Wednesday april 4, 2018 edition

The

VOX POPULI SACRUM

racle

Today

www.oraclenews.ng

WEDNESDAY April 4, 2018

ISSN: 2545-5869

VOL.3 No.13 N200

Cultism – Bayelsa cuts head to cure headache

A

NGER is at the centre of the amended anti-cultism law of the Bayelsa State Government. We dare say that a law that is made in anger is more of an expression of frustration than an effort to deal with the challenge. The provisions already show.

CULTISM is a challenge. It is trouble for everyone in Bayelsa. Other States have challenges with cultism. Bayelsa’s seem unique from

THE ORACLE COMMENT

various accounts and it is the considered reason for the stringent provisions of the law.

IN Bayelsa, cultism is incrementally violent. It is becoming a major profession for the young and old. It is becoming a tradition and the rea-

sons for people joining them vary, just as people are different.

AMONG the major causes of cultism are high unemployment, government’s inability to protect people, contests for power that dovetail into illegal means like thuggery, oil

businesses and their compromising fractionalisation of peoples and properties, and evident prosperity of those who become cultists.

THE successful ones are the toast of society. They are welcome at

events as kings. In most cases, their presence guarantees security at events. Politicians, even the security agencies, court cultists. They believe that their work would be easier if they have them on their sides.

CULTISM is not new. The solutions to it have either been bans or heavy sentences. None has worked. “Se-

Danjuma fires gun debate

Cont’d on page 24

• Situation justifies gun ownership • Firearms Prohibition Act too narrow • Fire arms liberalisation may lead to anarchy • We can’t provide security for all schools – Army From VICTOR NZE, Lagos; COLLINS UGHALAA, Owerri; BONIFACE OKORO, Umuahia; CHUKS EZE, Enugu; CHRISTAIN EZE, Yenagoa; CHUKS COLLINS, Awka; THEO RAYS and IBE NWACHUKWU, Onitsha;

I • Gen. Danjuma

• President Buhari

IPOB not illegal – FG Witness

T

RIALS of the for detained members of Indigenous People of Biafra, began before Justice Binta Nyako’s court in Abuja on Thursday 22 March 2018, with a DSS officer identified as AB, to hide his identity, as directed by the presiding judge, who said he “investigated” Bright Chimezie, one of the defendants, after he

Page 41

was arrested by the DSS at Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, admitting that IPOB was not an illegal organisation at the time of the arrest.

Led in evidence by prosecution counsel, the witness also testified that Mr. Chimezie was an IPOB ‘Welfare Officer in charge of giving money donated by IPOB members to assist widows IPOB mem-

bers killed by security agents during their demonstrations on self determination’.

The Witness further testified that Mr. Chimezie was the one who took delivery of the container bearing the transmitter the government had alleged IPOB intended to use to broadcast its ‘message of self determination in

Cont’d on page 2

f there is anything Lt. Gen. T. Y Danjuma’s recent riposte on the precarious security situation in the country has achieved, it is to have rekindled the agelong debate on the merits or otherwise of liberalizing gun control in Nigeria to allow citizens easier access to guns so they can defend themselves when the need arises.

Already under pressure to condemn unprovoked attacks by herdsmen on communities across the country, including his native Taraba State where many have died or sustained serious injuries in deadly attacks by herdsmen, Danjuma, a former Chief of Army Staff practically broke loose when, speaking last Saturday at the maiden convocation of Taraba State University, he said: “You must rise to protect yourselves from these people. If you depend on the

Cont’d on page 2

Decline alarms Northern leaders

2

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 4, 2018

NEWS

Danjuma sparks gun debate Continued from Pg 1 armed forces to protect you, you will all die. This ethnic creasing must stop in Taraba, and it must stop in Nigeria. These killers have been protected by the military; they (military) cover them and you must be watchful to guide and protect yourselves because you have no other place to go. The ethnic cleansing must stop now otherwise Somalia will be a child’s play. I ask all of you to be on your alert and defend your country, defend your state.”

General Danjuma’s ‘call to arms’ has been eliciting mixed reactions since then, with many accusing him of recklessness while many others have commended his courage in calling ‘spade a spade.’

But, while the argument about the merits and demerits of Danjuma’s ‘outburst’ rages, what is clear is that it has brought to the fore once again the need or lack thereof of liberalizing ownership of firearms so that more citizens may have access to firearms with which to defend themselves against attacks such as are being perpetrated

at the moment by herdsmen.

The call for liberalization of gun control gained traction in the eighties and nineties at the height of armed robbery attacks in homes and on highways.

Then, as it is now, security agents proved ineffective against the better-armed daredevil robbers who would even write their victims to prepare and wait for them before they attacked.

In those days, there were also calls for Nigerians to be allowed to own firearms in the belief that robbers, knowing that their potential victims could call their bluff, would think twice before carrying out daredevil attacks.

Although Danjuma’s statement was dictated by his frustration at the killings going in parts of the country unchecked, it has given a new fillip to the gun control debate, especially given the calibre of the person who called on Nigerians to defend themselves against further attacks by herdsmen.

Is it, then, a better option: that Nigerians, in the face of seeming failure of the security agents to defend

them should defend themselves?

While many have identified self-defence as a natural thing to do in the event the need arises, the question: how will citizens defend themselves armed militia when they (citizens) are largely unarmed?

Should then be armed?

A chieftain of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Chief George Nkwoji, in a chat with The Oracle Today in Owerri Danjuma’s call for self-defence is justified considering that the federal government has put Nigeria on the firing line, stressing that with the menace of herdsmen in the country the government has lost the moral justification to regulate gun control.

“The situation in the country therefore justifies the urgency to liberalise gun control. In the real sense of it, government has shown by its actions and inactions on the herdsmen menace that it does not exist. This being the case, no authority has moral justifications to regulate gun ownership,” he contended, stressing: “I don’t have any doubts in my mind that Danjuma’s calls for

self-defence has a legitimate justification by the principles of necessity since the federal government has put Nigerians on the firing line.”

Rising in defence of Danjuma, the Taraba State government Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to Governor Darius Ishaku of Tararba State, Emmanuel Bello described Danjuma’s statement as a “damning verdict,” stressing that the onus now lies on the Nigerian military to “either look into this profound accusation or not.”

“For clarity, the venerable General is from Taraba state and from Takum local government to be precise. This global citizen has a village and all politics is local. It is Takum that shaped his worldview and donated him to the rest of humanity. And anyone even listening to anything knows that Takum lately has become the epicentre of the Taraba’s bitter experience with killer herdsmen.

