors.

The 2018 London Book Fair which held at Olympia Exhibition Centre, London from April 10 – 12, 2018 was the 12th edition of the Annual London Book Fair with focus on New Titles Showcase. It was organized by the Combined Book Exhibit.

The Oracle Today

6

Wednesday Apri 25, 2018

NEWS

2019: EU to assist INEC in conducting credible polls

By ANIEKAN ANIEKAN, Calabar

T

HE European Union through its Centre for Electoral Support has pledged to assist the Independent National Electoral Commission conduct a peaceful and credible elections next year in order to boost democratic governance in Nigeria.

The assistance which will come in the form of training of INEC Staff particularly those at the Voter Education and Publicity Department will help enhance the leadership capacity of INEC Management at all levels by providing management tools and reinforcing the already acquired skills which will enable them in the discharge of their mandate.

In addition to this, the training will equip them to prevent or mitigate conflict situations besides strengthening the long term capacities of participants to effectively deal with elections related conflicts and its triggers.

Speaking during the opening of a five day training on Leadership and Conflict Management for Electoral Stakeholders (LEAD) in Calabar, the Director/Senior Electoral Expert of the European Centre for Electoral Support David Le Notre, said the main objective of the training is to improve the leadership capacity of INEC as well as enhance public credibility and perception of the electoral process.

“Everything is based on perception and if there is a wrong perception, even if it is not true, people are going to believe it. So to have credible elections, you need to have a lot of explanations, communication and with these heads we are going to target the message which INEC is trying to give.

“We are going to see how we are going to mitigate conflict so we will try to give the tools to the communication people on how they are going to mitigate the conflict. We will look at hate speeches, false news and so hopefully, after the training, they are going to have the tools to mitigate conflict”.

He maintained that it is very important to have a good perception of the electoral process because it is the basis of good elections and the only way to fight wrong perception is by explaining all the time.

He disclosed that the European Union through the ECES continues to look forward to forging partnerships, mutual collaboration and strategic engagements in order to strengthen INEC’s Internal and External communica-

tion with all relevant stakeholders, thus building the democratic system of Nigeria.

In his response, the National Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Professor Yakubu Mahmood commended the ECES for partnering with the commission to guarantee a credible and crisis free election.

Professor Mahmood who was represented by the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Cross River State, Dr. Frankland Briyai said the commission is on course in its preparations for the elections.

He said the commission is working hard to ensure that the 2019 general elections is better organized compared to the last one stressing that the card reader failure and other operational challenges encountered during the last elections will be a thing of the past as these issues have been addressed.

“It’s going to be very fine this time around because I was in Anambra State earlier this year and our card readers have been tested and upgraded and it recorded zero failure. We believe that the issue of card reader failure is going to be stamped out. In addition, there are plans to deploy satellite systems that will also be used to enhance communications”, he said.

In his welcome address, the director of Voter Education and Publicity in INEC, Barr. Oluwole Osaze-Uzzi commended the European Union for its support for INEC stressing that the training will assist the commission in identifying best practices and home based solutions to electoral challenges.

•From right: Mr Emmet Dooley, the Project Manager of the construction company handling the road; Executive Director of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr Samuel Adjogbe; and Chief Theodore Anosike, Coordinator of Imo State Development Council during an inspection by an NDDC team of directors and engineers to the repair of Umuelemai-Agbaja Road in Isiala Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State.

Labour threatens to shut down Bayelsa over public service reforms

By CLEM ONYEMAECHI, Yenagoa

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he organized labour in Bayelsa State may be forced to embark on industrial action over the downsizing exercise embarked upon by the state government to trim down its monthly wage bill.

The government has been crying foul over what it described as a bloated wage bill which

Looters’ list: Court grants Secondus leave to summon Lai Mohammed, FG

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ivers State High court has granted the National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Prince Uche Secondus, leave to issue a writ of summons to Information and Culture Minister, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, and the Federal Government.

Chief Judge, Justice A. I. IyayiLamikanra, who presided over the case, Friday, also granted that the defendants be served by substituted means all the originating processes together with accompanying processes in ThisDay newspaper. The case was adjourned to Monday, April 23, 2018 The PDP National Chairman had dragged the Minister to court for defamation of character.

The Minister had mentioned Prince Secondus in the list of those he claimed looted the nation’s treasury, alleging that he collected N200m from detained former National Security Adviser (NSA), Sambo Dasuki. However, an embarrassed Secondus, who said he never collected a dime from the former NSA, through his lawyer Emeka Etiaba SAN wrote to the Minister seeking the immediate retraction of the

National Chairman’s name on the list, payment of N1.5b damages and public apology within 48 hours.

The letter told Alhaji Mohammad to note that if he failed to meet their demand after 48 hours, “We shall within 72 hours from today, proceed to a court of competent jurisdiction to ventilate our clients right under the law and shall further seek the protection of the court against you.”

Having failed to meet the demand, Prince Secondus on Friday, April 6, 2018, made good his threat and filed a suit at the Port Harcourt, High Court, Rivers State, claiming among other things that the court awards to him the sum of N1.5b being damages for humiliation, castigation, vilification attack on his person and integrity as a result of the publication.

According to a statement from the PDP National Chairman’s media office signed by his Spokesperson Ike Abonyi, Secondus in the suit no/PHC/1013/2018 is also claiming that Lai Mohammad’s publication is defammatory and is asking the court to direct him to retract the said publication and apologise in writing.

originally was put at about N6 billion monthly, but progressively brought down now to about N3.9 billion monthly. Yet the government is still insisting that the figure remains unrealistic.

Consequently, no fewer than 3,403 workers have been suspended in the ongoing public service reforms.

However, the Bayelsa chapters of Nigeria Labour Congress, (NLC), Trade Union Congress and other affiliated unions have opposed the suspension of the staggering 3,403 workers in the reform exercise.

Head of Service of Bayelsa, Rev Thomas Zidafomo had released the bombshell when he directed that salaries of 222 staff of Bayelsa owned media houses and 3,181 non-teaching staff in the State Universal Basis Education Board (SUBEB) be suspended.

It was gathered that the directive from Zidafomo was contained in a letter dated Apri 6, 2018 that the withheld salaries of the affected workers listed as ‘excess workers’ be remitted to the Accountant General of Bayelsa.

However, irked by the development, the Unions in a statement signed by John Ndiomu and Tari Dounana, State Chairmen of NLC and TUC respectively, urged the Bayelsa government to reverse its decision to withhold the workers’ salaries.

The labour noted that withholding of staff salaries of workers listed for redeployment was strange and urged the government to carry out the reforms in compliance with Public Service Rules.

“Labour wishes to draw government’s attention to the ongoing public service reforms, it is proper to note that redeployment of staff is a norm but stoppage of salaries is not in line with civil service rules.

“Labour therefore calls on government to review its directive on the stoppage of salaries as it is against the public service rules and pay the affected staff their salaries to forestall breach of industrial peace.

“We also wish to remind government of its pledge that the reforms would not lead to job losses and ask that it abides by it,” the labour leaders said in a joint statement.

Similarly, the Non Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) SUBEB, on Monday urged the government to reverse its decision which affected over 3181 non-teaching staff within 14 days or face a strike.

The Bayelsa chapter Chairman Geku Ebiwari in statement issued after an emergency congress of the union noted that the workers were not under any trial to warrant the suspension of their salaries.

According to Ebiwari, if the exercise was redeployment as claimed in the circular, there would be no need to stop workers’ salaries.

But explaining government’s position, Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mr. Daniel Iworiso-Markson, said that there was no going back in the reforms adding that the government would pursue it to a logical conclusion.

Iworiso-Markson maintained that the reforms are necessary to “rid the public service of excess workforce and in the process deliver a leaner, smarter and productive workforce that is better equipped to serve the state.”

The Commissioner who was reacting to the concerns expressed by the affected staff and labour leaders, allayed fears that they had been sacked, explaining that

The Oracle Today

7

Wednesday Apri 25, 2018

NEWS

MASSOB accuses police, vigilante of raiding Anambra secretariat

By IBE NWACHUKWU

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ANDEMONIUM erupted on Sunday at Anaku community the headquarters of Ayamelum Local government Area of Anambra state, following the alleged invasion of the secretariat of members of Movement for the Actualization of Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) by a combined team of policemen and the Anambra Vigilante Service (AVS), Anaku Unit.

The team, numbering about 30 and drafted from the Ayamelum Divisional Police headquarters, Anaku raided the secretariat of MASSOB and the Biafra Independence Movement (BIM) in the area.

In a press statement issued to newsmen, Tuesday, in Onitsha, MASSOB further alleged that the policemen who arrived the secretariat in a convoy of about four Hilux vans, had stormed its meeting venue at about 1 p.m., opened fire on the members and threw tear gas canisters at them in their bid to disperse the crowded secretariat which he said was filled to human capacity.

According to the statement, the team led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) for Ayamelum, Supol Okwor and chairman AVS Mr. Mmaduechi Oranyelu had instructed his men to collect all the plastic chairs, tables, flags, money, cement and register, adding that on the process, most of their members equally lost their GSM hand sets and cash to the police while scampering for their safety.

Okorocha declares for Senate, dreams Presidency

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mo State Governor Rochas Okorocha has insisted that he will contest the Imo West senatorial seat, while reaffirming his support for Chief of Staff Uche Nwosu for governor in 2019.

The Governor stated this, Monday when leaders, youth and women groups from Ideato North visited Government House, Owerri, offering their endorsement to Nwosu for governor.

Okorocha, boasting that he has retired all the bigwigs in state politics, said that he had no doubt Nwosu would win the governorship race considering his pedigree and background.

According to the governor, Nwosu has learnt the ropes and stands better qualified than any other aspirant.

“Uche is the least of the political children I have trained,” said the Governor. “Madumere is there too but none of them have I known like Nwosu. I took him up when he was just nobody and grew [him] to the height he is now. Madumere too. His only sin is that he is my son-in-law. How about the Njemanze’s, the bishops from Egbu; they occupy every position in Egbu without considering who and where they came from.”

He continued that “Nwosu will win in 2019. Don’t be afraid, I am there. I have retired the Arthur Nzeribes, the Udenwas; now I will retire the rest of them finally. I know them and they know me, their plan is to push me so that they can get the Senate. It’s a lie. I will run for senate,” Okorocha declared.

Sovereign State of Biafra, BIM/ MASSOB, Chief Ralph Uwazuruike who vehemently condemned the attack, wondered why the MASSOB members would receive such an ugly treatment, despite their nonviolent posture in the agitation.

Uwazuruike who spoke through a member of Biafra Elders-in- council, Mazi Chris Mocha at a meeting held in Obegu community in Ugwunagbo local government area of Abia State, contended that the police action on its members was against democratic principles.

He, therefore, urged his followers not to give up because of police brutality, adding that his group had remained nonviolent for about 19 years now and there was no record where MASSOB or BIM members retaliated attacks from the police which was a good demonstration of its avowed principles.

He also called on the police authorities in Anambra State to effect the release of the 317 plastic chairs and other valuables to his men.

All efforts to reach the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Mrs. Nkiru Nwode proved abortive as her phone line could not be reached after several attempts, but the Police Area Commander for Onitsha, Abubakar Yahaya told newsmen on phone, Tuesday, that Anaku •Vice President Yemi Osinbajo with the Abia State Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu who was in the state to launch is now under the newly created Otuocha Police Area Command Abia State’s Tele-Health initiative. and no longer Onitsha Area Command where it was few months ago before the creation of Otuocha command.

He listed some of the items collected by the police as 317 plastic chairs valued at N2,000 each, totaling N634,000; 20 bags of Dangote cement and each valued at N2,500, totaling N50,000.

Identifying two of their members who sustained bullet

wounds in their legs and were rushed to an undisclosed local orthopaedic centre at Orenja village in Omor where they are currently been treated, as Mr. Jude Osiagugo and John Udekwe, MASSOB also alleged that the team snatched the sum of N700,000 being the amount

realized from contributions and levies from the seven Regional Administrators in Anambra North for the on-going secretariat building project.

Reacting to the development, leader of Biafra Independence Movement and founder of the Movement for Actualization of

Court hears application to commit IGP, others to prison, April 23

By IBE NWACHUKWU

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egal fireworks are expected to commence at an Otuocha High Court in Anambra state on Monday, April 23, this year in a committal proceeding (Form 49) brought against the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), an Investigating Police Officer (IPO), from IGP’s Special Tactical Squad (STS), Abuja, ASP Olima Jackson and Anambra State Commissioner of Police (CP), by 19 applicants who are seeking the protection of their fundamental human rights.

Specifically, the presiding Judge of the court, Justice D.O.C. Amaechina, is expected to hear and possibly determine the committal proceeding (Form 49) which had just been filed by the applicants who are praying the court to commit the trio to prison for disobeying its earlier order, before delving into the fundamental rights enforcement proceedure already pending before the court.

19 applicants, Anayo Nnabugwu, Okechukwu Okereke, Peter Ezeononigbo, Godwin Madubuko, Uche Okoli, Peter Nnamdi Madueke, Uche Onwuka, Pius Ifeagwazi, Leonard Obiajulu, Arinze Obinwanne, Boniface Ukachukwu, Jude Ezecheta, Chinazam Ezeayom, Boniface Ojukwu, Martin Obi, Anthony Abazu, Ekwunife Okeke Sunday Aroh and Jideofor Obi who had earlier obtained an interim order from the Court restraining the IGP; IPO CP from arresting them, pending the determination of their motion on notice, are now praying the court to commit the trio to pris-

on for disobeying its order by continuing to hunt and arrest them.

In the committal proceeding (Form 49) filed before the Court in Otuocha Judicial Division, the applicants, through their legal counsel, H. N. C. Moghalu Esq., who filed the proceeding on their behalf, under Order 9, Rule 13(1), (2) and (30 of the Judgement Enforcement Enforcement Procedure Rules, are complaining that the trio had in defiance of earlier order issued by the court, continued to hunt, arrest, detain and charge them to court for murder.

Specifically, the applicants referred to an eight-count charge of conspiracy, attempted murder, unlawful possession of fire arms and armed robbery preferred against them at Nteje Chief magistrate Court where they had so far pleaded not guilty to all the charges.

In an affidavit in support of the Form 49 deposed to by the 16th applicant, Anthony Abazu, on their behalf, the applicants recalled that on February 22, this year, this honourable court made an order of interim injunction asking the IGP, IPO and CP to stop arresting them, pending the hearing an determination of the substantive motion and the order was duly served on them, yet they continued to hunt for them.

Abazu further recalled that while the order is still subsisting, the second respondent, ASP Olima Jackson, acting on the instructions of the IGP and Anambra CP, and with police officers assigned to him, started hunting for them (applicants), to the extent that they ar-

rested the 13th applicant, Chinazam Ezeanyom and took him to Abuja where they detained him for several days before bringing him back to Anambra and arraigning him with two others at the Nteje Chief Magistrate Court.

Abazu also recalled that as if that was not enough, the 1st and 3rd respondents (IGP and Anambra CP), using the same 2nd respondent, Jackson and policemen they assigned to him, continued searching for other applicants to have them arrested and detained as they had done to the 13th applicant, adding that along the line, the applicants applied for and caused Form 48 to be issued on the parties sought to be committed to prison and yet they continued to disobey the order.

He deposed that despite the service of the Form 48, on them, they have continued to disobey the order of the court by still hunting for the applicants to be arrested and detained, adding that the respondents will not stop disobeying the court order unless they are committed to prison.

He said that apart from the three respondents, they had already taken other respondents to court, including Surveyor Oseloka Anyaonu, Akachukwu Oguejiofor, Obinna Okoye, Onyeka Okoye, Celestine Olisah, Maduka Olisah, Amadi Olisah, Peter Olisah, Abuchi Olisah and Onwuobi Odelga for themselves and on behalf of the other members of Ugwuezeama family Amuche village, Nkwelle-Ezunaka, over a land matter

CLO calls for expedited action on 2nd Niger Bridge

By IBE NWACHUKWU

T

he Civil Liberties Organization (CLO), Anambra state chapter has extolled the federal government for commencing work on the Second Niger Bridge but urged government to expedite action to ensure its completion before the 2019 general election in the country.

In a press statement issued, Tuesday, in Onitsha, Anambra state, CLO’s state Chairman, Comrade Vincent Ezekwueme noted that it would be more appropriate for the project to be completed before the election so as not to see the project as a political campaign strategy by politicians.

Ezekwueme recalled that for over the years, presidential candidates of various political parties, both those who won and those who lost the elections has used the project as their campaign base in the South East zone only to abandon it after the elections.

He regretted that the campaign with the project dated back to former President Shehu Shagari era and stretched to former President Olusegun Obasanjo, to Umaru Yar’Adua, Goodluck Jonathan and now Muhammadu Buhari regime.

The Oracle Today

8

Wednesday Apri 25, 2018

NEWS

Stop harassing Jonathan – IYC warns Buhari

By CLEM ONYEMAECHI, Yenagoa

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HE Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) has frowned at what it described as the ‘continuous unprovoked and unwarranted intimidation and daily harassment of former President Goodluck Jonathan and his family by President Muhammadu Buhari’, using the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) as a front.

A statement issued on Tuesday by the National President of IYC, Barr. Roland Oweileami said such attacks are a call to anarchy.

The statement entitled; “The continuous harassment and intimidation of former President Goodluck Jonathan and his family is a call to anarchy,” said while IYC is not against the ongoing fight against corruption, adding; “we totally condemn in

very strong terms what is evidently selective and a clear case of witch hunt of the immediate past First Family” The statement noted that no former military Head of State or President has been harassed and intimidated like former President Goodluck Jonathan and “we do not want to believe that this is happening because he is an Ijaw man.

“Nigerians and the world expect President Muhammadu Buhari and the APC led federal government to reciprocate the benevolence, magnanimity and high spirit of patriotism that was shown by former President Goodluck Jonathan during the 2015 presidential election despite the glaring irregularities that were prevalent during the election especially in the north where there were clear evidences of underage voting, rigging

and other electoral frauds that were perpetrated.

“Let it be on record that no region, tribe or ethnic group has a monopoly of violence. Again, it is an incontrovertible fact that the Ijaw Nation which is the fourth largest ethnic group in this contrived entity called Nigeria with over 250 distinct tribes which were hitherto independent nations, kingdoms, clans, chiefdoms, empires and emirates have never been conquered and we shall never be conquered by any ethnic group or failing government. We are glad that the whole world is

watching the atrocities, impunity and the executive rascality of the APC led federal government and we shall be forced to act at the appropriate time.

“The Niger Delta region and the Ijaw Nation in particular produce over 75% of the crude oil and gas that has sustained the economy of this country.

We have continued to shoulder the economic burden of this country since independence and we do not deserve this level of ill-treatment from President Muhammadu Buhari who is doing everything within his power to destroy the political tie and

very cordial relationship that has existed between the North and our great people who have been the closest and most trusted political allies of the north”, the statement read in part.

The statement which deplored the wanton killings going on under Buhari’s watch called on all Nigerians to rise up and speak out against the “unwarranted attack on former President Goodluck Jonathan and his defenseless family who have become victims of daily attack and harassment of agents of President Muhammadu Buhari”.

Wike bags Zik Prize for Good Governance

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ublic Policy Research and Analysis Centre (PPRAC) has formally recognised the Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike with the Zik Prize for Good Governance.

The PPRAC, organisers of the Zik Leadership Prize in Leadership said that Governor Wike was honoured because of his accomplishments in projects delivery, prudent management of scarce resources, human capital development and policy implementation.

Presenting the Zik Prize for Good Governance to the Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike on Sunday at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, Former Minister of Education and Chairman of Advisory Board of PPRAC, Prof Jubril Aminu praised the governor for turning the state into a huge construction site.

He commended the Rivers State Governor for his commitment to the development of the state, urging him to sustain the pace.

Speaking after receiving the Zik Prize for Good Governance, Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike said the award is a call to him to continue to serve the state and Nigeria to the best of his ability “This is very great because this award was instituted annually to honour the first ceremonial President of Nigeria, Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe. It is an award that will spur us further to continue to work for the people. It is not an award for us to relax”.

Governor Wike dedicated the award to the good people of Rivers State, saying that their support for his administration made it possible for him to develop the state.

The governor also thanked his wife and children for the sacrifices they make to enable him serve Rivers people.

He said that the state has entrenched good governance

through the delivery of projects and programmes that improve the living condition of the people, enthroned transparency and accountability as well as worked within the ambit of the law.

“This award is to remind us that we are required to do more for the people. Zik stood for unity that is why we should work to unite the country “, he said.

This year, the Rivers State Governor has won: Silverbird Man of the Year 2017, Sun Newspaper Governor of the Year 2017 and the Independent Newspaper Political Icon of the Year, 2017.

Other award recipients are: Former Osun State Governor, Bisi Akande and the Zik Prize in Political Leadership, Chief Audu Ogbeh the Zik Prize winner in Public Service, The wife of Anambra State Governor, Chief (Mrs.) Ebelechukwu Obaino, the governor of Katsina State, Rt. Hon. Aminu Bello-Masari, wife of Bauchi State Governor, Hajia Hadiza Abubakar Mohammed, and Adedeji Adeleke were also honoured with Zik leadership awards

•Cross River State Governor, Prof Ben Ayade, formally signing the historic 2018 budget of N1.3 trillion into law, Tuesday.

APC chairmanship: Southern youths reject tenure elongation for Oyegun, back Ebri From ANIEKAN ANIEKAN, Calabar

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ouths and Caucus leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) affiliated to the Southern Youths Forum have condemned the planned tenure elongation of the Chairman of the APC Chief John Odigie Oyegun describing it as undemocratic.

The group also justified the call on Clement Ebri, former governor of Cross River State during the third republic to as-

sume leadership of the party in order to properly position it for success ahead of the next general elections.

The Southern Youths made the call in a release made available in Calabar and signed by principal officers of the forum including Ugoji Nwabueze, john Afolabi and Ebri Obeten the President, National Secretary and Director of mobilization of the forum respectively.

Decrying the proposed tenure elongation for the national chairman, the forum noted that “tenure elongation is not just un-

Septuagenarian joins C’River guber race From ANIEKAN ANIEKAN, Calabar

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septuagenarian and current Nigeria’s Ambassador to Uganda, Etubom Dr. Nya Eyoma Asuquo has expressed his interest to offer himself for leadership in the state stressing that the state has to be delivered from its present state of cluelessness and decay.

He said Cross River State once known for her hospitality had in recent been seen at a bad light with all the Tourist attract centre being left to decay due to cluelessness.

Asuquo who is a member of the Etubom’s Council in Calabar

and a formermer member of the House of Representatives said he has the knowledge, the experience and exposure to govern the state adding that the current administration in the state had failed to provide the dividend of democracy in all the sectors including agriculture, housing, health, education, tourism among other.

He emphasized that at 70, he still has the capacity to govern the state saying that performance is performance and not the function of age.

“Performance is Performance is not a function of age. It’s a function of ability. It’s a function of not being greedy, it’s a func-

tion of living a simple life. If a youth man comes out today and gives me good programme I will support him.

“We have had young people, the man who is messing everybody up today in the state is a young man. Public water supply no longer functioning, anybody who does not see the retrogression in our state is living in a different world”.

Dr. Nya Asuquo who is a stalwart of the All Progressives Congress stressed that zoning has not served the state well and the state is currently being run without any plan to galvanize it for development. He called on the people to join his train and help salvage the state from decay.

democratic; it is unpopular and distasteful imposition capable of generating crisis that will rock our party and endanger its foreseeable dividends in the forthcoming election.

“It is the unanimous decision of the forum and in line with global best practice and the due process to advice for a strict adherence to the constitution of the party which stipulates that any party officials seeking re-election or any public servant seeking party office must quit 30 days to the national convention.

“By this provision, all those seeking reelection would have to leave office by the end of June, 2018. To do otherwise will be undemocratic and an unwholesome invitation to crisis and anarchy”.

The forum also lent its voice to the call on Mr. Clement Ebri, to join the race to lead the party stressing that he has the capacity and the needed exposure to consolidate on the gains the party made in the last general elections and take it to the next height.

“The forum forensically examined the aspirants for the post and after analyzing their antecedents, pedigree and future potentials, Mr. Clement Ebri came out top as the man with the most credible experience spanning over two decades of building party structures and electoral victories.

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 25, 2018

POLITICS Let’s begin with your dual positions as a traditional ruler and a Patron of Ohaneze Ndigbo. How would you assess the impact of traditional rulers like you in particular and Ohaneze Ndigbo in general on Igbo culture in this age?

Thank you very much. My assessment is that Ndigbo generally are not doing enough to promote their culture. Ohaneze is not promoting our culture with utmost zeal, passion and enthusiasm as obtained in other contemporary tribes like Fulani, Hausa and Yoruba. Everything about the heritage of the Igbo speaking tribe as regards our culture is going down the river because everybody is after personal interest. Nobody is interested in discussing the dwindling fortunes of Igbo culture and the attendant ills and that is where the problems of Ndigbo started.

Nobody is showing interest in championing a cause for the collective interest of Ndigbo as a tribe using the instrumentalities of our culture. The power of any given people lies in their culture. We are talking about the importance of Igbo unity but how can Ndigbo unite when they have abandoned their culture.

Take Igbo language, for instance. It is on the verge of being extinguished from the system because the people are no longer interested in speaking their language. Most families of Igbo extraction both at home in Igbo land, all over the cities and villages in Nigeria and in Diaspora like America, London, China and other parts of the world don’t allow their children to speak Igbo and that is most unfortunate because we cannot build a strong Igbo nation without making maximum use of our mother tongue. I can boldly say that if we don’t brace up to revive the use of Igbo language in our homes, schools, churches, markets, meetings and gatherings, it will die completely in about 20 years to come.

Go to other parts of the country like the North and Southwest and see how the people use their languages effectively at home, in schools, markets, meetings and gatherings to maximize their discussions. Whenever the Fulani, Hausa or Yoruba people gather for a function, they strictly use their mother tongues and consequently keep their discussions within themselves. But when Ndigbo gather, they blow grammar and make their discussion open to the world and achieve nothing at the end of the day.

Should I talk about lack of respect for elders and ignorant of issues related to tradition and customs? Elders no longer earn respect in Igbo land. The people who earn respect are mainly fraudulent rich men and politicians who rig elections to assume positions of authority. Is that how to build a strong Igbo nation? You cannot build a strong nation when you abandon the good legacies of your forefathers. Ndigbo have abandoned the legacies of their forefathers and that is hurting us today. Our forefathers were great farmers but where are farmers in Igboland today? Some healthy Igbo food and vegetables like cocoa yam, water yam, anyu and ugboguru are no more obtainable in the system. Do I have to inform us that Ndigbo, most especially the younger ones, have completely lost the sense of Igbo dressing. If you go to the North and Southwest, you simply identify them with their dressing. Everybody in the North and Southwest including the young boys and girls dress according to their culture but in Igbo land, our boys and girls dress like people who don’t have home background. Some girls wear clothes that throw every part of their body in the open. Sometimes, I wonder if these girls actually come from a home or from a forest.

The identity of any given people is about their food, dressing and their language and from all indications, Ndigbo are losing these key forms of identity and it is not good for us.

What are you doing on your own as a traditional ruler and what is your advice to Ohanaeze Ndigbo towards reviving the Igbo culture?

Personally, I am making effort to bring the attention of the people on the danger of losing our language and other forms of our identity using the instrumentalities of the media. In most cases, I use Radio Nigeria to reach out to the people. I granted this

‘Buhari too weak to Why I defected from solve Nigerians APC to PDP, by Problems’ Hon. Dike Pg 10

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Pg 14

2019: Younger person ideal for presidency – Monarch • Backs restructuring, compulsory use of Igbo in schools

A prominent traditional ruler in Enugu State, His Royal Highness Igwe Patrick Eze alias Igwe Waziri has lent his voice to the on-going political debate on the preferred age of future president, saying younger person would be better for the nation as President of the Federal Republic come next year. Igwe Waziri who is the traditional ruler of Egali Amalla in Udenu Local Government Area of Enugu State and a Patron of Ohaneze Ndigbo also spoke on the barrage of endorsements of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi for a second term by relevant stakeholders in the Coal City State. The Monarch who in the same vein condemned reoccurring killings in various parts of Nigeria equally spoke in favour of restructuring of the country and advised Ndigbo on the very best way to address the challenges facing the Igbo nation. He spoke with THEO RAYS in Enugu. governor, he enhanced that popularity and acceptability with good performance by executing laudable projects all round the State.

Not only that, he accords all relevant sectors of governance adequate attention. The ruling party, PDP has his attention 24/7, he gives civil servants attention like a nursing mother gives her baby attention, like-wise the farmers, the traders and people in all segments in the State.

In summary, every part of the State is directly and indirectly benefiting from the administration through its massive road construction projects, development of the education sector, healthcare services, water supply projects and what have you. The endorsement is worth it because the people have no reason to look for someone else. No part of Enugu is complaining of marginalization or absent of government in terms of service delivery unlike what is obtainable in other States across the country.

interview to further add bite to what I have been saying over the radio but you know a tree cannot make a forest. Ohanaeze at all levels has to take it up as part of their duty to revive and restore Igbo culture to the fullest. The message to use Igbo language has to go worldwide. Ohanaeze is a worldwide organization and so their voice can reach all parts of the world where Ndigbo live and do their businesses. Ohanaeze has to device means to compel schools and churches to adopt Igbo language and use it to teach and preach. Furthermore, Ohanaeze can collaborate with the States to enact and promulgate laws against indecent dressing. In some States, indecent dressing is an offense punishable under the law enacted through legislation in the State House of Assembly. The churches and their bishops, reverends, pastors, prophets and all those who call themselves men of God should be compelled to use Igbo language and also teach the younger ones how to dress like normal human beings. Churches use English as if God doesn’t hear Igbo language. This is not fair to Ndigbo and the earlier we rise up against it the bet-

ter for us.

In Enugu State, virtually all the relevant stakeholders, including notable individuals like Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu, have endorsed Governor Ugwuanyi for a second term. You are in Enugu, Sir, do you think that the barrage of endorsements is worth it going by Ugwuanyi’s performance?

Yes, it is worth it. I can observe that the barrage of endorsements are worthwhile because 99% of the electorate in Enugu is behind Ugwuanyi for a second term and I doubt if anybody from any other political party would muster the courage to challenge him at the polls next year. The traditional rulers in the State had earlier endorsed him because he has done wonderfully well in all facets of governance most especially in construction of rural roads, ensuring adequate security, peace and stability in the State. You know Ugwuanyi as a person not as a governor in the first place commands intimidating popularity among the people all over the State.

That is why they call him Gurugburu. So as

President Muhammadu Buhari has declared his intention to seek election for a second term in office. How do you look at the President’s second-term bid?

Personally I wasn’t surprised that Buhari could ignore Obasanjo’s advice to vie for second term because I know that the cabal around him won’t allow him to step aside so that they will continue to hold on to power.

The issue is not about Buhari alone as President; it is about those around him. You know power intoxicates. Members of cabal have been intoxicated by the presidential power they parade and they wouldn’t want to relinquish it. They don’t care about Buhari’s age and they don’t care to listen to the voice of Nigerians that the country needs a younger person to occupy the Aso Rock seat of power. I am of the opinion that a younger person is the ideal for the exalted position of the President and Commander of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Nelson Mandela set a good example for aging African leaders. Mandela stepped aside when the ovation was loud for him to continue. Mandela paved the way for younger ones to take over even though he had the support of South Africa to continue in office but he said no, that he was ok with one term because of his age.

Age is a vital advantage for leaders. Take Governor Ugwuanyi in Enugu here for example. Ugwuanyi is working wonderfully well because age is on his side. As a man, what you could do between 30-60 years is quite stronger and better than what you could do at 70 upwards. At 70, one has fallen into the category of the weak. The situation of Nigeria today is not what a weak old man can handle. Look at the way they are killing people all over the place and no concrete measures are being put down to stop it. The killings all over the places are not just condemnable but have to stop for the country to make

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The Oracle Today Wednesday April 25, 2018

POLITICS You are a believer in truth, don’t you think that Nigerians are sick and tired of President Buhari’s Administration?

As a member of PDP I will tell you categorically that Nigerians are tired of this government because the much talked-about change is not coming.

Sir, since Mr. President came on board, for almost three years, he has been fighting corruption and insecurity but is he succeeding?

What do you think about the fight against corruption?

From my observation, I would say that Mr. President’s fight against corruption is selective. He is busy fighting those who are criticizing his government whereas most corrupt politicians are in his party and government. So, I dare challenge him to let the fight against corruption be total because almost all his cabinet members and supporters are PDP members who crossed over to APC; indeed corruption started from PDP and moved over to APC, so, everybody is corrupt.

What are the challenges Buhari is facing?

Well, the challenges he is facing will take a long time to overcome. This is because they are like stubborn sore that has refused to heal and the country is too big for him to contend with. I tell you without mincing words that in this Buhari’s time, it will be very difficult for this country to go back to the glorious days it used to be. In fact, Buhari cannot comprehend at all.

‘Buhari too weak to solve Nigerians Problems’ Chief Vincent Okudolo, the Omovudu of Ughelli Kingdom former Chieftain of APC, now member of PDP in Delta State, says he decided to dump APC because it has no structure on ground and cannot stand the test of time in the state. In this interview with EMMANUEL OGOIGBE in Warri, the political godfather of Delta South Senatorial District explained why he is contesting the State House of Assembly election for Constituency II on the platform of the PDP. He, however, urges the Buhari Administration to deal decisively with herders whom he described as Boko Haram members, as their activities are becoming unbearable, dismissing the call for the creation of cattle colonies across the country as untenable proposition.

Sir, what is your take on the saying that there is no vacancy in Government House in 2019 even as APC is coming stronger to wrestle power from the ruling party, the PDP? I have been in APC and I do know that the party is not on ground. I tell you the party is facing leadership crisis even as they don’t have structures on ground. The party is very disorganized to the extent that it has no foundation at all.

What is your reaction to the gruesome activities of herdsmen who are killing and maiming Nigerians with impunity?

Well, my advice is for government to be proactive by strengthening our borders, equipping the military and ensuring regular surveillance of various communities and our porous borders. All the security personnel should be alert, but it is unfortunate that majority of our security personnel are now security officers to top government officials, and private individuals. They have been made to be bodyguards even to charlatans and it is unfortunate.

From my perspective, I strongly believe that the so- called herders are members of Boko Haram sect, this is because most of them who have been arrested are not only found with cows or cattle but are also heavily armed with dangerous weapons.

President Muhammadu Buhari has just declared his intension to contest in 2019, what is your reaction?

Frankly speaking, everybody has the constitutional right to contest or re-contest but to me, he has done what he believes in. However for me, his score card is there to judge him.

But for now, there doesn’t seem to be any strong opposition to dethrone him in 2019.

Yes, you might not see them now, but I can tell you that the gang-up against him is very strong and I am strongly of the view that PDP will take over in 2019.

What is your take on the planned creation of cattle colonies across the country?

The proposed cattle colonies will not work. For instance, in the Southern part of the country, we also have animal colonies.

If they want cattle colony, they should buy piece of land and use it as cattle ranch. If you go to other countries like Brazil, Argentina and others, they have cattle ranches on big expanses of land. My advice is that cattle rearers should have their ranches and not colonies.

How about State police? How do you react to the proposal?

State police is okay because it will assist in the area of security.

Buhari ordered the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to withdraw security from the big and wealthy Nigerians, what is your reaction?

Withdrawing security personnel from the rich and mighty is okay if it is to affect every part of the country. In fact, I am in support of that idea because the number of personnel who serve as security officers to the rich is even more than those doing the normal security job. In fact, they should withdraw them and send them to areas where there are security challenges. That will help in bringing about appreciable peace across the country.

Why did you cross over to PDP after building formidable structure for APC in the state?

Well, presently, I am trying very hard to see that Governor Ifeayin Okowa is back in office for second term next year.

Sir, you are a kingmaker in Warri but why do you want to contest for the House Of As-

As a Niger Delta opinion leader, what is your take on the delay in the take-off of the Maritime University?

I have been told that workers have been employed and everything is in place for the take-off of the university. I am very sure that it will soon be a reality by God’s Grace.

•Chief Vincent Okudolo sembly Constituency II in Warri South?

I want to contest the State House of Assembly election because my people need more of my attention to take them to the Promised Land. In fact, I am contesting Warri South Constituency II on the platform of the PDP. What is your impression of Governor Okowa’s government in the State?

My take on the governor is that he is really working, I mean since three years he came on board as Governor he has spread development across the twenty local government area of the state. Because of his Smart Agenda System he has put in place, both the lame and the blind can see the avalanche of projects has spread in all over the state; in fact, he has transformed the state to a reasonable level and should be appreciated by all. There are a lot of projects, which he has actually commissioned. With all these things being put in place despite the little funds coming in, even doubting Thomas will believe he (Okowa) is doing well.

Has the governor done well in your senatorial district?

The things Okowa has been doing in my senatorial district are feasible. He has done quite in the area of infrastructural development. While a lot of the projects will soon be commissioned a lot more are on-going and will be commissioned before the year runs out.