“Apart from the horrors of recently losing a member of the House of Assembly in this town, several attacks have made Takum the “wild wild west” of Taraba. And nothing could be more surprising other that

IPOB not illegal – FG Witness Cont’d from Pg 1 Nigeria’.

Upon further cross examination, the DSS witness also admitted that he did not travel to Uyo to find out why Mr. Chimezie was arrested and that he did not travel to the Lagos Wharf to investigate whether the ‘Container was cleared or smuggled’. Informed by counsel that the Container was not smuggled but properly cleared, the Witness answered that he did not know and that he was just stating what he was told by ‘the team of DSS investigators’.

Further, the Witness admitted that he did not see any Bill of Lading showing that it was IPOB that imported the Container at issue.

Asked to explain what he really did as an ‘investigator’ when he didn’t visit the scenes of the alleged offence, the DSS officer stated that the only thing he did was to take the Written Statement of Bright Chimezie and endorsed it.

Meanwhile, it has emerged that defence counsels have filed a Notice of Preliminary Objection challenging jurisdiction and praying the court to strike the charge of ‘Treasonable Felony’ against the defendants on the grounds that ‘agitating for self-determination or secession is not a crime known to any Nigerian Law’. In the Motion, counsels argued that ‘the allegation that defendants were making preparations to secede is not one of the FOUR offences defined as a treasonable felony under Section 41 of the Criminal Code’. The Section provides as follows: “Any person who forms an intention to effect any of the following purposes, that is to say(a) to remove during his term of office otherwise than by constitutional means the President as Head of State of the Federation and Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces thereof; or (b) to likewise remove during his

• Director of Strategy, Lagos Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Dr. Vincent Nwani delivering his speech at the 3rd Onitsha Business School National Breakfast Meeting on current economy indications and prospect

term of office the Governor of a State; or (c) to levy war against Nigeria in order by force or constraint to compel the President to change his measures or counsels, or in order to put any force or constraint upon, or in order to intimidate or overawe any House of the National Assembly or any other Legislature or legislative authority; or (d) to instigate any foreigner to make any armed invasion of Nigeria or of any of the territories thereof; and manifests such intention by an overt act, is guilty of a felony and is liable to imprisonment for life”.

On the basis of the above provisions, defence counsels have contended in their Motion that ‘preparations to secede’ is not an ‘offence captured under any of the four offences named at Section 41 of the Criminal Code that should sustain the Charge of conspiracy to secede for which the defendants were charged under Section 516 of the Criminal Code’.

It will be recalled that Mazi Nnamdi Kanu was also charged for the same offence that defence counsels

have now challenged as not being an offence in Nigeria.

In view of this new and surprising development, the court adjourned the trial to 1 May 2018; and scheduled a hearing on the Motion challenging its jurisdiction as well as the applications for bail on March 28, 2018.

What follows is the transcript of government witness statement under oath in the court of Justice Binta Nyako.

Transcript of Testimony of PW1, DSS Officer, Emmanuel Isaac, aka AB (As Recorded suo sponte by Aloy Ejimakor) Prelude: On the cue of Prosecution Counsel (LABARAN) on Direct, Witness AB identified Bright Chimezie and Onwudiwe by name, but stated that it’s only Chimezie he ‘has something to say about, not Onwudiwe’.

DIRECT EXAMINATION BY LABARAN, Esq BEGINS...

In November 2016, can you tell the court where you were posted?

Answer (Ans). I was at the Depart-

ment of investigations, headquarters, SSS, Abuja.

Tell court how you met first Defendant (Bright Chimezie)?

I met him on 25th November 2016 when he was brought to my department. My head of department directed me to interview him and then I took him to my office, which I share with other officers. When we got to my office, I offered him a seat and we had a little interaction.

And in the course of the interaction, I asked him why he was arrested. He told me voluntarily the reason why he was arrested and where he was arrested.

After interaction, what followed?

I asked if he can write what he told me out of his own accord. During that interaction, before then I told him that you are here and nobody will force you. I cautioned him that nobody is forcing you, but if you tell me anything voluntarily, it will be used against you in court.

What happened after?

Cont’d on page 41

Takum has a barrack – a military barrack the venerable general attracted to the area years back with the hope that it would address security challenges. But Takum has since become a scary place to live and work as I write this. Only the youths keep watch over defenceless people there,” Bello said.

“Now, Governor Darius Ishaku is also from Takum. He has been very vocal about the fact his place is not safe and has openly called for the removal of the CO of the said barracks. Actually, Governor Darius has continuously maintained that he can’t guarantee anyone’s safety in the state since the security agents don’t take any orders from him,” Bello added.

According to Barr. Ebi Beredugo, who spoke with The Oracle Today in Yenagoa the Firearms Prohibition Act allows licensed individuals in Nigeria to carry firearms limited to double barrel only for purposes of hunting.

However, “if it interpreted in another way, one has a right to protect oneself. For instance, if one has an armed robber coming into one’s house or somebody coming to burn one’s house, one is allowed by the law to protect oneself.

“But the level we are supposed to move into in line with developments, in line with keeping pace with what is in the world is for us to liberalize the possession of firearms, not just for hunting but for personal protection. So, when we move to that level, what we should be looking at is what categories of persons that can be legally allowed to protect themselves or have firearms in their possession or in their houses.

“So the government is now saddled with the responsibility of controlling which is back to where we are coming from the possession of these firearms by saying, or the government can even come up with the position by saying before we allow you to keep firearms in your house for your protection, you have to go through psychiatric test, which is what America and the rest of the world are not doing. But nothing stops us from moving forward.”

The founder and Bishop of Tree of Life Gospel Ministry lncorporated (a Sabbath Church) Rt. Rev Jerry Dada Obi has lent his voice to the call made by former Minister of Defence General TY Danjuma on Nigerians to defend themselves against killer herdsmen visiting mayhem on communities across the country, saying, however, the key to self-defence is for the people to retrace their steps from serving in man-made forms and be original with God. “God is the chief security officer of mankind and thus he is capable of defending individuals and communities at all levels in so far as we are in good terms with Him. So, where government appears incapacitated to provide security for the inhabitants, people should endeavour to be close to God by serving God according to laid-down laws and traditions,” he said While dismissing the idea of government liberalizing policies to make guns accessible to the citizens, saying if such a policy is contemplated, President Buhari’s government would never grant it, a social critic and former Deputy National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Comrade Abia Onyike, however agrees with General Danjuma and urges Nigerians to devise necessary means to defend themselves.

“And so, I think what General Dan-

Cont’d on page 41

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 4, 2018

3

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 4, 2018

4

5

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 4, 2018

NEWS ACROSS THE NATION

Aviation security operatives to carry arms

By VICTOR NZE

M

inister of State for Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika has disclosed that aviation security (AVSEC) personnel across the country’s airports will soon be licensed to carry arms in order to complement other agencies towards combating threats.

A statement by General Manager, Corporate Affairs of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs Henrietta Yakubu quoted Sirika as stating this in Katsina during the 2018 AVSEC retreat.

According to the minister, who was represented by the Rector Nigerian College of Aviation Technology NCAT Zaria Capt Mohammed Abdulsalami, arming AVSEC will ensure proper policing of the sector by its personnel saying it was part of efforts by the President Buhari administration to give the country dividends of democracy.

Sirika further disclosed that discussion was at its final stage for approval, as he added that it will further strengthen the integrity of the airports in view of the growing threats to the aviation industry.

“The Federal government approved for AVSEC to bear arms which is a notable achievement in this administration’s effort at improving the general safety of its citizenry and passengers passing through our airports,” he said.

He said rebranding of AVSEC was important in the building brand identity and creating a recognisable corporate identity for officers with the aim of making them much more professional and customer friendly to meet up with the initiative of the Ease of Doing Business.

Sirika said most countries have shown keen interest in the country’s growing and expanding aviation industry stressing that aviation security was seen as a pivotal tool to sustaining safety in all the airports which remained a model to the integrity of the nation.

E

By VICTOR NZE

T

he Oyo State Government has offered free screening and treatment in all the health facilities across the state for individuals with persistent cough suspected to be Tuberculosis (TB).

State Commissioner for Health, Dr Azeez Adeduntan stated this at the weekend in Ibadan in his address to commemorate the 2018 World Tuberculosis Day, with the theme “Find and notify all TB cases in Nigeria” and the slogan “Wanted: Leaders for a TB free world”.

Azeez said that the free screening and treatment initiative of the Governnor Abiola Ajimobi administration is to reduce the spread of TB in the society, noting that all health facilities in the 33 Local Government Areas and 35 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) have been mandated and mobilised to effectively carry out TB screening and treatment.

The commissioner enjoined any individual with persistent coughing to visit health facilities for check-up, explaining that the most common symptom of Tuberculosis is persistent cough lasting 2 weeks or more which is accompanied by fever, night sweat, weight loss, chest pain, loss of appetite, coughing up of blood mixed with sputum and tiredness while the spread of TB could be attributed to living in an overcrowded environments, poor hygienic conditions, indiscriminate spitting of sputum and poor cough etiquette, malnutrition, HIV/AIDS, Diabetes mellitus and smoking.

He said that every March 24th of every year was set aside by the World Health Organization since 1882 as the World Tuberculosis Day when Dr. Robert kochs announced the discovery of the germ mycobacterium tuberculosis that causes tuberculosis disease, stressing that TB is a contagious disease that affect all ages and kills nearly 5000 people every day worldwide due to lack of access to treatment.

Adeduntan added that over 10.4 million people had TB death in 2017 and there were 1.8 million TB deaths in • From left Oyo State Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, Thailand Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Wattana Kunwongse 2016 making it the top infectious killer and the Chairman, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Col. Muhammad Abdallah (retd), discussing disease Worldwide, saying “‘’Nigeria now ranks 5th among the 22 Countries during the NDLEA boss and the envoy paid a courtesy visit to the Governor, in his office, in Ibadan. of the world with highest TB burden coming up from previous 4th position in 2010.

This is the result of scale up and expansion of TB treatment centre as an implementation strategy across all states in Nigeria”.

He allayed the fears that Individuals suffering from TB need not be isolated once they are on treatment but should students offering Master’s Degree in The Commissioner stated that be encouraged by the community to Nigeria will receive N250,000.

Governor Ayo Fayose had earlier attend clinic regularly, as tuberculo17 Overseas Master’s Degree stu- disbursed the outstanding 2012/2013 sis can be completely cured provided dents will also get NN500, 000 each, bursary awards in four tranches to the treatment started early and drugs while 160 PhD Students (Nigeria) will 7,070 students at the rate of N10,000 are taken regularly for the stipulated receive N750,000. per student which amounted to N70 length of time required.

The Commissioner disclosed that million.

The Commissioner reiterated on the Governor Fayose approved the disHe stressed that Ajayi Yemisi Caroneed to create a neat and healthier enbursement of scholarship and bur- line of the Federal Polytechnic, Ado vironment in the state, saying that the sary awards to the qualified students Ekiti was schemed for Federal scholstate government will continue to priin the state after verification, adding arship for two years at N100,000 per oritise cleanliness of its environment. that payment will be made into veri- session while Ala Oluwapelumi AdeAdeduntan acknowledged the unfied bank accounts of beneficiaries, bayo, the best candidate in NECO flinching support of the Damien Founto avoid manipulation.

Examination in 2015/2016 was given dation Belgium to the state on TB He said that the disbursement will entrenched Scholarship Award at control programme, saying that the be in tranches. the University of Ibadan to study foundation has contributed immense“The first tranche is scholarship for Surgery at N850,000 per session and ly to infrastructural and capacity devel450 undergraduate and 15 physically Adedipe Oluwatosin of the Sheppard opments across the State. challenged students. The disburse- Group of Schools was given N2.5 milHe also commended religious and ment to their banks would com- lion Scholarship Award for excellent occupational groups, civil society ormence on today, 21st March, 2018. performance. ganizations and the media houses for “Other tranches would follow as The Commissioner implored the the tremendous improvements and soon as the disbursement is complet- beneficiaries to use the money judisupport for the TB control programme. ed”, Egunjobi said. ciously.

• Fayose

The Minister noted that the United Nations decision to establish two aviation security training colleges in the country was another notable achievement of the present administration.

According to him, this was aimed at assisting not only in the war against terrorism but to provide a special class of professionally trained AVSEC unit through the training of 30 selected aviation security master trainers who will in turn train others.

In his good will message, Managing Director of FAAN Engr. Saleh Dunoma said FAAN was investing in aviation to create enabling environment that will encourage efficiency in tackling emerging security threats to civil aviation.

Dunoma explained that FAAN recently procured 10 additional patrol vehicles to boost the current fleet of vehicles for effective coverage and patrol while additional screen-

ing machines were being procured and old ones being replaced.