What do you hope to gain from the PDP you are now working for?

I decided to cross over from APC to PDP because I discovered that the PDP is the only party in the state that can stand tall among other parties. This is because PDP has a workaholic governor and the man is doing a lot of projects with the little money coming into the state coffers.

Sadly, APC Warri South is not on ground at all; they are a non-existent party, even in Delta State hence I have decided to come to PDP to strengthen the party and assist the governor to ensure total victory for the PDP in all its ramifications.

It has been said that the Niger Delta is grossly neglected and marginalized. What is your reaction to such perception?

It is true that we are being marginalized, but I must tell you my brother that God gave us the blank cheque to turn the area to Dubai but we failed and disappointed ourselves, so we should stop blaming the Federal Government over our woes. Or people should stop crying when we have already failed ourselves.

Do you think the multi-national companies are assisting their host communities enough?

No, not at all. In fact, they are the real enemies of the host communities. They are not trying at all; I repeat, they are the problems of Niger Delta.

Politicians are already beating war drums ahead of 2019 elections, what is your advice to them?

I advice that politics should be played maturely; it is a game of chance and numbers.

There is no need of killing or antagonizing ourselves. It should be politics without bitterness; we are brothers and we all belong to Nigeria, our dear country.

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The Oracle Today Wednesday April 25, 2018

POLITICS

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lthough the event was christened ‘Peace Rally for Good Governance, it appeared to be all about 2019. In particular, the re-election bid of the Governor of Enugu State, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, recorded a mega boost at the event, which held at the country home of the governor’s immediate predecessor, Sullivan Chime, just metres away from the former governor’s residence. Chime, and eight-year former PDP governor, had since dumped the party for All Progressive Congress (APC), and boasted severally that his new platform would take over the Enugu Lion Building come 2019. However, with the display of thick crowd of supporters that thronged the Udi peace rally, it is left to be seen what the outcome of the 2019 governorship election would be in the state.

While giving insight into what the rally was about, the DSP explained that it was to thank God and as well appreciate the state governor, for the “total peace” that Enugu State had been enjoying since Ugwuanyi, who he described as “great governor” assumed office. Recalling how the state had in the past, been usually plunged into crisis every pre-election year, the former Speaker of ECOWAS Parliament, noted that such crisis had occurred in 1998, 2002, 2006, 2010 and 2014.

“Every pre-election year, Enugu had always been divided from bottom to top, and across borders; and through the mercy of God, we had always overcome such turmoil. But today, we have a Governor that has brought permanent peace to Enugu State. This is 2018, there would be general election next year; but everywhere is peaceful in our state.

“There is peace between the state government and workers, between the state government and our representatives in Abuja; peace between PDP; the ruling party and the opposition parties, and peace among various arms of the state. We cannot take all that for granted. That is why we decided to come here today to thank God and as well appreciate our governor”, the DSP explained.

According to Ekweremmadu, as a senator, he knew what it meant to have peace in a state, adding that happenings in many states around the country such as Benue, Plateau, Adamawa, Borno among others, showed that Enugu is the best place to live in the country, adding that citizens of the state should be grateful to God and Governor Ugwuanyi for such development. He endorsed Ugwuanyi for re-election in 2019.

The lawmaker also directed those who had chosen Ugwuanyi as their preferred 2019 governorship candidate to raise their hands, and the result was total affirmation.

“Therefore, our governor, we are going to reward you at the polls in 2019, for your good works and the uncommon peace that you have brought to Enugu State”, he declared.

Meanwhile, although the event was Enugu West PDP’s affair, but dignitaries at the rally cut across national and party divides.

For instance, the national leadership of PDP from Wadata Plaza, Abuja, was in full attendance. The show was as well graced by a renowned APC apologist, Prince Engr.

Arthur Eze, who openly endorsed governor Ugwuanyi for second term at the rally and urged Enugu citizens to re-elect him.

The Billionaire philanthropist, while professing his unalloyed support for the governor said, “You know that I have many friends in APC, but I will cast my vote for this man (Governor Ugwuanyi). Please, we shall all re-elect him in 2019. There would be no rival for him; his victory is already assured, by the grace of God. “I am not talking about party here, I am talking about character. I look at individual character and not party. This man has character, that is why I love him and that is why I support him. He is a man of peace – peace runs in his veins. Please vote for him, he beseeched.

On his part, the national Chairman of PDP, Uche Secondus, said that the national leadership of the party was pleased with the Governor. Represented by a Deputy National Chairman of the party, Sen. Ba-

2019: Enugu West endorses Ugwuanyi at mega rally •PDP, Ekweremmadu, others eulogise, okay gov’s re-election •I’ve many friends in APC but I’ll vote for him – Prince Arthur Eze It was a constellation of Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) juggernauts from Enugu State and the national level, at a mega rally organised at the instance of the Deputy President of the Senate (DSP), Prof. Ike Ekweremmadu, at Comprehensive Secondary School field, Udi-Abia, in Udi Local Government Area of the state. From Enugu, CHUKS EZE reports.

•Governor Ugwunyi (centre) flanked by DSP Ekweremmadu (left)_ Enugu Deputy Gov. Cecilia Ezeilo and other PDP stalwarts at the rally

•Mammoth party faithful at the rally bayo Garuba Guma, the Secondus also said that the party banks on performing governors such as Ugwuanyi, for her 2019 comeback bid.

“We bring you felicitations from the National Chairman of PDP and our National Working Committee (NWC) at Wadata House. We are here to state that we are happy with our governor. We sincerely appreciate the Enugu Governor and his brother, the Ikeoha (referring to governor Ugwuanyi and DSP Ekweremmadu). It is confirmed to us that you are determined to take our party to a greater height.

“We are very happy with you, our gover-

nor. We are very happy with your government and we are very proud of your leadership style”, he noted, insisting that the governor’s sterling performance in office and those of other performing PDP governors would propel Nigerians to vote “vote out non-performance” and vote PDP back to power across board.

Secondus also seized the platform to reassure party faithful that that era of impunity was over in the PDP. He also assured that there would be no more imposition of candidates anywhere, stressing that “we would provide a level-playing ground for all politicians so that our people would be

able to choose their preferred candidates”.

The PDP boss urged Enugu citizens to vote for Governor Ugwuanyi in 2019 so they would continue to enjoy peace and good governance.

According the politician, “without mincing words, if this governor is from my state, I would cast my vote for him to continue with his good works; and in same vain, if Ikeoha is from my Senatorial Zone, I’ll vote for him as well. You know that Ekweremmadu was born in Enugu, but his influence cuts across the country. There is nowhere

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The Oracle Today Wednesday April 25, 2018

POLITICS T he $15 billion oil investment in the Gulf of Guinea being planned by Total E&P and its partners may come under attack if urgent steps are not taken to douse tension between Ijaw youths and promoters of the project.

This follows threats by the leadership of Ijaw Youth Council, IYC, to blow up the facility if relevant stakeholders fail to prevail on the promoters of the project christened, ‘Egina Project OML 130’ in the gulf of Guinea to adhere to the provisions of the Local Content Act. In a statement issued during the week by the President of IYC, Barr. Roland Oweileami, he called on President Muhammadu Buhari and the National Assembly to urgently wade into the face- off between IYC and the promoters of the multi-billion naira project before it is too late.

Oweileami regretted what he described as the “marginalization, exclusion and shortchanging of our people in employment, training of expertise and local indigenous contracts”, saying all is targeted at excluding the Ijaw Nation from their “God given natural resources”.

According to the statement, the Egina Project, which is valued at 15 billion US dollars consists of 44 Oil wells connected to the 2.3 million barrel capacity storage of FPSO with a 200,000 barrel of oil per day as processing capacity.

The statement further said that the leadership of IYC as critical stakeholders has written series of letters to Total E&P the mother owner of the FPSO and their partners, including LADOL which is the consultant in charge of recruitment, local contracts and local trainees, for the exercise expected to generate 50,000 new jobs on the project.

In the letters, the IYC president said, the youths had requested for negotiations to ensure compliance with the relevant local content law on employment opportunities to the youths and people of the region on the Egina Project.

Other demands include indigenous participation in the Egina field project with respect to contracts and local training of manpower, possible environmental impact assessment of the project on the people of the affected areas in the region, mutual cooperation and collaboration with the leadership of IYC towards ensuring an enabling environment, among others.

He lamented that the International Oil Companies, IOCs, have deliberately refused to call on the leadership of IYC for possible discussions and negotiations on the above issues raised.

“The exclusion of IYC in the fabrication, EIA, surveying on the field, seismic 2D and 3D survey and the water injection flow line oil offloading terminal, flexible jumpers ubilicals and subsea manifold and training of expertise during the fabrication of Egina

by Samsung heavy industry, Tehnic FMC, Minox technology, Saipen and Avon is not only regrettable but totally unacceptable by the Ijaw Youths, the Ijaw Nation and the Niger Delta region. It is so regrettable to see Ijaw youths denied of their God given natural resources in our region.

“We were also denied of the Topside module that was fabricated by Samsung heavy industry and production facility which was established in Lagos rather than in the Niger Delta Region which is closer to the Gulf of Guinea for industrial growth and sustainability of the region which is a deliberate means to under-develop and short change us from our God given resources.

“Caracal oil and gas was contracted also for provision of transport and logistics support service on the Total Egina field, a contract extension for the platform supply vessel which includes transportation of goods, equipment, and personnel to offshore vessel.

“We the Ijaw people and youths as critical stakeholders in the region were excluded in all these projects! But we shall take back what is due us in the region in compliance with the local content! Enough is enough!

This issue of marginalization, exclusion and shortchanging by the IOC’s in collaboration with the federal government is indeed a deliberate act which must come to an end! We want to state categorically that we shall stop

Avoiding fire next time

Trouble looms in the Niger Delta as Ijaw youths threaten to blow up $15b Egina oil project over what they described as ‘non-adherence to Local Content Act’. From Yenagoa, CLEM ONYEMAECHI reports

•Niger-Delta militants

•Seriake-Dickson at nothing in protecting and ensuring our full participation in our God given natural resources in our region and territorial waters”, the statement read in part.

The IYC vowed to do everything within their reach “by any means necessary to stop the IOC’s from carrying out the project and other ongoing and about to commence projects in the gulf of guinea in our territorial waters and no amount of security presence in the region or gun boats can stop us if it means blowing upthe FPSO we will not hesitate to do so”.

“The neglect, marginalization is obvious that the federal government in collaboration with the IOC’s do not mean well for the people of the Niger Delta and the Ijaw nation”.

•Ibe Kachikwu The statement added that Total E&P and other partners are also preparing for final investment decision for Ikike field and other fields within the territorial waters in the region and warned that what happened to the Bunga oil field in 2009 could be repeated, “as Ijaw people will not tolerate it any longer” “If these IOC’s and their so called consultants fail to engage us as major and critical stakeholders within a week time then the FPSO should remain in LADOL’s shipyard and should not be moved into our territorial waters!

“We are aware of the gunboat vessels security built by Damen in partnership with the Navy. To us it is not a threat! We still remain the Egbesu boys of Africa. We are standing

on the Peace President Muhamadu Buhari is seeking, but it does not mean we are cowards!

“We want to use this medium to call on the attention of Mr. President to call the IOC’s to order and also grant us a courtesy visit to deliberate on issues concerning the Niger Delta to sustain lasting peace and industrial growth in the region”, the youths demanded.

The group warned that now the oil production has increased tremendously as a result of “our concerted efforts in collaboration with the federal government nobody

Cont’d from page 13

13

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 25, 2018

POLITICS

Avoiding fire next time

“There is no justification for the approval of such funds to combat Boko Haram sects who the Government has declared to have been defeated”.

According to him, though no sacrifice is too much in securing lives and property in the country, “our concern is the use of one billion dollars to fight the terrorists the FG has once celebrated to have been defeated”, he maintained.

“Is there anything that the FG is not telling Nigerians? IYC smells a rat in this shoddy plan to spend the tax payer’s money on this fruitless venture. To us in the Niger Delta region, the money said to be approved by the President for the Boko Haram crisis is a smokescreen. There is more to it than meets the ordinary eyes”, he contended.

Oweileami advised President Buhari to use the money to address other critical sectors in the

Country. “In the Niger Delta, we have several projects littered in the region that are begging for the government’s attention. The growing silence on the part of the FG constitutes more threats to peace in this Country. The Ogoni clean -up exercise is still a mirage; the Escravos Gas City project has been tactically abandoned by this Government. The FG owes NDDC billions of naira.

“The Government can revive the moribund deep sea ports and dockyards in Burutu and other coastal towns in the region. The coastal highway road project awarded by the Yar’Adua Government needs $1b for its take off. The East West Road is still begging for completion. These are projects that will not only generate income to the government; they will also guarantee peace in the region thereby boosting the economy”, he maintained.

2019: Younger person ideal for presidency – Monarch Cont’d from p 9

Cont’d from page 12 should push us to the wall to shut down all oil installations in the region which will cripple the economy of Nigeria” While expressing support to President Muhamadu Buhari led administration to bring lasting Peace in the Niger Delta Region and the country at large, the youths equally expressed their readiness to ensure the smooth operation and success of the project if carried along.

“We the people of Niger Delta desire peace and economic inclusion to create and promote jobs and industrial growth for our teaming unemployed youths in our region, rather than taking our resources in our land, in our region to Lagos thereby shortchanging us from industrial growth and expertise to

our people and land. We cannot allow other regions any further to become the bedrock and hub for investors thereby neglecting where the oil is taken from to languish in insecurity, unemployment and neglect for industrial growth and creating a poverty hover!

Hence the need to call the leadership of IYC for possible discussions and deliberations. The Ijaw struggle for resource control remains sacrosanct”.

Meanwhile, the IYC has equally urged President Muhammadu Buhari to urgently approve the needed funds for the implementation of the Niger Delta Development Master plan to avert fresh crisis in the region.

President of IYC, Barr. Roland Oweileami who made the demand in an electronic email to our correspondent while reacting to the $1billion the President approved

for the fight against Boko Haram said approving such money to fight “defeated terrorists”, and leaving the region that required such money more than any other sector will open the old wounds of restiveness in the Niger Delta.

He contended that the “unilateral approval of $1b by President Muhammadu Buhari to combat Boko Haram without recourse to legislative approval means that the Government can also unilaterally approved money for the Niger Delta developmental plan.

“If the Executive arm can on its own volition approve such amount of money to prosecute the (fight against the) much touted defeated Boko Haram sects then we see no reason why Niger Delta region should not be given lion share of the slush funds”, he stressed.

The IYC President insisted that

meaningful progress. So we need a younger person as President and there is no doubt about it.

What is your take on Obansanjo’s Third Force and the call for restructuring of Nigeria?

Obansanjo’s Third Force is good for democracy. Such development entrenches democracy by creating more rooms for people to make their choice. That was how PDP started in 1999. That was how APC started in 2014. Those who are not interested in APC and PDP can identify with the Third Force to express their opinions. That is democracy for you. On the issue of restructuring, restructuring is a welcome development and I support it 100%. The situation we find ourselves in this country calls for concrete measures for us to properly address the challenges facing us and I think that restructuring is that concrete measure. But, the problem is that some people who

feel that restructuring will shortchange their interest in the system won’t allow it to be carried out.

President Buhari has voiced out his position against restructuring. Professor Ango Abudulahi, a northern leader has continued to speak against it. Who knows the unseen hands behind Ango Abudulahi. So, restructuring is a welcome development but those who feel hurt by the arrangement won’t allow it. And until those who say nay to restructuring are over powered by those who say aye to it, the issue will continue to hang in the balance.

Igbo politicians in APC are saying that Buhari is the best bet for Ndigbo in 2019. According to them, he has only one term of four years left and he will hand over to an Igbo man in just four years time if he wins the second term. Do you agree with that?

Has Buhari himself said so? Until Buhari and APC as a party say so, nobody will take those APC politicians seriously.

2019: Enugu West endorses Ugwuanyi at mega rally Cont’d from page 11 you would go in Nigeria and you would not find Ekweremmadu, unless there is no Senator there. We are all his, and wherever something about him comes up, we are there ready to be his soldiers”, he noted.

The colourful rally, which was akin to a show-stopper, witnessed other creams of dignitaries, pools of cultural troupes and masquerades, as well as flocks of various support groups from across the state. The event venue and adjoining roads were virtually overtaken by dignitaries, party faithful and well-wishers, giving the function an apparent outlook of warning signal to the ‘Doubting Thomas’ that PDP still remained the party to beat in Enugu State.

Apart from Governor Ugwuanyi, Prince Arthur Eze and the convener, DSP Ike Ekweremmadu, who was flanked by other NASS members from the Senatorial Zone such as Rt. Hon. Toby Okechukwu and Hon. Dennis Amadi, the event was also graced by the Deputy Governor of the State, Barr Mrs Cecilia Ezeilo, who also hails from the host Senatorial Zone. Deputy Speaker of Enugu House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Donatus Uzogbado and other state assembly members; state Exco

members, religious leaders and traditional rulers as well as serving and former political appointees and political office holders were also there.

Others were the PDP National Vice Chairman (South East), Austin Umahi, Enugu PDP Chairman, Chief Austin Nnamani; and the PDP National Youths Leader, Rt. Hon. S.K.E Ude Okoye, among several others.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Umahi noted that judging from the magnitude of the rally and the mood of attendees, the message was self-explanatory, stressing that Governor Ugwuanyi was loved by his people and that he was being celebrated for his good works.

“It is because of his doggedness, resilience, hard work, and above all, because he is a man of peace that we are here today to count God’s blessings upon Enugu State under the Ugwuanyi administration. There is no other party in Enugu and there can be no other party but PDP in this state,” he swanked.

Umahi who also noted that the people of should count themselves lucky for having an advocate of peace as governor, also pointed out that, “we are very impressed with what the governor is doing in this state; we are solidly behind him, his 2019 is assured. He has handed the state to God

because he knows that with God all things are possible. And God is making everything possible in his administration,” he said.

For the State Chairman of PDP, Chief Augustine Nnamani, Governor Ugwuanyi deserves accolades, not only for his hard word, peace advocacy and provision of equitable democracy dividends across all fabrics of the state, but also for being the only governor in the country who treats members of the ruling party and those of the opposition alike. According to him, for the governor, there is no party dichotomy in the scheme of affairs in the state.

“You have not only continued to provide infrastructural development in every nook and cranny of our state, but you have as well, continued to construct both state and federal roads alike, and you have been consistently paying workers’ salaries on or before 25th of every month, he pointed out.

Nnamani also expressed joy over what he called, bond of relationship that exist between Governor Ugwuanyi and Ekweremmadu, as well as the general peace that had continued to exist in the state since the advent of the current administration in the state. While assuring of the governor’s victory at the polls, the party Chairman also affirmed that PDP would leave no stone unturned to ensure that the party delivers

a clean slate during the forthcoming general election.

Meanwhile, various other dignitaries who addressed the gathering were unanimous in appreciating Governor Ugwuanyi for keeping the state safe and rancourfree since he assumed office. They were also unanimous in declaring total support for Ugwuanyi 2019, and in praising the harmonious relationship that exist among leaders of the state especially among the state and national political office holders, and prayed for its continued sustenance.

On his part, Governor Ugwuanyi, whose face beamed away throughout the event, poured immense gratitude to the people of Enugu West Senatorial Zone, especially Senator Ekweremmadu. He also thanked party faithful and his well-wishers, for their continued solidarity and best wishes to him and his administration. He ascribed his achievements in office to God’s grace.

“I appreciate you all for being willing instruments in the hands of God towards the achievement of the peace that we celebrate today. Enugu State is in the hand of God. In all we do in this state, we give God due glory, honour and adoration.

God bless you all, bless our great party and bless all the stakeholders of our great state,” the governor said.

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 25, 2018

INTERVIEW Is it true that you defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC), to the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP), because you had been assured of returning to the House in 2019 on the platform of the PDP? That is not true. I left the APC because my constituents asked me to leave. My constituents complained that they were not seeing anything from me; they were also not seeing anything from the APC. They kept asking me: what is happening to the party that we voted for? You are our leader; you are our representative in the state government; if nothing is happening, then, the best thing is for me to leave.

Change; leave the APC; defect to the PDP. So, I told them, if you want me to defect, you will also defect.

You should rather say ‘let us defect, not that I should defect. I will go with what you people have said because I am not on my own: I am your representative; so, you wish is what I will do. To be candid, I defected to attract the dividends of democracy to my constituents who sent me to the House of Assembly to represent their collective interest. So, after a deep reflection on the plight of my people, we all moved en masse to the PDP. I am their representative and leader, so, I took the lead.

Did the current crisis in the Rivers State chapter of the APC play any role in your defection to the PDP? Frankly, it also contributed in a way because it appears the party is not serious about taking over power in the state. The APC in Rivers State is in disarray.

One thing I know is that the law allows you to defect if all is not going well within your party. Just recently, a faction of the APC held a unilateral stakeholders’ meeting at Tana Event Centre, in Port Harcourt. And because they know that the APC in the state has been torn apart, they decided to set up a reconciliatory committee. What else do you want anyone to say before they accept that there is crisis in Rivers APC? A politician has the right to defect to another party if his party does not protect his interest. President Mohammadu Buhari would not have set up a reconciliatory committee if there were no crisis in the party.

I was in the pro-Abe faction of the APC before my defection to the PDP. The state chairman of the party has not invited me to party meetings for over a year.

I am not even invited to APC meetings in my local government area, which I represent in the House of Assembly. So, the APC in Rivers State is severely divided between the Amaechi and Abe groups and it is not helping the party in the state. The APC in Rivers State is seemingly sinking and as a man who has been in politics for 22 years, I know that the current crisis in the APC cannot allow the party to do well in elections in the state in 2019. Rivers State APC is currently torn apart.

The communiqué issued at the end of the stakeholders meeting, which was held at the instance of Abe to set up a reconciliation committee to reach out to the state, local government, ward and leaders of the party in the state to broker peace and reconciliation justifies my claim that there is crisis in Rivers APC. There are parallel factions of pro-Amaechi and pro-Abe factions in the 23 local governments and 313 wards in the state. Each faction holds its meetings separate from the other faction. How can APC in the state move forward or even do well in the 2019 general elections? I was not invited to APC meetings in my ward and local government. I was no longer appreciated in the APC in my ward and local government because of my pro-Abe stance.

So, why are they now bothered about my defection, after they had abandoned me and my constituents

The APC in Rivers State is seemingly sinking and as a man who has been in politics for 22 years, I know that the current crisis in the APC cannot allow the party to do well in elections in the state in 2019.

14

Why I defected from APC to PDP, by Hon. Dike Mathew Nenubari Dike is a member of the Rivers State House of Assembly, representing Tai Constituency. He defected from the All Progressives Congress, APC, on whose platform he won election in 2015 into the House of Assembly in March. He spoke to NATH OMAME, Jr. on his defection to the Peoples’ Democratic Party, PDP; the crisis within the state chapter of the APC and the quest for a governor from Ogoni. for over a year? Why was I so embarrassed? Why was I so denigrated? They did all they could to belittle me in the APC because I was supporting Senator Abe. Why worry over the defection of someone you had already pushed out of the party? The injury has been done; the division has been created. Other members of the APC, who feel alienated, ostracised and whose future can no longer be guaranteed in the party will also jump out of the boat.

You were in the pro-Abe camp in the APC because you believed and supported the cause of electing an Ogoni as governor in 2019. You defection suggests that you have abandoned that dream. Doesn’t it?

You cannot predict the future. You cannot predict tomorrow. We can still have a governor from Ogoni, but not now. Governor Nyesom Wike is doing very well.

Let us support him for a second term and look forward to 2023. I think that is a more realistic political bargain and calculation. The people of Tai are happy with the infrastructural developmental strides of Governor Wike in the state.

And my people want to identify with the developmental strides of the governor. So, what is wrong with that?

This is essentially my reason,

though not limited to that, which influenced our glorious defection to the PDP. The people have resolved not to support any political party that will not protect the interest of Tai local government area.

You recently spoke glowingly about the reality of an Ogoni governorship candidate in an event in which you represented Senator Magnus Ngei Abe. How come you have suddenly jettisoned that position?

I was at the occasion to represent Senator Abe. He was the one that was invited to the occasion and he sent me to represent him. So, it was Senator Abe that was speaking, not me. I only went there as instructed by him to deliver his message to those who invited him to that event. He directed me to say what he wanted to tell the people. You can align this with the position of the people of Tai telling me as their representative to move over to the PDP so that they can benefit from what Governor Wike is doing in the state.

But do you think the Ogoni governorship project can still be actualised?

Oh, yes! You cannot predict the future. If the people of Rivers State agree to collectively work for the emergence of a governor from Ogoni, then, it would be smooth sailing. But let us support Wike to complete his two terms because the governor is working. And Rivers people acknowledge that. However, for now, the people of Tai whom I represent are saying that the governor has done well and that he should continue. And as their leader and representative, it behoves on me to do as they have directed. We the people of Ogoni want an Ogoni to be governor, but let Wike complete his two terms. Sometime, you can propose, but God disposes!

15

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 25, 2018

FEATURE

Stakeholders reappraise Ebonyi’s literary awareness level

I

n August 2015, the Ebonyi State government moved to rescue the state’s downward spiral in the education sector by setting up and inaugurating a committee to prepare a working plan for making learning convenient for students in the state.

The decision followed the presentation, to the state Executive Council at the Government House in Abakaliki, of a preliminary report on the state of public schools in the state by a consultant hired by the State’s Universal Basic Education Board (UBE).

The committee headed by Rev. Father Abraham Nwali submitted its report two months later. Years down the line, Ebonyi can boast a huge improvement from its previous ‘educationally disadvantaged state’ status to one with relatively outstanding results in the recent times.

Many thanks to commitment from both the private and public sectors, the state has steadily climbed the ladder of literary awareness such that it has become a reference point in educational growth. Even at the national level, the state has become a choice destination for test-running of educational projects and programmes geared towards improving the lot of students or literary awareness as a whole.

“The degree of literary awareness in Ebonyi State is presently high. People, especially the youths are becoming more and more aware. There are book clubs and literary societies, some of which are founded by young people for the purpose of meeting their literary ends,” enthused Mr. Richard Inya, chairman of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA).

“On our part, there have been vigorous awareness campaigns at various schools in the state, which feature talks, quiz and book donations. We reveal to the students what lies behind the doors of creativity and healthy reading culture; we show them individuals who attained greatness and global reckoning through creativity; give them tips on how to reach such enviable heights, making reading the bedrock,” he added, stressing: “In all, we follow a strategic option we named Bring Back the Book. It is aimed at increasing awareness in the area of healthy reading culture and literary awareness.

In doing this, we now have chapters in different higher institutions and secondary schools in the state.”

“As a matter of course, members of the chapters are members of our branch.

We have also perfected plans to explore the use of the electronic media for our membership drive. This we are to do in line with radio and TV programmes we are already straightening out. However, our social media handles have been of immense value in this regard. Hardly our meeting ends without an individual coming to join courtesy of the social media.”

Observers believe the upward trajectory of literary awareness in the state is to some extent attributable to efforts at the government level geared towards correcting the previously feared school dropout syndrome, which ravaged the state and prevented it from competing at the regional let alone national levels of academic performance.

Immediate past chairman of ANA in the state, Elder Matthew Odono, who would prefer to rate the state’s level of literary awareness at a moderate ‘average’, says, however, that his organization has put in a lot to ensure the state reaches where it is today.

“In the state, the association has done quite a lot in this regard. Aside from its monthly readings where works by mem-

In this piece, VICTOR NZE examines the level of literary awareness in Ebonyi State from the era when it carried the ‘educationally disadvantaged state’ tag to the present most appreciable level, and the role played by stakeholders in achieving this feat.

•Gov. Umahi

bers are read and critiqued, the association has embarked on ‘Bring Back the Book Campaign’ to some post primary schools in the state,” he said. “During the exercise, books worth several thousands of naira donated by ANA/Yusuf Ali Literary Awareness Campaign Projects were read and distributed to students.

Books authored by members or sourced by members from the market considered valuable to inspire the students to develop interest in reading and creative writing were also added to promote the exercise.”

“The association has also introduced ‘teen authorship’ programme in some post primary schools in the state and is at present mentoring students of Holy Ghost Secondary School Abakaliki Literary Club to ensure that they come up with quality creative outputs. It is pertinent to add that a cash prize of N 5,000 each was placed for the best students in poetry, prose and drama respectively by the association,” Odono added.

“Also the King Agwu Ude poetry Award of N 50, 000 for secondary School students sponsored Elder Matthew Odono is on in the State now. In 2016, the

Chapter in collaboration with the Federal University Ndufu-Alike Ikwo, Ebonyi State organised Yusuf Ali (SAN) Literary Awareness Campaign with the theme “creativity and success in life” for students of tertiary Institutions in Ebonyi State.

“The programme was held at the FUNAI Auditorium. I am glad to inform you that virtually all the tertiary institutions in the state participated in the workshop. I will also be right to state that literary activities in all the literary groups of these institutions are going on as directed. FUNAI crew and Federal College of Agriculture Ishiagu Literary Club, Ivo council are doing very well.

“The understanding and cooperation of the Vice Chancellor of FUNAI, Prof Chinwuba in driving literary activities in the state need special commendation.

Himself, a literary activist, readily avails us a helping hand in our drive to discover and mentor budding creative writers in the state. This explains why the national body is planning an international creative writers’ submit to be held in the University by July this year.”

Incidentally, Ebonyi State will also pro-

vide a veritable platform for this year’s Yusuf Ali (SAN) Literary Awareness Campaign.

“It must be stated without fear of contradiction that no project, policy or programme in this nation in the dimension of improving the reading culture or increasing literary awareness can be compared with the Yusuf Ali nationwide literary awareness campaign,” said Inya.

“Its consistency is astute; its gains are high, and its vision, clear. The project has a very high capacity for sustaining the level of literary awareness in the state.

We have benefitted twice, and on each of the occasions embarked on activities that opened avenues for our people to realize what lies ahead and how to be part of it.”

For Odono, the state stands to benefit ‘to a very large extent’ even as he pleaded for more support from government to fully realize the goals of the campaign.

“If a single person, Yusuf Ali could provide N3m to the association annually, imagine where the Federal, State and Local Governments can provide N50m, N20 and N2m respectively for the association’s activities, without politicising it,” he remonstrated. “I bet you, a lot of transformation will be achieved in the reading, writing and behavioural lives of the people. Wealthy individuals too, especially serving political leaders can come up to assist in this area. They can call it their constituency project, raise fund for ANA to mentor budding artists, give cash prizes to people that excel and so on. This is preferable to drugging the youths and giving them guns to cause mayhem in the society.”

“In our state, Distinguished Senator Chris Nwankwo funded the organisation of training for aspiring creative writers, though not through ANA. The beneficiaries of that training are doing marvellously well in the creative industry today. We need more like him,” Odono surmised Inya corroborated Odono’s position in wooing the public sector towards the project.

“It must be stated without fear of contradiction that no project, policy or programme in this nation in the dimension of improving the reading culture or increasing literary awareness can be compared with the Yusuf Ali nationwide literary awareness campaign,” he said.

“Its consistency is astute; its gains are high, and its vision, clear. The project has a very high capacity for sustaining the level of literary awareness in the state.

We have benefitted twice, and on each of the occasions embarked on activities that opened avenues for our people to realize what lies ahead and how to be part of it.

“It cannot be gainsaid that a project of this standing needs partnership with the government of the benefitting states to further take it down to rural areas. We have put plans in place to partner the government of our state in this direction.

We as well seek to identify individuals, groups, corporate bodies and organisations that share the ideals and aspirations of the association for the project.”

The Oracle Today

16

Wednesday Apri 25, 2018

NEWS Extra

7.9m PVCs awaiting collection – INEC

I

NDEPENDENT National Electoral Commission (INEC) has disclosed that it is still in possession of 7,920,129 Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) yet to be collected from its offices across the country.

The commission disclosed this in a tabular data on consolidated PVCs as at March 22, 2018, released, Tuesday in Abuja.

The data showed that 8,271,401 PVCs were yet to be collected as at 2016.

A breakdown of the uncollected PVCs as at March 2018 also reveals that Lagos has the highest number of 1,401,390; followed by Oyo, 647,586; and Edo, 449,001 cards, while Kano has 195,941.

The data also shows Bauchi State with the least number of uncollected PVCs at 15,542, followed by Bayelsa and Plateau 28,533 and 25,300.

The commission, however, disclosed that 351,272 PVCs had so far been collected across the 36 states and the FCT between 2015 to March 2018.

INEC further showed that 230,175 out of the 351,272 PVCs were collected in 2017 while the remaining 121,097 cards were collected in 2018.

The state with the highest number of PVCs collected, be-

• Protests were going on in Turkey over El Zakzaky Monday, just as police were battling El Zakzaky supporters on the streets of Abuja. Their message was the same, Free El Zakzaky.

tween 2017 and 2018, is Anambra with 102,264 collected cards; with the breakdown of 95,385 and 6,879 cards collected in 2017 and 2018, according to the commission.

Kogi and Lagos followed with

41,174 and 20,002 cards collected, it said.

The data also shows that 15,318 and 25,856 PVCs were collected in Kogi in 2017 and 2018; 14,907 and 5,095 collected in Lagos in the same order.

The states with the least total number of collected PVCs within 2017 and 2018 are: Zamfara with 40; followed by Taraba, 158; and Bauch 558 collected card, according to INEC.

were lost as well.

uclear Physicist, Professor Felix Oragwu, has called on the South East Governors to liaise with Ohanaeze Ndigbo and other relevant stakeholders in the region to work out modalities on how to immortalise the late Igbo patriot and Biafra Army Commander, late Col. Joe Oseluka Achuzia.

Achuzia died on February 26, 2018, was accorded final burial rites on Saturday, April 14, 2018.

Describing the late Biafra hero as ‘a very dynamic, effective and combative soldier,’ Oragwu added that he served Ndigbo till death.

In an exclusive interview with The Oracle Today, Professor Oragwu, who was and Head of Research and Development (Scientific and Technological Innovations) for Biafra during the Civil War, noted that Achuzia achieved a lot for Ndigbo both as a soldier and as elder statesman.

While disclosing that he had worked with Achuzia during the war, Oragwu, who was also Special Adviser to the Biafra Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Gen. Alexander Madiebo, on technological matters, refuted views held in some quarters that the late former Secretary-General of Ohanaeze engaged in acts of sabotage against Igbo interest, during the war adding, “it is true that that on the basis of Achuzia’s push, the Biafra army achieved a lot of success but, but at the same time, many Biafran soldiers

“But it is also true that Col Achuzia was a very good, active and patriotic soldier. I worked with him during the war. He was very dynamic, very effective and very combative during the Biafra War. He achieved a lot for us during the war; and he continued to serve Ndigbo afterwards.

He should be commended. He should be given a special postmortem honour as a great Igbo fighter who believed so much in Igbo course till death”, Oragwu said.

Explaining the basis for which Achuzia was misconstrued as a saboteur during the war, the ace physicist explained that he (Achuzia) was always pushing soldiers beyond the normal run of battle. He said that was the major cause of conflict and suspicion between Achuzia and his colleagues because that development always angered them.

“Achuzia was always having problems with Biafran soldiers, particularly their leaders, such as Gen. Alexander Madiebo.

He was not following normal military procedures. The only person that accepted Achuzia’s push at the time was Major Timothy Onwuatuegwu, who was in charge of Special Services. I knew the activities of all Biafran army commanders during the war, due to my strategic position at the time.

“Gen. Madiebo was commanding all the Biafran soldiers, as the COAS, but because of his recur-

H

ring conflict with Achuzia, Ojukwu later got to know about it and asked Achuzia to be reporting directly to him (Ojukwu), instead of Madiebo, to forestall possible crack in the command.

“What happened was that when I heard about the conflict, I asked Onwuatuegwu, why they were fighting Achuzia, who seemed to be doing well. He told me that Achuzia was unconventional and that he was not taking orders from the COAS. I advised him to report the matter to the Head of State, (Col. Odumegwu Ojikwu)

to avoid division in the command. That was what saved the situation at the time.

“Even before Ojukwu was alerted, Major Onwuatuegwu had told me that as far as he was concerned, Achuzia was not doing anything against Biafra, but that he was rather, charging soldiers to do the extraordinary because they were not trained in the guerrilla warfare. He had also asked me to be giving Achuzia anything that he wanted. That was how I came to be discussing with Achuzia,” he explained.

uman Rights lawyer, Festus Keyamo, SAN, has been appointed the spokesperson for the 2019 President Muhammadu Buhari Campaign Organisation.

The appointment is contained in a statement signed by Mr Rotimi Amaechi, the DirectorGeneral of the campaign organization.

The statement made available, Tuesday, in Abuja, said that Keyamo would act in the capacity as Director, Strategic Communications.

“As you are aware, Buhari is seeking the nomination of our great party, the All Progressives Congress as the candidate for the 2019 presidential election.

“Your appointment is to aid in getting that nomination and to ensure the success of the subsequent campaigns for the 2019 presidential elections.