The FAAN chief explained that the agency successfully recruited and trained over 230 AVSEC officers adding that the management and the Minister was poised to equip the AVSEC directorate to enable them discharge their responsibility effectively and efficiently.

He expressed optimism that the retreat will renew determination, commitment and zeal to achieve the onerous task of enhancing the security of the travelling public while protecting the facilities that government has invested huge funds to provide for comfort.

On his part, Director, Security Services FAAN, Capt. U.S.A Sadiq noted that the industry was at a critical juncture in global aviation where terrorism was assuming a new dimension adding that aviation security remained the pivotal in the actualization of a safe and secured

aviation industry in the war against terrorism.

Capt Sadiq stressed the need to close the gap created by the anomaly to adequately deploy all physical and material resources to augment in areas of lapses, further noting that securing the airport with CCTV cameras and detecting equipment will enhance the function of AVSEC. Remarking, President of Port Harcourt Chambers of Commerce, Mines and Industry, Mr Emi Membere-Otaji, said that the business community is pleased by the innovations that have eliminated multiple taxations.

Spokesman of Heritage Bank, Mr F.B Briggs assured the State Government that banks will cooperate to ensure that the programme succeeds.

Highpoint of the occasion was the presentation of RIVTIN to Wike and selected commissioners and Special Advisers.

Bursary/Scholarship: Fayose approves N253.6m for 3,516 Ekiti students kiti State Governor, Mr Ayodele Fayose has approved N253.6 million for 2017/2018 Bursary and Scholarship awards to qualified students in the state, with 871 students getting scholarship award ranging from N60,000 to N1.5 million while 2,645 got bursary award ranging from N10,000 to N150,000.

30 Overseas PhD Students will get N1,500,000 each as scholarship amounting to N45 million, 184 Law Students will receive N150,000 each as Bursary, amounting to N27.6 million while 450 undergraduate students will get N60,000 each as scholarship, amounting to N27 million.

State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Jide Egunjobi, who made this known in a statement issued in Ado Ekiti, Wednesday, explained that 15 Physically Challenged students will get N60,000 as scholarship while 198

Oyo offers free tuberculosis screening for residents

6

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 4, 2018

NEWS ACROSS THE NATION Ojoto agog for Igwe Mbamalu’s coronation

By THEO RAYS

T

O the people of Ojoto in Idemili South Local Area of Anambra State, it is a double celebrations as they engage in two monumental functions, the Easter celebration and the coronation of the traditional ruler of the community, His Royal Highness Igwe Gerald Mbamalu as the Eze Oranyelu of Ojoto at the same time.

Igwe Mbamalu who has been duly recognized and certified as the traditional ruler of Ojoto by Governor Willie Obiano is going to be coronated according to the tradition of Ojoto on Easter Sunday.

To the people of Ojoto, it is a moment of glory and all roads lead to Eke Square where the coronation is going to take place.

The Oracle Today correspondent who visited Ojoto reports that the people are in high spirits ahead of the occasion.

Some residents who spoke to The Oracle Today expressed excitement even as the commended Governor Willie Obiano for recognizing Mbamalu as their ruler after a prostrated battle for the Igweship stool with Denis Okafor.

A resident and stakeholder in the community told The Oracle Today that the people of Ojoto are grateful to Governor Obiano for taking the right step at the right time to recognize Mbamalu, noting that new Igwe’s enthronement represents a new dawn for the Ojoto community.

He said: “I am sure you know the story, Mbamalu and Denis Okafor were entangled in the battle for the Igwe stool following the exist of Igwe Augustine Obidiwe but after studying the situation Governor Obiano saw that Mbamalu was the one chosen by us as the people of Ojoto to be our traditional ruler and gave him the certificate of recognition “So we are very grateful to the Governor because of this wonderful gesture and intervention, I can tell that everybody is happy, Ojoto is calm and peaceful and we are looking forward to the coronation on Easter so that our new king will address us on what he has in the kitty for us.

• Igwe Gerald Mbamalu

Lagos Govt closes roads for Buhari’s visit, Thursday

L

agos State Government has declared Thursday, March 29, a work free day in the state ahead of President Muhammadu Buhari ‘s two-day visit to the state.

A statement by Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Kehinde Bamigbetan, Tuesday, said the declaration was to enable residents to come out en masse to welcome President Buhari during the visit.

Bamigbetan urged residents to adhere to the security guidance earlier announced to make the visit peaceful and orderly.

Earlier, Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Imohimi Edgal, said there would be temporary road clo-

sure and diversions in some areas.

Edgal who made the announcement at a news conference to update the public on security plans for the President’s visit, said that President Buhari would be in Lagos on a twoday official visit on Thursday, March 29 and Friday, March 30.

The police commissioner said that President Buhari would be attending a colloquium marking the 66th Birthday of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu at Victoria Island, and also be at the official flagoff ceremony for the construction of the Lekki Deep Sea Port Project in Epe. Edgal said the president would also tour the Eko Atlantic City and inaugu-

rate the Ikeja Bus Terminal, among other engagements. ”The temporary road closure and diversions would be within Ikeja, Maryland, Agege Motor Road, Victoria Island and Ikoyi axis. ”Security engagements are in top gear, as we are working with the Federal Road Safety Corps, Nigerian Navy, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) and the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA). ”We have done threat assessment and engaged all stakeholders such as the National Union of Road Transport Workers and commercial bike riders.

We are appealing that they abide by our agreement at the meeting. ”This is to ensure that Mr President’s visit to Lagos is smooth, safe and hitch-free, ” he said The commissioner expressed deep regret for any inconveniences, saying the listed roads to be closed to traffic would be reopened immediately after the President’s motorcade passes.

He advised motorists, commercial bus operators and commercial motorcycle riders to observe road diversions or use alternative routes.

Edgal appealed to residents to cooperate with security agencies during the period of the visit.

INEC ends first quarter CVR

T

• Master Chukwuemeka receiving measles vaccination at the Olatilewa Street, Lawanson area of the state during the ongoing Lagos State 2018 Mass Measles Campaign Photo: NAN

FRSC mobilises formations for 2018 Easter Special Patrol

T

he Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) says it has mobilised all its field and sector commands for the nationwide 2018 Easter Special Patrol operations.

The exercise, according to the Corps Public Education Officer, Mr Bisi Kazeem, is scheduled to run from March 28 to April 3 with focus on 39 corridors across the country.

Kazeem in Abuja, Monday, that the special operation was aimed at drastic reduction in road traffic accidents and attendant deaths, among other objectives.

“The public holiday expected to be declared by the Federal Government will definitely cause an increase in vehicular movement across the nation’s highways. As such, it is expedient that the corps prepares ahead of time to curtail the situation in order to ensure smooth travel experience by motorists.

“The associated risks involved in upsurge of traffic are the occurrences road traffic crashes, road obstruction among others, which the corps must strategise to mitigate and we are doing that already.

“This falls in line with the 2018 corporate strategic goal of improved enforcement and rescue services to reduce road traffic crashes by 15 per cent and fatalities by 30 per cent. It is in view of the above that administrative

instructions have already been issued to guide field commands on the course of action for a hitch-free exercise.’’

Kazeem outlined other objectives of the exercise to include effective traffic management to ensure free traffic flow, high visibility of FRSC personnel on the highways and robust public enlightenment.

Others are: strict enforcement of traffic laws and regulations, prompt response to road traffic crashes, adequate supervision, surveillance and monitoring of commands’ activities.

The identified critical corridors, according to him, include: SokotoTambuwal-Jega-Birnin Kebbi, Maiduguri-Biu-Numan-Jalingo-Wukani, Abuja-Lokoja-Okene, Enugu-AbakalikiOgoja-Mfum, Ibadan-Ife-Akure-OwoIfon-Benin and Benin-Warri-Patani-Sagbama-Ahoada-Port Harcourt highways.

The FRSC spokesman said over 22 traffic gridlock areas had also been identified nationwide and adequate personnel deployed to ensure free flow of traffic.

He listed the areas as Asaba by Bridge Head, Upper Iweka Road in Onitsha, Ore by construction area, Gwagwalada by bridge in the FCT, Katsina Ala by bridge in Katsina, among others.

According to him, the Corps Marshal, Dr Boboye Oyeyemi, has instructed all field commands to deploy per-

sonnel alongside special marshals and other relevant stakeholders on all the designated corridors and areas.

Kazeem added that the 2018 Easter Special Patrol operation would also focus on critical traffic offences such as failure to install speed limiting device, overloading and lane violations. Others are: use of phone while driving, driving with expired or worn-out tyres, driving without spare tyres and traffic obstructions.

he Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has ended ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) for the first quarter in 2018, which began on January 8.

Head, Voter Education and Publicity at INEC in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mrs Ndidi Okarfor, said in Abuja, Tuesday, that the exercise ended for the quarter on March 22.

According to Okafor, the registration is programme quarterly.

“What the commission is set to do now is the display of preliminary voter register so that people can check their information and note the possible mistakes for correction.

“During this period, people who registered in the first quarter are required to check if their names are spelt correctly and their dates of birth and other information are properly captured.

“This is also the time to identify other irregularities borne out of double registration, capturing of non-Nigerians, among other things,’’ she said.

Okafor disclosed that the registration would resume immediately after the Easter break, on April 3.

WAEC registers 1.5m candidates for 2018 WASSCE

W

est African Examinations Council (WAEC) says it has registered 1.5 million students to write its 2018 West African Senior School Certificate Examinations (WASSCE).

Council’s Director of Public Affairs, Mr Damianus Ojijeogu, who disclosed this, Monday, in Lagos, said the council had concluded arrangements for the conduct of the examination for school candidates, popularly refers to as May/June WASSCE. “We have concluded all arrangements and deployed logistics in every part of the country for the

conduct of a hitch-free examination.

We have also taken cognisance of the upsurge of insecurity in some parts of the country. We are working in collaboration with the Federal Government and security agencies to ensure safe and conducive environments for the conduct of the examination.

“On our part, we will deploy professional examiners and supervisors that will protect the integrity of the examination,’’ he said.

According to him, the examinations will begin with the regular subjects on March 28.

The Oracle Today

7

Wednesday April 4, 2018

NEWS

Nigeria now completely directionless – Wike

R

IVERS State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has declared that Nigeria is now completely directionless, with the country permanently on a dangerous downward slide.

Swearing-in four judges of the Rivers State High Court and Customary Court of Appeal at the Government House Port Harcourt on Monday, Governor Wike regretted the politicization of governance process, which has entrenched despair across the country.

Governor Wike commended Elder Statesman, General Theophilus Danjuma for saying the obvious truth about the security architecture of the country.

He said that Rivers State secu-

rity has been deliberately compromised by security agencies who work with APC to undermine security of lives and property.

According to him, the recent deliberate crisis and threat to violence by the APC on the setting up of the Neighbourhood Safety Corps underscores the devilish schemes to promote insecurity in Rivers State.

“Nigeria has gotten to a point that we don’t know where we are heading. I don’t use to fast, but I will fast for God to keep General Danjuma. General Theophilus Danjuma has said the obvious truth. It is happening daily in Rivers State.

“We are setting up our Neighbourhood Safety Corps, but

they are generating crisis. We only replicated what is in existence in Lagos State, but nobody queries that of Lagos State.

Only recently, Nasarawa State launched her outfit, without being challenged “, Governor Wike said.

He berated the APC Federal Government for abandoning the solemn duty of protection of lives and property in pursuit

of 2019 re-election.

On the swearing-in of the judges, Governor Wike charged them to uphold the rule of law and be fearless in the dispensation of justice.

He urged the judges not to allow themselves to be intimidated by agents of the political class, adding that if they fail in their responsibilities, they will be called to account by God.

Governor Wike told the judges that they now have the opportunity to make the state a better place by enthroning justice. The Judges sworn-in by the Rivers State Governor include: Justice Godwin Ollor and Justice Uche K-Chuku of the Rivers State High Court and Justice Legor Senewo and Justice Frank Onyiri of the Rivers State Customary Court of Appeal.

Delta Govt establishes 290 centres for tuberculosis treatment

By JONATHAN AWANYAI, Asaba

T

HE Delta State Government has so far established over 290 centres in its health facilities across the state for the treatment of Tuberculosis (TB).

State Commissioner for Health, Dr Mordi Ononye, made this known during a state-wide broadcast as part of activities to celebrate the 2018 Tuberculosis Day in the State over the weekend.

Ononye said that other TB services readily available across the State under the Delta State TB Leprosy and Buruli Ulcer Control Centre were the 10 Gene-Xpert Centres and 80 Microscopy Centres for the diagnosis of Tuberculosis disease.

He said that efforts by government to arrest the disease were yet to yield the desired result, saying that majority of people had no awareness about the disease and its transmission, the mythical beliefs and exercise of faith while some patients refused to be treated even with financial encouragement from Partners, adding that they all hindered access to care.