“In your capacity, you are to be spokesperson for the campaigns during the nomination process and also at the subsequent campaigns for the 2019 presidential elections,’’ Amechi said.

By CHINEDU NWAFOR

He said Ebonyi state needed a vibrant and result oriented lawmaker with good track records, integrity and knowledgeable otherwise the state would continue to be relegated to the background in country.

The Chief Priest also advised that President Buhari should be reelected to address the problems confronting the nation.

The people paraded a special masquerade in the area identified as Itangara to declare their love and solidarity for Buhari’s re-election.

Elder Onele noted that the President met a bad situation in the country which he was addressing and which according to him, requires much time.

“We will all vote for Chinedu Ogah. His election is a done deal.

Our President deserves second

tenure and we a happy he has accepted to contest the 2019 Presidential election to continue his good works. We will ensure his victory in our community because we will benefit more if he is reelected,” Onele said.

Responding, Ogah commended the people for organizing the rally for the president and for using the Itangara masquerade to endorse the President which, according to him, shows that he was a special personality to the people of the area.

Ogah who is the National Coordinator, Initiatives for Demonstrating Change in Nigeria, said it was only in present administration that farmers show much interest in agriculture because of price of rice which he said had given them much gain.

Oragwu urges Ohanaeze, others to immortalise Achuzia N

By CHUKS EZE, Enugu

Keyamo appointed spokesperson for Buhari Campaign

2019: Ikwo/Ezza South councils endorse Ogah for House of Reps

T

he stakeholders made up of Traditional Rulers of Ezza South and Ikwo local government areas have endorsed the candidature of a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Chinedu Ogah to vie for Ikwo/Ezza South federal constituency in the 2019 general elections.

The endorsement took place during a solidarity rally held in Ndiechi- Echara, InnIkwo local government area of the state in honor of Ogah and President Muhammad Buhari.

The monarch of the Echara community in Ikwo local government area of the state, Elder Nte Onele stressed that Ogah’s election was a concluded matter and the best decision for the constituency.

The Oracle Today

17

Wednesday April 25, 2018

BU$IN£SS

•Energy •Finance

•Stock

•Insurance

•Aviation

•e-Platform

Foreign businesses don’t need AfCFTA to fleece Nigeria

By VICTOR NZE

O

•Minister of Industry, Trade & Investment, Mr. Okechukwu Enelamah

interest, despite Nigeria’s Minister of Trade and Investment, Dr. Okechukwu Enelamah, chairing the fifth meeting of African Union Ministers of Trade (AMOT) which adopted the legal instruments constituting the AfCFTA, in the first place, and which were eventually adopted by the Assembly of Heads of State and Governments.

By design framework, the AfCFTA is expected to create a trade bloc of 1.2 billion people with a combined gross domestic product (GDP) of more than $2 trillion. The agreement commits countries to removing tariffs on 90 per cent of goods and to liberalise services.

However, with Nigeria having already slammed a 70 per cent tariff on imported vehicles since

CBN EXCHANGE RATES APRIL 17, 2018 Currency

Buying(NGN)

Central (NGN) Selling(NGN)

US DOLLAR 304.6 POUNDS STERLING 435.7303 EURO 376.8207 SWISS FRANC 317.1595 YEN 2.8377 CFA 0.5528 WAUA 442.219 YUAN/RENMINBI 48.4591 RIYAL 81.2202 SOUTH AFRICAN RAND 25.1434 DANISH KRONA 50.2441 SDR 441.0913

305.1 436.4456 377.4392 317.6801 2.8424 0.5628 442.9449 48.5391 81.3535 25.1847 50.3266 441.8153

305.6 437.1608 378.0578 318.2007 2.847 0.5728 443.6708 48.6191 81.4868 25.226 50.4091 442.5394

December 2015 as part of attempts to stimulate local production, and which, of course, has yielded little benefits due to activities of importers who exploit the cheaper port duties of neighbouring countries, the whole idea of delaying with AfCFTA implementation no longer holds water.

“It is vital that Nigerian businesses continue to diversify their export markets and with this agreement, trade barriers for companies across a number of sectors will be reduced thereby creating access to new markets within Africa.

“I am optimistic that the AfCFTA will increase intra-Africa trade by about 52 per cent, resulting in an increase of African manufacturing exports from the current average in which manufacturing

VER two weeks have elapsed since the Federal Government requested to reappraise its position on signing the controversial African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement back in March in Rwanda, with no news as to the direction forward.

However, it also appears that foreign businesses looking to dump their products in the country in the event of the country signing the AfCFTA as feared by those sections of the private sector, may not have to wait Nigeria’s signature on the document as all they have do is find a willing trade partner on the sub-region and the products will eventually get in to the country courtesy of the Economic of Community of West African States (ECOWAS) free trade and movement agreement.

What it of course means is that all the heated debate over the pros and cons AfCFTA which had divided the organized private sector practitioners, may have been an exercise in futility, according to some economic analysts.

Nigeria already is party to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) free movement and trade agreement deal, and further is on the favourable balance of trade with the neighbouring states, a foreign importer does not need to know if the country is a signatory to the AfCFTA agreement or not, it only has to find another willing trade partner in West Africa.

This perhaps explains why attempts by government to clampdown or restrict imports have failed as neighbouring states have only become preferred ports and launch pads to flood Nigeria with imported goods.

Although a section of the private sector operators have maintained that the AfCFTA trade deal would not be in the nation’s

only represents about 10 per cent of total Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in Africa,” said President of Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mr Adetokunbo Kayode, while reacting to AfCFTA deal Nigeria was believed to be on the verge of signing.

On the contrary, the Nigerian Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) rejected backed Nigeria’s decision to stall on the AfCFTA deal which has already been signed by 44 African countries, making it the world’s largest free market, insisting it would reduce Nigeria to a dumping ground for all sorts of inferior products from all corners of the globe, and also lead to gross unemployment at home as most local companies would die ‘a quicker death.’

MAN president, Mr. Frank Jacobs, said the association would not support the Federal Government’s adoption and ratification of the agreement until issues of market access and enforcement of rules of origin were addressed.

“Government should, as matter of urgency, convene a special meeting of the relevant stakeholders, including experts on trade policy to consider tariff lines rates along the line of efficiency, sectoral and sub-sectoral preferences that would be most beneficial to Nigerian businesses under the AfCFTA dispensation as well as reconsider the national position on EPA vis-a-vis the AfCFTA especially on tariff lines of products on the sensitive/exclusion list, with a view to ensuring that the EU-EPA is not reintroduced through the AfCFTA’s back door.

“Review presentations and prepare a detailed submission for the Government on ways and means of participating in the AfCFTA in a manner that our national interest and that of the budding manufacturing sector are effectively protected”, Jacobs added.

•Tourism

Energy

Key WAGP offtakers sign LNG deals Travel

P21

Lagos backs UNWTO/CAF meeting in Abuja P26

Insurance

AIICO hits N32.1bn on gross premiums for 2017 P28

Cont’d on Page 19

Stock Market Highlights As At 17th APRIL, 2018

Summary ASI DEALS VOLUME VALUE EQUITY CAP S/N

40,788.68 4,729.00 1,602,317,725.00 N10,910,232,697.77 N14,733,514,083,708.59

Coy (By Volume) Volume

FCMB UBA SOUTH AFRICAN RAND DANISH KRONA SDR

952,583,795 382,465,576 23.6297 45.7676 420.7334

5 Top Gainers

Symbols Last Close Current Change %Change NESTLE N1410 N1422.5 12.5 0.89% BETAGLAS N71.95 N75.5 3.55 4.93% GLAXOSMITH N31.35 N34 2.65 8.45% JBERGER N24 N25.95 1.95 8.13% WAPCO N45 N46.6 1.6 3.56%

Value(N)

Five Tope Losers

N2,352,575,872.02 N4,210,037,779.90 23.6685 23.7073 45.8428 45.918 421.4246 422.1158

OKOMUOIL PRESCO CCNN DANGCEM UACN

N76.65 N70 N20.15 N249.5 N17.5

N73.5 N68.65 N19.5 N249 N17.2

-3.15 -4.11% -1.93% -0.65 -3.23% -0.5 -0.20% -0.3 -1.71%

The Oracle Today

18

Wednesday April 25, 2018

BUSINESS

Konga, Yudala announce merger Stories by VICTOR NZE

M

AJOR e-commerce firms, Konga and Yudala have officially announced a merger of their operations which will see them effectively become the biggest organized retail and e-commerce/marketplace outfit on the African continent.

The business merger, which takes effect from Tuesday, May 1, will see both companies operate under the Konga brand name.

The strategic decision will see both companies leverage the combined strengths of both platforms and is expected to further broaden the scope of organized retail and e-commerce in Nigeria and deliver more value to customers and merchants.

“Combining forces to power the new Konga will enable us effectively achieve our goals of platform expansion and accelerated growth, as we embark on an ambitious journey to redefine the retail ecosystem with the industry’s most advanced technology,” disclosed Olusiji Ijogun, Konga chairman.

“Effective from May 1st, Yudala will now operate under the name Konga, with dual CEOs in the persons of Nick Imudia who will be in charge of online among others and Prince Nnamdi Ekeh who will be responsible for offline. This merger will further strengthen our position in the Nigerian retail market as we creatively position Konga as the first profitable e-commerce company in Africa.

“The efficiency of Konga’s cutting-edge online platform, access to thousands of merchants and Yudala’s expansive network of fully stocked offline stores is poised to give our customers the best shopping experience imaginable. We will be working closely with all our combined clients, customers, merchants and employees to make the integration process as seamless as possible and thereafter make public our road map to sustain our leadership on the continent,” Ijogun said.

One of the exciting benefits of this merger is the possibility it offers prospective shoppers to order online, pay and pick-up the product(s) at the nearest Konga offline store. There are also in-

creasing business opportunities for merchants nationwide.

“We are very excited about the operational merger between Yudala and Konga into the new Konga,” noted Prince Ekeh.

“A merger of this magnitude has never been experienced in Africa. We will be leveraging on Konga’s strong technology backbone and online experience as well as Yudala’s offline experience, network of retail stores and operational efficiency. In the near future, we plan to have a Konga store in every local government area in Nigeria. While this is ambitious, we believe that every Nigerian deserves the right to have access to the

full range of genuine products offered by Konga,” Prince Ekeh declared.

Plans are also underway to showcase the full power of the merger with expanded access to thousands of products in Konga online and offline stores for all categories of shoppers.

According to Imudia, “We believe this operational merger between Konga and Yudala will bring immense opportunities for consumers in the e-commerce space. We urge all shoppers, consumers, merchants and clients to stay tuned as we unveil the massive ambitious contents we have to offer.”

Widely applauded by industry watchers as a masterstroke, the merger will broaden the range of products and solutions on offer within the Konga/Yudala stable, while giving the customers and merchants more options and access to an expanded variety of guaranteed quality offerings and payment methods.

The Konga Business platform will now include two distinct but fully integrated aspects including Konga Online, the e-commerce/marketplace platform and Konga Retail, the offline arm of the business.

Both will be supported by Konga Pay, a CBN-licensed mobile money platform and Konga Express, a world-class logistics company with advanced delivery capabilities for internal and external customers.

Wema Bank grows earnings by 20% for 2017

W

ema Bank Plc, has released its audited financial result for the year ended December 31, 2017.

The innovative bank, which launched ALAT, Africa’s first fully digital bank, confirmed the growth of its gross earnings by 20.07 percent from N54.36 billion in FY2016 to N65.27 billion in FY2017.

The growth was supported by the launch of ALAT, Nigeria’s first fully digital bank enhancing Wema Bank’s already existing alternate platforms which recorded a combined growth rate of 205.67 percent in transactions executed and with an estimated 30,000 accounts opened monthly.

In the financial results analysed

by Business Post, the lender recorded a drop in its profit before tax by 7.38 percent to N3.01 billion in the period under review from N3.25 billion in the previous year.

Also, the profit after tax went down by 11.72 percent to N2.26 billion from N2.56 billion.

Furthermore, the financial institution’s total assets depreciated by 8.46 percent to N388.15 billion last year from N424.04 billion two years ago.

In addition, customers’ deposits declined by 10.18 percent to N254.46 billion in 2017 from N283.30 billion in 2016.

However, shareholders’ funds increased in 2017 by 2.31 percent to N49.62 billion from N48.50 billion in 2016.

Dung the year under review, Wema Bank’s loan to deposit ratio was 84.82 percent from 70.86 percent as at December 2016, while the Non-Performing Loans (NPL) Ratio closed at 3.52 percent in 2017 versus 5.07 percent as at December 2016.

Also, the NPL Coverage Ratio was 136.98 percent as at December 31, 2017 compared with 100 percent as at December 2016, while the Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) stood at 14.32 percent in the period under review.

Commenting on the results, Man-

aging Director/CEO of Wema Bank, Mr Segun Oloketuyi, provided further insights into the performance of the bank during the period.

“Despite the slow start to the year, 2017 recorded significant progress, •From left, Head, Contributions Bond Redemption Department, National Pension Commission, Lona Loyinmi; highlighted by the introduction of Head, Corporate Communications, Peter Aghahowa and Member of Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information the Investor & Exporters (I&E) win- System Office, Asman Mustapha at an Wevent in Lagos. dow and recovery in oil prices,” Mr

AfDB lifts health sector with $20m loan

B

oard of Directors of the African Development Bank (AfDB) has approved a Senior Loan in naira (equivalent to USD 20 million) to Santa Clara Medical Limited, to finance the development of a hospital and referral clinics in Lagos.

Nigeria’s largest healthcare market lacks an adequate supply of quality secondary and tertiary healthcare facilities with only about 700 to 1,000 quality beds for a population of over 21 million people.

By supporting investment in healthcare infrastructure, the

Bank will help the Nigerian government develop human capital through improved service delivery in the healthcare system.

“This situation currently forces over 30,000 Nigerians to spend over USD 1 billion on medical tourism for specialty treatments overseas. Completing this project would allow the country’s healthcare sector to benefit from some of these resources” said Dr Abdu Mukhtar, AfDB’s Director of Industrialization and Trade Development.

He also added: “This is an important development. In spite of

recent improvements, Nigeria’s health infrastructure remains rudimentary and insufficient to cater to the country’s growing population”.

The hospital and referral clinics will be situated in different locations in Lagos and will upon completion in 2020, provide a full spectrum of high quality general and specialist healthcare services at competitive prices.

It is expected to have positive economic and social benefits for the city of Lagos and will create around 250 temporary jobs during the construction period

said Uduk’s appointment had become necessary to ensure effective regulation of the Capital Market.

“Her appointment will, subject to satisfactory performance, subsist until further notice”, she said.

Zubair, the former acting DirectorGeneral of the Commission, has been posted to SEC’s External Relations Department.

The minister also appointed Reginald C. Karawusa as Acting Executive Commissioner, Legal and Enforcement; Isiyaku Tilde – Acting Executive Commissioner, Operations and Henry Roland Adekunle – Acting Executive Commissioner, Corporate Services.

She requested for a formal explanation from the SEC of the recent com-

munications between the commission and the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), which adversely impacted market confidence.

Market operators were of the view that the reassignment was in connection with the flip-flop by both SEC and Nigerian Stock Exchange over Oando’s technical suspension and readmission into the market.

Uduk joined the commission in 1986 as an assistant financial analyst.

Her career as a regulator has spanned many functions and departments in the commission, from corporate finance, administration, to providing structural, policy and due diligence for capital market transaction.

Uduk replaces Zubair as new SEC DG

M

inister of Finance, Mrs Kemi Adeosun, has appointed Ms Mary Uduk, as the new Director-General, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) following the redeployment of Dr Abdul Zubair, who had held forte since December last year.

Special Adviser, Media & Communications to the Hon. Minister of Finance, Mr Oluyinka Akintunde, made the changes known.

Adeosun said that Uduk’s appointment was governed by the provisions of the Investments and Securities Act (ISA), 2007 and the conditions of service applicable to the Director-General of the commission.

The Minister in a letter dated April 13,

and 600 jobs over its operation phase.

More importantly, it will significantly improve private healthcare services by offering quality general medical services in addition to specialty services such as orthopedic, nephrology, urology, cardiology and neuro surgery that are largely unavailable in the country.

The Santa Clara Medical facility is being promoted by AXA Mansard, a member of the AXA Group, Africa Capital Alliance, IFC and Healthshare Health Solutions, the hospital management company of the project.

The facility will be a model case with strong demonstration effect for the development of the health infrastructure and services in Nigeria. The investment is consistent with the Bank’s Private Sector Development Strategy to (i) improve Africa’s investment and business climate, especially in the healthcare sector that is currently underserved by the private sector and (ii) increase access to social and economic infrastructure on the continent.

The investment is also a reflection of the Bank’s commitment to improving the quality of life of the African people – one of the five priority focus areas of the Bank.

The Oracle Today

19

Wednesday April 25, 2018

BUSINESS

GTBank assures shareholders of more optimal returns in 2018

C

HAIRMAN of Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) Plc, Mrs Osaretin Demuren, has assured shareholders that the lender will continue to deliver good returns to them.

Demuren gave this assurance at the bank’s 28th Annual General Meeting (AGM) held this week in Lagos.

She said given the gains recorded in 2017 and continuing improvements in key macroeconomic indicators, it was expected that the monetary and fiscal authorities would consolidate on the 2017 gains in 2018.

According to her, GTBank will continue to take advantage of huge openings in the market to come up with good yields like the lender did last year in its financial statements.

“On our part, we are optimistic about the future and will continue to position ourselves to take advantage of the immense opportunities in the market in which we operate in order to grow our earnings, improve profitability and deliver returns to the shareholders,” she assured shareholders.

Managing Director of GTBank, Mr Segun Agbaje described 2017 as a pivotal year for the bank in which it focused on three core objectives to deliver strong, high quality results for its shareholders; enhance its service experience across its digital channels and develop products and initiatives that enable the bank to provide customers with benefits beyond banking.

He said the financial institution will continue to spread its tentacles and conquer more grounds in the financial sector.

Agbaje thanked shareholders of the bank for their support,

emphasising that they will never be disappointed for putting their trust on the management of GTBank.

In 2017, GTBank grew its gross earnings by 1.1 percent to N419.2 billion from N414.6 billion in 2016. This was driven primarily by growth in interest income as well as e-payment revenues.

During the period under review, the lender grew its profit before tax by 21.3 percent to N200.2 billion from N165.1 billion in 2016.

Also, the customer deposits increased by 3.8 percent to N2.06 trillion from N1.99 trillion in December 2016, while the bank’s loan book dipped by 8.9 percent from N1.59 trillion recorded as at December 2016 to N1.45 trillion in December 2017.

The board of directors of GTBank recommended a dividend of N70.632 billion or N2.40 per share, bringing the total dividend paid for 2017 to N79.46 billion or N2.70 per share.

During AGM, shareholders of the bank approved the payment of the N70.632 billion dividend declared by the board for the financial year ended December 31, 2017 as well as the 2017 financial statements.

Chairman of Progressive Shareholders Association of Nigeria, Mr Boniface Okezie, heaped praises on the management of GTBank for the impressive results.

He said his members were glad with the way Mr Agbaje was leading affairs of the financial institution and charged him to do more.

Mr Okezie said shareholders of the lender were solidly behind him and expressed optimism that gains in 2018 would surpass 2017.

•(From left to right): MD/CEO, Coronation Merchant Bank Group, Abubakar Jimoh; Chairman Board of Directors, Babatunde Folawiyo; Company Secretary/Legal Adviser, Cornelia Utuk; Babatunde Dabiri and Adama Atta, NonExecutive Directors; at the 3rd Annual General Meeting of the bank which held in Lagos.

UBA, Access Bank, 2 others migrate to NSE Premium Board

U

nited Bank for Africa (UBA), Access Bank Plc and two other companies have been migrated to the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) Premium Board, making it a total of seven companies.

The other two companies; Lafarge Africa and Seplat, were migrated following their applications and meeting up with NSE listing requirements for the board.

Other companies listed on the Premium Board include Dangote Cement, FBN Holdings and Zenith International Bank migrated to the board in 2015.

Commenting on the migration,

Foreign businesses don’t need AfCFTA to fleece Nigeria

Continued from P17

According to the experts, Nigeria is losing huge revenue on every which way, but while foreign producers will drive local entrepreneurs to better productivity, slamming the borders shut or imposing unduly high tariffs on same items will only serve to play into the hands of smugglers, as well as enrich the revenue earnings of our neigbhours.

According to data released by the Thailand Rice Exporters Association, the country exported nearly 2 metric tonnes of rice to Benin Republic in 2017 as against the official 0.1 metric tonnes to Nigeria in the same period under review following the ban slammed on imported rice by the Federal Government.

Ironically, nearly all of that rice exports from Thailand to Benin Republic landed in Nigeria courtesy of importers who have preferred the destination on account of favourable import regimes. And the products go further into the open markets with the aid of smugglers.

Furthermore, official shipments to Nigeria have plummeted by more than 95 percent in the past four years, while those to Benin have surged, according to the Thai Rice Exporters Association.

Following the slump in car imports which fell to 70,453 units in the first

10 months of this year, representing a 26.8 per cent reduction on the same period of 2016, the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) Managing Director, Hadiza Usman, questioned the rationale behind continued high tariffs on imports against cheaper import duty regimes charged by the country’s neighbours.

“We appreciate the need for the government to have assembly plants and manufacturing firms in Nigeria but we are concerned that the capacity of the Nigerian market is beyond what is said to be assembled in Nigeria.

“We have seen a lot of cars being smuggled through neighbouring countries – mainly from Benin as that country maintains low import tariffs compared to Nigeria, which for years has been beset by chronic congestion in its ports,” she said.

Nigeria’s import tariff on car was 22 per cent before it was raised to 70 per cent.

Although, this January, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) expunged 36 sub-items from the broad list of items that were banned from accessing foreign exchange from the bank’s official window since 2015, many posit it should be more about plugging the hemorrhaging at the next door through a favourable playing environment to corner business, than it is about import restrictions.

“Any African country that wants to dump its goods on Nigeria does not need AfCTA to do so. We are already part of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) agreement for the free movement of goods, services and people, so all they need is an ECOWAS member as a staging ground.

“It is even more interesting now with Morocco’s bid to become a full member of ECOWAS (remember that Morocco is a member of Arab Maghreb Union States that includes Algeria, Egypt, Libya, Mauritania and Tunisia), the country’s access to the Mediterranean as well as Trade with the European Union.

“Having said that; in 2014 the total trade of the ECOWAS region averaged US$208.1 billion with Nigeria accounting for approximately 76 per cent, Ghana 9.2 per cent and Cote d’Ivoire 8.64 per cent.

“Within the same period, trade surplus of the region was approximately US$47.3 billion. Nigeria accounted for US$58.4 billion, Cote d’Ivoire US$3.4 billion, while all the other member countries had a deficit in the Trade Balance.

“So despite the free movement of goods, services and people in the ECOWAS region, Nigeria has been the biggest beneficiary,” stated Dr Chukwujekwu Ozoemena, Deputy General Manager, Access Bank Plc.

Mr Herbert Wigwe, the Managing Director, Access Bank, said that the bank was pleased to have attained the status.

“We have always adhered to international corporate governance best practices, which is in line with our aspiration to become Africa’s gateway to the World,” Wigwe said.

He said that Access Bank and three other comapnies Lafarge Africa, Seplat and UBA had all passed the Corporate Governance Rating System (CGRS).

Seplat Chairman, Dr ABC Orjiako, said that the company would always adhere to international corporate governance best practices in every area of its operations.

Orjiako said that conformity with rules and processes were critical to its historic dual listing on the NSE and London Stock Exchange in 2014.

“I am glad to see our company Seplat, be the first company in the oil and gas segment to attain the Premium Board of The NSE,’’ he said.

NSE Chief Executive Officer, Mr Oscar Onyema, said that the migration affirmed the strides that listed companies were making toward meeting the highest standards of corporate governance.

Onyema said that the new companies had consistently demonstrated their inherent values to be globally competitive brands.

“Companies on the board are already enjoying the highest levels of visibility’’ From inception to date, the Premium Board Index continues to outperform the benchmark of NSE ASI with the Premium Board recording a total return of 84.99 per cent versus the NSE ASI’s 41.79 per cent as at April 11.

“This is a journey we started in 2015, I know a lot of companies would migrate to the Premium Board, while new companies would be coming directly.

We will come here in five years’ time with more companies in Premium Board,’’ he said.

He added that they had market

capitalisation of N347.12 billion, N378.60 billion, N391.37 billion and N374.48 billion respectively.

The Premium Board is the listing segment for the elite group of issuers that meet the exchange’s most stringent corporate governance and listing standards.

The board is a platform for showcasing companies that are industry leaders in their sectors.

Premium Board features companies that adhere to international best practices on corporate governance and meet the Exchange’s highest standards of capitalisation and liquidity.

Fidelity Bank commits to best global practices

F

idelity Bank Plc has dismissed allegations leveled against it and its officials making the rounds online and on social media, describing them as ‘unsubstantiated.’

Fidelity Bank said in a statement signed by Charles Aigbe, Divisional Head, Brand and Communications: “The unsubstantiated claims and accusations, designed to mislead the banking and general public are completely false, treacherous and libelous.

“This latest attempt to bring the image of the Bank to disrepute is the result of a failed blackmail and extortionist attempt, which has been reported to the authorities. We urge the public to disregard the falsehood in its entirety!”

“As a full-fledged commercial bank, operating in Nigeria, we are a responsible corporate citizen and our operations are guided by the laws of the land as well as local and international banking standards.

“At Fidelity Bank, we remain committed to providing excellent banking services to all and will not be distracted by the antics of these detractors.”

The Oracle Today

20

Wednesday April 25, 2018

ENERGY

•Engr. Mohammed Saidu of NNPC (3rd from right) represents Nigeria at the Committee of Ministers’ meeting hosted in Benin Republic to restate commitments to WAGP.

Key WAGP offtakers sign LNG deals ...May abandon Nigerian gas

By SOPURUCHI ONWUKA

T

WO liquefied natural gas (LNG) supply agreements signed between Ghana and two producers, a recent liquefied gas deal signed between Togo and Equatorial Guinea and talks of similar supply arrangement by Benin strongly indicate that the countries are laying out resources for alternatives to Nigerian gas.

The deals which entail huge investments in LNG regasification also mean that the three countries that form the main market for Nigeria’s regional natural gas export are making sustainable arrangements for large volume LNG imports that might displace Nigerian gas in the medium to long term.

Thus, the new developments raise concerns over the commercial fate of operators and suppliers in Nigeria’s gas export pipeline project following fear that Benin, Togo and Ghana are working on supply deals with liquefaction companies in a wave of arrangements that may impact on long term business viability of the West African Gas Pipeline (WAGP).

The 678 kilometre (421 mile) regional gas transmission pipeline which took billion dollar commercial investments from Nigeria’s major multinational partners to cement a multilateral economic cooperation among four West African countries is meant to export some 5.0 billion cubic feet of natural gas per year from the Niger Delta to spur industrial, economic and social development across West African countries.

The grid is a regional high-pressure gas transmission system, built to export Niger Delta gas from the Lagos Beach terminal in Nigeria to Ghana, via Benin and Togo. The WAGP is the first such pipeline to be installed in sub-Saharan Africa. It is also one of the largest fossil fuel projects undertaken in Africa.

The pipeline is owned and operated by the West African Gas Pipeline Company (WAGPCo), a joint venture entity led by Chevron with a working interest of 36.7 percent. Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) holds the second largest shareholder with a 25 percent working interest. Shell Overseas Holdings and Takoradi Power respectively have 18 percent and 16.3 percent shares in the company. The remaining interests in the project are owned by Societe Togolaise de Gaz (Sotogaz) with 2.0 percent,

and Societe BenGaz (Sobegaz) with remaining 2.0 percent.

The pipeline was put into commercial operation with an initial capacity of 200 million cubic feet of gas a day (mmcfd), which is being expanded to 600 mmcfd.

The Oracle Today reports that after years of challenging gas flow operations by West African Gas Pipeline Company (WAGPCO), Ghana, Togo and Benin Republics are committing to new long term gas supply agreements to displace Nigerian supplies.

The LNG import arrangements became an option at a time Equatorial Guinea is driving aggressive trade campaign to woo African nations to patronize its liquefied export gas The country which has floated an initiative urging African nations to import energy within the continent is exploring the possibility of selling a portion of its LNG cargos to major customers who have been struggling with acute supply deficits from the regional pipeline.

Equatorial Guinea weekend reached agreement to supply liquefied natural gas (LNG) to Togo, one of the key partners in the West African Gas Pipeline (WAGP) agreement.

According to the agreement which formed the summit of a wider trade visit by Minister of Mines, and Hydrocarbons Gabriel Mbaga Obiang Lima of Equatorial Guinea to Togo’s Minister of Mines and Energy Marc Dèdèriwè Abli-Bidamon, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) supporting the bilateral deal provides a framework for Togo to import LNG from Equatorial Guinea under the the LNG2Africa initiative.

Equatorial Guinea has been promoting the initiative to spur continental patronage for its natural gas export within Africa. The country which trails Nigeria in gas liquefaction and export appears to be cashing in on supply gaps created by falling capacity of West African Gas Pipeline Company (WAGPCO) to meet commitments to key offtakers in the region.

“As an established LNG producer since 2007, and with a floating LNG in the works, we know the power of this fuel to transform Africa,” said Lima. “It is imperative that African nations monetize their gas, and that energy users benefit from this cheaper, cleaner, locally produced resource. Equatorial Guinea is committed to working with its neighbours in the region to find solutions that bring benefit to us all. We look

forward to a strong partnership with Togo.”

Lima’s LNG trade moves also have Ghana, another key partner to the WAGP agreement, committed to imports from Equitorial Guinea. And a presidential seal cemented the deal.

Ghana’s President Nana AkufoAddo, had during his three-day visit to Equatorial Guinea in the last quarter of last year, signed an agreement to import LNG from the country as it tries to address acute power generation that pitched the citizens against the government.

The deal commits Ghana to buy LNG from Equatorial Guinea for five years under a framework document signed by the presidents of both countries to improve Ghana’s power generation situation by augmenting domestic supply over the period.

Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) said in June it was in the market for between 250 million and 500 million cubic feet of gas per day and expected to bridge the supply gap with LNG imports from this year.

Later in last September, the Ghanaian Ministry of Energy and Ghana National Petroleum Company (GNPC) signed a second LNG import agreement with Russian Gazprom for 250 million cubic meters of gas per day to fire production of some 1000 megawatts of electricity generation.

Gazprom intends to meet the supply commitment with Cameroonian gas produced from the SanagaSud and Ebome fields where Gazprom holds exclusive rights over the gas.

In the long term, Ghana is expected to gradually cut its gas imports as development of greenfield oil and gas fields in its deepwater petroleum play is calculated to gradually ramp up domestic gas production.

Italian oil company ENI launched production from its Sankofa field offshore Ghana, in the first phase of the $7.9 billion Offshore Cape Three Points project. The project aims to deliver up to 180 million cubic feet of natural gas per day by the end of the year.

Also, Benin Republic is said to be working on arrangements to augment gas import from Nigeria in response to acute supply gaps.

However, whereas Ghana and Togo need greater volumes of gas for power generation, Benin already receives electricity import from Nigeria under longstanding power export agreement that defies explanation in the current supply deficits in exporting country.

Benin is yet to declare LNG import agreement but sources in the

West African Gas Company told The Oracle Today that Nigeria’s closest West African neighbour is weighing cost options between liquefied gas import and direct pipelines from proximate oil and gas production fields offshore Bight of Benin.

Whereas Nigerian firm, South Atlantic Petroleum (SAPETRO), is driving exploration in some offshore fields in Benin along with a number of other companies, confirmed oil and gas discoveries offshore Lagos State Nigeria offers remote chances of greater volumes of gas feed into the WAGP or dedicated conduits to maximum demand centres in Cotonou.

The search for new gas by the countries comes after years of consistent commercial breaches in both supply and offtake ends of the gas sales and supply agreements that underpin the project economics.

However, displacing pipeline gas with LNG entails huge investments in regasification facilities, a requirement not needed in drawing from WAGP. In terms of economic growth indices, Togo and Benin trail behind Ghana which drives it economic growth from multiple commodity export revenues and could afford the significant financial outlay for regasification investments.

Whereas Togo says it would study the import, regasification of LNG, and its application for power generation, Benin might still be stuck with Nigerian gas imports in the medium to long term.

Placed on economic scale Ghana’s investments in multiple gas sources, according to experts might be justified by the urgent need to save its growing economic from sliding back into recession on account of energy supply deficiency.

The West African countries need steady supply of gas for power generation, industrial development and sundry applications, and breaches in supply commitments from Nigeria and mounting gas debts by the importers have impacted stakeholders’ confidence in the regional gas grid.

Ghana has regularly blamed its power sector woes on Nigeria’s inability to meet contractual gas supply obligations to it Volta River Authority to fire thermal electricity generation turbines.

At several times, N-Gas had to cut gas supplies to Ghana to press the consumers to defray mounting gas bills that have accumulated into huge debts. N-Gas had disclosed that sovereign customers in Benin, Togo and Ghana collectively owed it about $200 million in unpaid gas bills.

WAGPCO which transports for N-

Gas declared weekend that Ghana which has offtake agreement for 120 million standard cubic feet of gas per day currently owes some $160 million in debts for gas supplied to VRA. The country claims N-Gas has breached the supply contract by providing far less volume of gas.

Volume of gas delivery to the Ghanaian utility company has since been renegotiated to reflect the prevailing operational realities in the arrangement, and VRA is said to have provided instruments of payment guarantee to blow down the mounting debt.

The Chairman of the Board of VRA, Kweku Awotwi, confirmed there was headway out of the crisis, explaining that a prepayment arrangement has been worked out to guarantee gas flow to the plants.

“Now, the VRA is pre-paying for that gas. We are putting in Letters of Credit to get the gas.”

Managing Director, WAPCo, Mr. Walter Perez, has said: “We are delivering gas now because we have put arrangement in place for Ghana to prepay for the deliveries that they receive, and so that is working.

We have every expectation that this will continue to work.”

At a meeting by regional Committee of Ministers in Cotonou, Benin Republic, last year, Ghanaian Minister of Energy, Boakye Agyarko, had tasked the governments of participating countries to renew their faith in the West African Gas Pipeline Project to ensure realization of the economic and cooperation objectives.

He further urged stakeholders to find common ground in resolving key issues such as reliable supply of gas and payment guarantee, saying: “We need to dedicate ourselves in ensuring that WAPCo survives.”

Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Engr. Saidu A. Mohammed, had assured the committee of Nigeria’s commitment to the project, adding that N-Gas would increase gas supply to 70 percent pipeline capacity by the end of the year.

He said government’s engagement with restive communities in the Niger Delta was yielding the right set of peaceful dividends that would guarantee sustainable pipeline availability needed for steady maintenance of pressure in the export pipeline.

However, with the signing of LNG supply deals by the three sovereign offtakers, and huge investments in local gas valorisation in Ghana, concerns are still high over the long term commerciality of the regional gas grid that provides export conduit for Nigerian gas.

The Oracle Today

21

Wednesday April 25, 2018

ENERGY

NETCO posts N3.257b profit for 2017

By SOPURUCHI ONWUKA

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ATIONAL Engineering and Technical Company (NETCO) Limited has declared a surprise profit of N3.257 billion for 2017 financial year, marking a twist of story in the services segment of the upstream petroleum industry where other companies lament protracted commercial gloom.

A statement from the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) stated that NETCO would also pay dividend of N750 million to shareholders. Again the company is paying record dividend at a time of wider industry downturn.

The Oracle Today reports that NETCO is the commercial business arm of NNPC that provides engineering services to companies in the oil and gas industry.

Among all the subsidiaries of NNPC, NETCO has been less publicised, less politicised and more competitive and commercially viable than all other business arms of the corporation.

According to a statement from the corporation, NETCO’s revenue increased by 122 per cent from N10.13 billion in the previous year to N22.46 billion in 2017.

The figures came after the

company’s 2017 Annual General Meeting (AGM) held weekend at NNPC in Abuja.

Chairman of the company who is also NNPC Chief Operating Officer, Upstream, Mallam Bello Rabiu, said the operating profit of NETCO increased by 134 per cent, from N0.89 billion in 2016 to N2.07 billion in 2017.

He noted that the result reflected expansion of the company’s business portfolio from engineering services to include procurement. Another commercial leverage, he pointed out, include improved performance in project execution and cost reduction measures put in place during the period.

He however stated that the profit before tax decreased by 34 per cent in the year under review when compared with N4.90 billion of the previous years, stressing that the decrease was attributable to the foreign exchange gains which constituted 56 percent before tax in 2016 as compared to 4.8 per cent gain in 2017.

Mr. Rabiu said NETCO enjoyed strong support of the parent company to secure some bigticket jobs in the industry.

Speaking while receiving the dividend cheque, Group Managing Director of NNPC, Dr.

• GMD NNPC, Dr. Maikanti Baru (right) receiving the “Zik Prize for Professional Leadership” from the former Commonwealth Secretary General, Chief Emeka Anyaoku during a ceremony in Lagos.

Maikanti Baru, assured the company of his continued support to ensure that NETCO got more projects.

Managing Director of NETCO, Engr. Siky Aliyu, said the company set a target to perform 600,000 man-hours of work in 2018, adding that it would con-

Shell in another mess over OML 42 divestment C RISIS around Shell’s commercial operations in Nigeria appears endless as indigenous producer, Neconde, might be dragging the Anglo-Dutch multinational to arbitration over disputes related to post divestment crude oil grabbing.

According to reports citing attributed to Reuters, Neconde is demanding payment for crude oil barrels lifted from production that came from Oil Mining Lease (OML) 42 after Shell had sold and transferred its interest in the asset to new owners.

Elsewhere in Europe, Shell is already investigating the role of its local officials in Africa alleged to have involved in backstage deals over the company’s divestment process in Nigeria.

The Oracle Today had previously reported that Royal Dutch Shell referred a former vice president for sub-Saharan Africa, Peter Robinson, to the Dutch authorities, suspecting he may have committed crimes related to an asset sale in Nigeria.

The internal enquiry hovers around processes in the sale of OML 42 currently operated by Neconde during the divestment programme by Shell, Total and Eni just before the onset of oil price crash in 2011.

“Based on what we know now from an internal investigation, we suspect a crime may have been committed by our former employee,” Shell said in an emailed statement.

“We were stunned and disappointed when we learned about this.”

Mr. Robinson worked in Nigeria for Shell from 2008 to 2011 as vice president for commercial in the sub-Saharan Africa region, part of a more than 20 year tenure with the company.

The oil block OML 42, located in the

Niger Delta, was sold by Shell in 2011.

It produces about 100,000 bpd according to Neconde Energy.

Mr. Robinson is already fingered in separate investigations in Europe and America over financial flow in the acquisition of OPL 245 which holds the huge Zabazaba oilfield currently under development plan by Shell and Eni. The Oracle Today gathered that the OPL 245 investigations by Italian authorities unveiled links to the OML 42 backstage deal involving suspected financial flow through a company linked to Mr. Robinson.

The deal came into focus after prosecutors in Milan alleged that in the same year Shell and Italian oil company Eni paid more than $1 billion for OPL 245, knowing that much of the money would go to pay bribes to Nigerian officials.

While investigating those charges it discovered accounts in Switzerland and a company in the Seychelles in Robinson’s name that it suspects were used to take kickbacks from the sale of another block called OML 42, said an anonymous source quoted in the report monitored in Lagos.

Shell and several former executives, including Robinson, are already facing a criminal trial in Milan over an alleged bribery scheme related to the separate purchase of a Nigerian oil block called OPL 245.

Shell’s integrity in Nigeria is under intense attack as more and more accusations of operational, environmental and transactional misdeeds keep floating to the surface despite spirited denials by local company spokesmen who hardly know what transacts at the management level.

Shell had carried the series of divestments on behalf of its partners:

Total and Eni. And if it is eventually established that Shell officials had short-changed the other multinationals a new wave of disputes might sweep across the partners.

However, Neconde’s dispute with Shell is unconnected with investigations of bribery. The indigenous company is seeking payments for unaccounted crude oil barrels that flowed from OML 42 after it purchased Shell’s interest in the producing field.

tinue to explore new opportunities and improve on service delivery to deliver more dividends to stakeholders.

The MD who announced his retirement from the corporation this May said he was happy to leave behind a Company that has the largest Informa-

tion Technology facilities in engineering services with a wide range of choice software for process simulations, plant modelling, structural analysis, stress analysis, designing of control systems engineering, drafting and project management.

Shell’s spokesman, Mr. Igo Weli declined response to calls and text messages from The Oracle over the matter but CEO of Neconde, Mr. Frank Edozie, is strongly quoted in a media report as insisting that Shell continued to lift crude from OML 42 and failed to remit funds after a lease had been sold, and by deed of transfer, moved to Neconde.

Mr. Edozie is quoted as saying that Shell lifted the crude and held the proceeds and refused to remit a dime to Neconde.

He said Neconde was working to

seek arbitration in the United Kingdom where litigations from Nigerian groups are familiar in the courts.

Neconde bought a stake in OML 42 from Shell in April 2011 however, according to Edozie the major E&P firm continued to produce crude there until the petroleum ministry approved Neconde’s license seven months later.

This is not the only controversary surrounding OML 42, Shell filed a criminal complaint against a former employee in late March over suspected bribes in the $390 million sale of the field.

Mobil deploys Subsea 7 in $300m shallow water dive

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IGERIA’S offshore champion, ExxonMobil, has invited international upstream contractor, Subsea 7, to embark of development of submarine conduits as part of production enhancement projects by Mobil Producing Nigeria which operates oil and gas production joint venture with government.

Subsea 7 defines a substantial contract as being worth between $150 million and $300 million.

According to the contractor which made a mandatory disclosure weekend, MPN is demanding high end services in planned Production Uplift Pipeline Projects (PUPP), in shallow water, offshore Nigeria.

The Oracle Today reports that MPN, like other ExxonMobil up-

stream affiliates in Nigeria, operates mainly offshore oil and gas assets, requiring technology based services that might be beyond the capacity scope of most indigenous service contractor pampered under the Nigerian Content laws.

The contract scope, According to Subsea 7, includes engineering, construction, transportation, installation and pre-commissioning of 20 kilometres of 24 inch Corrosion Resistant Alloy (CRA) pipeline between the Idoho Platform and the terminal onshore.

It also includes another 2.0 kilometres of 24 inch CRA pipeline between the Edop and Idoho Platforms, as well as associated topside modifications and tie-ins at both ends.

Engineering and procurement are expected to start immediately at NigerStar 7’s offices in Lagos, while offshore operations will take place from Q3 2018 to Q1 2019, using the Subsea 7 vessel Seven Antares.

NigerStar 7 is a local associate of Subsea 7.

Subsea 7’s regional vice president for Africa, Gilles Lafaye, said in a company statement that “Subsea 7 has a long track record of successful operations in Nigeria, enabled by our local joint venture, NigerStar 7.” “This award reflects our strong reputation for successful conventional project execution in the region and offers us a further opportunity to support the continued development of the country’s oil and gas industry,” Lafaye added.

The Oracle Today

22

Wednesday April 25, 2018

e-Platform

MTN parleys govt stakeholders ahead of market Launch

By SOPURUCHI ONWUKA

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IGERIA’S premier mobile telecommunications company, MTN, is holding round talks with top range government officials with a view of watering down the friction arising from market infractions that landed it with billion dollar fines.

The Oracle Today gathered from sources close to the company that key officials of the company stormed Nigeria to join forces with local officials in troubleshooting the company’s sour relationship with government officials after the company fell under regulatory hammer.

In a visit to the Presidency where the company officials held closed meeting the Vice President Yomi Osinbajo, MTN chiefs restated the company’s commitment to country and declared intentions to continue investments in enduring operational infrastructure and facilities.

In a statement after the meeting, MTN said the visit to key state officials was part of the company’s preparation to hit the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) with its initial public offer for its equities as the embattled firm straggles to meet deadlines for payment of huge fines slammed on it by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

MTN said the public offer which it has evaded for decades have become part of its strategies to diversify its shareholding to Nigerians and probably harness huge funds for investments in services and infrastructure.

The delegation led by the company’s Chairman, Mr. Phuthuma Nhleko, and Group Chief Execu-

tive, Mr. Pascal Dozie, held talks with Vice President Osinbajo at Aso Rock Government House before proceeding to other key state officials.

The delegation also held talks with Senate President, Bukola Saraki; Minister of Communications, Adebayo Shittu, CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele, and Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission, Prof. Umar Danbatta.

The company said the series of meetings with government officials were planned to be part of strategy meeting planned by the company in Nigeria to harmonize its group business strategies as it plans for its maiden public offer of its shares on the NSE. MTN is also working with Econbank to provide telecommunications back support for

the bank’s mobile financial services across the continent.

The statement has it that Nigeria is strategic to MTN’s business success in Africa, pointing out that the company has its largest subsidiary in Nigeria

firms, Airtel and MTN, are squaring up in a renewed race for internet subscription in Nigeria, pulling customers of troubled 9Mobile and Glo. According to figures released

by Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Airtel and MTN gained more internet subscribers in February, while Glo and 9Mobile lost subscribers, indicating that most of the customers lost by 9Mobile and Glo might have migrated to Airtel and MTN. According to NCC, there was general boost in internet subscription in the month with users rising to over 100 million in the month. The figures pub-

tor on Monday showed that data consumers increased by 670,385 new subscribers in the country.

It said MTN led the gainers with over 762,366 new internet users increasing its subscription in January to almost 38 million from 37 million in January.

Airtel also gained 247.216 new internet users in February amounting to 25.075 million users as against 24.828 million users in January.

However, embattled 9Mobile currently under acquisition lost 146,034 internet users in February, decreasing its subscription to 11.132 million users as against 11. 278 million recorded in Janu-

and villages nationwide.

It also declared in the statement that it employs over 500,000 Nigerians directly and indirectly, invested over $13 billion in fixed assets and facilities nationwide and built the biggest network in the country.

NCC, CBN grill Teleology Holdings for 9Mobile acquisition

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ELEOLOGY Holdings Limited which is positioning to acquire 9Mobile must be able to demonstrate adequate technical capacity to scale the competency bars being raised by industry regulator, Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC).

Executive Vice Chairman of the commission, Professor Umar

Airtel, MTN lead race for 100.9m Internet Users in NIgeria wo telecommunications lished by the industry regula- ary.

T

where it has 53 million subscribers and a network coverage of 77.19% of the country’s land mass.

MNT boasts of servicing 89.39% of Nigeria’s 180 million population in 3,833 cities, towns

On its own, Glo lost 193,127 internet users decreasing its subscription to 26. 734 million users from 26.927 million users it posted in January.

•Mr. Paschal Dozie, Chairman, MTN Nigeria

Danbatta, stated at an interactive session with journalists in Lagos on Monday that NCC would not approve the sale of 9mobile to any bidder with low level of technical capability.

He however said the preferred bidder for 9mobile, Teleology Holdings Ltd. has paid $50 million bid price for the acquisition of Nigeria’s fourth largest mobile operator and was already undergoing financial evaluation by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) ahead of full technical evaluation

by NCC. “Once the Central Bank of Nigeria has done the financial evaluation of the bidder, NCC will also examine the technical capacity of the preferred bidder. If the financial evaluation process was not done properly, the CBN would address questions on that; the examination process is meant to be open and transparent. The board of 9mobile was given the mandate with these requirements in mind,” he said.

It would be recalled that Smile Communications is the reserved bidder for 9mobile.

Meanwhile, NCC also declared that it has licensed for infrastructure companies to provide backbone technical services for operators.

According to Prof. Danbatta,

the companies include Zinox, Brinks, MainOne, and IHS were licensed to cover different zones of the country.

He said: “Recently, Zinox Technology Ltd. was licensed for broadband infrastructure provisioning for the South-East Zone while Brinks Integrated Solutions Ltd. was issued licence for the North-East Zone. A subsidiary of MainOne Cable Company Ltd. had earlier been licensed to provide services in Lagos. IHS was also issued a licence to cover the North-Central Zone including Abuja.”

According to him, much work would still need to be done in the deployment of 4G LTE infrastructure needed to support data services. He directed that providers of 3G should make it 4G LTE infrastructure compatible.

On the economic role of the telecommunications industry in national development, Prof.

Danbatta said that telecommunications contributed N1.45 trillion to the Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the first quarter of 2017 and N1.5 trillion in the second quarter of 2017.

The industry he said has invested over $70 billion in the economy by end of third quarter of 2017 from less than $50 million in 2001.

The Oracle Today

23

Wednesday April 25, 2018

Travel & Hospitality Lagos backs UNWTO/CAF meeting in Abuja Stories by VICTOR NZE

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OVERNOR of Lagos State, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, has given his backing to the proposed hosting of the 61st Meeting of the United Nations World Tourism Organization/Commission for Africa (UNWTO/CAF)

by Nigeria billed for Abuja, from June 4 to 6, 2018.

The Governor made the disclosure when the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, paid him a courtesy visit in Lagos, Thursday, in connection with the hosting formalities. ‘’I will like to welcome the Minister of Information and Culture back home to the Centre of Excellence. It is always a delight to welcome people like him. He has been very impactful in the last three years in the Ministry of Information and Culture,’’ he said.

Gov. Ambode assured that the Lagos State government will support the Federal Government in order to ensure a successful hosting of the global event. ‘’We are happy to associate with President Muhammadu Buhari and the Minister of Information and Culture in their efforts to reposition tourism and diversify the na-

tion’s economy.’’

Earlier, the Minister had said he was in Lagos as part of his nationwide promotional tour for the 61st edition of the UNWTO/CAF Meeting. ‘’We kick-started the tour in Abuja last Tuesday with a visit to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, because he is the Minister of the Meeting’s Host City. This is the second stop on the promotional tour that will take us across the country.

Lagos, the economic nerve centre of Nigeria, is also a foremost tourist city. It is therefore not a surprise that it is our next port of call after Abuja, which will host the UNWTO/ CAF Meeting,’’ he said.

Mohammed said the Meeting is a great opportunity to promote Nigeria’s tourism industry and to showcase the country to the world, especially in the area of its culture and tourism, adding: ‘’And of course, we have a lot to showcase: Our tourist attractions, our rich culture, as well as our music and films, which have taken the world by storm is very important’’ He said Lagos State is crucial to the success of the Meeting, especially because the state will host the Technical Visit programme of the Meeting. ‘’A major part of the programme

Anambra to make Ogbunike, Ogbaukwu caves tourist destinations

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NAMBRA Government says it has concluded plans to develop the infrastructure at the Ogbunike and Ogbaukwu Caves and raise them to international standard to make them tourist destinations.

Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to Anambra State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano, Mr James Eze, who made this known in Awka, Thursday, said that tourism had the potential of boosting the state internally generated revenue, adding that government was investing in the sector.

He said that the well-planned package for the growth of tourism in the state would yield revenue for the state and develop the host communities.

Eze said that the state would tap the potentials of tourism and create jobs for its teeming youths through the sector.

The Ogbunike Cave in Oyi Local Government Area of the state is located in a valley blanketed by tropical rain forest.

The collection of caves has been in use over centuries by local people for whom it has particular spiritual significance.

This spiritual significance is still apparent as the “Ime Ogba” celebration is undertaken every year to commemorate the discovery of the caves.

Descending into the valley where the caves are located is a lengthy walkway made up of about 317 steps constructed by the state government in the mid1990s.

The main cave consists of a massive structure with a big open chamber of about five me-

tre high, 10 metre wide and 30 metre long at the entrance.

It has ten tunnels at the main chamber leading to different directions and is occupied by a large colony of bats of various sizes.

The Ogbaukwu cave and waterfall in Owerre-Ezukala, Orumba South Local Government Area of the state is a naturally carved rock formation in the form of an arena.

It covers a large dry and sandy area which forms a natural beach around the Ogba waterfall.

He said the governor had also approved the construction of concrete footpath to the heart of the caves to make them accessible to tourists.

Eze further said that Obiano had approved the construction of the roads to the cave, adding that the Ojukwu Bunker in Amork community in Ihiala would also be developed for tourism purposes.

He said that the Team Light– up Anambra would ensure the installation of street lights on roads leading into the caves and Ojukwu bunker.

Eze added that Anambra was blessed with lots of historic sites like the Igbo-Ukwu excavation centre, Nri ancestral kingdom and Obu gad, among others.

He said that two 30-seater buses would operate shuttle services to the tourism locations to make visitors have safe access to the sites.

The CPS called on the residents to cultivate the habit of relaxation and excursion to appreciate the gifts of nature in the state.

is what is referred to as the Technical Visit. For this, we have chosen the Eko Atlantic City as the destination. The choice is not an accident.

It is designed to showcase to the world a city that promises to be a tourist haven, with the largest shopping mall in sub-Saharan Africa

”We have been there before during the World Tourism Day in 2016.

Only recently, Mr President also was there on a tour of that city.

So, we are now reinforcing this by bringing all the 51 African ministers to have an opportunity to see how Lagos State is investing in tourism,” the Minister said.

He said the UNWTO/CAF Meeting will be attended mostly by delegates drawn from the 51-Member States of the Commission for Africa, the Executives of the UNWTO, international Organizations, local and international media, as well as, experts and stakeholders from the public and private sector.

(From right): Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode; Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, and the Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr. Steve Ayorinde, during the courtesy visit by the Minister at Alausa, Lagos, to promote the 61st UNWTO/CAF Meeting in Abuja.

Carlson Rezidor rebrands as Radisson Hotel Group C ARLSON Rezidor Hotel Group announced its rebranding to Radisson Hotel Group, effective immediately, at the International Hotel Investment Forum (IHIF) in Berlin.

The new identity leverages the powerful, international brand equity of the Radisson name to drive awareness in the marketplace, increase marketing efficiency across the global portfolio and offer exceptional experiences to make ‘Every Moment Matter’ for guests, owners and talent. ‘Every Moment Matters’ will be the new signature service philosophy of the company and all its hotel brands.

The new go-to-market name, Radisson Hotel Group, capitalises on a strong partnership between Radisson Hospitality (formerly Carlson Hotels) and Rezidor Hotel Group (publicly listed on Nasdaq Stockholm, Sweden and headquartered in Brussels, Belgium) who have master franchise agreements to develop and operate several brands across Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

Currently the 11th largest hotel group in the world, Radisson Hotel Group is made up of eight hotel brands with more than 1,400 hotels in operation and under development. The launch of the group’s new identity is a significant milestone in a five-year operating plan that will transform the business and position it to become the preferred choice for guests, owners, investors and talent.

“Today is the start of an exciting

era for the Radisson Hotel Group, united by our new brand and longterm vision to become a top three hospitality company in the world,” said Federico J. González, president and CEO, the Rezidor Hotel Group and chairman of the Global Steering Committee, Radisson Hotel Group. “Our five-year operating plan includes initiatives that redefine our value proposition, optimise our portfolio, streamline operations, invest in new technology systems and align our team members to deliver on our signature, Every Moment Matters.”

“The creation of the Radisson Hotel Group is an evolution of our long-term partnership with the

Rezidor Hotel Group. Together, we are clarifying and executing a new brand architecture to create more value for our guests and owners,” said John M. Kidd, chief executive officer and chief operating officer, Radisson Hospitality. “It’s the right time for us to align our strategic and operating plans and go-tomarket as one solid player.”

In conjunction with the alignment around the Radisson brand equity, the Radisson Hotel Group has restructured its brand architecture and redefined guest experience pillars to be implemented across all eight brands: (1) Brilliant Basics (2) Memorable Moments (3) Local Experience (4) Feel at Ease.

Delta Govt moves to lift tourism with fiesta

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elta State Government says it will hold a fiesta to showcase its tourism potential with a view to attracting both local and foreign investors.

Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Mr Chinye Emmanuel, disclosed this when he visited the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC) and National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) in Abuja, Thursday.

The Commissioner said the threeday fiesta, which is scheduled to hold between July and August, was expected to attract both local and foreign tourists in the state to tap from its vast potentials.

According to him, the platform will also provide an avenue for the people to also showcase their rich

culture, food, music and fashion during the event.

“In view of the dwindling oil resources and economic downturn, the need to look inward and think outside the box to find other sources of revenue must be explored.

“I believe strongly that tourism is that alternative, if properly harnessed, has the capacity to rejuvenate the economy of this nation,” he said.

He gave assurance that the security of the lives and property of people, irrespective of the nationality were safe in the state.

“Today, you can walk freely in Delta state, whether you are a black or white man unlike in the past, where you hear about kidnapping.

24

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 25, 2018

ISSN: 2545-5869

EDITORIAL

www.oraclenews.ng

VOX POPULI SACRUM

Ifeajuna – Time to recognise a sports legend Cont’d front page 1

capture the historic jump. The nine-man track and field team to the Games could Nigeria’s most achieving per capita. It won another medals, three silver, three bronze medals.

Ifeajuna, feted wherever he went, would soon see his picture on the front of school exercise books. He was a great national hero who would remain Nigeria’s only gold medallist, in Commonwealth or Olympic sport, until 1966, incidentally, the year his terminal troubles began.

He was an alleged co-leader of the January 1966 coup, escaped to Ghana, returned to fight on Biafra’s side.

He was accused of sabotage, planning to over throw Col. Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and executed by firing squad on 25 September 1967 in Enugu along with his alleged co-conspirators– Major Victor Banjo, Major Phillip Alale, and Sam Agbam. Ifeajuna said his interest was in negotiating an early end to the war in order to save lives.

Josiah Majekodunmi, a high jumper, pioneered Nigeria’s wins the Commonwealth Games, with a silver at the Auckland Games in 1950. He Majekodunmi placed ninth, at the 1952 Olympic Games in Helsinki, two Nigerians, among them Nafiu Osagie, who took bronze as Ifeajuna won gold in Vancouver, finished in the top 20 at the Helsinki Olympics.

Ifeajuna, at 20, stunned everyone at the national championships in late April, where the team was selected. He jumped 6ft 5.5in, the season’s best, earned him a place in the team with Osagie.

Vancouver became Ifeajuna’s on 31 July 1954, the Games’ day one, when the high jump held. He wore only one shoe, on his left foot, his trademark. From the report of the event, “The Nige-

rian made his cat-like approach from the lefthand side. In his take-off stride his leading leg was flexed to an angle quite beyond anything ever seen but he retrieved position with a fantastic spring and soared upwards as if plucked by some external agency.”

Ifeajuna brushed the bar at 6ft 7in but it stayed.

He cleared 6ft 8in to set records - a Games and British Empire record, the first man ever to jump 1ft 1.5in more than his own height, first gold for black Africa. It was not an ordinary performance for a secondary school boy. His 6ft 8in winning jump – just over 2.03m – was good enough for a silver medal, if it had been leaped at the Helsinki Olympics two years earlier. The high jump competition lasted almost four hours.

The team arrived Nigeria by boat on 8 September, one month after the closing ceremony on 8 August, streets celebrations in Lagos, a civic reception at the Race Course. Crowds turned out to cheer them.

Ifeajuna confessed tat he was so tired, with the competition lasting almost four hours that, “At the time I attempted the record jump I did not think I had enough strength to achieve the success which was mine. I was very happy when I went over the bar on my second attempt.”

Weeks after, he left for the University of Ibadan where he studied Zoology. His expected high profile sporting career ended with his attention to his university education.

Former Commonwealth Secretary-General Chief Emeka Anyaoku, who for four years at Ibadan lived in a room next door to Ifeajuna, explained why Ifeajuna stopped competing, to Brian Oliver, author of a 2014 book, “The Commonwealth Games: Extraordinary Stories Behind The Medals”.

“From October, 1954, when he enrolled at Ibadan, he never trained,” said Anyaoku. “He never had a coach – only his games master at grammar school – and there were no facilities at the university. He simply stopped. He seemed content with celebrating his gold medal. I don’t think the Olympics ever tempted him. I used to tease him that he was the most natural hero in sport. He did no special training. He was so gifted, he just did it all himself. Jumping barefoot, or with one shoe, was not unusual where we came from.”

Ifeajuna married in 1959 to Rose, taught briefly before joining the army. He trained at Mons Officer Cadet School in Aldershot, United Kingdom. He graduated; he rose quickly within the military ranks and became Major in January 1966 and Brigade Major in Lagos at the time of the coup.

At DMGS, Onitsha, Ifeajuna reportedly had a “a fairly good record of rebellion”. Ifeajuna, in 1951, at 16, reported led a protest that resulted in the closure of the school for s term. In Ibadan in 1957, his rousing speech led the students to protest against poor food and living conditions.

Dissatisfied with the direction his country had taken during the First Nigerian Republic under Prime Minister Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Ifeajuna became a conspirator in a plot to overthrow the government. Given his studies, Ifeajuna has been regarded as one of the intellectual drivers of the conspiracy and he

wrote an unpublished manuscript on the reasoning for the 1966 Nigerian coup d’état attempt. He scorned the corruption and anarchy that resulted from mismanagement of the government.

Major Chukwuma Kaduna Nzeogwu was the face of the coup attempt, which involved five other army majors: Timothy Onwuatuegwu, Chris Anuforo, Don Okafor, Adewale Ademoyega and Humphrey Chukwuka. Ifeajuna remains blamed for most of the killings in Lagos, though reports on them remain conflicting.

Brigadier Zakariya Maimalari, Ifeajuna’s commanding officer was allegedly by Ifeajuna. He reportedly also shot Lt- Col Abogo Largema at Ikoyi Hotel, Lagos. Some see Ifeajuna as the killer of Prime Minister Balewa. No autopsy was carried on Balewa’s body and no proof exists that he was shot. Official reports document his body was found in a sitting position by a tree, next to the body of finance minister Festus Okotie-Eboh, who had been shot.

Other participants in the coup and the subsequent Civil War have received different measures of pardon. Former President Shehu Shagari pardoned Biafran leader Ojukwu, who received a military cum state burial President Goodluck Jonathan attended.

His unpublished manuscript on the coup, read, “It was unity we wanted, not rebellion. We had watched our leaders rape our country. The country was so diseased that bold reforms were badly needed to settle social, moral, economic and political questions. We fully realised that to be caught planning, let alone acting, on our lines, was high treason.”

An attempt in 1987 to suggest him for a post-humous national sports honour met stiff oppositions.

Ifeajuna’s sports legacy is absent in most Nigerian sports history books. The Athletic Federation of Nigeria, does not have his name on its website – for the association, he never existed. The story of Nigeria’s athletic excellence started with Josiah Majekodunmi’s 1950 high jump medal and ended there. No other athlete is mentioned, just to avoid Ifeajuna.

Nearly 60 years after his Vancouver feat, we think Ifeajuna should be pardoned, his athletic records given their place in our sports history, especially the official ones, and an appropriate facility name after him.

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 April 25, 2018

OPINION 2019: What next for anti – Buhari camp?

By EHICHIOYA EZOMON

L

et the game begin! President Muhammadu Buhari told the nation penultimate Monday. The overdue message was meant for the general public. Yet, its undertone was directed at the anti-Buhari-for-second-term campaigners. The disparate individuals and groups had vocalized, and mobilized against his re-election.

Thus, the failure of these people, both seen and unseen, to stop Buhari’s ambition, and the frenzied reactions that trailed his expression of interest, provided one Facebook user some comic relief.

The respondent referred to an “announcement,” which asked that, “all the babalawo, alfas, fake pastors and dibias” had asked “all the looters,” who sought divine assistance, so that Buhari “would mistakingly say, ‘I’m not running,’ instead of, ‘Yes, I’m running,’” to come and take back their materials “brought for the spiritual works.”

Signing off, the respondent said: “Sorry to disappoint you guys; the game just ended few minutes ago (when Buhari declared for second term last Monday). So, the spiritualists are calling you guys, to come take the materials you forwarded to various shrines for the job! Hahahahahaha...!”

This anecdote ought to be an icing on the cake for the long wait for President Buhari to make up his mind. Unfortunately, the post highlighted the ungodly practices in Nigeria’s politics: the recourse to

diabolical means to win election or cause opponents to lose same, or “force” a willing aspirant to abandon his quest.

Getting into political office, especially elective one, is like doing battle against principalities and powers, which requires physical and spiritual armament to accomplish. Soy, who would discountenance such a combat, and a counter assault, in the push to have Buhari forego his aspiration, or stay the course?

The physical angle was the crusade in the public domain, expressed or organized by individuals, groups and sections, to dissuade Buhari from consenting to persuasions, and threats, to present himself for president in 2019. This campaign, which predates the 2015 elections, resurfaced immediately he won the presidency.

The fear of his alleged “secret plan” to islamize Nigeria; delay in forming a cabinet; the ill health that took him away to London for over 100 days; an inauspicious economic recession, and its attendant hardship; the Military’s “Operation Python Dance” to stop agitation for a State of Biafra; and the rise in insecurity nationwide, fueled and sustained the clamour for Buhari to “resign” his position, and forego another four years in office.

This culminated in series of rallies, media events, and open letters written by so-called “concerned Nigerians,” the prominent being those of former President Olusegun Obasanjo and former Military President, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, urging Buhari to bury his ambition.

But while pro-Buhari campaigners

grew exponentially, and the Babangida asking appeared a one-off venture, Obasanjo intensified his de-marketing of the president, and subsequently formed a political group aimed at coalescing efforts to stop Buhari in 2019 “if he chose to disregard our ‘plea’ to go home and rest.”

These widely published actions were in the physical, which ordinary Nigerians could see “with their naked eyes.” Certainly, there were other campaigns in the “spiritual” realm that the Facebook user alluded to above.

These were waged through so-called diviners and spiritualists parading as pastors, imams, prophets, alfas, babalawo, dibias, etc. They were reminiscent of past tales of politicians allegedly burning millions of naira, bathing in rivers, swearing to oaths in shrines, and even engaging in ritual sacrifices to appease the gods of politics for success in elections or appointments.

However, the efforts of these “physical and spiritual fighters” against President Buhari’s dream did not yield the desired result. Hence, he has thrown the hat into the ring, even in the midst of a stormy weather in his All Progressives Congress platform.

Now, what’s the new strategy, as the “hunted” has literally become the hunter? Surely, it would be the activation of ‘Plan B’ or ‘Plan C’ that was kept in view pre-Buhari’s declaration.

For instance, it means turning the Obasanjo creation - ‘Coalition for Nigeria Movement’ - into a full-fledged political

party, or channel efforts into an existing party. It may also include fomenting crisis in the APC, in order to open it to exodus of political heavyweights to the “new party” or the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party.

This would be a replay of the 2014/2015 scenario, when the disunion in the then ruling PDP resulted in the defection of five state governors and many lawmakers into the nascent opposition APC. The decamping reduced the political firepower of the PDP in the 2015 elections.

The PDP, the Obasanjo camp and other tendencies in the polity were hoping for a similar blow-up in the APC, beginning with the controversial 12-month tenure elongation. But that anticipation fizzled out, as the National Executive Committee reversed itself and opted for congresses and a national convention to elect new officials.

This compromise, which gives waivers to current officials to remain in office, and vie for fresh tenure, if they wished; and also allows new comers to contest for any positions, without spending the mandatory periods before they could vote or be voted for, could engender more defections into the APC. It’s why one party official described the deal as a “win-win for all of us, whether old or new members of the APC.” And what will it be for the anti-Buhari camp? A lose-lose? Well, the guess is yours!

•Mr. Ezomon, Journalist and Media Consultant, writes from Lagos, Nigeria.

We can’t police the world by bombing it

By JONAH SHEPP

T

he air strikes carried out in Syria Friday night by the U.S., the U.K., and France were supposed to serve as a stern warning to Bashar al-Assad that any further use of chemical weapons by his government would be met with severe reciprocity.

Yet on Sunday, the Washington Post reported, Assad was in a good mood, yukking it up with Russian lawmakers, dissing American military power, and celebrating his victory over rebels in the Damascus suburb of Douma, where the alleged chemical attack that occasioned the coalition strikes did just what it was intended to do.

The Trump administration has characterized its intervention as an example of the U.S. setting “red lines” and enforcing them, in contrast to former President Barack Obama’s waffling. Yet by drawing these red lines around specific atrocities of which the West does not approve, the U.S. and its allies may only be delineating more concretely which other atrocities the Syrian dictator can get away with. Barrel bombs, which his army has also repeatedly and infamously dumped on civilian populations over the past seven years, can be just as terrifying and destructive as chlorine gas.

Furthermore, our missiles did not put Assad’s entire chemical weapons program out of commission, and what’s left is quickly being shuffled into the same locations as Russian military personnel and assets, which we can’t bomb without risking a catastrophic confrontation with another nuclear superpower.

All the strikes appear to have accomplished, beyond making President Donald Trump feel better about himself as prosecutorial buzzards circle his closest cronies, is to commit the U.S. to future involvement

in a foreign quagmire the Obama administration was rightly hesitant to enter (and which Trump just weeks ago said we were about to leave). The next time Assad uses chemical weapons — which he surely will, because he already knows how this sentence ends — Trump will have no choice but to launch another attack, probably a larger one, yet again risking conflict with Russia for the sake of achieving dubious military objectives.

If this event underscores the absence of this administration’s Syria strategy, it also shows that there really is no strategy to be had. There is almost nothing the United States can do, militarily, to meaningfully influence the outcome of the Syrian civil war short of a full-on, Iraq-style invasion, which would carry intolerable costs and risks.

The solution to the manifold problems in Syria may not lie with the military at all; it certainly is not coming from the Pentagon.

Obama may have missed an opportunity to intervene constructively in 2012, but then as now, Russia’s interests in Syria were much stronger than ours and the inherent risks of confrontation with Moscow were significant. If there is anything American leadership can do for Syriaat this point, it involves brokering a long, difficult, frustrating diplomatic process with people who hate each other and in many cases hate us as well.

Yet the futility of this weekend’s air strikes speaks also to a larger failure of imagination in American foreign policy in the post–Cold War era. Perhaps as a result of the drift of leadership in this area from the State Department to the Pentagon and the CIA, the U.S. has developed a delusion that it can make a difference in the world with missile strikes and arms shipments alone, despite a growing body (or as it were, body count) of evidence to the contrary.

Let’s look at the tape: The U.S. has been providing arms and air support to Syrian rebels on and off for several years now, to no avail. We have been drone-bombing Pakistan for a decade and a half to root out a terrorist element that somehow keeps growing back. We have been doing the same thing, with the same effect, in Somalia for over ten years. The no-fly zones and bombing campaigns in Iraq throughout the 1990s did nothing to alter Saddam Hussein’s behavior. In all of these cases, our interventions engendered more resentment than gratitude.

The only example in recent history of a U.S.-led bombing campaign that actually changed the course of a foreign war was the 2011 intervention in Libya, and while there is a case to be made that this intervention prevented Muammar Qaddafi, from carrying out the mass murder of innocent civilians, it also contributed to the destabilization of West Africa and two civil wars, the second of which is ongoing even though it has dropped almost completely out of international headlines.

Indeed, the last time the U.S.-led bombings of a foreign villain contributed to a clearly positive outcome was the NATO intervention in the Bosnian War in 1994–1995 — a campaign in which the enemy had no powerful backers and which was carried out to support a U.N.-sponsored peace process.

Since then, however, our track record has been pretty abysmal.

What both neoconservative ideology and the liberal-internationalist doctrine of “Responsibility to Protect” overlook is that the targeted application of American hard power can only go so far toward solving the world’s ills. No matter how precisely and thoughtfully we aim our missiles, and

no matter how consistently we enforce our red lines, some adversaries simply will not be bombed into submission. If the U.S. hopes to act as a global leader and a defender of freedom and justice in this century, it needs to find a better way of responding to rogue states and non-state actors around the world.

•SHEPP wrote this article originally for the Daily Inteliigencer under the headline: Syria Strikes Show, Once Again, That We Can’t Police the World by Bombing It

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 Business Manager Kelechi Nze Circulation Manager Felix Oti

The Oracle Today

26

Wednesday April 25, 2018

AVIATION

Delta declares $676m APTI for Q1, 2018 Stories by VICTOR NZE UNITED States-based carrier, Delta Air Lines, has reported financial results for the March quarter of 2018 with figures indicating an adjusted pre-tax income (APTI) of $676 million, representing a $104 million decrease from the March quarter of 2017.

According to the carrier, record revenues were offset by higher fuel prices and other increased costs including a $44 million impact from severe winter weather.

“The Delta people delivered a strong March quarter, and our record revenue was a direct result of the great service and operational reliability they provided for our customers. It’s an honor to recognize their hard work with $183 million toward our 2018 profit sharing,” said Ed Bastian, Delta’s Chief Executive Officer, adding: “We have confidence in our plan to grow earnings in 2018 through top-line growth, improving our cost trajectory, and leveraging our international partnerships.”

On revenue environment, Bastian said Delta’s adjusted operating revenue of $9.8 billion for the March quarter improved 8 percent, or $715 million versus the prior year.

“This revenue result marks a March quarter record for the company, and was driven by improvements across Delta’s business, including a 23 percent increase in cargo revenue and a $78 million increase in total loyalty revenue.

Delta’s Branded Fares initiative drove $421 million in premium upsell revenue in the period, a 23 percent increase from the prior year.

“Total unit revenues excluding refinery sales (TRASM) increased 5.0 percent during the period, with foreign currency contributing

just over 0.5 points of benefit. This marks the fourth consecutive quarter of year-over-year growth, with all geographic regions delivering positive results.

On his part, Delta Air Lines President, Glen Hauenstein, said the company expects to keep the momentum with further projected growth of over 4 per cent.

“We are seeing Delta’s best revenue momentum since 2014, with positive domestic unit revenues, improvements in all our international entities, strong demand for corporate travel and double-digit increases in our loyalty revenues.

“With our solid pipeline of commercial initiatives, delivered with industry-leading Delta service, we expect to maintain this momentum and deliver total revenue growth of 4 to 6 percent for the full year,” said Hauenstein.

On the cost performance of the airline, the figures showed that total adjusted operating expenses for the March quarter increased $817 million, driven by higher fuel prices, investments in employee wages and profit sharing, and higher depreciation expense.