According to Dr Ononye, Delta State was one of the 22 high burden States for Tuberculosis and Multi-Drug resistant Tuberculosis, stating that his Ministry had notified 2,258 new cases of TB in the year 2017, which he said represented only 14.2% of the expected notification but expressed dissatisfaction that the figure fell short of the estimated 16,000-plus cases of TB living with us.

To Control the diseases, the Commissioner said, ‘We need to find these infected unaccounted over 13,000 persons that show the symptoms and signs of cough lasting two weeks or more, which is the major sign and symptom of the disease with or without other accompanying signs like: fever, Night sweat, weight loss, loss of appetite, coughing of blood, chest pains.”

He added that over 200 cases of Multi-Drug Resistant Tuberculosis had been notified in the state till date.

Giving the Statistics of the disease Worldwide, he stated that there were three million TB patients undetected in 2016 world-

wide while 10.4 million new cases of TB were estimated to have occurred in the year 2017.

He added that the 2016 Global TB Report showed Nigeria had the highest TB burden (at least in terms of absolute numbers) in Africa and ranked fourth on the list of countries with TB. He further said that Nigeria was a high burden country for MultiDrug Resistant Tuberculosis and HIV and that in 2016, Nigeria notified less than 20 percent of the total TB cases estimated for the year, implying that there were many undetected TB cases in communities.

• Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike shaking hands with the President, State Customary of Appeal, Hon. Justice Christy Gabriel Nwankwo, while Chief Judge, Justice Adama Iyayi Lamikanra (l) and Secretary to the State Government Chief K.Kobani look during the swearing-in ceremony of four judges of the Rivers State High Court and Customary Court of Appeal at the Government House Port Harcourt, Monday.

Africare distributes insecticidal nets in ExxonMobil host communities

A

FRICARE, an international non-governmental organisation (NGO), has distributed 133, 131 insecticidal treated nets and other consumables to the people in the ExxonMobil host communities of Akwa Ibom and Rivers.

Africare Director, Malaria Programme, Dr Patrick Adah, disclosed this, Thursday in Eket Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom during a wind-up ceremony of its malaria prevention programme in the communities.

Adah said that since 2011, Africare had been working in collaboration with ExxonMobil on the project tagged: ‘Malaria Prevention in Mobil Producing Nigeria (MPN)supplier communities (MAPS-C).’

He said that the second phase of MAPS-C, which started in 2016, had ended this March 2018 and had reached 90,000 ExxonMobil vendors and family members with malaria prevention commodities.

Adah said that within the life span of the project, a total of 33, 173 rapid diagnostic tests were done and over 11, 280 pregnant women were given preventive treatment on malaria.

He said that the project had organised 142 malaria prevention outreaches in communities while a total of 295 seminars had been conducted for health workers in the state.

Adah said that the MAPS-C project was implemented in two communities of Eket and Ibeno in

Akwa Ibom and Bonny and Ogu/ Bolo in Rivers respectively.

He said that under Africare-ExxonMobil partnership, a new device for testing malaria in individuals called Deki Reader was introduced in the two states in 2016.

Adah thanked ExxonMobil, the Akwa Ibom government and the two local government areas for their cooperation during the execution of the malaria prevention project.

Speaking at the ceremony, the state’s Health Commissioner, Dr

Dominic Ukpong, lauded ExxonMobil and Africare for assisting in the prevention of malaria in Akwa Ibom.

Ukpong, who was represented by the Public Health Director, State Ministry of Health, Dr Godwin Ebuk, requested ExxonMobil to assist the 31 local government areas of the state with Deki Reader device.

The commissioner noted that Deki Reader was efficient in malaria diagnostic test as well as data capturing.

In his remark, the representative

of ExxonMobil, Mr Aniefiok Idiok, noted that Africare had been a dependable partner in the prevention of malaria in ExxonMobil host communities.

Idiok, who works in Public and Government Affairs Department of ExxonMobil, said that the company was proud of the way Africare executed the project in Eket and Ibeno communities of Akwa Ibom.

He thanked Africare for a job well executed while expressing worry that the project had come to an end.

procedure that would ensure that victims are afforded requisite support and services from the point of identification and during their rehabilitation process”.

She maintained that supported reintegration is a right owed to trafficked persons by virtue of their status as victims of crimes and of human rights violations.

Lamenting the plight of returnees in the country, she said they face a series of challenges and a great number of them have teething challenges reintegrating with their families and communities.

“Returning to their country of origin is often a difficult process for victims of trafficking because they face psychological, health, legal, documentation and financial problems.

“We all have a moral obligation to protect and promote the rights

of trafficked persons as articulated by the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human rights, the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights as well as the Constitution of the Country.”

She said the workshop is imperative because promising young men and women of Nigerian origin are among the other Africans being auctioned as slaves for as low as $400 (N144, 000) per person.

She said that in order the contend the rising cases of human trafficking, NAPTIP over the years adopted the 5P’s strategy woven around the five thematic areas of Policy, Prosecution, Prevention, Protection and Partnership which has greatly helped the Agency in the fight against human trafficking and enhanced protection of victims.

NAPTIP advocates improved documentation of trafficked persons From ANIEKAN ANIEKAN, Calabar

D

irector-General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Dame Julie Okah – Donli, has advocated an improved documentation process for trafficked persons as a means of assisting them to be properly reintegrated into the society.

The call was made by the Director-General of the Organisation, during a workshop organized by the agency in Calabar to develop a protocol for the identification, safe return and rehabilitation of trafficked persons.

She emphasized that “the victims who are provided with reintegration assistance are not likely to be re-trafficked hence the need for a documented reintegration

The Oracle Today

8

Wednesday April 4, 2018

NEWS

I’m packaging a 50-yr development plan for Anambra – Obiano

By CHUKS COLLINS, Awka

G

OVERNOR Willie Obiano has said that his administration is currently articulating a 50-year Development Plan which if subsequent administrations do not derail from, would see massive systematic and wellarticulated development of the state.

The Governor disclosed this during the opening ceremony of a two-day retreat organized for the state’s new executive Council members sworn in today at the weekend in Awka.

He charged the appointees to count themselves lucky and worthy to contribute meaningfully towards the growth of the state, and urged them not to relapse into laxity as he will not hesitate to disengage anyone found want-

ing.

Obiano had noted that most developed countries of the world were able to achieve their impressive levels of development because they set realistic long-term plans with very minimal financial implications and service costs for themselves.