Also, adjusted fuel expense increased $317 million, or 20 percent relative to March quarter 2017, as the year- over-year increase in market fuel prices was tempered by the lapping of prior year hedge losses and improved fuel efficiency. Delta’s adjusted fuel price per gallon for the March quarter was $2.01, which includes $0.05 of benefit from the refinery.

CASM-Ex also increased 3.9 percent for the March 2018 quarter compared to the prior year period driven by April 2017 wage increases and accelerated depreciation due to aircraft retirements. Unit costs were further pressured by approximately 1 point from the impact of

Develop strong airlines

– Afreximbank urges Nigeria, others

A

frican Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has called on African governments to set up and develop strong national airlines to utilise the huge opportunities presented by their huge population.

Global Head, Client Relations for Afreximbank, Mr Rene Awambeng, made this call at the Russian Aviation Road-Show organised by the bank in collaboration with the Russian Export Centre (REC), Thursday in Abuja.

Awambeng who said the African aviation industry has tremendous growth potential with intercontinental air traffic growing at eight per cent per year over the last decades, noted that the continent services a large and growing population with numerous opportunities for entrepreneurs, businessmen across the entire value chain of the aviation sector.

According to him, there are opportunities for developing passengers and cargo, infrastructure and air services with many of the fastest growing markets in terms of annual additional passengers within Africa.

Awambeng disclosed that Nigeria commanded the larger part of

those opportunities with it current estimated population of around 200 million people, adding that Nigeria had tremendous opportunity to dominate African air travel market.

“I am challenging you to do aircraft and aviation business because Nigeria has 20 national airports and 22 domestic airlines and it is a destination for 24 foreign airlines, which offers significant opportunity for growth.

“Why do the western fleet carriers continue to be the attractive and priced destination for Nigeria?

Last year, I participated in a protest against British Airways for overcharging route from Lagos to London. Why can we not develop our own national and regional airline companies and private airlines to bring down the cost of travel?

“Why must Air France dominate the route to the Franco phone West Africa and why can’t African countries become champion in the air transport industry? These are some of the questions that our Nigerian leaders and industry players should think about. We as Africans need to take responsibility of our future,’’ he said.

• Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika (second right) with some ministry officials from the Federal Ministry of Transport, Federal Aviation Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), national Aviation Management Authority (NAMA), Accident Investigations Bureau (AIB) and other organizations, in the aviation sector during a twoday seminar anchored by the Centre for Cooperative Training, Research and Development of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, which held at the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON)

severe weather and foreign exchange. Delta expects this period will mark the highest non-fuel expense growth for the year.

“We expect unit cost growth of 1 to 3 percent in the June quarter, as we lap prior year investments in our people and our business,” said Paul Jacobson, Delta’s chief financial officer, adding: “As we move through depreciation pressure from our fleet retirements and gain benefits from our upgauging and One Delta initiatives later in the year, we are on track for our 0 to 2 percent full year unit cost target.”

Adjusted non-operating expense was flat year-on-year for the March quarter as a $62 million improve-

ment in pension expense was offset by higher interest costs and the seasonality of joint venture partner earnings. The company expects 2018 full-year adjusted non-operating expense to be $200-250 million lower than 2017, due to pension expense savings.

Tax expense declined $117 million for the March quarter, primarily due to the reduction in Delta’s book tax rate from 34 percent to 23 percent.

Similarly, Delta generated $1.3 billion of operating cash flow, as the seasonal build of cash was partially offset by the $1.1 billion profit sharing payment to employees and a $500 million voluntary pension contribution in the March quarter,

completing funding for the full year. Delta generated $173 million of free cash flow during the quarter, after the investment of $1.2 billion into the business primarily for aircraft purchases and improvements.

For the March quarter, Delta returned $542 million to shareholders, comprised of $325 million of share repurchases and $217 million in dividends.

The company has already been named one of Fortune magazine’s Most Admired Companies for the fifth consecutive year; as well as one of the 2018 Fortune “100 Best Companies to Work For” for a second straight year.

SAHCOL commences ground handling operation for 2 int’l airlines

S

kyway Aviation Handling Company Ltd (SAHCOL) says it has commenced ground handling operations for two international airlines operating at the Malam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano.

The General Manager, Corporate Communications, SAHCOL, Mr Basil Agboarumi, named the airlines the company had entered into contracts with as Badr Airlines and Tarco Airways.

He said the airlines would be operating two flights weekly from Khartoum, Sudan, to Kano.

He explained that under the contracts SAHCOL would provide efficient passenger, ramp and cargo handling services to both airlines using the facility.

“The choice of SAHCOL by these two airlines as their handling partner is a further testimony of the exemplary performance and leadership role of setting the pace in aviation ground handling business in Nigeria.

“This is in terms of in-

novation and customer service,”Agboarumi said in a statement in Lagos on Thursday.

SAHCOL is a SIFAX Group IATA

Safety Audit for Ground Operations (ISAGO) and RA3 certified Aviation Ground Handling Company.

CCTV installations at Lagos, Abuja airports over 80% complete – FAAN

I

nstallation of Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras at the airsides of Murtala Muhammed Airport (MMIA), Lagos and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA), Abuja has reached between 85 and 90 per cent completion stage.

The agency also disclosed that the second phase of the security camera installations will commence at Kano, Port Harcourt and Enugu Airports after the completion of the first phase.

General Manager, Corporate Communications of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Henrietta Yakubu, who disclosed this at the agency’s office at the Lagos Airport, pointing out that the on-going installation of the CCTV Cameras at the airsides of the two airports in the first phase would further improve security at the airports, adding that FAAN would continue to improve on safety and security of humans and

equipment at all airports across the country. She added that the agency had trained its security personnel on the handling of the equipment and assured that security would be better enhanced at the nation’s airports with the usage of the equipment.

“On the security, we have done a lot and the CCTV cameras are being installed at the airside. We have improved on illumination around our airsides. Right now, safety audits are on-going at the Port Harcourt Airport, Enugu and Kano Airports. The essence of this is to ensure that we are adhering to the standards set.

“At the moment, we have reached about 85 to 90 per cent completion stage. We are doing it in phases. In fact, we are mounting it at MMIA, Abuja in the first phase simultaneously and after this, we will go to Kano, Port Harcourt and Enugu Airports.

The Oracle Today

27

Wednesday April 25, 2018

INSURANCE & PENSION AIICO posts N32.1b gross premium

For AIICO, investment and other

products in Life Assurance, Health Management and other areas.

“We have 14 branches and our client base in terms of individual customers is in excess of 1,000, but if you are talking of corporate clients, we have in excess of 500. So we are fully committed to achieving our target of reaching the many markets in the insurance industry.’’

He assured that all branches have been equipped to handle all type of business and in turn deliver prompt and efficient service to its customers just like the head office.

Also speaking at the unveiling, company Chairman, Thomas Etuh said that the occasion signifies the rebirth of the great company that is destined to be among the top leading insurance brands in Nigeria.

According to him through numer-

ous and painstaking deliberations, the board and management of the company have created and implemented an operational improvement programmed to enhance efficiency, controls and customer experience.

He noted that the company with its new name is poised to have leading market positions in many of its chooser segments.

This he said will be achieved in part, through its strong track record of delivering to its customer’s innovative and quality solutions as well as underwriting and claims expertise.

Following the divestment of Unity Bank from the former Unity Kapital Assurance Plc, the core investors in the former set up, Veritas Capital Limited rebranded the firm to Veritas Kapital Assurance Plc to reflect the new ownership.

D

• From left: AIICO Management including Executive Director (Technical), Mr Kadri Adewale; Executive Director (Operations), Mr. Babatunde Fajemirokun and General Manager (Retail Life), Mr Sola Ajayi. ers’ liabilities or reserves are based on an increase/decrease in the total valuation of our cumulative book of insurance and investment contracts.

“The reduction in gross premium income in 2017 is largely due to the increase in the size of policyholders’ liabilities in our life business - Life contract liabilities grew by N9.95 billion in 2017 compared to a decline of N3.7 billion in 2016.

“This was caused by ( 1) growth in the business that led to reserves of N5.0 billion to be set up for new business acquired in the year and 2) a decline in the yields from longterm government bonds that led to a decrease in interest rates used to value these liabilities resulting in an increase in policyholders’ liabilities of approximately N4.0 billion –(i) interest rates used to value the non-annuity policyholders liabilities declined to 13.75 per cent p.a. in 2017 from 15.6 per cent p.a. in 2016 and (ii) interest rates used to value the annuity policyholders liabilities (PENCOM regulated annuities and

others) declined to 13.5 per cent p.a. in 2017 from 15.5 per cent p.a.

“FIRS requires that we value the liabilities at market-consistent interest rates. Hence, when interest rates rise, the value of our liabilities fall, and when interest rates fall, the value of our liabilities rise. When the value of liabilities falls, there is a release of profits, and when rates fall, there is a transfer from profits (premiums) to reserves.

“Changes in expense assumptions and other assumptions such as mortality tables (used to determine expected deaths and survival over future years) account for the balance of the movement,” he explained.

According to Igbiti, gross claims increased by 55 per cent to N23.3 billion from N14.9 billion in 2016.

“This was due largely to the increase in benefits payments in the life business; benefits payments grew N6.1 billion or 53 per cent to N17.6 billion in 2017. Our life business is dominated by contracts with our clients that stipulate pay-

T

he National Pension Commission (PenCom) says it has recorded improvements in area of pension payment and monthly remittances among employers of labour in the country.

Director and Head, Corporate Communications Department, Peter Aghahowa, disclosed this in Lagos during quarterly Pension Desk Officers’ Workshop for Treasury Funded Ministries Departments and Agencies organized by the Commission in Lagos.

“With regards to remittances; you know that the contributions are done monthly. Yes there are challenges but if you look at where we are coming from to where we are now, you will see that there have been considerable improvements. And this is one of the reasons we have this event with the MDAs,” said Aghahowa.

Continuing, he said: “The government remittances are done mostly

by PenCom while pension contributions are deducted from the source and these monies are sent to Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). But the way it works for us to effectively remit the contributions is that we must get the workers nominal role.

“We have monies in our accounts that belong to individuals. We want to know who has the contributions and so if we don’t get the nominal roles, we are not able to remit the contributions to the individuals they belong to. So there has to be a very good synergy among the agencies that work with the contributors. For example, PenCom itself, the different agencies and the CBN where the monies are kept.”

Aghahowa explained that that at the end of the workshop, the commission expects the PDOs majorly to be better informed, adding: “When they are better informed, they will impact the knowledge on the employees in their various institutions and that this would help to ensure better understanding of the Scheme.”

Earlier, Head, Contributions Bond Redemption Department, PenCom, Lona Loyinmi, while declaring the workshop open, said the event was organised to educate the PDOs and get first-hand information from them on areas of challenges in carrying out their duties.

Stories by VICTOR NZE

ESPITE the harsh operating environment in the industry which hamstringed its fiveyear growth plans, AIICO Insurance Plc still hit gross premiums of N32.1 billion in its financial results for 2017, compared to N27.06 billion for the year ended December 31, 2016.

The figure represents an increase of N5.03 billion or 19 per cent. Diluted earnings per share for the year were 13 kobo per share, down from 105 kobo per share in 2016.

Addressing newsmen, Wednesday, during a media parley at its Victoria Island Head Office, MD/ CEO of AIICO Insurance, Mr Edwin Igbiti, said: “We experienced significant growth as a company in 2017.

We had to significantly increase our capacity and improve our processes to meet up with customer demands. Over the next few years, we have plans to grow our businesses; this means we must invest in technology and people to ensure our processes are more efficient to increase customer service levels.”

According to Igbiti, the company wrote gross premiums of N32.1 billion in 2017.

“The growth of 19 per cent compared to 2016 was because of; improved performance in the life business, our life business grew 15 per cent from N18.8 billion to N21.6 billion in 2017. This growth was driven by the increased popularity of our traditional life products.

Similarly, the ordinary life business grew 29 per cent in 2017 to N16.4 billion from N12.8 billion in 2016.

“Growth in the non-life business , from N7.6 billion in 2016 to N8.7 billion in 2017, (representing N1.1 billion or 15 per cent). We have worked to improve our relationships with agents, brokers and various intermediaries this year to improve performance.

“A change in how premiums in our health management subsidiary are recognized, premiums from some capitated plans, previously unrecognized in the income statement were recognized in 2017. The impact of this change was c. N1 billion,” he said He disclosed that gross premium income reduced by 29 per cent or N8.7 billion in 2017 to N21.3 billion from N30 billion in 2016.

“For insurance companies, premiums are recognized as income when they are earned. Therefore, the difference between gross premiums written and gross premium income (gross premiums earned) is the change in policyholders’ liabilities or reserves (reflected as change in unearned premiums balance for accounting purposes) with the total policyholders’ liability reflected on our balance sheet through the insurance contract and investment contract liabilities line items.

“For AIICO, especially in our life business, the company books the premiums in Gross Premiums Written and deducts the transfer to policyholders’ liabilities or reserves.

The result is Gross Premium Income. The transfers to policyhold-

PenCom upbeat on pension payments, remittances

outs at pre-determined times. It is therefore logical that as the business grows, payouts grow accordingly. Critical activities are cash and investment management, two activities that we keep a very close eye on.

“Claims in the non-life and health management increased by N1.1 billion each. Claims in health management increased due to the recognition of capitated premiums. These premiums are paid out directly to hospitals and are thus recognized as claims. In the non-life business, our net claims ratio increased marginally in 2017, from 37 per cent to 42 per cent.

“As a company, we realize that we exist, not just to create wealth but to provide protection for our clients in return for premium payments. We, therefore, expect that as the company continues to grow, claims expenses will grow accordingly. The importance of investment operations is thus quite clear.

VeritasKapital re-strategises with new brand, logo V eritasKapital Assurance Plc, formerly known as the Unity Kapital Assurance Plc, has set in motion major re-strategizing plans aimed positioning the company among the top five players in the industry.

Disclosing this during the official unveiling of the new brand and logo of the company in Abuja, Monday, Managing Director/ CEO Polycarp Didam, said the new watchword at the company will be customer satisfaction as well as acting with integrity, due care and diligence.

According to him the new VeritasKapital is ready to listen to its customers and handle complaints fairly and promptly.

“Our objective is to generate sustainable value for our shareholders through a relentless focus on meeting the needs of our custom-

ers, and a proactive but disciplined approach to investing in the most profitable growth opportunities.

“Veritas Kapital Assurance is poised to have leading market positions in many of our chosen segments. This will be achieved in part, through our strong track record of delivering to our customer’s innovative and quality solutions as well as underwriting and claims expertise.

“We have implemented an operational improvement programme to enhance operational efficiency, controls and the customer experience and are well positioned in our chosen market segments, with all core businesses showing strong potential returns.

According to the Veritas Kapital boss the company will move to deepen insurance penetration in the country with the provision of

The Oracle Today

28

Wednesday April 25, 2018

INSURANCE & PENSION

Fire disasters: Take up group insurance policy -- NEMA advises SE traders Stories by VICTOR NZE

N

ATIONAL Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has advised South-East traders to take up group insurance policy to minimise losses from fire related disasters. .

NEMA’s Zonal Coordinator Walson Brandon told newsmen in Enugu, Wednesday, that fire disaster had become a recurring decimal in the zone especially in major markets.

Brandon noted that markets in Enugu and Anambra had been gutted by fire in recent time and traders had lost wares and property running into millions of Naira.

“It is necessary that at this time and age, traders, especially

those in the South-East, who invest heavily in goods, should take up group insurance policy against fire disasters. They can pool themselves together as well as their financial resources to get a reliable insurance company to share their risk with,’’ he advised.

The zonal coordinator noted that the agency was yet to respond to the victims of fire disasters in markets within Anambra and Enugu.

“In Anambra we have issues of fire; Anambra and Enugu have devastating fire incidents. Recently there was this fire incident at the Timber Market in Enugu State. We went and conducted on the spot assessment. We have forwarded the report to our national headquarters and awaiting their response,’’ he said.

April Reinsurance renewals continueflat pricing – Report

R

einsurance buyers were able to renew loss-free programs at broadly flat pricing levels during the April 1 renewals – continuing the trend seen at the January renewals, according to a Willis Re report.

Pricing was dampened by the continued amounts of plentiful capacity from both traditional reinsurers as well as insurance linked securities (ILS) markets, said James Kent, global CEO, Willis Re, in comments in the report, which is titled “Willis Re 1st View, April 1, 2018, Subdued Markets – Lively M&A.” The report explained that the ILS market’s capacity had the most effect on property catastrophe pricing. The impact of the 2017 hurricane losses “is proving limited and this is leading to a continued oversupply of capital, which, in turn, is helping to restrain rate increases,” said Kent.

While pricing may be disappointing for reinsurers looking for more substantial increases, Kent noted that growing demand from a number of buyers is bringing new opportunities and welcome premium growth,” said Kent in a forward to the report.

Rather than the “meaningful real rate increases” desired by reinsurers, industry observers expect “a slower upward trend across different lines of business,” especially if loss ratios for the underlying business continue to deteriorate, the report continued.

The good news is that reinsurance is increasingly valued by Csuite executives who “continue to assess the impact of reinsurance buying to support earnings and capital management,” the report said Beyond property catastrophe renewals, “many other classes managed uncontentious renewals and despite limited movement in original rating levels, underlying exposure growth has fed through into modest increased reinsurance premium volumes for reinsurers,” the report explained. “[R]einsurers can take some solace from the fact that the annual price declines of recent years have abated. We are also seeing a pick-up in demand as a result of exposure growth, plus an increase

in buying activity, most noticeably from some large global clients,” Kent said in a statement issued with the report.

Reinsurers reported their fullyear 2017 results during the first quarter of 2018, which show that overall market results were hit by last year’s major natural catastrophes, the report said.

“But even more notable, and an increasingly worrying trend, is the deterioration of results in virtually all non-natural catastrophe lines and the limited reserve release now available from earlier years,” affirmed the Willis Re report.

“While long predicted, the impact of this deterioration is now compelling virtually all managers to take decisive action,” it continued.

“This is evident in many reinsurers and specialty carriers stepping up their efforts to reshape their portfolios, exiting unprofitable lines of business and implementing costsaving programs.”

• From left: Managing Director, Polycarp Didam; Senior Director, Ibrahim Kashim; and Executive Director (Operations), Olalekan Oyinlade, at the official unveiling of the new name, logo and colour of Veritas Kapital Assurance Plc. in Abuja.

Lagos Assembly to amend State’s pension law

L

AGOS State House of Assembly says it is considering ways of adding value to pension administration in the state.

Speaker, Mr Mudashiru Obasa, disclosed this at a Public Hearing on a Bill for a Law to Amend the Lagos State Pension Reform Law 2007 in Lagos. The proposed amendments affect are targeted at 22 sections of the 77-section law.

The speaker, who was represented by his deputy, Mr Wasiu Eshinlokun-Sanni, said that the assembly was determined to make the state pension scheme better.

“We will ensure that enough funds are included in the budget to ensure that we have enough funds to cater for pensioners,’’ Obasa said.

He said that the contributions of the stakeholders would be factored

into the final draft of the bill.

In her contributions, Director General of the Lagos State Pension Commission, Mrs Funlola Odunlami, said there were two sets of pensioners in the state’s pension scheme.

She said that the state paid its pensions promptly and had cleared a backlog of four years.

“We are now on a smooth sail; the backlog that His Excellency met from 2011- 2015 has been cleared.

Now, His Excellency has said there will be additional funds for the next phase,’’ she said.

Former Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Television, Mr Lekan Ogunbanwo, advocated an extension of the retirement age of specialists in health sector from 60 years to 65 or 70 years, saying that such specialists in health sector still had

FBNInsurance grows 2017 PBT by 37%

F

BNInsurance has disclosed that its profit before tax (PBT) for the period ended December 31, 2017 grew by 37 percent.

The firm in its financial statement made available, also declared that the figure represents a rise of N3.11 billion recorded in 2016 to N4.26 billion in 2017.

The financial statement already as approved by National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) further shows that gross premium written increased massively to N19.6 billion in 2017 when compared to N9.9 billion reported in 2016; indicating an increase of 98 per cent.

According to the company, a combination of factors including continued penetration of the retail insurance space, strong cost optimization culture, consistent and efficient service delivery across available touchpoint, exploitation of new service channels, disciplined risk management, and a well-motivated-staff, contributed in no small measure to the growth recorded.

“Our overall performance once again reinforces our strong earning capacity and robust capital base

which have put us in better stead to accommodate and sustain future growth. OurReturn on Equity (RoE) rose to 34 per cent (up from 29 per cent, 2016) and achieved a post-tax Return on Assets (RoA) of six per cent,” remarked Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, FBNInsurance, Val Ojumah.

FBNInsurance was last year recognised for the third time in four years- as the Best Life Insurer in

Nigeria by World Finance, while Sanlam Emerging Markets (SEM) awarded it the prestigious Nations Cup for a glowing performance all round amongst SEM companies.

An FBNHoldings company associated with the Sanlam Group SA, FBNInsurance was incorporated in 2010 to transact life insurance business in Nigeria and currently operates out of 42 sales outlets and three branches nationwide.

Insurers lose $144b to natural disasters in 2017

G

lobal insured losses from natural catastrophes were US$144 billion in 2017, the highest-ever recorded in a single year, according to the latest sigma study from the Swiss Re Institute.

The biggest losses came from Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria (HIM), which cost insurers US$92 billion, with economic damages of US$217 billion, said the report titled “Natural Catastrophes and ManMade Disasters in 2017: A Year of Record-Breaking Losses.”

As a result, sigma noted, 2017 was the second costliest North Atlantic hurricane season since 2005.

Record-breaking losses from wildfires across the globe cost insurers

US$14 billion in 2017, which was the highest total ever reported in a single year, the report continued.

Global economic losses from natural and man-made disasters in 2017 were US$337 billion, almost double the losses in 2016 and the second highest on record, the study said. The overall economic loss price tag was composed of natural catastrophes, which cost US$330 billion, and manmade disasters, which had a US$7 billion price tag, down from US$10 billion in 2016.

The report went on to discuss the “protection gap,” or the portion of the overall financial loss not covered by insurance, which totaled US$193 billion in 2017.

much to contribute at 60.

Also speaking, Mrs Josephine Williams, a former Head of Service in the state, commended the Assembly for efforts on the bill.

Williams urged the lawmakers to clarify academic staff in professorial cadre that would enjoy 100 per cent of their terminal benefits as pension for life.

Earlier in his welcome address, Mr Dayo Famakinwa, the Chairman House Ad hoc Committee on Establishments, Training, Pension and Public Service, said that the amendment would further enhance the state’s pension scheme.

“There are no issues regarding pension fund administration in Lagos State. The pension scheme in the state has been running smoothly for the past 15 years. This will ensure that those who have served the state and those still in service have access to pensions that can sustain them,” he said.

Majority Leader of the House, Mr Sanai Agunbiade, explained that the amendment would put the reform in perspective and make the administration of pension law more effective. The amended section 14 in the bill states that the contributions for any employee shall be a minimum of 10 per cent by the employer and a minimum of eight per cent by the employee. The amended section 41 states that the state government, in line with the regulations made by the commission, shall establish, invest, manage funds to be known as the Retirement Benefits Bond Redemption for the benefit of specified retirees of the public service.

It states that the government shall establish a pension benefit shortfall account to meet obligations to political appointees, who by virtue of the terms and condition of their employment are to retire with full benefit.

It adds that the state government obligation to the Retirement Benefit Redemption Fund shall be first line charge on the consolidated revenue of the state.

Section 62 in the amendment says that the commission shall establish and maintain a fund to be known as the Pension Protection Fund for the benefits of eligible pensioners.

The Oracle Today

29

Wednesday April 25, 2018

INSURANCE & PENSION

Fire disasters: Take up group insurance policy -- NEMA advises SE traders Stories by VICTOR NZE

N

ATIONAL Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has advised South-East traders to take up group insurance policy to minimise losses from fire related disasters. .

NEMA’s Zonal Coordinator Walson Brandon told newsmen in Enugu, Wednesday, that fire disaster had become a recurring decimal in the zone especially in major markets.

Brandon noted that markets in Enugu and Anambra had been gutted by fire in recent time and traders had lost wares and property running into millions of Naira.

“It is necessary that at this time and age, traders, especially

those in the South-East, who invest heavily in goods, should take up group insurance policy against fire disasters. They can pool themselves together as well as their financial resources to get a reliable insurance company to share their risk with,’’ he advised.

The zonal coordinator noted that the agency was yet to respond to the victims of fire disasters in markets within Anambra and Enugu.

“In Anambra we have issues of fire; Anambra and Enugu have devastating fire incidents. Recently there was this fire incident at the Timber Market in Enugu State. We went and conducted on the spot assessment. We have forwarded the report to our national headquarters and awaiting their response,’’ he said.

April Reinsurance renewals continueflat pricing – Report

R

einsurance buyers were able to renew loss-free programs at broadly flat pricing levels during the April 1 renewals – continuing the trend seen at the January renewals, according to a Willis Re report.

Pricing was dampened by the continued amounts of plentiful capacity from both traditional reinsurers as well as insurance linked securities (ILS) markets, said James Kent, global CEO, Willis Re, in comments in the report, which is titled “Willis Re 1st View, April 1, 2018, Subdued Markets – Lively M&A.” The report explained that the ILS market’s capacity had the most effect on property catastrophe pricing. The impact of the 2017 hurricane losses “is proving limited and this is leading to a continued oversupply of capital, which, in turn, is helping to restrain rate increases,” said Kent.

While pricing may be disappointing for reinsurers looking for more substantial increases, Kent noted that growing demand from a number of buyers is bringing new opportunities and welcome premium growth,” said Kent in a forward to the report.

Rather than the “meaningful real rate increases” desired by reinsurers, industry observers expect “a slower upward trend across different lines of business,” especially if loss ratios for the underlying business continue to deteriorate, the report continued.

The good news is that reinsurance is increasingly valued by Csuite executives who “continue to assess the impact of reinsurance buying to support earnings and capital management,” the report said Beyond property catastrophe renewals, “many other classes managed uncontentious renewals and despite limited movement in original rating levels, underlying exposure growth has fed through into modest increased reinsurance premium volumes for reinsurers,” the report explained. “[R]einsurers can take some solace from the fact that the annual price declines of recent years have abated. We are also seeing a pick-up in demand as a result of exposure growth, plus an increase

in buying activity, most noticeably from some large global clients,” Kent said in a statement issued with the report.

Reinsurers reported their fullyear 2017 results during the first quarter of 2018, which show that overall market results were hit by last year’s major natural catastrophes, the report said.

“But even more notable, and an increasingly worrying trend, is the deterioration of results in virtually all non-natural catastrophe lines and the limited reserve release now available from earlier years,” affirmed the Willis Re report.

“While long predicted, the impact of this deterioration is now compelling virtually all managers to take decisive action,” it continued.

“This is evident in many reinsurers and specialty carriers stepping up their efforts to reshape their portfolios, exiting unprofitable lines of business and implementing costsaving programs.”

• From left: Managing Director, Polycarp Didam; Senior Director, Ibrahim Kashim; and Executive Director (Operations), Olalekan Oyinlade, at the official unveiling of the new name, logo and colour of Veritas Kapital Assurance Plc. in Abuja.

Lagos Assembly to amend State’s pension law

L

AGOS State House of Assembly says it is considering ways of adding value to pension administration in the state.

Speaker, Mr Mudashiru Obasa, disclosed this at a Public Hearing on a Bill for a Law to Amend the Lagos State Pension Reform Law 2007 in Lagos. The proposed amendments affect are targeted at 22 sections of the 77-section law.

The speaker, who was represented by his deputy, Mr Wasiu Eshinlokun-Sanni, said that the assembly was determined to make the state pension scheme better.

“We will ensure that enough funds are included in the budget to ensure that we have enough funds to cater for pensioners,’’ Obasa said.

He said that the contributions of the stakeholders would be factored

into the final draft of the bill.

In her contributions, Director General of the Lagos State Pension Commission, Mrs Funlola Odunlami, said there were two sets of pensioners in the state’s pension scheme.

She said that the state paid its pensions promptly and had cleared a backlog of four years.

“We are now on a smooth sail; the backlog that His Excellency met from 2011- 2015 has been cleared.

Now, His Excellency has said there will be additional funds for the next phase,’’ she said.

Former Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Television, Mr Lekan Ogunbanwo, advocated an extension of the retirement age of specialists in health sector from 60 years to 65 or 70 years, saying that such specialists in health sector still had

FBNInsurance grows 2017 PBT by 37%

F

BNInsurance has disclosed that its profit before tax (PBT) for the period ended December 31, 2017 grew by 37 percent.

The firm in its financial statement made available, also declared that the figure represents a rise of N3.11 billion recorded in 2016 to N4.26 billion in 2017.

The financial statement already as approved by National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) further shows that gross premium written increased massively to N19.6 billion in 2017 when compared to N9.9 billion reported in 2016; indicating an increase of 98 per cent.

According to the company, a combination of factors including continued penetration of the retail insurance space, strong cost optimization culture, consistent and efficient service delivery across available touchpoint, exploitation of new service channels, disciplined risk management, and a well-motivated-staff, contributed in no small measure to the growth recorded.

“Our overall performance once again reinforces our strong earning capacity and robust capital base

which have put us in better stead to accommodate and sustain future growth. OurReturn on Equity (RoE) rose to 34 per cent (up from 29 per cent, 2016) and achieved a post-tax Return on Assets (RoA) of six per cent,” remarked Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, FBNInsurance, Val Ojumah.

FBNInsurance was last year recognised for the third time in four years- as the Best Life Insurer in

Nigeria by World Finance, while Sanlam Emerging Markets (SEM) awarded it the prestigious Nations Cup for a glowing performance all round amongst SEM companies.

An FBNHoldings company associated with the Sanlam Group SA, FBNInsurance was incorporated in 2010 to transact life insurance business in Nigeria and currently operates out of 42 sales outlets and three branches nationwide.

Insurers lose $144b to natural disasters in 2017

G

lobal insured losses from natural catastrophes were US$144 billion in 2017, the highest-ever recorded in a single year, according to the latest sigma study from the Swiss Re Institute.

The biggest losses came from Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria (HIM), which cost insurers US$92 billion, with economic damages of US$217 billion, said the report titled “Natural Catastrophes and ManMade Disasters in 2017: A Year of Record-Breaking Losses.”

As a result, sigma noted, 2017 was the second costliest North Atlantic hurricane season since 2005.

Record-breaking losses from wildfires across the globe cost insurers

US$14 billion in 2017, which was the highest total ever reported in a single year, the report continued.

Global economic losses from natural and man-made disasters in 2017 were US$337 billion, almost double the losses in 2016 and the second highest on record, the study said. The overall economic loss price tag was composed of natural catastrophes, which cost US$330 billion, and manmade disasters, which had a US$7 billion price tag, down from US$10 billion in 2016.

The report went on to discuss the “protection gap,” or the portion of the overall financial loss not covered by insurance, which totaled US$193 billion in 2017.

much to contribute at 60.

Also speaking, Mrs Josephine Williams, a former Head of Service in the state, commended the Assembly for efforts on the bill.

Williams urged the lawmakers to clarify academic staff in professorial cadre that would enjoy 100 per cent of their terminal benefits as pension for life.

Earlier in his welcome address, Mr Dayo Famakinwa, the Chairman House Ad hoc Committee on Establishments, Training, Pension and Public Service, said that the amendment would further enhance the state’s pension scheme.

“There are no issues regarding pension fund administration in Lagos State. The pension scheme in the state has been running smoothly for the past 15 years. This will ensure that those who have served the state and those still in service have access to pensions that can sustain them,” he said.

Majority Leader of the House, Mr Sanai Agunbiade, explained that the amendment would put the reform in perspective and make the administration of pension law more effective. The amended section 14 in the bill states that the contributions for any employee shall be a minimum of 10 per cent by the employer and a minimum of eight per cent by the employee. The amended section 41 states that the state government, in line with the regulations made by the commission, shall establish, invest, manage funds to be known as the Retirement Benefits Bond Redemption for the benefit of specified retirees of the public service.

It states that the government shall establish a pension benefit shortfall account to meet obligations to political appointees, who by virtue of the terms and condition of their employment are to retire with full benefit.

It adds that the state government obligation to the Retirement Benefit Redemption Fund shall be first line charge on the consolidated revenue of the state.

Section 62 in the amendment says that the commission shall establish and maintain a fund to be known as the Pension Protection Fund for the benefits of eligible pensioners.

The Oracle Today

30

Wednesday Apri 25, 2018

NEWS Extra

Diversion: Anambra Govt suspends revenue collection in markets

A

NAMBRA State Commissioner for Trade, Commerce, Markets and Wealth Creation, Dr. Christian Madubuko, has suspended revenue collection indefinitely in all the 63 markets in the state.

Madubuko told newsmen in Awka, Tuesday that the decision was based on information of alleged diversion of government revenue by some market leaders.

The commissioner who said that such action had denied government one of its major sources of revenue, further noted that the revenue diversion was said to have been going on for the past 12 years, but was at its peak during the period of November, 2017 governorship election in the state.

He said that during the campaign in the state, many market leaders had a field day apparently due to lack of proper supervision.

Madubuko said that the ugly trend must be checked so as to return sanity in the markets.

“Government is not taking kindly any form of corruption in our markets any longer as sanity must be gained.

The commissioner disclosed that the Department of State Service, (DSS) was invited into the allegations of revenue diversion and some arrests were made including the chairman of Uga Market in Aguata Local Govern-

ment Area, Mr. Victor Ezeibekwe.

The commissioner said that while the investigation was ongoing the state government had to suspend revenue collection in all the markets indefinitely.

Madubuko alleged that Ezeibekwe adopted a strategy whereby he issued fake receipts to unsuspecting traders.

However, Ezeibekwe denied the alleged diversion of state revenue adding that he bought the receipt booklets because traders refused to pay if they were not given receipts.

According to him, in 2017, when the government called us to come and get authority for the collection of business revenue premises, we were asked to collect and pay same into the bank.

“But the traders refused to pay without issuance of receipts from collectors so we decided to print receipt booklets and used them to collect money.

Ezeibekwe said that they did not pay in 2017 revenue because the director of markets in the ministry, Mrs Ebo Nwosu directed no payment till after the governorship election.

In her remarks, Nwosu said that since she assumed office in 2017, many market leaders had defaulted in paying revenue generated to banks.

She said: “What we use is Integrated Pay Direct System, which all market leaders have been in-

timated with. We do not collect cash and nobody is permitted to collect cash in any way.

“Market leaders are not permitted to withhold any cash, but to pay into the bank once they collect from traders and present the

teller to us.

“However, many market leaders have been complaining that some traders are reluctant to pay and are asking for more time. The governor had held a meeting with the market leaders on the need to be remitting government rev-

enues appropriately.

“I am happy that the present commissioner is handling the issue with dispatch and we believe his action will help to improve government revenue,” Nwosu said.

•(From left): Peoples Democratic Party national Chairman, Prince Uche Secondus; former Foreign Minister, MajGen Ike Nwachukwu and Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike during the conferment of the Zik Prize for Good Governance on Wike, Lagos.

Group faults Enugu Govt’s Residents cry out over erosion menace in Aguata community development initiative

By THEO RAYS, Onitsha

A

n Enugu based non-governmental organization, Youth Alliance for Good Governance has faulted Enugu State Government on the execution of its ‘one community, one project’ initiative.

Founder of the alliance, Mr Kingsley Ochinanwata said in Enugu, Tuesday, that the initiative was designed to fail.

The state government had earmarked N2.25 billion for the initiative which will see each of the 450 autonomous communities in the state get N10 million.

The initiative, which according to the state government, is to engender participatory democracy in the state will enable the communities invest the fund in a project of their choice.

The state government had on Feb.28 started the disbursement of the initial N5 million to the benefiting communities and no fewer than 289 communities have so far benefitted.

However, as a condition to benefit from the funds, traditional rulers along with president-general of town unions are to take delivery of the money as well as drive the implementation.

Ochinanwata faulted the direct involvement and roles ascribed to traditional rulers and presidents-general of the town unions in the scheme.

He said that the move was a

subtle way of winning the support and allegiance of the monarchs who were expected to be nonpartisan.

“I see the recent sharing of the N5 million by the state government as a way of buying over the traditional rulers who ordinarily are expected to be nonpartisan. I have had interactions with some of them and they inferred that the governor had just given them money and not expecting them to do anything,” he said.

He alleged that there were no modalities in place to select and monitor projects to be embarked upon by the communities.

Ochinanwata said that even if the traditional rulers were expected to invest the money as planned, “the money is grossly inadequate for a community project.

“How can a governor give N5 million to a traditional ruler to embark on a project for the community when we have the Ministry of Rural Development charged with the responsibility of championing development in the state?

“The ministry has engineers whose job is to quantify whatever project you are going to do as well as ascertain the quality of job done,” he said.

He said that the state government needed to set up an effective mechanism to monitor how the monies were deployed by the benefitting communities.