He pointed out that while it is important to adopt long-term development plan for the state, his administration will not lose sight of its responsibility of creating in the short and medium term opportunities for wealth creation for the citizens.

Governor Obiano disclosed that his second term would see more efforts directed towards youths mobilization and employment.

Consequently, to drive this vision, he has appointed a 32-year old Commissioner for Youths En-

trepreneurship and Sports Development, to be assisted by a team of experts on Youths matters.

The Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr Primus Odili observed that the expectation of Ndi An-

ambra from the present administration remains very high and commended Gov Obiano for his expertise and understanding of the key role planning plays in the achievement of set goals.

He said that with the quality of individuals in the State Executive Council, there was no doubt that the second term will have better impact on Ndi Anambra than the past four years.

Father of 10 commits suicide in Awka

By CHUKS COLLINS, Awka

A

75-year-old father of ten, Chief Charles Okafor, has reportedly committed suicide in Akitinyi village of Urum, in Awka North council area of Anambra State.

Okafor, an elitist Ozo title holder (Ozo Ogbukiyi) was said to have used a wrapper to hang himself from the roof of his room at about 7am over the weekend.

When reporters besieged the family compound in Urum, no one was courageous enough to volunteer comments. But after so much promptings and intervention of intermediaries who assured them of anonymity, a member of the family, a male in his late fifties, volunteered information.

He said the deceased woke up normally without betraying any hidden agenda or emotions. That he even held discussions with members of the family including his now heartbroken spouse before she left the house, ostensibly for the farm as this is farming season in the area. And also that the wife was still away when she was called and informed of the unfortunate incident on phone.

“He had a conversation with the wife before she went out, only to be called on phone that her husband had committed suicide,” the witness stated.

Also, Chimezie Udekwe, a relation of the deceased who described the action as mysterious and painful, wondered what would become of the fate of the children he left behind, especially when suicide was viewed seriously in the community and environs.

He confirmed that efforts were already in top gear, including consultations with the gods and deities of the area in an effort to unravel the cause/s of the sad incident.

According to Udekwe: “One

of my uncles came to my house to inform me that one of our brothers, Chief Okafor -Ozo Ogbukiyi had committed suicide and I came here to see that what I was told is true.

“It is really painful. It is quite mysterious and unbearable to us. Everybody is crying over the Vice President Yemi Osinbajo receiving the report of the National Economic Council Technical Sub-Committee on matter and we are still trying to •the Herdsmen/Farmers crisis from its chairman, the Ebonyi State Governor, David Nweze Umahi, Monday, at the find out what could have led to Aso Villa, Abuja. this,” he said.

Umahi carpets Elechi, Onu over ‘abysmal’ tenure

By CHINEDU NWAFOR

G

OVERNOR David Umahi of Ebonyi state has come hard on his predecessor, Martin Elechi, saying the former chief executive of the state ‘performed so abysmally as a governor for 8 years, yet, at 94 years old when he should be resting, is still busy running from pillar to post looking for who to unseat.’

Umahi who stated this at Government Secondary School Afikpo North during a rally organised in his honor by Ebonyi South Public Officers Forum, also did not spare the Minster of Science and Technology, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, who he said was a governor for 22 months and currently a Minister, but had nothing to show for it.

He regretted that Elechi whom he supported against Onu in 2007 when both contested for the governorship seat of the state which led to burning of his valuable property

by Onu’s supporters has teamed up with Onu against him.

He said the plot to unseat him by the duo was borne out of envy and jealousy but insisted that he is God’s anointed no amount of evil plot against him shall succeed.

Umahi said his government has brought enough dividends of democracy to the people such that ‘nothing anybody could promise that had not been provided by his administration.’

His words: “You know, I ask my predecessor to go and rest. At 94 years old, you should resting and we should be receiving blessing on

daily basis. But my predecessor is still running from pillar to post looking for who to replace. The point is that what you cannot do in 8 years, is it now you can do it?

“The person you want make e come replace me, e go build 300km concrete road for you? E go build flyovers for you? E go build industries for you? E go empower the widows and children. E go give traditional rulers jeep? What is the trouble? Envy and Jealousy. But let him know that his grandson is on throne and that I came by the Mighty hands of God.

“You know the irony of life, in 2007 when Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu who is the Minister of Science and Technology was contesting against Elechi, I was supporting Elechi. And all my property in the village: my buildings, fuel stations and hotel were all burnt down by Dr. Onu’s supporters because I was supporting Elechi.

“Today, two of them have teamed up against God’s own anointed. Dr. Onu was a governor for 22 months, there is no single road he can put in the entire Ebonyi south. In two and half years as a Minister, he has noth-

ing to show our people. So what is the matter of saying I go na, I go na?

“We are the promise made flesh.

So, when they come to you, the problem is that they don’t have money to give, if not, I would have said collect all they collected. But when they collected it, some people developed wings and flied out of this country with it. That’s the problem”.

He said his administration has returned peace and unity in the state hitherto truncated by Elechi’s administration.

From BONIFACE OKORO, Umuahia

COL).

Community Charter of Demand is a written document containing the development needs of a community listed in order of priority, as agreed by all groups within the community which is presented to government as an official request of the community for its development.

The stakeholders believe that the CCD Desks would serve as a veritable link between governments and the communities, making it possible for governments to incorporate their demands into annuals budgets.

According to them, this would culminate in making budgets that are not only people-oriented but demand driven as communities would be provided with projects they desire.

A resource person, Mrs Onyeka Udegbunam, who spoke on the “Strategies for effective community participation in budgeting (CCD and One Ward, One Project)” said criti-

cal elements in drawing up the CCD were transparency, inclusiveness and participation by all groups in the community.

Another resource person, Onyebuchi Igboke, who spoke on “Sustaining the participatory budgeting system,” said the existence of CCD Desk would help institutionalize communities’ participation in budgeting.

A Programme Manager of V2P, Mrs Anulika Ezennia, said the forum was to educate Presidents-General and other community leaders in Abia State on how to participate in budgeting, using their CCD. “The importance of the CCD is for the communities to say what they need and submit same to government for it to be captured in the budget. That is actually what we have come to educate the PGs on how they can organize their people to adopt CCD and institutionalize it in the state,” Mrs Ezennia said.

Presidents-General, others push for participatory budgeting in Abia S

takeholders in Abia State have called on the state government to, as a matter of urgency; create desks in the local governments and Ministries, Departments and Agencies to serve as liaison for collection of Community Charter of Demand (CCD) from various communities in the state.