T

he people of Umuezefo Umueleke village in Achina community, Aguata Local Government Area, Anambra State have cried out to Governor Willie Obiano to come to their rescue following erosion menace that is fast threatening to destroy their residents, economic trees and farm lands.

Findings by The Oracle Today on visit to the erosion site show that over 20 houses, expanse farmlands and economic trees may be washed away if urgent measures are taking to address the situation. Already the site has affected some major roads including St Charles Catholic Church road.

A stakeholder in Umueleke Nze Dpzie Nweke told The Oracle Today that the residents are in a great problem looking at the erosion because the site is likely to escalate when the rainy season takes full shape.

Another resident who is more conversant with the environment Mr Celestine Okpalanwa said that the people are in danger because they have nowhere to relocate to noting that the site started like a footpath, very narrow, even before he was born and hunters have been hunting for animals in the bush there.

“This thing you are seeing now that is trying to eat the entire village became worse within a twinkle of an eye and before you

know what is happening, it has grown beyond our control. We fought it repeatedly and dug pits to contain some of the flood that forcefully rushed to the gulley but to no effect.

“The project was awarded during the time of former Governor Peter Obi, but we did not understand how it was tackled by the contractor handling it which prompted us to go to Awka. Just last year a man from Uga community was again awarded the con-

tract and he worsened the situation by making the erosion site to have four wings, routes with his caterpillar instead of one wing it started with,” he said.

He said that the traditional Ruler along with the town union and entire people of Achina, have made their contributions to stop more harm by the erosion but to no avail. He repeatedly called on Governor Obiano to act fast and come to their rescue before the rainy season sets in fully.

Lagos Trade Fair Complex boss urges traders to invest in industrial park

E

xecutive Director, Lagos Trade Fair Complex Management, Mrs Lucy Ajayi, Tuesday, in Lagos urged traders to invest in an industrial park being proposed by the complex.

Ajayi said the establishment of cottage industries in the complex would further bolster the local economy as against capital flight occasioned by importation.

The executive director, while speaking on her plans for the complex, said if latent resources were harnessed, the complex could be the industrial hub of the country.

The administrator, who marked her first year in office on April 13, said she was counting on the traders to achieve her set mandate.

“It will serve a dual purpose if the traders will convince their international partners and those manufacturing companies they import

goods from to come and establish cottage firms here. It will create more jobs for our teeming youths, halt capital flight and above all bolster the local economy.

“We have over 2,000 importers in every of the three markets domiciled in the trade fair complex.

Therefore you can imagine what will happen if these businessmen decide to open cottage industries here,” Ajayi said.

She said the traders would have the support of the management and the Nigeria Export Promotion Commission, which was represented in the Complex Management Board.

“The space is there on lease or other farvourable conditions for stakeholders to exploit and considering the Executive Order of Ease of doing Business, and other good deals we have to offer.’’

The Oracle Today

31

Wednesday Apri 25, 2018

NEWS Extra

Accolades as Ihiala community elects new monarch

By OGE ONYEANUSI

I

T was celebrations galore as the Ihiala community elected new traditional ruler following a successful funeral/last Ofala festival for the departed traditional ruler and clan head of Ihiala in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, HRH Igwe Cosmos Ikechukwu Okechukwu, Oluoha 16th of Ihiala, weekend.

Sequel to that, the Dioha Royal Family of Umunneboukwu clan whose turn and responsibility it was to produce new monarch for the community has now elected and presented one Chief Thomas Obidiegwu, to the Ihiala Progress Union (IPU) to fill the vacant stool as Oluoha 17th.

The presentation ceremony held at the community’s Civic Centre, attracted dignitaries from all walks of life, including prominent sons and daughters of the town, friends and wellwishers’ Ndichies of the town, executive members and trustees of Ihiala Progress Union as well as leaders of various villages in the community.

The Igwe-elect was ushered into the venue of the ceremony amid music and dance by a multitude of persons from the Dioha

Royal Family as well as friends and colleagues including Barr Vin Ezeaka, former President General of the town; Ichie Mike Ejezie, former ANPP candidate in Anambra governorship election; and Ichie Aniegbo, a trustee of APU. Others include Hon Prince Collins Agbasiere, Ezeihe of Ihiala; Rowland Ohazulike, PresidentGeneral Youth Wing; Mrs Amaka Anasigwe, President-General Women Wing; Ichie Ozo Okeke, a trustee of Ihiala Progress Union, among others.

It was gathered that the Igweelect had earlier during the last Ofala festival of Igwe Cosmos Okechukwu shown himself to the community when he paid homage to the departed monarch and the royal stool with a live cow, according to the tradition, the constitution and code of conduct of the community.

While presenting the newlyelected monarch to the town union, Sir Sylvester Anyigbo, leader of the Dioha Royal Family, told the community that the clan, whose turn it was to elect new Igwe, found in Ichie Thomas Obidiegwu, a good son, distinguished in character, learning and wealth; and is worthy to occupy the royal stool of Ihiala as Oluoha 17th.

According to him, three sons of Umunneboukwu Village were in the race, but after due scrutiny by the Okpalas, the royal family elected Ichie Thomas Obidiegwu for presentation to townspeople.

He expressed happiness over what he called a peaceful selection and called on every stratum of the community to support the royal journey through goodwill and prayers.

The President-General of the community, Barr Jude Ngobili, said that the Dioha Royal Family did a thorough job in selecting a quality candidate to occupy

the royal stool; stating that the choice of the Igwe-elect is also acceptable to the town union.

“It is the turn of the Dioha Royal Family to select whoever that will be the next Igwe of Ihiala, and it is our duty as IPU to either accept the candidate or reject it.

We have looked at him and found him worthy; so, we accept him because he is eligible.

“We have elected a brand new Igwe for our community, who will subsequently be presented to the council and the state government for ratification”, he said.

He noted that the Supreme

Court verdict of 2002 as well as the community’s constitution and Code of Conduct provide enough grounds on how Oluoha is selected. He also said that the right to select new Igwe based on the above authorities, was narrowed down to the Dioha Royal Family in Umunneboukwu Village and that they have made their choice because, according to him, it was the Okpala that selected and presented the new Igwe; and by reason of agreement between the Okpala and the Dioha Royal Family, it is only one candidate that will emerge.

Unizik immortalizes Zik, Fr. Tansi, 16 Igbo icons

By CHUKS COLLINS, Awka

The Nnamdi Azikiwe University (Unizik), Awka has unveiled plans to build eighteen obi (palace squares) within the institution’s premises in honour of some worthy Igbo personalities.

Vice Chancellor, Prof. Joseph Ahaneku, announced this at the 1st Ohazurume Igbo festival held at the institution’s Directorate of Igbo Village and Centre for African Civilisation (IVACAC), in Awka.

He disclosed that the projects were targetted at showcasing the rich Igbo cultural heritage.

Among the Igbo personalities slated to be honoured with the proposed palaces were the first Governor General of Nigeria, Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe; the Biafran leader and Ezeigbo Gburugburu, Odumegwu Ojukwu; the late former Vice President, Dr Alex Ekwueme; and Rev. Fr. Iwene Tansi, first Igbo clergy to be canonized, amongst others.

Also to be honoured were the renowned international wrestling champion, Chief Mike Okpala (Power Mike); the former governor of Imo State, late Chief Sam Mbakwe, the renowned Mathematician Prof Chike Obi; one time Premier of Eastern region, Dr Akanu Ibiam and King Jaja of Opobo, the ex-slave and founder of Opobo known today as Rivers State.

Inclusive were Dr Pius Okigbo,

•Late Dr. Azikiwe

an erudite economist; Chief Jerome Udoji, distinguished Nigerian Business Administrator; Prof Chinua Achebe, a famous writer; Chief Frederick Ogbalu, a teacher and writer; Dr Michael Okpara, premier of former Eastern region; Prof Kenneth Dike, first Nigerian Vice Chancellor of University of Ibadan; and Gen. Johnson AguiyiIronsi, the former Head of State.

According to Ahaneku said these icons distinguished themselves in their chosen careers and professions while alive, pointing out that honouring them would inspire the younger generations to keep to doggedness and industry for which Igbo nation is known.

The Vice Chancellor stated maintained that they were selected from all parts of Igbo speaking states and disclosed that more would be added.

In his lecture entitled “Njiri mara Ndigbo (What Igbo nation is known for),” the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief John Nnia Nwodo, urged other institutions in the Southeast zone to emulate UNIZIK by instituting similar projects and by making Igbo language a compulsory course.

Nwodo, regretted that the Nigerian civil war robbed Ndigbo of their potentials, industries, and investments in arts, technology and sciences, stressed the need for every Igbo parent to inculcate Igbo values and culture especially those of perseverance, industry, and smartness into their children by speaking the language to them.

The Director of Igbo village and Centre for African Civilisation (IVACAC), Rev. Fr. Prof. Bonachristus Umeogu averred that the Directorate was created to preserve and forster Igboness (Ejirimara Igbo) in relation to people as regard Igbo land as their ancestral homeland.

•Vice President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo, with Anambra State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport to receive the VP enroute to Abia.

Violence mars controversial Ofala in Oyi

By CHUKS COLLINS, Awka

V

IOLENCE has marred an attempt by one of the aspirants to the throne of Igwe in Nteje, the headquarters of the Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State to stage an ofala festival.

Attempts by one of the claimants to the Igwe stool, Rowland Odegbo, to organize the 2018 edition of the Ofala festival ended in fracas.

Odegbo and Chief Charles Anaduaka have for years now been locked in a legal tussle over who becomes the authentic monarch for the community.

Situation literally broke down completely when hundreds of protesting citizens mainly youths took over the major road linking the community to the Enugu-Onitsha federal highway and the rest of the Anambra East-Anambra West council areas chanting wars songs against Odegbo and the Anambra State government.

The protesters, carrying a large white coffin draped in a protest banner with inscription;”Odegbo” with golden linings at the edges alongside numerous placards with inscriptions declaring; “Odegbo is not our Igwe”, “Rowland Odegbo is a usurper”, “Obiano respect the wishes of Nteje people. Odegbo is not our monarch”, “Odegbo this is illegal, you are in court”, and so on.

As they reportedly marched past peacefully in full view of armed security agents who watched from the sidelines, peo-

ple were seen in groups discussing the drama. But on their way back, some irate youths, apparently sympathetic to Odegbo tried to stop them and it turned to a free-for-all fight. Some cars of distinguished personalities from out of the state who came for the ofala were smashed.

One of the suspects was however apprehended by the soldiers on duty at the ofala.

Many guests and natives took to their heels and others quickly jumped into their cars and sped off back to their homes. Some even abandoned their belongings, while some natives abandoned their homes and ran away for fear of the crisis escalating.

When contacted, Anaduaka blamed the situation on non-respect for rule of law. He pointed out that Nteje and Anambra state have written laws on traditional institution that was carefully followed in his selection. But Odegbo went to court and lost.

“After the verdict didn’t favour him, he went to Court of Appeal and lost again. Right now he is in the Supreme Court, where we were asked to maintain the status quo. But he ignored it and now went ahead with this ofala which clearly infuriated the citizens thereby leading to fracas and total breakdown of law and order,” Anaduaka stated.

Further checks revealed that even the office of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice had in writing directed the Inspector General of Police to prevail on Odegbo to shelve the ofala, but to

no avail.

It was gathered that the Anambra Police command had a hard time prevailing on Odegbo to stop the event but that he allegedly used his contacts inside the state government to organize the “illegal event”, Anaduaka admitted. He however urged citizens to remain law abiding and calm.

Some citizens who were injured have threatened to go to court to have Odegbo arraigned for illegal gathering.

In his reaction, a member of the royal cabinet and ex-member of the Anambra state House of Assembly, who is also a former chairman of the Oyi Local Government Area, Chief Edwin Aghadinuno lamented that despite tell-tale signs that all is not well within the community, Odegbo went ahead with the controversial ofala.

According to him it was Odegbo who lost at the lower courts and had gone to the Supreme Court, but could not wait for the verdict before jumping ahead to celebrate ofala.

“This is lawlessness and abuse of court process. Again, not long ago five natives were hacked to death over this matter, nothing was done or even said by Odegbo or even the state government.

Then few days ago, a woman was mercilessly raped and slaughtered on her farm in Amadiaba village by Fulani herdsmen without anyone saying or doing anything about it. How then can he talk of celebration in this atmosphere; celebrating what? He asked.

32

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 25, 2018

Crime

14 yahoo, yahoo boys under thorough investigations in Lagos

…drive exotic cars worth millions with no means of livelihood

•Adeleye-Adewale

•Adeniyi-Abiola

•Favour-Iruabo

•Iyiola-Olayemi

•Lawal-Remilekun

•Martins-Adetunji

•Obafunsho-Oladipupo-Samson

•Olaleye-Bamilola-Hassan

•Oseni-Ridwan

•Peter-Ayobami-Samuel

•Peter-Toluwabori

•Prince-Jubril-Dirisu

•Richard-Jerry-John

Stories by XAVIER NDAH

T

he 14 boys suspected to be internet fraudsters popularly known as yahoo, yahoo arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Lagos Zonal office, last week are undergoing intense investigations at the EFCC Lagos office.

The suspect youths were said to have lived an extravagance lifestyle without any means of livelihood while the least cars they used was none less than five million.

Sources said their activities have attracted the ire of the neighbourhood who became apprehensive wondering whether they were armed robbers.

EFCC gave their names as Abiola Kayode, Adeleye Adewale, Adeniyi Abiola, Favour Iruabo, Iyiola Olayemi, Lawal Remilekun and Martins Adetunji.

Others are: Obafunsho Oladipupo Samson, Olaleye Bamilola Hassan, Oseni Ridwan, Peter Ayobami Samuel, Peter Toluwabori, Prince Jibril Dirisu and Richard Jerry John.

Head Media and Publicity, Wilson Uwujaren told The Oracle Today in a telephone conversation that the suspects were arrested in the Badore Seaside, Ajah area of Lagos State, following intelligence report received by the Commission about their activities.

Dependable sources said the boys were seen by the seaside performing rituals before the police were called in.

Sources said such acts at the seaside was not unusual as the exercise was meant to be a renewal of the efficacies of their charms which they make to manipulate their targets who will willingly part with their money without resistance through internet transactions.

Our source said the relationship comes in form of friendship popularly known as ‘love scam’ or through non existing business transaction which the person targeted on is made to pay for what they will never benefit from.

The Nigerian government through the EFCC has warned foreign nationals to be wary from unverified business proposals but to no avail as some foreigners still fall prey to it.

Wilson said, items recovered from

the suspects include exotic cars and investigations are concluded. committed to sustaining its clamp mandate to make the country free laptops adding the suspects will He said, their arrest is a pointer down on perpetrators of cyber- from corruption and economic and soon be charged to court as soon as to the fact that the Commission is crimes, especially in line with its financial crimes.

Corper remanded for fraud

A

youth Corp member Maduako Ugonma Chinomso serving at Akwa Ibom State has been remanded in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Gombe Zonal office.

She was arraigned before one before Justice Abubakar Jauro of the Gombe State High Court on a two count charge bordering on Conspiracy and Obtaining Money by False Pretence.

Madueke, a serving corp member posted to Kaduna and later redeployed to Akwa Ibom State was arrested at Uyo following a petition by one Yusuf Idris of Tumfure Quarters, Gombe State, alleging that on March 21, 2017 the defendant and

others at large conspired among themselves and obtained the sum of N63,000.00 under the pretext that the said sum was to help secure him a job with the Nigeria Customs Service.

Investigation revealed that a member of the syndicate Yusuf Maarku, the purported recruitment officer, gave the complainant a Union Bank account number 0053158443 bearing Maduako Ugonma Chinomso through which the said sum was paid, as form, uniform and registration fees.

Further investigation revealed six different accounts in different banks being operated by the syndicate.

In a two count charge against her

read,” That you, Maduako Ugonma Chinomso , Dauda Abdullahi and Yusuf Marku (both at large) sometime in March, 2017 at Gombe, Gombe State within the Jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud, did obtain the sum of N63, 000: (Sixty Three Thousand Naira Only) from one Yusuf Idris under false pretence that you are capable of securing a job for him with the Nigeria Customs Service which you knew to be false and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 1 (1) (a) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006 and Punishable under Section 1 (3) of the same Act”.

She however pleaded not guilty

•Maduako Ugonma

to the charge. Consequently, the prosecution counsel A. M. Labaran applied for a date of trial.

Justice Jauro while adjourning the case to Monday April 16, 2018 for hearing of her bail application remanded the accused in EFCC custody.

33

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 25, 2018

Love and Living

...With Ireto Temofeh

MODEL OF THE WEEK

LOVE NEWS

Former Playmate reveals she had sex with Donald Trump in front of her friend

A

former Playboy Playmate has told how President Donald Trump cheated on his pregnant fiancée Marla Maples – who later became his second wife - during a steamy six-month affair.

Model Barbara Moore, 49, met the tycoon in March, 1993 – three months after she became Playboy’s Miss December centerfold – and claims the president was a ‘great lover’ and a true ‘gentleman’.

The pair embarked on a passionate love affair which saw Moore spending time with the billionaire at Mar-a-Lago and Trump Tower behind Maples’ back.

And in a series of stunning photos obtained by DailyMail.com the blonde beauty is seen posing up in a bikini amid the opulent surroundings of Mar-a-Lago in the private residence of Trump.

She even took a photo of the president flexing his muscles on a sun lounger by the mansion’s swimming pool.

In an exclusive interview with DailyMail.com, she said: ‘I dated Donald Trump for around six months, from March to September 1993.

Moore decided to tell her story after being bombarded with press requests after she was named in legal documents filed by former Playboy model Karen McDougal who is now seek-

ing to invalidate her agreement with America Media Inc. ‘It was a passionate affair, he was a great lover and a gentleman.

‘But at the time I didn’t know he was with someone else, let alone engaged to Marla Maples and it was only recently I learned she was pregnant at the time. This has shocked me, but I don’t hold it against Donald, he was a great lover and I think he’s a great president.’

DailyMail.com reached out to the White House for comment. A source familiar with the matter said the president said these are more false accusations.

Moore’s revelations come amid a cloud of controversy surrounding his alleged flings with porn star Stormy Daniels and former Playboy model Karen McDougal, who both claim to have slept with Trump while he was with current wife Melania.

But while Daniels and McDougal have both publicly criticized the president, Moore is far more complimentary.

She met the billionaire at Trump’s Castle Casino hotel, a former Trump owned property in Atlantic City, New Jersey in March, 1993.

As Miss December, 1992 Moore was hired by Playboy to do a fashion show at the posh casino hotel.

Name: Regina Daniels • If you want to be our next ORACLE GIRL, e-mail or forward your photos/data to ireto007@yahoo.com. Call 07031028714.

W

ODD NEWS

oolly mammoths could once again roam Arctic regions as part of an incredible plan to clone these vast beasts that disappeared 10,000 years ago.

Harvard University scientists who are set to publish scientific papers in the coming weeks - are using DNA from a woolly mammoth that has been preserved in Siberian ice for more than 42,000 years.

If the two-year plan came to fruition, the woolly mammoths would live in a 20,000 hectare Ice Age safari park created by Russian scientists in a remote part of Siberia.

This could also regenerate Arctic climates because they would stimulate the growth of vegetation, the lead researcher has said.

Scientist is using DNA of a 42,000-year old carcass to see the Ice Age species rise from the dead Their ambitious plan involves growing the creature within an artificial womb rather than recruiting a female elephant as a surrogate mother.

The final beast would be a hybrid between an Asian elephant and a mammoth.

Researchers are using a genetic technique called CRISPR-Cas9.

The system allows the ‘cut and paste’ manipulation of strands of DNA with a precision not seen before.

Using this technique, scientists could cut and paste preserved

mammoth DNA into Asian elephants to create and elephant-mammoth hybrid.

‘We have already revived dozens of genes and are testing them in elephant cells’, lead researcher Professor George Church told the Sun Online.

‘We are focusing on a reviving mammoth genes and making a mammoth/elephant hybrid and help them spread to vast wild, arctic climates’, he said.

According to Professor Church, these large beasts could even repopulate freezing wastelands.

‘Cold-resistant elephants would flatten the insulating snow and supporting trees in winter and favour the highly heat reflective grass in summer’, he said.

‘They would also help capture new carbon by enhancing the photosynthetic capacity of the vegetation.’

It’s thought that the grasslands will reflect more sunlight than the forests that exist today, allowing the winter freeze to penetrate deeper into the crust, and cool the soil beneath.

Over the years, the trees at

the Siberian park have been flattened using powerful tank-like vehicles.

But, in order to keep the trees from taking over again, they’ll need to employ large, grazing animals – including resurrected woolly mammoths.

COULD WE RESURRECT MAMMOTHS? Male woolly mammoths were around 12 feet (3.5m) tall, while the females were slightly smaller.

They had curved tusks up to Continued on page: 34

34

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 25, 2018

True Confession

I

had just graduated and got out of a really bad relationship and was ready to conquer the world. My best friend and I were going to another University to do our master’s together and we were ready to conquer the world.

During that time, I met one of my brother’s friends. The first time I saw him, my stomach turned and I knew deep down that I was going to marry him.

At that time he was kind of a bad boy and not someone that my family would approve of. I would joke with my mother and say I was going to marry him and she would always reply over my dead body. That was because he was always drinking and smoking.

I didn’t really have the courage to tell him about my feelings before going back to school. It was fun being away but all I could think about was JB, my brother’s friend who I knew I was going to marry.

After my first semester at the post graduate school, my best friend and I decided to go back home for a small holiday because she had gotten back together with her ex and we were kind of home sick.

One night I was sitting alone at my house and decided to text JB. The invention of texting was wonderful for I didn’t have to talk to him and maybe the rejection wouldn’t be so bad!

I sent a text to him telling him who I was and asked what he was doing. And guess what, he replied me and asked if I wanted to go to dinner.

I was so excited I almost forgot to text back yes because I wanted to pick out what I was going to wear.

We went to dinner and it was awesome and we really connected, but after that he played a lot of games with me and said he was scared that he liked me too much and all that mumbo jumbo.

He even said that he was scared of dating me because of my mum. So after a while of chasing him, I gave up and later found someone else. JB and I didn’t speak for a year, then one night my phone rang and it was him.

I didn’t answer but he kept calling the rest of the week. Finally I did answer and all those feelings came back.

I told the guy that I was dating at that

I married him against my mother’s wish

time that it wasn’t fair to him that my heart was somewhere else and that was the beginning of my relationship with JB. We dated for three years and I got pregnant. My mum swore that we would marry over her dead body even though I was pregnant.

My mum never wanted me to marry him, because, according to her, she didn’t like my man’s lifestyle.

It was only after much pleading that my mum said that it would only be possible for JB to marry me if he agreed to change his lifestyle and stop drinking and smoking.

Our little boy is amazing and JB is such a different man now. Marriage is not a bed of roses because it’s not easy to take care of a family. But I thank God, because things could have been a lot worse.

Every day, I ask God to take control. All I can say is that we finally made it despite all the obstacles in life.

God put us together for a reason and I know we can make it through together, though it won’t be easy. But we have the faith to make it through.

allow the precise selection and insertion of DNA from specimens frozen over millennia in Siberian ice.

The most widely used technique, known as CRISPR/Cas9, has transformed genetic engineering since it was first demonstrated in 2012.

The system allows the ‘cut and paste’ manipulation of strands of DNA with a precision not seen before.

Using this technique, scientists could cut and paste preserved mammoth DNA into Asian elephants to create and elephant-mammoth hybrid.

Mammoths roamed the icy tundra of Europe and North America for 140,000 years, disappearing at the end of the Pleistocene period, 10,000 years ago.

They are one of the best understood prehistoric animals known to science because their remains are often not fossilised but frozen and preserved.

It was first announced the billionaire founder of Paypal had funded an ambitious project back in June last year.

Peter Thiel, who is worth $2.7billion (£2.1 billion), had reportedly put $100,000 (£77,000) of his own funds into a scheme.

In February 2017, the group announced that the scheme would take just two more years to produce the ‘nearest possible thing to a mammoth’ that could be creat-

ed.

The bundle of cells would have genes for mammoth features such as shaggy long hair, thick layers of fat, and blood that is perfectly suited to flowing in sub zero conditions.

Since starting the project in 2015, the researchers have increased the number of ‘edits’ where mammoth DNA has been spliced into the elephant genome from 15 to 45.

Professor Church said: ‘We’re working on ways to evaluate the impact of all these edits and are basically trying to establish embryogenesis in the lab.

‘The list of edits affects things that contribute to the success of elephants in cold environments.

‘We already know about ones to do with small ears, sub-cutaneous fat, hair and

blood, but there are others that seem to be positively selected.’

He added: ‘Our aim is to produce a hybrid elephant/mammoth embryo. Actually, it would be more like an elephant with a number of mammoth traits.

‘We’re not there yet, but it could happen in a couple of years.’

The woolly mammoth roamed across Europe, Asia, Africa and North America during the last Ice Age and vanished around 10,000 years ago.

Their closest living relative is the Asian, rather than the African, elephant.

‘De-extincting’ the mammoth has become a realistic prospect because of revolutionary gene editing techniques that allow the precise selection and insertion of DNA from specimens frozen over millennia in Siberian ice.

• Do you have a story or comment about this confession? Call 07031028714.

Scientist is using DNA of a 42,000-year old carcass...

Continued from page: 33

16 feet (5m) long and their underbellies boasted a coat of shaggy hair up to 3 feet (1m) long.

Tiny ears and short tails prevented vital body heat being lost.

Their trunks had ‘two fingers’ at the end to help them pluck grass, twigs and other vegetation.

They get their name from the Russian ‘mammut’, or earth mole, as it was believed the animals lived underground and died on contact with light – explaining why they were always found dead and half-buried.

Their bones were once believed to have belonged to extinct races of giants.

Woolly mammoths and modern-day elephants are closely related, sharing 99.4 per cent of their genes.

The two species took separate evolutionary paths six million years ago, at about the same time humans and chimpanzees went their own way.

Woolly mammoths co-existed with early humans, who hunted them for food and used their bones and tusks for making weapons and art.

‘De-extincting’ the mammoth has become a realistic prospect because of revolutionary gene editing techniques that

ROMANTIC JOKE YEARS OF MARRIAGE

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.

35

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 25, 2018

Relationships and Love Advice

My man complains that my vagina smells

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Dear Love Doctor, My man complains that my vagina smells. This situation is very embarrassing to me because I know that I’m not dirty. The annoying thing is that I always enjoy it when he licks and sucks me down there. He used to go down on me before, but now he has stopped. He has totally refused to go down on me anymore. According to him, he can’t continue giving me oral sex because the smell of my vagina can kill somebody. I feel so embarrassed about this. I don’t want my man to leave me because my vagina smells, because we’re even thinking of getting married. Please what can I do to keep my vagina clean, healthy and smelling fresh?

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Thanks.

I

t is indeed very embarrassing for your partner to complain about the smell of your vagina. However, the following points will help you to keep your vagina smelling fresh and healthy.

1. Practice good hygiene. Emphasis should be on general cleanliness and taking a bath before sex or having more sex in the tub or shower, and not just on taking your bath when you come back from work. What if you’re not working?

2. Do not douche. Douching, which is when you force water or a cleaning agent in your vagina, can actually remove the healthy bacteria in your vagina and can push an infection (if one is present) into your uterus, making your condition worse.

3. Don’t wear tight underwears. Allow your vagina to air. So, wear more of loose clothing and cotton panties.

4. Try to stay hydrated by drinking a lot of water and also by eating more of sweet succulent food or fruits.

5. Wash and Change your underwear regularly. Always wear clean underwear every day to prevent bac-

teria growth and bad odour.

6. Wash the outside of your vagina regularly with mild soap, which includes some brands of toilet soap.

7. Don’t spray perfumes on your vagina. Use only exterior deodorants.

8. Have a hot salt of vinegar bath.

Soak in vinegar from time to time to eliminate vagina smell.

9. Learn to clean your vagina properly after using the toilet.

Wipe front to back after going to the bathroom. Prevent spreading bacteria from your bottom to your vagina by wiping from the front to the back after a bowel movement.

This will ensure your vagina is free of bacteria that could cause odors and a possible infection.

10. Avoid wearing clothes that make you sweat, stop wearing sweaty clothes and remember to always take your bath after working out.

11. Keep in shape.

If you are overweight, it may be difficult for your body to release odors around your groin due to skin folds from excess weight.

12. While menstruating, change your pad or tampon every four hours to avoid bacteria growth and bad odour.

13. Avoid eating odor causing foods.

Eating certain foods and drinks can actually change your vaginal smell, as the foods you consume can cause your body to release certain odors. If you are concerned about your vaginal odor, avoid drinking coffee and alcohol. You should also avoid onions, food made with strong spices, red meat, or dairy.

14. The smell of your vagina might be due to an infection. So it is advisable that you see a doctor and do some tests to know if you’ve got an infection or if there may be other medical causes of the bad smell of your vagina.

15: Use products that help to stop or prevent bad smell of vagina. You can call me to get details on how you can buy these products that will help eliminate the bad smell of your vagina.

Good luck!

Do you have advice on this problem? Please share your thoughts. Call 07031028714 or 08131161840.

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36

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 25, 2018

It happened to me:

My girlfriend was sacked because of my breakup letter

I

met June at a time when I was a young man who was trying to “sow his wild oats” as much as possible — which is to say, I didn’t think I wanted to settle down any time soon.

June worked in administration at a foreign embassy. While she was a shy sort of woman, I soon found she had a wicked sense of fun.

She and I went on a few dates, going to dinner and movies, and we shared a few passionate kisses, and passionate sex — including once in a busy shopping centre parking lot!

Around the same time, I met Lauren. Lauren made me feel like no women ever had before; she was funny, smart and, in a word, mesmerising.

I soon found myself, against

all my previous protestations, falling in love with her.

It became clear to me the only fair thing to do was tell June of my feelings for Lauren, and end our relationship.

When I first broke the news to June, she was very calm and even joked about it. Everything seemed fine. But the next, day she sent me several angry text messages saying I had been selfish and dishonest towards her.

For the next two weeks, I agonised over my behaviour. So I resolved to send June a note expressing my regret and to apologise.

During our couple of months together June and I had never gone to her place, so I didn’t know her home address. All I knew was where she worked:

the foreign embassy.

I bought a card with some flowers on the front and wrote a short message: Dear June, I’m sorry for the pain I’ve caused you, but wish you the very best for the future. You are a great person.

— Rob Three days later, June rang me sobbing. All she could say was, “Why did you send that card?”

I didn’t think my words were quite that moving, so I was a little bit baffled.

But then she continued: “My boss opened the card and read it. He said the embassy wasn’t my personal letter box and that I could pack up my things and

leave.”

Embassies are largely a law unto themselves, so there was nothing she could do. My card, meant to be a peace offering, had instead got June fired!

I listened in shock as she told me never to speak to her again and hung up. I recently found out she’s now working in real estate.

Lauren and I are still going strong — though I never told her about my fatal letter.

• Do you have a story or comment about this true confession?

Call 07031028714.

37

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 25, 2018

The Law and You

Divorce

J

ust like I always say, in marriage there are two ultimate ends – Till death do us part and till quarrels, nagging, and problems do us separate. Most often, the second part is usually the case in most marriages in this country do to un-readiness of most couples before venturing into marriage. They usually do not understand themselves properly before going into it. Some may be due to parental arrangements – my best friend’s daughter or son, my club or society member’s daughter or son, etc., and the consequent result is misunderstanding and divorce. Some also may be an extension of the school’s relationships which was built on inflations and fool’s paradise without thorough understanding of each other’s likes and dislikes behaviors and attitudes and the resultant effect is separation and divorce very early in the marriage. The fact still remains that marriage is built on love, understanding and tolerance. And this is the reason why the law is carefully programmed to take good care of these ingredient of marriage before granting divorce to it. For instance, the court will normally grant some years separation periods to see if reconciliations could be possible before finally granting the divorce. The court loves unity, not putting asunder to what God has put together, and even goes on further in protecting the known hardships and discomforts the children of such marriage (even any) would pass in the hands of step mothers or fathers, by first of all employing all reconciliatory and peace restoring means before a divorce is granted. As I have explained earlier, there are certain crucial issues that may necessitate couples seeking for a divorce and which the court considersgood issues to granting the divorce some of them are; a. Willful and persistent refusal to consummate marriage b. Adultery and intolerability c. Conduct which the petitioner cannot reasonably be expected to bear d. Desertion e. Separation and respondent’s consent f. Three years’ separation g. Failure to comply with a decree of restitution of conjugal rights h. Presumption of death i. Petitions for dissolution of marriage In the past, before the development of common law, the husband claims the right to exercise power and dominion over his wife. However, statutory marriage confers on the husband and wife rights and obligation especially for persons who are legally married. The previous rights claimed by the husband covered, inter allia control of the wife’s movements and complete servitude of the wife. But this was disproof in law since the decision of the Court of Appeal in R.V. Jackson (1891) 1QB671 and the married wife acquired considerable freedom of action.

This made it today that married woman is VIRTUALLY mistress of her own household. This does not make a married woman to be disobedient to her husband or to feel that she has complete liberty to do anything she likes contrary to the wishes and policies of her husband and the family. I do not want the married woman to misunderstand my impartation as a right to cause things that will lead to separation and divorce in marriage. When two elephants fight it is the grass (the children) that suffers, so be wise.

By the decision of that Court of Appeal in 1891, married woman is no longer into servitude and may follow any profession of her own choosing, acquire and dispose property, and enjoy freedom of movement without hindrance from the husband (especially those freedom of movement that is not legally and morally wrong).

CONSORTIUM: The numbers of duties owe each other by married couples is collectively referred to as consortium. In as much as there is no precise definition of this right of consortium by it can simply be described as the right of living together as husband and wife with all the incidents that accompany such a marriage relationship.

In this context, it means that the duties which spouses owe each other in the domestic life is not permanent or stable one but it depends on the circumstances in each marriage and those involved. This implies that this action

is a matter of common knowledge and not the subject of legal definition. It is generally a known fact and generally accepted that the husband is the bread winner of the family while the wife is in charge of the running of the househols. However, the notion may be reversed by other circumstances and what next? Let us now examine some attributes of consortium which the courts have at least dealt with. These are;

1. CHANGE OF NAME: The Holy Book makes us understand that in marriage the wife will leave her parents’ home to the man and become one with him. This means that she may drop her surname to bear that of her husband. In law therefore, on marriage, a she may drop her surname to her husband’s surname or she may retain the surname, even after marriage has been brought to an end either by divorce or death of her husband. The law has held it that a husband has no right to stop his divorced wife by injunction from using his name unless she is doing so for the purpose of defrauding him or others.

2. DUTY TO COHABIT: Generally after marriage, it is ex-

With Barr. Ken Akpom 08162016410

pected that the husband and wife should live together in a roof and sleep always on the same bed. But in law, this duty is not absolute for spouses to cohabit. It should be noted that cohabitation does not necessarily imply that spouses must live together physically under the same roof. Come to think of it, what of where the natures of their employments or jobs necessitates their living separately, can one now take it as not cohabiting and a reason for divorce? No. There isstill cohabiting in a wider sense.

However, withdrawal from cohabitation may constitute the matrimonial offence of DESERTION. Desertion arises from physical withdrawal from matrimonial home.

3. SEXUAL INTERCOURSE: The parties to a marriage owe each other the duty to consummate it. Failure may result into nullity of the marriage especially where there is persistent refusal without any good/genuine reasons by either of the parties. However, while there is a duty to have sexual relationship, husband or wife is not bound to submit to excessive sexual demands of the other party which may be detrimental to that party’s health.

QUESTION Can a husband be accused of raping his wife?

Dear Lawyer, Please, as marriage imports the consent of the spouses to sexual relations, can a husband be guilty of being a principal in first degree rape on his wife?

Lanre, Lagos

ANSWER: Dear Lanre, Thanks for this nice question. I hope you do not intend to be forcing your wife to sexual relationship against her wish; I presume that you are not that type. A husband cannot be guilty of unlawful carnal knowledge or rape of his wife. However to your question, a husband cannot be guilty as principal in the first degree of rape on his wife, but he could be an accomplice or an accessory to the offence of rape committed on his wife by a third party. Also, if the husband exercises or applies the use of force or violence in exercising his right to intercourse, he may be guilty of wounding or causing actual bodily har

• 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

38

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 25, 2018

ENTERTAINMENT

With Douglas Omoyooma

Politics?

Count me out – Uche Jombo Rodriguez

Actress turned moviemaker, Uche Jombo needs no introduction as far as Nollywood is concerned.

From being an A-list actress, she has seamlessly transformed into a successful moviemaker. 2019 is election year and she recently released a movie, Dr. Mekam, dedicated to the political situation in the country as politicians including actors and actresses have begun rolling out their plans for elective office.

H

owever, the actress who recently lost her dad in this chat with The Oracle Today declares that despite the fact that her colleagues are flocking into politics and she has also shot a film on Nigerian politics, she has no interest in the soap box.

The mother of two said: “My mom tried to make me a party voter and she didn’t succeed and if my mom didn’t succeed, nobody can. Yes, I vote based on the individual. I can vote a PDP candidate for one office and vote an APC candidate for another office as long as these people appeal to me politically and I believe in them. Many of my colleagues are vying for political office but I have no plans to do that. For now there is no such plan.”

Opening up on her character in the movie, the actress continues: “The movie is so timely. I think it is probably the most important thing coming now because we are approaching an election year. Among others it is directed at all those people who just seat on the fence and criticise everything and never contribute to ideas on how we can make Nigeria work; I am talking about armchair critics.

“The message is that instead of going on social media and blabbing, people should take steps towards resolving the issues plaguing us as a country. Another message is for the youths is to vote. I know the argument about it on social media and all that but truly, your vote is your right; it is the only way you can bring about that change you so desire.

“I want to encourage people to go and

register to vote. I don’t believe in voting for your political party even if you know the candidate presented cannot deliver; it is not a do or die affair. If your party brings out a candidate that you think will not do anything apart from it being business as usual, it is your right to find the candidate that has the right ideas, somebody you believe in and vote the person.

It is about time we start supporting candidates based on their ideas and innovations which tallies with our individual needs. If not, we will still be stuck her 20 years from now playing party politics.”

In one of the movie she produced last year, hunk, Kalu Ikeagwu was one of the lead actors and there is word that they are both very close friends; what is the relationship between them?

A smile breaks her features as she responds: “Kalu Ikeagwu is an actor I have worked with severally and he is an amazing actor and I have good chemistry with him.

He is an exceptional and talented actor I must confess. He is a complete package. He will not only deliver on his role, he also has ‘likeablility’. I am talking about the aura to project a movie commercially.”

From humble beginnings in the late 1990s, Uche Jombo has written her name in the sands on the entertainment industry, What is the craziest thing a fan has done to her?

“A fan almost squeezed the living day light out of me at the airport out of excitement. She was so excited and

“My mom tried to make me a party voter and she didn’t succeed and if my mom didn’t succeed, nobody can. Yes, I vote based on the individual. I can vote a PDP candidate for one office and vote an APC candidate for another office as long as these people appeal to me politically and I believe in them. ”

kept chattering about a film I did with Patience Ozokwor entitled After the Proposal. She said she was so excited about the film and just couldn’t stop talking about how it because something similar happened during her traditional marriage. I was so embarrassed but I was also happy that somebody was connecting with my work; it practically blew me out of my mind.”

Which does she like most, directing, acting or producing? “That is not a fair question,” she quips wagging her finger.

“I am an actor first and foremost even though I am passionate about some projects. However, once I am involved in a project I just have to see it to the end.

How I look at directing? For me it is all about passion and then, for producing, I have been executive producing films for the last 10 years so I don’t know why people just think I just started. I have executively produced over 20 films with my

money and it all boils down to passion.

But I am first and foremost an actor.

Current projects Not one to rest on her oars, Uche Jombo is aways working hard and reinventing herself. What project is on her front burner at the moment?

“You are going to see lots of project from UJ studios. You will see lots of collaboration and lots of projects that I am passionate about. I have a film I co executively produced with Ini Edo entitled Heaven on My Mind. I have another project, a series that will come out soon entitled Boys Are Not Smiling.

“We did an online audition and all the lead characters we got online. I can’t wait for people to start watching. We have filmed the first season and preparing for the second season and we will soon start showing.”

39

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 25, 2018

Entertainment Ex Governor of Cross River State daughter, Xerona & DJ Caise ties the knot

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he traditional wedding of former Governor of Cross River state, Donald Duke’s daughter, Xerona to Derin Phillps aka DJ Caise, the son of Chief (Mrs.) Teju Phillips and grandson of international businessman, Chief Deinde Fernandez happened over the weekend.

The wedding took place at their private residence in Calabar, Cross River State, where only close family, friends, and dignitaries were present. Dignitaries at the wedding include Emir of Kano Muhammadu Sanusi II HRM. Edidem Ekpa, Obong of Calabar, billionaire businessman Aliko Dangote, former Ogun state governor Segun Osoba, Senator Florence Ita-Giwa and among others.

M

• Dr & Mrs Donald Duke in a photograph with the couple

• From left, HRM. Edidem Ekpa, Obong of Calabar, Donald Duke, Emir of Kano Muhammadu Sanusi II and the bride

Bobrisky makes Nollywood debut

F

ollowing the success of Alakada Reloaded, actress and movie producer, Toyin Abraham is set to hit cinemas with yet another flick entitled The Ghost and the Tout on May 11.

And guess what male barbie, Bobrisky is poised to make his Nollywood debut in the movie starring alongside acts like Chiwetalu Agu, Dele Odule, Femi Adebayo, Rachel Okonkwo, Sambasa Nzeribe, Chioma Akpotha, Omowunmi Dada, Chigurl and Ronke Oshodi-Oke among a host of others.

“Everything about this movie excites me. The creation of this movie came from a place of gratitude and appreciation to God and my fans.

This movie is not just an extremely

hilarious and entertaining movie; it cuts across all spheres of our lives and realities. It deals with the several emotions that can be felt by any human, and how we let these emotions define us.’”

Directed by Charles Uwagbai and Co-Executively produced with Samuel Olatunji, The Ghost and the Tout is the tale of a young and vibrant lady, Isila (Abraham), who grew up in the ghettos. An unforeseen event sends her world into a series of drama involving a murder case and a mystery from a forbidden spiritual event.

Left with no choice, Isila journeys on a mission to unravel the truth to get her life back on track an exorcise herself of her demons.

ce band leader and Rotary International Ambassador, Akin Shuga has released his highly anticipated inspirational song titled ‘I Can Walk’. He partnered with the talented producer Cobhams Asuquo for a solid production that catapults the song into one of the all-time best we have ever listened to.

The song, ‘I Can Walk’ by Akiin Shuga, gives the strength that is required at that challenging time; a song of hope dedicated to polio survivors and everyone who has been scarred, marred or shaken in the travails of life.

It was produced and co-written by the legendary Cobhams Asuquo.

Akin Shuga is a polio survivor himself who has risen beyond the confinement of his ordeal and proven to all and sundry that he can truly walk.

He has built a musical band that is today regarded as Nigeria’s most influential band and has been a regular performer in Nigeria’s Aso Rock and other high profile places.

The band leader is visibly excited and fulfilled seeing the fruition of this production. This is not his first song but something about this particular song tickle his fancy and response when he spoke to us.

“Life is about challenges, challenges will always come and no challeng-

oviemaker, Nollywood Emeka Okoro has premiered his debut movie entitled, Flee featuring Gloria Young. The event which held at Guiding Light Assembly in Lagos over the weekend was graced by actors including Zack Orji and his Wife Ngozi Orji, Emeka Okoro, Paul Adams, Gloria Anozie Young and Jane Emeka Okoro among a host of others.

According to the producer, Emeka Okoro said: “FLEE is is the story of a confident chartered accountant who is responsible, God fearing and committed to his family.

He travels out of town for a course and there his principles hang in the balance as he meets this high beguiling schemer who stops at nothing to get what she wants.

The message of the story is that ‘don’t let any distraction shift you away from your destination, your mission or your purpose in life.”

Okoro added: “I am now a born again. I am a transformed personality. My wife and I talked about what we can do to affect the Kingdom we belong to now. We got inspired and came out with Flee. That is basically what motivated us. We are trying to sensitise people along the journey of their destinies. You have to believe in God and be careful so that you don’t engage in some unnecessary distraction that will take you off-course.”

• Gloria Young

Akin Suga partners Cohbams for new single

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• Bobrisky

Akiin Shuga Partners with Cobham Asuquo To Release Inspirational Song, ‘I Can Walk’

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Gloria Young set to dazzle in Flee

es are insurmountable. I can’t figure out exactly why I am this excited about this project but I know that joy fills my heart each time I listen to the song or watch the video. I am certain that it will lift someone’s mood, heal a broken heart, inspire a physically challenged and motivate the downtrodden. The joy that envelope my heart is what will envelope the heart of everyone that listens to this song as well. I do hope that everyone can get it and listen to it multiple times. I am grateful to God and my producer as well, Cobhams. He did a fantastic job on this”, Akiin Shuga said.

ce band leader and Rotary International Ambassador, Akin Shuga has released his highly anticipated inspirational song entitled ‘I Can Walk which was co written and produced by Cobhams Asuquo.

I Can Walk is a song of hope dedicated to polio survivors and everyone who has been scarred, marred or shaken in the travails of life.

A polio survivor, he has risen beyond the confinement of his ordeal and proven to all and sundry that he can truly walk and built a musical band that is today regarded as Nigeria’s most influential band and has been a regular performer in Nigeria’s Aso Rock and other high profile places.

Speaking, he said: “Life is about challenges, challenges will always come and no challenges are insurmountable. I can’t figure out exactly why I am this excited about this project but I know that joy fills my heart each time I listen to the song or watch the video. I am certain that it will lift someone’s mood, heal a broken heart, inspire a physically challenged and motivate the downtrodden, Akiin Shuga said.

Sauce Kid back on social media!

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he rapper posted his first tweet since on Saturday, April 14, 2018, which read “ZUfree.....” The last time Sauce Kid posted a tweet on his Twitter page was back in July 2016.

This is coming barely a month after he was released from jail in the United States of America. Babalola Falemi also known as Sauce Kid was jailed for two years for aggravated identity theft.

The rapper was accused of stealing bank card numbers and identifying information of their owners, he was then sentenced to jail. He allegedly stole $15,388 from the unsuspecting victims.

Falemi came on the Nigerian music scene in 2005, with an impressive jam, his first ever single ‘Omoge’ featuring the legendary Mike Okri.

In 2006, he dropped his first mixtape ‘Best of Both Worlds: Money Long The Mixtape’, which cemented him a spot in the Nigerian music industry. The mixtape is still regarded as one of the best.

The Oracle Today

40

Wednesday Apri 25, 2018

NEWS

Abia to float first automated shoe factory

By BONIFACE OKORO, Umuahia

A

BIA State government is planning to float an automated shoe factory in Aba to boost Small and Medium-Scale Enterprises (SMEs) in the state.

Abia State governor, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu, while disclosing this to newsmen in Aba, said the factory was expected to have come on stream in July this year.

Ikpeazu told journalists that it was in pursuit of the automa-

tion that his administration decided to send 100 Abia youths to China to learn how to operate the machines.

“In doing automation, naturally, the first place to start is capacity building. We reached an agreement with the vendors of the machine that we were importing and decided to train 100 youths. The first 30 has gone and they have come back.

So we have 30 people that will be the first staff in the first ever Aba Automated Shoe factory that will open around June or July,” the governor said.

He listed the automation as part of the fallout of the aggressive marketing he embarked upon to sell the Aba brand, adding that SMEs in Aba were breathing fresh air because major obstacles that were militating against their growth have been eliminated through his aggressive marketing of madin-Aba products, locally and internationally.

He said it was through the aggressive marketing that the Presidency launched the SME Clinic in Aba which brought about an interface between the

SMEs and federal government regulatory agencies which has helped to remove many administrative bottlenecks.

Ikpeazu added that it was through the same aggressive marketing that the federal government sent the Rural Electrification Agency “to use our gas here to pilot the provision of power for the Ariaria shoe cluster and they are doing a pilot scheme with 1, 000 shops that for the past three months now, have enjoyed uninterrupted power. So, Power is coming too just because we marketed aggressively.”

“We have achieved automation. We have achieved power somehow and the interface be-

tween the Standard Organisation of Nigeria and other regulatory agencies and the SMEs has made the relationship between the average manufacturer and the agencies more cordial now than before,” he said.

“So, all these impediments that we saw before, just by marketing aggressively, we have been able to get it to them and we know that with sustained pressure, by next year, it will be difficult for you to criticize made in Aba shoes, bags and leather works because all the things you think that we need to encourage them, we have managed, by the special grace of God, to put in place,” the governor said.

By COLLINS UGHALAA

presenting himself to the leaders because as “effective, honest, sincere and courageous” leaders, they would “lead the way to influence the choice of Orlu people”.

Prof Njoku also informed the Orlu leaders of the urgent need for change in the leadership of the state that would restore sanity in governance, release the people from bondage and usher in peace and prosperity in our state.

He also told the elated leaders that he was running for the position of the Governor in order to provide committed, dedicated, selfless, sincere and courageous service to the people of the state, adding that Imo State is in dire need of a paradigm shift in governance and leadership.

The Professor of Agricultural Economics and former Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO) assured that when elected as Governor he would reform the local government system and grant them financial autonomy, restore the elected local government officials who were illegally removed from office, restore respect to the traditional institution, treat senior citizens with “utmost respect”, even as he also assured that “salaries and allowances of civil servants shall not only be increased but shall be paid regularly, as first line charge in the budget”.

He also promised that pensions and gratuities shall be paid regularly as first line charge and also pay the arrears of pensions and gratuities within six months of assumption, ensure devolution of powers in governance so that ministries, departments and agencies are allowed to perform their statutory roles unhindered, among other things According to him, Imo State needs a seasoned and matured technocrat with requisite administrative and managerial experience to pull the state out of its present decadence, even as he said that his training and background make him the best governorship aspirant in the party, stressing that “None of the aspirants, so far, has this type of pedigree”.

Njoku joins Imo guber race

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rofessor of Agricultural Economics, Jude Ejike Njoku, from Eziala Obiangwu in Ngor Okpala Local Government Area of Imo State, has declared to run for 2019 governorship election in the state under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Prof Njoku made this known during a meeting with the apex leadership of Orlu Zone at the country home of former Governor Achike Udenwa in Amaifeke Orlu, saying: “I also present myself to you, as the highly respected leaders of Orlu Zone, as one of the foremost guber•Abia State Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu (r), receiving the Vanguard Award of Governor of the Year from natorial aspirants to the governorship position of Imo State former Foreign Affairs Minister, Maj.- Gen Ike Nwachukwu (Rtd) at the Eko Hotels, Lagos, weekend. for 2019 under the banner of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

He noted that he was presenting himself to the leaders council elections.

Elections

By COLLINS UGHALAA 2010 (as amended), the constiof Orlu Zone because “Orlu tution of the Federal Republic should be seen to be credible at Zone will play the most imporhe Imo State Independ- of Nigeria 1999 (as amended), all times”. tant and strategic role in deHowever, there are indica- termining who gets the ticket ent Electoral Commission and in line with the powers (ISIEC) in Owerri has said conferred on me as the Chief tions that the Peoples Demo- and becomes the gubernatorial that it would hold local gov- Electoral Officer of Imo State, cratic Party (PDP) and the All candidate of any political party ernment elections on July 14, I hereby dutifully announce Progressives Grand Alliance in Imo State, particularly in 2018. The Commission had an- the preparedness of Imo State (APGA) will not participate in the main opposition party, the nounced it would hold the elec- Independent Electoral Com- the local government elections. PDP”. He also said that he was tions in June, but changed the mission (ISIEC) to conduct date to July. chairmanship and councillorGovernor Rochas Okorocha ship elections into the 27 local had upon resumption in office government councils in Imo in 2011 dissolved the elected lo- State on 14th July, 2018. By this he battle between the monarch was not a bona fide cal government chairmen and announcement all registered traditional ruler of Egbelu son of Egbelu Obube and as councilors, elected during the political parties in Imo State are Obube autonomous com- such, was not qualified to sit on Ikedi Ohakim administration. encouraged to put necessary munity in Owerri North Local the throne.

The affected local govern- machinery in motion to select Government Area of Imo State, Ahanonu confirmed the suit, ment officials had gone to court their candidates for the elecEze Jude Nwaogu and Chief while noting that he was overand severally got favourable tions”, said the ISIEC Chairman.

Uche Albert Ahanonu, who is seas when the service was carjudgements against the state He also told the stakeholdgovernment, but the Governor ers which included leaders of the chief priest of the commu- ried out.

“I have briefed my team of had since refused to comply the political parties in the state nity, administering the shrine of a deity simply known as ‘Ngwu’ lawyers and in the coming days with the judgements. that the Commission regretted This is the 8th time the ISIEC “that the elections into the lo- has now degenerated into a at the trial, they shall by means of forensic evidence establish announced its preparedness to cal government councils ought law suit.

This is as the monarch has the truth for everyone to see. conduct LGA polls. It had failed to have come before now”, notnow filed a lawsuit at the High The truth is a defence in any to conduct LGA polls on seven ing that it was due to “mountCourt Owerri under suit number case of defamation. We shall occasions. ing challenges streamed along, However, the Chairman of for which strenuous efforts HOW/7/2018 challenging his establish the truth,” he said.

ISIEC, Hon Ethelbert Ibebuchi, have been deployed in order to chief priest to prove that he is a legitimate son of Egbelu Obube in a stakeholders meeting on put things right”.

Wednesday said that his ComThe ISIEC Chairman also not- by blood.

It would be recalled that the mission was prepared to con- ed that “there can be no better chief priest, Ahanonu had earduct the LGA polls which he way of deepening the demolier in the squabble petitioned said was long overdue. cratic culture without ample state Governor Rochas Okoro“Pursuant to Imo State Law recognition of the grassroots No 13 of 2000 (as amended), that should culminate in the cha to dethrone Eze Nwaogu, Imo State Law No 5 of 2001 and conduct of peaceful, orderly, and further questing the paterpart (IV) of the Electoral Act free and fair local government nity of the monarch.

The priest alleged that the

Imo LG polls hold July 14

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Monarch, chief priest clash in Imo

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41

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 18, 2018

NEWS

More confusion on 2nd Niger Bridge

•New beams being erected at the Atani site of the bridge

Cont’d from Pg 2 ident Umaru Yar’Adua took over and ruled for only two years, till the advent of former President Goodluck Jonathan who reigned for six years (2009 to 2015), work is still stagnant to the extent that not up to 50 per cent has been completed. He also demanded that Federal Government should declare a state of emergency on Trunk ‘A’ roads in South East zone such: •E n u g u / A m a n s e a / A w k a / Awkuxu/Umunya/Onitsha • Enugu/Okigwe/Umuahia/Aba/ Port Harcourt •Urualla/Mgbe/Akokwa/Ihioma/ Amaifeke with a spur to Banana junction at Amaifeke Orlu to Owerri • Ihiala/Orlu/Anara/Umuahia • Nnewi/Uga/Akokwa/Arondizuogu/Umulolo/Okigwe, among others.

He insisted that due to the dilapidated nature of these roads, an average of seven lives per week or one life per day are usually claimed in an auto accident, arguing that the Onitsha River port has been so much politicised because it is located in Igbo land.

By 2012, the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority, NSIA, had given a breakdown of the cost and commitments of the Second Niger Bridge project. “The project which Julius Berger Nigeria Plc-NSIA Motorway Investment Company Ltd, JB-NMIC, Consortium was handling, was estimated to cost $700 million- that is, N108 billion (at the then exchange rate of N154/$). NMIC is a subsidiary of NSIA. “The Second Niger Bridge project comprised Phases 1, 2a and 2b and includes a southern bypass of both Asaba and Onitsha cities with an approximate total length of 44km. The phase 1 of the project, which is the bridge and adjacent roads, is approximately 11.9 kilometres and will be constructed and operated under a Design, Build, and Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) basis under a Public Private Partnership (PPP) scheme.

“The bridge will comprise a 3.31 kilometre-long road section on the Delta side, including a 500 metre-long toll plaza; a 1.59 kilometres tolled concrete box-girder bridge with two superstructures; and a 7.0 kilometre-long road section on the Anambra side. It is expected that the bridge would be constructed and delivered in 48 months. When completed, the bridge and approach roads will have six lanes with three in each direction. Phase 2a is connected

to the Asaba-Benin Expressway while Phase 2b is connected to the Onitsha-Enugu Expressway.

Phases 2a and 2b together constitute the feeding approach roads.

“Out of the N108 billion project cost, the Federal Government has already made a commitment to contribute N30 billion, which represented 28 per cent. The JBINMIC consortium would raise the remaining funds for the construction, operation and maintenance of the bridge and adjacent roads of Phase 1 under a 25-year concession.

“The Federal Government contributed N18.31billion out of its commitment of N30billion, comprising N8.464billion from SURE-P budget in August 2014 for early works II and a further $50million (about N9.8billion) from its Eurobond loan for the execution of early works III. The Sovereign Wealth Fund contributed N10.4 billion of the fund allocated by the Federal Government has so far been disbursed, leaving a balance of about N7.94 billion of government contribution with the sponsors.

“The Second Niger Bridge, along with adjacent roads, would be 11.9km in length and have six (6) lanes with three (3) in each direction. It was expected that the bridge would be constructed and delivered in 48 months.”

Things were on these positions when Berger started work on the bridge.

The arrival of the new government increased a confusion that included protests over the toll that was to be paid to use the bridge.

The Senate in 2011 had shot down the proposed toll, saying that tolls could only be collected if there were other routes for those who were unable to pay tolls.

A Member of the House of Representatives Abdulrazak Namdas said last June that not a dime of the N12 billion that was allocated to the bridge in the 2016 budget was spent. The wonder for the National Assembly was how the project moved from a PPP to being funded wholly again by government. Nobody has answered that question, or is about to do so.

Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo made the most recent high government pronouncement on the bridge when he announced at flag off of the governorship campaign of the All Progressive Congress, APC, in Onitsha, October 20, that the Federal Government had paid contractors $2b for works to commence work on the bridge, in fulfilment of electoral promises APC made in 2015.

Hours after the Vice President spoke, a statement from his office

•Work at Asaba site of the bridge reversed the position. It said that the actual amount that the Sovereign Wealth Fund had released for the project was N2 billion. Neither the contractor, nor government was willing to confirm if N2 billion or more was released to the contractor for it to return to site.

Vice President Osinbajo made two different statements about the bridge in two months. “President Buhari went to China to negotiate with them about the Second Niger Bridge and East-West road,” Osinbajo, said at St. Gabriel Catholic Church, Ifitedunu, Anambra State, on 29 September 2017, during the funeral mass for Mrs. Rosaline Ezinma Akabueze, mother of Ben Akabueze, Director-General of the Budget Office. He concluded that President Buhari loved Igbos, as the planned construction of the bridge proved.

Nobody contradicted him.

Among the dignitaries present Minister of Labour, Chris Ngige, Minister for Budget and National Planning, Udoma Udo Udoma, and the Minister of Industry and Investment, Okey Enelama. Earlier in the year, at the funeral service of Mrs. Roseline Akabueze mother of the Director-General of Budget Office, Mr. Ben Akabueze, in Ifitedunu, Anambra State, Vice President Osinbajo had promised that the Federal Government would complete the bridge.

Remarkably, as a Senator in 2014, when President Goodluck Jonathan flagged off the construction of the bridge, Dr. Chris Ngige called the project a fraud.

“The first is that the bridge is being built on a Public Private Partnership, PPP, deal, with overseas financiers. For that reason, the cost of the bridge suffered double inflation, both from the Nigeria end and the financiers who alleged cost of fund,” Ngige said as the All Progressives Congress, APC, Anambra State chapter was being launched in July 2014.

“The bridge, which should have cost N70 billion is now to cost N114 billion, that was why I told the South East Senate Caucus that I was not going to be a part of it.

As a governor in this State, I resisted that arrangement from Mr. Obasanjo.

“In the budget, we have similar bridges and same length built for free by the Federal Government. Why should that built for the South East be toll gated? That bridge will have two toll gates, one in the Asaba end and one in the Onitsha end. Before you pass through it and come back, you would have spent N1, 000 that is injustice. We will continue to fight to ensure that the bridge is not toll gated”.

Ngige had confirmed that there was a contract in place to do the bridge. What was the reference the Vice President made to China?

Where were the Chinese to come into the project?

The Oracle Today was told that the persistent concerns were about the funding of the project.

“What would N2 billion do for a N108 billion at the older, friend exchange rate of N154/$, considering the current exchange rate? When would government budgetary allocations be enough to complete the work? If N20 billion is released for the project annually, it would take over five years to complete it, assuming the cost is still N108 billion,” said one of those very familiar with the project.

Motorists, in particular are applauding the project. “It would help clear traffic on the entry to Onitsha,” said one of them. “I am happy about this. Let them finish the work quickly.” They may not have heard about the proposed toll.

Sources at the Ministry of Finance revealed however that the paucity of funds has hindered the progress of work on the bridge.

None was willing to discuss why government stopped the PPP model for the project. The source said the project is being considered under the new public private project PPP arrangements.

How would the new PPP affect the earlier one? How would the new PPP and the old PPP be affected by the government financing of the project?

The 2nd Niger Bridge is not in the list of 2016/2017 projects that the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission is neither listed for PPP among the 95 ICRC projects “under documentation and procurement by 19 January 2018” nor is it among the 51 others “under implementation”.

Section 2(4) of the ICRC (Establishment etc) Act 2005 requires the Commission to publish all Federal Government projects eligible for Public Private Partnership (PPP) contracts. Is the project no longer a PPP? What are the implications for parties that had been involved?

“Work stopped here on 15 June 2015,” a source told The Oracle Today, at the Ogbaru said of the proposed bridge. “Government (Buhari’s) told us to stop work, so we did. We have not heard anything from them.”

Government had so much issues with getting approvals from the ICRC that the former Minister of Justice & Attorney General of the Federation, Mohammed Bello Adoke, had to personally sign a 20 May 2015 letter, reminding all government ministries and agencies that all PPP projects, whether new or old, had to be under ICRC. He asked them to comply.

There is no record that shows that the 2nd Niger Bridge has complied with the provision, nor evidence of a presidential order exempting it from the ICRC oversight.

Among the many surprises about the bridge is the change from a PPP to a government funded project, an issue that the House Representatives wanted Minister for Works, Power and Housing, Babatunde Fashola to explain.

“The Ministry of Finance has not yet released any cash for the Second Niger Bridge; so no money was returned,” Fashola, reacted to a welter of accusations by the House of Representatives that held him responsible for doing no work on the 2nd Niger Bridge.

“On March 10, President Goodluck Jonathan performed a ground-breaking ceremony of the Second River Niger Bridge at the Krisoral ground, Atani, Ogbaru Council Area of Anambra State.

Julius Berger is carrying out the early works on the project and has been named preferred bidder of the EPC contract on the project’s main phase,” Berger said on its website.

Berger started work on the site, laying beams. Its abandoned equipment was there for more than two years. It also established a work yard by the foot of the old Niger Bridge, near the Inland Waters office and the Onitsha Sea Port. Its location gives it easy access to the project site to the Harbour Industrial Layout.

However, there may be issues.

Berger may be parading a letter awarding it the contract, but the government seems to have another plan. The N2b that the Vice President said was paid to

Cont’d on page 42

44

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 4, 2018

NEWS

More confusion on 2nd Niger Bridge

•More work at Asaba site of the bridge

Cont’d from page 41 contractors was for “preliminary works”. What preliminary works on a project that the execution had commenced?

Berger celebrated its hold on the contract during its annual general meeting in 2014 in Abuja.

“Work on the long-awaited second Niger bridge has commenced, Wolfgang Goetsch, its Managing Director told shareholders at its the 43rd annual general meeting.

According to Goetsch, the Federal Government had given Julius Berger a letter of intent, which would enable it to do preliminary work such as, soil testing and engineering design. The bridge is to be built under the private public partnership arrangement.

Goetsch continued, “A consortium that included a company from South Africa participated in the bidding for the project. In January 2013, our group became the preferred bidder. We are excited because it will be the first of its kind in Nigeria”.

Retired AVM Nurudeen Imam, announced Berger’s successfully entry into the PPP market and its selection as preferred bidder for the second River Niger Bridge project.

These are the most recent confusions. A source familiar with the project stated that nobody “is talking about which of the designs would be implement, or the company that won the design.” He painted a clearer picture of the confusion stretching it to Obasanjo, who Ngige mentioned earlier.

“President Obasanjo used the as a publicity stunt from his campaigns in 1999 to the most brazen move he made two days before leaving office. On 27 May 2007, he claimed to have flagged off the construction of the project,” the source recalled. “No contract was signed. There wasn’t even a design for the bridge.”

“The Senate who gave some breakdowns of road projects across the country to show how the South East was marginalised wondered why of all the mega projects initiated during Chief Obasanjo’s tenure, it was only

the second Niger Bridge that was confined to PPP whereas others were solely financed by the federal government,” Senator Uche Chukwumereije, said in 2014.

“If strategic national importance is the criterion for direct federal funding, second Niger Bridge merits as much attention as these other mega projects. It is a major link to the whole length of eastern half of Nigeria, from Onitsha through Benue to North East, yet the two host States which can barely source enough funds for their internal development were nearly sentenced to the burden of PPP contributions.”

Obasanjo said that the project was to be funded in this manner, 60-20-20. The Federal Government would provide 60 per cent of the funds, while Anambra and Delta States would cough out 20 per cent each.

Senator Mohammed Sanusi Daggash as Minister for Works in 2010 visited the bridge and tried to mobilise funds through the Debt Management Office, DMO, for its construction, The Oracle Today learnt.

The government approved a contract of N325 million to Messrs Roughton International Limited, a transaction advisory services firm, to design, build, and finance and operate the proposed second Niger Bridge. Daggash’s brief tenure ended that move.

In 2012, Setraco Construction Company carried out maintenance work on the bridge. There were fears that it could collapse, after reports that some of the bolts and nuts had fallen off.

Former Anambra State Governor, Mr. Peter Obi, had told the Senate Committee on Works the supposed commencement of second Niger Bridge by the former President Obasanjo was a fraud.

Obi spoke to a five-man Senate Committee on Works led by its chairman, Senator Julius Ucha. According to Obi, there was no budget and no work was done after the flag off.

Our sources describe the project thus: The Second Niger Bridge project comprised Phases 1, 2a and 2b and includes a southern bypass of both

Asaba and Onitsha cities with an approximate total length of 44km.

The phase 1 of the project, which is the bridge and adjacent roads, is approximately 11.9 kilometres and will be constructed and operated under a Design, Build, and Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) basis under a Public Private Partnership (PPP) scheme.

The bridge will comprise a 3.31 kilometre-long road section on the Delta side, including a 500 metre-long toll plaza; a 1.59 kilometres tolled concrete box-girder bridge with two superstructures; and a 7.0 kilometre-long road section on the Anambra side. It is expected that the bridge would be constructed and delivered in 48 months. When completed, the bridge and approach roads will have six lanes with three in each direction. Phase 2a is connected to the Asaba-Benin Expressway while Phase 2b is connected to the Onitsha-Enugu Expressway.

Phases 2a and 2b together constitute the feeding approach roads.

These, they said, were the component of the contract that Berger was executing at N108b. “The Second Niger Bridge, along with adjacent roads, would be 11.9km in length and have six (6) lanes with three (3) in each direction. It was expected that the bridge would be constructed and delivered in 48 months.”

Other descriptions of the project exist. “The project, which is divided into three phases, will bypass Onitsha and Asaba to connect the Owerri-Onitsha Expressway at Nkwerre-Ezunaka, and then cross Atani to the Asaba-Benin Expressway at Okpanam with a total length of 44 kilometres. With this length, the Second Niger Bridge will surpass the world’s longest bridge in China (42.4km), to become the world’s longest bridge,” a source told The Oracle Today.

What happens to the financing arrangement that was made when the contract was awarded to Berger? Out of the N108 billion project cost, the Federal Government had already made a commitment to contribute N30 billion, which represented 28 per cent. The JBINMIC consortium would raise the

remaining funds for the construction, operation and maintenance of the bridge and adjacent roads of Phase 1 under a 25-year concession.

The Federal Government contributed N18.31billion out of its commitment of N30billion, comprising N8.464billion from SURE-P budget in August 2014 for early works II and a further $50million (about N9.8billion) from its Eurobond loan for the execution of early works III. The Sovereign Wealth Fund contributed N10.4 billion of the fund allocated by the Federal Government has so far been disbursed, leaving a balance of about N7.94 billion of government contribution with the sponsors.

Complications that the funding plans could raise may stall the work forever, said one of the sources. “If government insists on funding the bridge, or decides to review the PPP processes that the ICRA had approved, not only would these be illegal, but the process would mean that there would be no new bridge across the River Niger in the next five years, if ever,” an expert who did not want his name in print said.

“A cancellation of a PPP that has gone through the scrutiny of the ICRA has dangerous implications for confidence of investors in government. Has the government considered the signals it is sending to investors?”

“The biggest assault on the project was the government’s decision to stop the contract. The collapse of the exchange rate has more than doubled the cost of the project. Where would the government find the money?

“Where would government that complains of scare resources find the funds for the 2nd Niger Bridge? How much would be approved annually to get close the former contract cost, not to talk of the reviewed one?”

Mr. Ezenwa Onyewuchi, representing Owerri Federal Constituency of Imo State, had complained in 2013, “The promises of constructing a 2nd Niger Bridge by past and present administrations have been a mirage.”

President Ibrahim Babangida challenged Nigerian engineers in 1992 to build a second bridge across the River Niger. Nigerian Society Engineers designed the bridge using its management consultancy firm NSE PREMS. The project collapsed with the proposed addition of an East-West rail to it.

French company, Dumez, constructed the Niger Bridge, between 1964 and 1965, to link Onitsha and Asaba. It cost £5million.

During the Nigerian Civil War of 1967-1970, Biafran soldiers destroyed the River Niger Bridge at Onitsha to halt the advance of Nigerians troops. The bridge was rehabilitated.

The need for a second bridge was realised almost 50 years ago. The project, which is divided into three phases, will bypass Onitsha and Asaba to connect the Owerri-Onitsha Expressway at Nkwerre-Ezunaka, and then cross Atani to the Asaba-Benin Expressway at Okpanam with a total length of 44 kilometres. With this length, the Second Niger Bridge will surpass the world’s longest bridge in China (42.4km), to become the world’s longest bridge.

The confusion continues. There have been talks of the proposed rails linking Lagos with the South East and South South being a part of the bridge. Nobody is willing to provide more details.

“If government insists on funding the bridge, or decides to review the PPP processes that the

ICRA had approved, not only would these be illegal, but the process would mean that there would be no new bridge across the River Niger in the next five years, if ever,” an expert who did not want his name in print said.

“The biggest assault on the project was the government’s decision to stop the contract. The collapse of the exchange rate has more than doubled the cost of the project. Where would the government find the money?”

In a chat with The Oracle Today in Owerri in March 2017, Dr. Umar Eleazu, economist and pioneer Director General of Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, said that the planned is bridge was inadequate and worse than what was proposed decades ago.

“It was to start at Ogwashi-Uku with expressway that would have opened new opportunities by the coastal lines. The idea was to create industrial clusters along the route that the road would serve,” he said. “It was not meant to be just a road.”

Doyin Okupe, former aide to former President Goodluck Jonathan shared these insights about the 2nd Niger Bridge: •The bridge is NOT being constructed by the FGN. • It’s a PPP project which the FGN contributes a tiny fraction.

• The 2nd Niger Bridge will cost about N117 billion.

•Started in 2013 and should have been completed in 2017, but worked stopped for 31 months.

Completion date not certain now.

•FGN share of the cost is N30billion. Jonathan through the Sure-P paid N21.2billion (71%) including N7billion for the completion of preparatory work (Phase 1).

• 38% of the work had been done as at Jan 2015.

•The N140b Oshiomole said was wasted on admin cost on the bridge was a lie, as admin cost will not be higher than the cost of the whole project.

• Buhari’s Government paid N2billion NOT $2billion as Osinbajo said during the Anambra State election. They will be paying another N3.05 when 2018 budget is approved.

• Work has restarted in earnest at the site and about 5%-7% has been completed bring the total completed work to about 43% to 45% according to an engineer I spoke to.

• All the pictures flying all over the Internet are pictures of workin-progress made during the 1st quarter of 2015.

• In summary Jonathan’s government has paid 71% of FGN’s share of the cost, while Buhari’s government has paid 6.1%.

• Julius Berger, the major contractor and construction company will put toll gate on completion of the bridge to recover its cost.

•The construction company is funding the project and the people using the bridge will bear the cost via toll charges.

•The real people building the bridge are Nigerians that will use the bridge, as they will repay the cost to Julius Berger.

•For those celebrating politicians and sharing old or fake pictures of 2nd Niger Bridge, the #Facts are Not on your side With these contradicting positions on the 2nd Niger Bridge, when would it be completed? Will the plans by the same as the earlier ones for which the budget N108 billion was made/ what happens to the PPP since it seems the Federal government is now funding the project? Has the Senate accepted the tolls on the bridge? Has its proposal that there must be an alternative road for a tolled bridge been followed?

The Oracle Today

43

Wednesday Apri 25, 2018

NEWS

Ebonyi: Alike, Enyigba communal crisis escalates; one killed

By CHINEDU NWAFOR

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SENIOR civil servant on Grade Level 13 in the Ebonyi State civil service has become the latest fatality in the renewed clashes between two communities, Enyigba, in Abakaliki Local Government Area and Alike-Ikwo in Ikwo Local Government Area of the state.

The deceased, a native of AlikeIkwo, who has been identified as Mr Energy Nwenewor, was killed as hostilities renewed between the warring communal over land disputes.

The two neighbouring communities have been enmeshed in an intractable land dispute which has witnessed renewed hostilities in recent time that has claimed many lives and millions of properties.

As it is, a large proportion of inhabitants of the two communities has also been displaced and is taking shelter at different temporary internally displaced persons’ camps.

It would be recalled that Gover-

nor of Ebonyi state, David Umahi had declared that the state government has taken over the disputed land and ordered security agents to shoot-at-sight anybody found encroaching on the property but the order appears to have fallen on deaf ears as the two communities have resumed attacks against each other.

Thursday’s hostilities which led to the death of Nwenewor was said to have been carried out by warlords allegedly working for the people of Enyigba in Abakaliki who invaded the Alike community on a reprisal attack.

Nwenewor’s body was allegedly taken away by the attackers who also burnt down houses and other valuables.

State Police Public Relations Officer, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), Loveth Odah, confirmed the development, saying the Command had deployed Mopol Commander and other policemen to the warzone to prevent further breakdown of law and order.

She however said the command

Enugu disburses N855 million for community development

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nugu State Government, Monday disbursed N855 million to 171 autonomous communities in the state as part of its one community, one project initiative.

The state government had during the launch of the project on February 28 disbursed an initial N590 million to 118 communities.

In an address, Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi said that the initiative was to engender participatory democracy in the 450 autonomous communities.

Ugwuanyi said that the initiative became necessary to take even development to all corners of the state.

He said that the disbursement was done in batches, adding that certain criteria needed to be met before a community was deemed qualified to benefit.

The governor said that each of the communities would get N10 million at the longrun adding that the N5 million was the first tranche of the disbursement.

Ugwuanyi said that communities were given the freedom to

Okorocha sacks 1,215 council workers

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mo State government has sacked and retired over 1,215 civil servants, with most of them workers at the councils The state Head of Service, Mr. Calistus Ekenze, reportedly directed the Local Government Service Commission to carry out the order, saying he acted on the approval by the state governor, Rochas Okorocha.

Ekenze who told journalists that there was nothing new about the exercise, explained that those retired had either served up to 35 years, attained the compulsory retirement age of 60 years, or those with dented record of service requiring sack.

The head of service explained that there are various reasons for every government action, adding that those involved were either genuinely retired, or had heinous record.

choose projects of interest in accordance with local needs.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Chieftaincy Matters, Mr Emeka Okeke, said that the gesture was to enable communities drive their infrastructural development.

Okeke described the initiative as laudable adding that it showed the concern government had for residents of the state.

Also, the Accountant-General of the State, Mr Paschal Okolie, said that the state government had in 2017 set aside N2.25 billion for the initiative.

Okolie said that the hallmark of the current administration in the state was accountability, productivity and transparency adding that communities that met up with the conditions would certainly benefit.

He said that the traditional ruler and the town union president generals of each of the communities would be given the money.

The accountant-general appealed to the traditional rulers and the town union president general present to ensure good use of the money.

had not received the report of the killing of the level 13 officer who was said to have been killed and his corpse taken away.

“Actually, during management meeting today (Friday), the Commissioner of Police received a report from COMOPOL that the crisis in Enyigba/Alike Ikwo has been renewed. He told the CP that there were heavy shootings there.

“The Coordinator of the area said he has instructed his people to stop further shootings.

But even after the instruction, there were still shootings but the Mopol commander has been deployed into the area. He was instructed to remain there until peace returns and he is there.

Police APC (Armoured Personnel Carrier) is there and the two

•(From left) Minister of Trade and Investment, Okechukwu Enelamah, Minister of Employment and Productivity, Chief Chris Ngige, Vice President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo, Enugu State Governor, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport to receive the VP enroute to Abia.

End incessant herdsmen attacks– Bishop charges Buhari

By CHINEDU NWAFOR

ISHOP Lawson Elom, of the Bishop of Methodist Church, Diocese of Abakaliki, has charged President Muhammadu Buhari to put an end to the escalating herdsmen’s attacks across Nigeria.

He gave the charge while addressing Methodist faithful during at the 24th annual synod of the church that took place at Ntezi circuit, Ishielu local government area of Ebonyi state.

The cleric who expressed worry over the recent herdsmen/ farmers clashes in Nigeria, stressed that the development was affecting farming activities in Nigeria.

“It could be recalled that the same Fulani Herdsmen who used to carry sticks to guide their cattle are now moving around with sophisticated weapons like AK-47, and so on.

“As a terrorist group, Fulani herdsmen are rated as the fourth most dangerous in the world by the global terrorist index, GTI 2015 report. These terrorists have indeed become a deadly group in Nigeria that at present, security agencies, especially the police are seemingly avoiding encounter with them.

He also advised worshippers to continue to pray for Nigeria’s recovery, and urged the federal government to do its best to

personal account According to the commissioner, revenue diversion had continued unabated in the state despite efforts by successive governments to curb it.

While stressing that the era of misappropriation of government funds was over, Mmadubuko warned that any persons caught in the diversion of government funds will not escape prosecution.

The commissioner said: “All those who have permit from the government to collect revenue should liaise with my ministry to ensure their job specification and the duration of their services, while the marketers should put on hold any pay-

ment till further notice.”

On his part, the Head of Department of Market in the Ministry, Mrs Nkiruka Ebo Nwosu, recalled that on assumption of office in 2017, she noticed that market leaders were giving authority letters to collect revenue in their various markets.

She regretted that many of them were not complying with the directive of using the integrated pay direct system in revenue collection.

The suspect, Isichekwe, said he was printing receipt to satisfy traders in the market who were bent on being issued receipt for any government levy paid arguing that it was not for diversion

B

DSS nabs Anambra market leader for revenue diversion

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market leader in Oye Uga Market, Aguata Local Government Area, Anambra State, Victor Isichekwe, has been arrested by the Department of State Service (DSS) for allegedly diverting state government revenue to his personal account.

Speaking on the arrest in Awka, state Commissioner for Trade, Commerce, Market and Wealth Creation, Dr Christian Mmadubuko, said he personally made the arrest and handed the suspect over to the DSS. He said the suspect has been in the habit of issuing fake receipts to payers to enable him divert government funds to his

police units around the area have deployed their men to ensure that the situation was brought under control.

“Government took over the disputed land to stop the crisis.

Some people went there and started doing activities there and from there, the crisis erupted again and they started shooting”, she said.

ensure that those who are behind the Herdsmen attacks are brought to justice.

“Unless those who are sponsoring Herdsmen are traced and brought to justice, this country must continue to be seen as sitting on the key of gun power.

“What a misfortune to our nation Nigeria? I think it is high time eminent Nigerians at home and in Diaspora cry out to God like the Israelites cried to God when they were in slavery in Egypt, So that God will send helpers to Nigeria and save us from these dangers which are man- made.

“One will not say that the leadership of this country is not making efforts but their efforts are not yet enough, especially if students can be abducted from their schools unresisted. Then, it means that life is not yet safe in this country, especially as the 2019 election is drawing near with its attendant manipulations”.

Elom appealed to Christians all over the country to continue to pray and advice the government especially in this challenging period.

He further called on Christians to embark on aggressive evangelism as a way of saving the country from imminent destruction.

He tasked them to invest aggressively in Agriculture to assist the country overcome its food security challenges and reduce crimes.

The Oracle Today

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Wednesday Apri 25, 2018

NEWS

Anambra guber tribunal: 35 witnesses to testify against Obiano

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O fewer than 35 persons will bear witness for candidate of Mega Progressive People’s Party (MPPP) in the November 18, 2017 Anambra governorship election against Governor Willie Obiano at the tribunal.

The MPPP governorship candidate, Ms Praise Okechukwu said this through her Counsel, Mr Nkem Ekweozoh during the sitting of the tribunal in Awka, Tuesday.

The petitioner in an amended application was praying the court to annul the Nov. 18 election in Anambra and order a fresh contest.

She said Obiano was not qualified to participate in that poll, as he was not legitimately nominated by his party, the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA).

The counsel prayed the court to admit his application as it was in line with letters of the Electoral Act.

In his argument, Mr Onyechi Ikpeazu, Counsel to Obiano said the amended application should be dismissed.

Ikpeazu said the electoral act permitted petitioners to alter their petition if need be within the 21 days provided by the law.

He urged the tribunal to discountenance the application as the time for altering substantial element of a petition had elapsed.

In his decision, Justice H.A. Olusiyi, Chairman of the tribunal said the prehearing session would continue in the next sitting.

Olusiyi said ruling on the application would be made on April 23.

In another relating matter, the case between Dr Paul Obianaso of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) versus Obiano, APGA and INEC, was stalled for absence of witnesses.

Counsel to Obianaso, Mr Emeka Ag-

Don’t pervert justice -- Ayade charges new judges

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ross River State governor, Prof Ben Ayade, Thursday, has charged the three newlysworn High Court judges in the state not to pervert justice.

The judges took their oaths of allegiance and office in the presence of the Deputy Governor Prof Ivara Esu, Chief Judge of the state, Hon Justice Michael Edem, members of the state executive council as well as the Bar and Bench at the state executive chamber, Calabar, Thursday.

The new judges include: Justices Emmanuel Agiampuye Ubua, Obo Awusa Obo and Imelda Bassey Etape.

Swearing in the new judges, Ayade charged them to take the appointments as great task and responsibility, noting that a lean liberty is better than fat slavery, pointing out that, “you had rather stay in your poverty as a judge than to have all the wealth and have your soul enslaved to your conscience because you have perverted justice.”

Challenging them to a new thinking and philosophy where law will be driven by a true African heritage, the governor stressed the need for the judges to see arbitration as the alternative to conflict resolution and the most welcome concept in modern legislative and legal practice, especially where court is structured to deliver judgement instead of peace.

Ayade who reasoned that the law has been static for too long, advocated for a point in life where law will derive its morality from the circumstances of an event, intimating that, “law is shifting away from codification to the principles of reality.”

He reminded the judges that “the judiciary requires men of honour and integrity, who appreciate true value and honour, who understand ethics and morality and the science that man is a spiritual being,” adding that, “in whatever you do, there will be a time where your deeds will be accounted for.”

bapuonwu, prayed the court to give him 10 days to serve the witnesses to appear when subpoena.

Justice Olusiyi reminded the parties of the need to expedite the process as the tribunal must end on June 9.

After a consensus by the counsels, it was agreed that the petitioner be allowed to produce his critical witness within the days he prayed.

The matter was adjourned till May 4, for further hearing.

Ijaw youths threaten $15b Egina oil project

By CLEM ONYEMAECHI, Yenagoa

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•The new judges of the Cross Rivers State High Court; Justices Imelda Bassey Etape, Emmanuel Agiampuye Ubua, and Obo Awusa Obo, taking their oath of office in the presence of the Deputy Governor Prof Ivara Esu, Chief Judge of the state, Hon Justice Michael Edem, members of the state executive council as well as the Bar and Bench at the state executive chamber, Calabar.

Oil wells: Senate wades into Kogi, Anambra, Enugu war T he renewed agitation over ownership of oil wells being claimed

by Kogi, Anambra and Enugu will soon be a thing of past as Senate has mandated its Committee on Petroleum (Upstream) to investigate the matter and report back to it.

Sen. Chukwuka Utazi (Enugu-PDP) at plenary, Thursday raised a Point-ofOrder on the matter seeking the intervention of the Upper Chamber to stem brewing crisis among the three states laying claim to the oil wells.

Referring to Order 43, the lawmaker alleged that Anambra Government had used one of its appointees, Mr Prince Emu, to grant an interview, stating that Anambra was an oil-producing state.

Utazi said that the Federal Government realised that it was an error for former President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration to refer to Anambra as oil-producing state and withdrew the status.

According to him, withdrawing the status from Anambra is based on the fact that the state has not been confirmed as oil-producing.

Utazi said: “President and distinguished colleagues, the oil producing status on Anambra state has since been withdrawn.

“This is already brewing violence among communities laying claim to the oil wells. We know what we did in the past to restore peace among those

warring communities and election period is around the corner and we do not want any crisis.”

In his contribution, Sen. Andy Uba (Anambra-APC) insisted that Anambra was an oil producing state, saying “what my colleague, Utazi, is saying is not correct.

“They said any state that produces 120,000 barrels of oil per day is qualified as an oil-producing state and that is why Anambra was conferred with that status.”

I formerly known as CYNTHIA KELECHI IHIONU, Now wish to be known as MRS. OKONGWU KELECHI CYNTHIA, All former documents remain valid, Banks and General public take note.

I formerly known as Miss EKWEM ONYINYE EVANGELINE now wish to be known as Mrs. NWOSU ONYINYE EVANGELINE. All former documents remain valid. Banks and General Public take note.

I formerly known as EKEMEZIE KELUE. Now wish to be known as EKEMEZIE CHUKWUKELUE. All former documents remain valid,Banks and General public take note.

I formerly known as MISS FLORENCE IJEOMA IGBOJIMOKWU. Now wish to be known as MRS FLORENCE IJEOMA NNYAMA. All former documents remain valid,Banks and General public take note.

I formally known as EMEKA PRAISE EZENWAKA now wish to be known as EMEKA PRAISE NNABUIFE. This change of name involve my family NGOZI CHARITY NNABUIFE, CHUKWUEBUKA DANIEL NNABUIFE. All former documents remain valid.

Banks and general public take note.

I formerly known as NWACHUKWU JENNIFER IFUNANYA now wish to be known and addressed as CHUKWUMA JENNIFER IFUNANYA. All former documents remain valid. Banks and General public take note.

I formerly known as MR ANIGBOGU MOSES. O. now wish to be known as MR DILO MOSES ONYENWENWA. All Former documents remain valid.Banks and General public take note

This is to confirm that OBI CHRISTIAN CHIAMAKA QUEEN,OBI UKAMAKA CHIAMAKA and OBI CHIAMAKA QUEEN is one and same person, now wish to be known and addressed as OBI UKAMAKA CHIAMAKA. All former documents remain valid. banks and general public take note.

I formerly known as NRIAKA EBELE JULIET now wish to be known as MUONEKE EBELE JULIET. All former documents remain valid. Banks and General public take note

This is to certify that my name was wrongly written as NWADA GERADINE UGOCHI instead of NWADA GERADINE UGONNA. I hereby wish to be known as NWADA GERADINE UGONNA. All former documents remain valid. Banks and General public take note

I formerly known as MISS OKONKWO CHIOMA CYNTHIA now wish to be known and addressed as MRS NNOLI CHIOMA CYNTHIA. former documents remain valid. Banks and General public take note

I formerly known as ANI CHINEDU GLADYS. Now wish to be known as EMMANUEL CHINEDU GLADYS. All former documents remain valid,Banks and General public take note.

I formerly known as EJIOFOR CHIBUZO IFEANYI. Now wish to be known as EJIOFOR CHIBUZO VICTOR. All former documents remain valid,Banks and General public take note.

I formerly known as MISS OKAFOR JULIANA UJUAKU. Now wish to be known as MRS IGBOANUGO JULIANA UJUAKU. All former documents remain valid,Banks and General public take note.

he $15 billion oil investment in the Gulf of Guinea being planned by Total E&P and its partners may come under attack if urgent steps are not taken to douse tension between Ijaw youths and promoters of the project.

This follows threats by the leadership of Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), to blow up the facility if relevant stakeholders fail to prevail on the promoters of the Egina Project OML 130 to adhere to the provisions of the Local Content Act. In a statement issued, Tuesday, President of IYC, Barr. Roland Oweileami, called on President Muhammadu Buhari and the National Assembly to urgently wade into the face-off between IYC and the promoters of the project ‘before it is too late.’

Oweileami regretted what he described as the “marginalization, exclusion and shortchanging of our people in employment, training of expertise and local indigenous contracts”, saying all is targeted at excluding the Ijaw Nation from their “God given natural resources”.

The statement further said that the leadership of IYC as critical stakeholders has written series of letters to Total E&P the majority holder of the FPSO and their partners, including LADOL which is the consultant in charge of recruitment, local contracts and local trainees, for the exercise expected to generate 50,000 new jobs on the project.

SAVING GRACE CHAPEL INT’L This is to inform the general public that the above named MINISTRY 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 PAST. BLESSING EMUHOWHO OGODO 2 PAST. FAITH BLESSING EMUHOWHO OGODO 3 EBIKESEYE NEWMAN FESTUS 4 ANDREW ATOBREMU 5. VICTOR OGODO OGBEIDE AIMS & OBJECTIVE 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST TO ALL NATIONS 2. TO REACH OUT TO THE WORLD THROUGH CRUSADE AND HOUSE TO HOUSE EVANGELISM 3. TO WIN SOULS FOR CHRIST 4. TO MEET BOTH THE SPIRITUAL AND MATERIAL NEEDS OF THE PEOPLE THROUGH THE WORD OF GOD 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 PASTOR BLESSING EMUHOWHO OGODO

45

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 25, 2018

SPORTS Eagles’ World Cup preparations excites Obuh

Rohr to storm Abuja for meeting with NFF

A

• Says “we’ve never had it so good”

By MADUABUCHI KALU

F

ormer Flying Eagles coach, John Obuh has expressed excitement over Super Eagles’ preparations ahead of the 2018 FIFA World Cup. According to the former African Under-20 conquering gaffer, Gernot Rohr and his boys have done well so far in their preparations for the Mundial that would hold in Vladimir Putin’s country in less than 70 days from now.

He advised that Nigerians should not judge the team based on their recent defeat to Serbia in international friendly game that took place at Hive Stadium in London.

“I am excited for the Eagles World Cup preparations. The team and their handlers have done well in terms of their preparations for the Mundial,” Obuh began.

“I am excited because before now, we have never had this type of preparations before the World Cup. The series of matches that the NFF have lined up for the team of which two have been executed are meant to ensure that the team get adequate preparations for the Mundial.

“The results of the matches may not always go the way we expect them but one thing is sure, the matches are helping Eagles to gel as a team and at the same helping Rohr to discover the areas the team need to fortify before the Mundial.

“Again, I want to urge Nigerians not to use the recent two friendly games to judge the team. Friendly games are meant to discover loopholes in any team and I believe that Rohr and his backroom staff must have discovered why Eagles lost against.

“When such loopholes are discovered, it is the responsibility of the technical crew to ensure that such loopholes are ploughed; so that the team will not suffer from such problems when are confronted with opponents,” Obuh said.

Speaking on the movement of Eagles in the last week’s released FIFA ranking that placed Eagles 47th in world and 6th on the continent, Obuh stated that despite the fact that many people are yet to understand the criteria for the ranking, one thing is sure, that once the country slums in the rankings the players are

• Obuh not happy and whenever the country move up the ladder, they are happy.

He, therefore, said he was happy just like the players as the latest ranking has brought happiness to the players.

“It is true that many people do not understand the criteria or how the rankings are made but one thing is sure, the ranking has a way of affecting the players’ psychology and emotion.

“This is because whenever the

country slums in FIFA ranking, the players are not always happy but any time we climb on the ladder, they feel happy and I must confess that since our upward move brings happiness to our players, I am also happy.

“I pray that since the upward movement of the country in FIFA ranking is giving the players happiness, it will boost their morale and courage them do well at the Mundial,” Obuh enthused.

Work hard, Obaseki charges Eagles, Enyimba, others

F

ormer chairman of the Nigeria Premier League (NPL) otherwise known as Glo Premier League, Chief Oyuki Obaseki, has charged the national team, the Super Eagles and Nigeria flag bears in the CAF Confederation Cup competition, two time continental champions, Enyimba international Football Club of Aba, reigning NPFL champions, Plateau United Fc of Jos, Mountain of Fire and Miracle (MFM) of Lagos and Akwa United Fc of Uyo to step up their level of work to ensure that they perform better for themselves and the country.

The Benin high chief gave the charge in exclusive telephone interview with The Oracle Today Sports. Chief Obaseki who was in Ibadan at the time he spoke to The Oracle Today Sports said there was no alternative to hard work and as a result, the Super Eagles and the country’s continental flag bearers should endeavour to work hard in order to earn good results in their various engagements.

Obaseki stated this while reacting to the Super Eagles recent friendly matches that saw them secure a slim 1-0 victory over Poland at Wroclaw, and at the same time suffered a 2-0 defeat in the hands of Serbia.

“Well, my only advise to the Super Eagles is that they should work hard.

They should continue to work hard the same with our continental representatives particularly Enyimba In-

• Oyuki Obaseki ternational Football Club of Aba who have already made a name for themselves before now,” Obaseki began.

“Football like every other human endeavor needs hard work for you to succeed. That is why the Eagles should work very hard because the FIFA World Cup is not a child’s play.

For you to make any meaningful impact at the World Cup, you must prove that you are as good as or even better than the other teams that you are competing against.

“That Eagles lost to Serbia is not a

bad thing per se though it would have been better if they had won but we should not place much emphasize on that lost rather we should learn from the defeat and fine a way of making sure that all the loopholes discovered that led to the loss are ploughed.

“Of course friendly matches are meant to discover areas that any team need to fortify and not necessarily to secure victory. For me, I believe that the purpose of the friendly matches against Poland and Serbia was achieved because for the Serbia result,

the technical crew led by Franco-German tactician, Gernot Rohr would go back to the drawing board and find out the remedies for the problems that led to the team’s defeat.

Continuing Chief Obaseki said: “Of course, I have always maintained that there are no minnows in football any longer and as a result, any time the Eagles engage in any game, they should play it with the mindset that there are no more small teams in football.

“And talking of our continental representative, like I said earlier, there is no alternative to hard work. Plateau United are still coming up and they need to put in extra effort if they must make it to the next stage. They have a slim chance of making it because with 2-1 victory, they have to work extra to make it to the group stage of the competition.

“For Enyimba who pulled draw away in South Africa, though a good result but they should not allow any loophole. They should fall back on their continental experience in order to ensure that the South Africans do not stop them.

“As far as I am concerned, I see Enyimba making it to the next stage of the Confederation Cup than any other team. It is true that in football, it is not over until it is ove over but MFM and Akwa United need extra grace to make it to the next stage,” Chief Obaseki submitted.

head 2018 Federation of International Football Association (FIFA) World Cup that Russia will be playing host to in less than 70days, Super Eagles’ Technical Adviser, Gernot Rohr will storm Abuja from Europe where he has been monitoring the performances of the Super Eagles players to have a meeting with the country’s football governing body, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and at the same submit the report of the two international friendlies matches the team played last month in Poland and England.

The meeting with the NFF egg heads The Oracle Today Sports gathered is to center on the second phase of the team’s World Cup programme with the technical committee of the NFF. According to the Media Officer of the Super Eagles, Toyin Ibitoye the former Gabon coach will submit his report on the Super Eagles’ last two friendly matches with Poland and Serbia and most importantly inform the body if there are new players that should be given a look in ahead the May 28 International Friendly against Congo DR in the River State capital, Port Harcourt.

He will also discuss everything concerning the Mundial and you are aware that the three time African champions are pitched against two time world champions Argentina, Croatia and debutant Iceland in group D. Meanwhile, recuperating Super Eagles goalkeeper, Carl Ikeme is reportedly anxious to return to action even as he rues missing out on the World Cup in Russia. This is according to the 1st Vice President of the NFF Barrister Seye Akinwunmi on the goalkeeping challenge of the Super Eagles.

Akinwunmi stated that since the coaches are satisfied with the three players they have in that area, the option is to continue to work on them with the hope they would be ready in time for the World Cup. But a former goalkeeper with the national team, Peter Rufai is having a different view saying that the country is paying the prize of not preparing goalkeepers for major challenges in the past and now the consequences are staring us in the face ahead of the World Cup. The former Eagles’ safest hand has disclosed that the national team is facing the challenge of getting a quality No.1 goalkeeper on time for the Russia 208 FIFA World Cup because the team’s handlers over the years focused on a particular keeper without making any conscious effort to discover and groom a successor.

Nigeria of course will be hoping to have a good team ready for the 2018 FIFA World Cup and Rufai says with Francis Odinaka Uzoho, Ikechukwu Ezenwa and Daniel Akpeyi all fighting for the Super Eagles first choice goalkeeping gloves, ahead of the World Cup, it will bring the best in the goalkeepers.

46

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 25, 2018

SPORTS Russia 2018: Akande solicits support for Eagles

Nigeria rewards Commonwealth Games medal winners

T

F

ormer Chief of Staff to Gov. Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State, Prof. Adeolu Akande, has called for support for the Super Eagles ahead of the forthcoming World Cup in Russia.

Akande made the call in Ibadan on Monday during a visit to him by the Oyo State chapter of Sports Writers’ Association of Nigeria (SWAN). The SWAN team was led by its Chairman, Niyi Alebiosu.

Akande, who is also a governorship aspirant in the state, said the support by Nigerians would spur the team to success.

“For our national team to excel; we all have to support it with all means and I see the team making us proud in Russia.

“The team has done well in all the friendly matches played so far and I don’t want them to be judged by the loss to Serbia, “I am sure with our collective support and encouragement, the Super Eagles will fly in Russia,” he said.

He commended the leadership of SWAN in the state for rebranding the association, urging it not to relent on the feats so far attained.

Akande also pledged to support SWAN, urging other well-meaning citizens to support the association.

In his remarks, Alebiosu thanked Akande for hosting the delegation in spite of his busy schedule.

“I want to thank you on behalf of all members of the association for honouring us inspite of the short notice.

“We really appreciate this and wish you best of luck in all that you desire.

“We appreciate your pledge to support the association and we promise to maintain our integrity. We also promise to promote sports positively in the state and beyond,” Alebiosu said.

• Carl Ikeme

Ikeme congratulates Wolves for EPL promotion

R

ecuperating Nigerian and Wolverhampton Wanderers goalkeeper, Carl Ikeme, has congratulated his club teammates for their qualification back to the English Premier League (EPL).

The Nigerian international, who was diagnosed of acute Leukemia last year, said his teammates stood focused on their dream to get back to the EPL, saying unity deserved credit.

Wanderers were relegated to the

English Championship in 2012, but would be competing in the elite division after six years in the lower tier.

Ikeme played no part in the team’s promotion back to the elite division due to health challenges that has kept him up till now, having been diagnosed with an acute Leukemia, but was full of praise for Nuno Espirito Santos’ side.

“Congratulations to everyone involved with our great club. The

hard work, loyalty and togetherness is something to savour,” Ikeme wrote on his Instagram page.

Wolves defeated Birmingham City 2-0 to move 12 points clear of second placed Cardiff who has a game in hand.

Wolves have 95 points from 43 games and will seal their promotion if they get at least a point in their next game against Bolton Wanderers on Saturday.

Joel Obi confident of being in Eagles World Cup squad

Bolt to MLS Teams, ‘Bring the Big Contracts’

U

• Joel Obi in action for Torino

N • Prof. Adeolu Akande

he Federal Government has rewarded Team Nigerian athletes and officials who won medals at the just concluded XXI edition of the Commonwealth Games with various cash rewards. Athletes were rewarded according to the colour of medal they won at the Games.

Athletes who won gold for the country were made to smile home with $5000 each and the sports that athletes won gold for the country include wrestling and athletics, while silver medallists were rewarded with a cash prize of $3000 and bronze medallists were rewarded for their effort with $2000. The athletes who were rewarded made their cash through athletics, wrestling, Para-athletics and Para-table tennis, while the relay teams got $900 and $7000 for picking silver and bronze.

According to the Sports and Youth Development Minister, Solomon Dalung, the winning of 9gold, 9silver and 6bronze medals totaling 24 medals was better than what the country achieved in Glasgow 2014, taking in consideration the size of the contingent and number of sports competed in and how much money was voted for the Games.

igeria and Torino midfielder, Joel Obi, has set his sights on being at the World Cup this summer with Nigeria.

The 26-year-old was omitted from the last tournament in Brazil, but took a step closer to realising that ambition last month by playing in the Super Eagles two friendlies.

Obi, currently on an injury- free run with Italian side Torino, has scored six goals in 24 appearances this season and is keen to continue

that consistency run for his country. “I’ve had a period when injury robbed me of playing for my country but with Russia in mind, it would just be unbelievable to finally be playing at a major tournament for Nigeria.

“This big tournament is the ultimate ambition of every professional footballer and I hope to work harder to fulfill that dream,” Obi, who made his Nigeria return last month after a four-year absence, told BBC Sport.

“I was heartbroken for missing the World Cup in Brazil, but I now have another big opportunity four years later. “Coach (Gernot) Rohr has made it clear that everyone must earn their place in the team.

“That’s equally encouraging and challenging, so I’m looking forward to the competition for a spot.”

Regarded as one of Nigeria’s finest creative midfielders, Obi started his career at Italian giants, Inter Milan – where he rose from the youth set-up to the first team in 2010.

sain Bolt says he is not ruling out the MLS for his budding pro soccer career - IF their squads show him the money!!

FYI, Bolt’s been seriously pursuing footy since he retired from the track last year. Most recently, he was out tearin’ up the pitch with Bundesliga’s Borussia Dortmund ... and Manchester United is his dream team.

But when we got the World’s Fastest Man at LAX, we had to ask if MLS teams like the L.A. Galaxy even had a shot.

Bolt’s response -- “Bring the big contracts!”

Guessing MLS can’t offer Premier League money ... but there are other perks that come with playing in L.A. (right, Zlatan Ibrahimovic?).

Bonus: We also asked Usain if he would consider the 2020 Olympics if the whole soccer thing doesn’t pan out ... and he let us know.

47

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IPOB doesn’t bomb bridges Y

ou are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a basket. Instead, they set it on a lampstand, and it gives light to everyone in the house…Matthew 5: 14

Why are soldiers guarding the ‘ongoing’ Second Niger Bridge project? Why are people not allowed to see or even go near the construction site, not to talk of photographing it? Does government have anything to hide about the project? Or is there a connection between the sighting of the bridge and the possibility of it being bombed by IPOB? But, IPOB does not bomb bridges; in fact, it is public knowledge that the group neither shoots at nor bombs anybody or anything.

So, whom is the government hiding the bridge from, and for what reason?

The first time we wanted to do a story on the controversial bridge project, we ran into this same problem: we were barred from going near the project site. Coming from Awka Road, Onitsha, Editor-in-Chief, Ikeddy Isiguzo and myself had driven through the Niger Bridge Roundabout on to Atani Road. Less than one kilometre or so down the road, we veered off into Harbour Industrial Layout road. Soon we were driving through an undulating dirt road towards the Niger Riverside.

As we drove by, we noticed that not-toofriendly eyes were trained on our every movement as we meandered through the dirt road. I was driving. Along the line, piles and piles of rods, poles and sand came into view, prompting Isiguzo to start photographs from inside the delivery off-roader we were driving in. ‘Wow, these guys had actually mobilized to site before the previous government fell, we muttered to each other as Isiguzo clicked away. In excitement, we pulled up near one of the piles of work materials so we could get a better view of the materials for the camera. And that was our mistake.

Soon, a young man walked up to us. Thankfully, he was not the roughneck type and so wasn’t in the mood for violence or even harsh words. Politely, he asked us to leave, saying we were not allowed to take photographs. If we wanted to tour the area and take photographs, we should go to Julius Berger Yard at Bridgehead and get permission, he advised.

Since he didn’t ask us to delete the photos we had taken, we decided to make do with what he had. As it turned out, Julius Berger, Onitsha would not entertain any inquiries from us but we were ok already.

On the other side of the river, our Asaba Correspondent, Jonathan Awanyai was encountering similar problems. Soldiers were guarding that side and would not allow him or anyone else to come near the project site.

However, we were to engage a clever Delta boy, who managed to get photographs of the works already done by the previous administration before it lost power to the current one (see illustration photographs). That was in October last year.

Now, to the extent that the contractors had moved out of site following the electoral defeat of Jonathan’s PDP government and there was need to secure the already procured but not utilized building materials, I thought it made a lot of sense to guard the project sites as tightly as we saw them guarded last year. But, with the contractors reportedly back to site and working at break-neck speed at the behest of the Buhari Administration presumably desirous to finally build the all-important, over-politicised bridge,

Eastside From the

By Felix Oguejiofor Abugu Phone: 08076290498 (SMS only)

•Materials ready for 2nd Niger Bridge project as of June 2015 when work was stopped at the site

why is work on the Second Niger Bridge still masked in secrecy?

A recent official release said the bridge is up to 45 per cent completed. But rather than excite the populace, the ‘revelation’ has become a subject of scintillating controversy.

If a bridge that is expected to stretch up to 44km at completion is nearly 50 per cent completed, it is only reasonable to expect that the concrete structure would at least be visible. But, the ‘revelation’ has become controversial because many doubt that the project is actually going on. As the Igbo say, nobody hides a good thing, a saying that the Biblical verse above corroborates. For, a thing of beauty is to be beheld not hidden away from the eyes. Otherwise, it loses its essence. So, why is the public barred from seeing the bridge as its construction progresses?

The project has also become controversial because it is not clear under what arrangement the current administration is executing it. Is it being executed under the original PPP arrangement made by Jonathan, or is it now fully funded by government?

The Second Niger Bridge project started under Jonathan. A lot of work had been done and actual construction started with 2015 announced as completion date. But, the Muhammadu Buhari administration stopped the contract when it came to power, explaining that it needed to review the contractual processes.

According to the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA), the project which Julius Berger Nigeria Plc-NSIA Motorway Investment Company Ltd (JB-NMIC) Consortium was handling, was estimated to cost $700

million or N108 billion at the then exchange rate of N154/$). NMIC is a subsidiary of NSIA. It comprises phases 1, 2a and 2b and includes a southern bypass at both Asaba and Onitsha cities with an approximate total length of 44km.

The phase 1 of the project, which is the bridge and adjacent roads, is approximately 11.9 kilometres and was to be constructed and operated under a Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) basis under a Public Private Partnership (PPP) scheme.

The bridge will comprise a 3.31 kilometre-long road section on the Delta side, including a 500 metre-long toll plaza; a 1.59-kilometre tolled concrete box-girder bridge with two superstructures and a 7-kilometre-long road section on the Anambra side.

It was expected that the project would be completed and delivered in 48 months. And when completed, the bridge and approach roads would have six lanes with three in each direction. Phase 2a is connected to the Asaba-Benin Expressway while Phase 2b is connected to the Onitsha-Enugu Expressway.

Phases 2a and 2b together constitute the feeding approach roads.

Out of the N108 billion project cost, the federal government was to contribute N30 billion or 28 per cent of the total cost. The JBINMIC consortium would raise the remaining funds for the construction, operation and maintenance of the bridge and adjacent roads of Phase 1 under a 25-year concession.

The Jonathan Administration contributed N18.31billion out of the federal government’s N30billion commitment, comprising N8.464b from SURE-P budget in August 2014

for early works II and a further $50million (about N9.8b) from its Eurobond loan for the execution of early works III. At the flag-off of the APC governorship campaign in Onitsha on October 20 last year, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, announced that the federal government had paid contractors N2b apparently to return to site. The announcement came against the backdrop of an earlier disclosure by a Member of the House of Representatives Abdulrazak Namdas that not one kobo of the N12 billion allocated to the bridge project in the 2016 budget was spent.

So, under what arrangement is the government now building the bridge, if it is, in reality, building the bridge? Even yesterday, so to speak, The Oracle Today’s reportorial team drove round town and what we managed to see (meshes of steel being prepared for the bridge columns et al) was certainly nothing near the 45 per cent-completed project with accompanying photographs, that is being peddled on social media as evidence of Buhari’s execution of the Second Niger Bridge project, “which Jonathan could not execute.” In any case, what does N2b amount to in a project of N108b (2012 projections)?

It is instructive that the 46 per cent-completed hoax is actively promoted by South East politicians. Reacting to President Buhari’s declaration of intent to run for a second term in next year’s election, APC deputy governorship candidate in last November 28th Anambra State governorship election, Mr Dozie Ikedife (Jr.) assured that the Igbo would vote for Buhari “considering what he has done for them and what he will still do to show that he cares for them in his three and half-year administration, and beyond.”

“The issue of 2nd Niger Bridge has become a reality under Buhari’s watch, which could not be achieved by past administrations before Buhari came to power…” he stressed, adding: “We have to see politics as a transaction devoid of sentiments. If you go to a market and see what you want to buy, you have the choice to buy it not minding the seller’s colour (complexion), religion or creed. I expect Ndigbo to support Buhari in his second term bid because it will not pay us any useful dividend to continue to play politics with sentiments. We really have to see politics as a transaction.”

So, it’s all about ‘transaction’, political pragmatism ala Dr. Dozie Ikedife’s failed deputy governorship candidate son? The argument would cohere to the time-worn saying that the end justifies the means. To get what you want, or what you think you want and which is good for “your people”, it doesn’t really matter if you tell them lies, if you deceive them. And deceit is exactly what the government appears to be dishing out to the people of the South East through its low-grade APC politicians in the zone, as Buhari works on the minds of Ndigbo in preparation for 2019.

How convenient! Truth is that the Second Niger Bridge is not being built. There is no evidence that it is—in the true sense of it. Neither is there any evidence that the government has reviewed the processes leading to the award of the contract for the bridge, as it promised it would when it came to power in 2015. So, under what arrangement is the government supposedly building the bridge?

However, let this be known to the Ikedifes and Co of this world: in the case of the Second Niger Bridge, a lie told many times can never become truth!

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.