The CCD Desks, according to Presidents-General, Civil Society groups and Women groups, would encourage participatory budgeting, enhance community development and enthrone good governance.

They made the call in Umuahia, Monday during a one-day forum with the theme: “Agenda for exclusive meeting with Presidents-General in participatory budgeting in Abia State,” organized by the Voice to the People Project (V2P), in partnership with the Women Aid Collective (WA-

9

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 4, 2018

POLITICS

Cattle colony/grazing reserve ‘Restructuring represents isn’t and can’t be acceptable second independence for – Igwe Spencer Ugwuoke Nigeria’ Pg 10 Pg 12

Herdsmen: One problem, many solutions to latest blight on Nigeria’s image • Let’s restructure into regional autonomy – ADF • Lopsided composition of security forces, behind killings – Intersociety • APC, PDP failed, let’s embrace another party –John Dara • Issue has to be addressed holistically - APC Chieftain • The country has to be dissolved – IPOB Nigeria, a country hugely endowed with natural and human resources is in a socio-economic, political and religious whirlpool with a myriad of challenges to contend with and seemingly no solution in sight. Notable among the challenges is the series of killings orchestrated by plunderers called herdsmen who invade rural communities and massacre innocent souls at will. As a matter of fact, Nigeria, the world most populous black nation is in a fix over these plundering herdsmen.

THOE RAYS, in Onitsha, reports.

A

lmost everyday since January 1st this year when these herdsmen invaded two local government areas in Benue State, sending 73 innocent human beings to their early graves, there are reported cases of attacks and killing of people and destruction of farm lands by these plunderers in other parts of Benue, Plateau, Taraba, Delta States and other parts of the country. The latest as at the time of filling this report is the killing of a traditional ruler and nine others in Plateau State.

Observers and analysts say what these heartless herdsmen are doing has economic, political and religious undertones, including exercise of political powers on those opposing the idea of establishing cattle colony or grazing bill, reducing the economic base of the perceived opposition to rubble by destroying their farm lands and, last but not the least, dealing mercilessly with Christians with the target to Islamize Nigeria.

Analysts say it is most unfortunate that the herdsmen’s attacks, which are badly affecting three key areas of life, namely the economy, politics and religion, have continued unabated.

As Dr Ejike Nwangwu, a current affairs analyst put it, killing has become a routine exercise in our system. “Everyday people are killed, farmlands are destroyed and people are made to desert their homes.

Today, Nigeria has more internally displaced persons than any other country in the world, yet no concrete effort is being made to address it. I am flabbergasted,”

• Herdsman

Nwangwu agonized.

Following the killings, The Oracle Today sought the views of notable groups and individuals on the way forward to finding lasting solution to the herdsmen challenges facing the country. Alaigbo Development Foundation (ADF), a politically active Igbo group, believes that the way forward is for Nigeria to be restructured such that each region becomes politically autonomous.

In a well-articulated position on regional autonomy titled ‘The Future of Alaigbo in Nigeria’, ADF contended that the country has to be restructured or else Ndigbo will pull out of Nigeria to establish Republic of Alaigbo or Republic of Biafra.

Part of the vision reads: “The monstrous forces of hegemony are on rampage! The chickens have come home to roost, things have fallen apart and the artificial centre can no longer hold. The forces of ethnic and religious cleansing have been let loose. Blood is flowing in the land! All the victims of this hegemony are now astir and the songs of freedom are now raging all over the artificial federation.

“In the light of all these, ADF does not see any other way out other than the restoration of the original right to freedom and self- determination of the various nationalities that were forced into the artificial Nigerian Federation created by the British and bequeathed to the Fulani.

And now the Fulani want to donate it to the world islamic movement.

“For Alaigbo, only two options are foreseeable in the light of the looming catastrophe. These two possibilities can be palpably felt in the hearts, minds and actions of our people across Alaigbo.

Therefore on behalf of our people, we in Alaigbo Development Foundation (ADF) declare that our people desire an autonomous region of Alaigbo (or Biafra) having her own Constitution, Flag and Anthem, her own Regional Executive Council and Legislature, control over her internal affairs, land and its resources, control of her security, police, regional guard, para-military, prisons and other Intelligence agencies, her own judicial system with customary courts, regional courts, and Supreme courts --no judges outside Alaigbo shall be allowed to preside over cases in Alaigbo. Control over her economy, natural resources, internal revenue, while contributing 20% of these for the maintenance of the Federal Union, amongst others “The existing States within Alaigbo shall maintain their territorial character and structures, including the local governments within their present jurisdiction. The Federal Union Government shall have powers collectively ceded to it by the various autonomous regions. The principles of consensus, power-sharing, union character and rotation shall govern the relationship of the autonomous regions and the conduct of the affairs of the Federal Union.

“The federal union army shall be jointly controlled by the autonomous regions and shall not be used for any internal operations. If the present federal government is not restructured along these fundamental lines, the alternative option for Ndigbo is opting out of Nigeria and establishing the Republic of Alaigbo or the Republic of Biafra for Alaigbo this is the option of self-determination and freedom, guaranteed by our creator and

enshrined in the United Nation’s Charter of Peoples Rights. Many Nigerians agree that both PDP and APC have failed Nigeria. These ‘anything goes’ parties have foisted bad leadership and mediocrity on Nigeria On its part, a rights group, International Society for Civil Liberties and the Rule of Law (Intersociety) observed that the current ‘butchering’ of host communities in the country by Jihadists cannot be effectively tackled without total restructuring and reversal of the current lopsided military and para-military composition in the country.

The group also decried the domination of the South East by Muslim security officers from the North. In a detailed statistical analysis of the composition of top security hierarchy in the country since 2015, when Buhari took over power, Intersociety in a statement signed by its Chairman Board of Trustees (BoT), Nze Emeka Umeagbalasi, lamented that from 82 Division of Nigerian Army, Enugu to all other military formations in the zone, including Air-Force and Navy were manned

by Muslim officers of Northern extraction.

The case was not different with police formation in the South East, where virtually all the Commissioners of Police in South East and AIG zone 9 are predominantly Muslim Northern officers.

Nze Umeagbalasi said addressing the killings without ensuring equity in the composition of top echelon of the security in the county in accordance with Section 14 (3) of the Construction of the Federal Republic, will be counter-productive.

Cont’d on page 13

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 4, 2018

BOLD & BLUNT L

et’s start with security. The road from Nsukka to Uzo Uwani, which passes through your domain, is said to be always insecure. A lot of people had been kidnapped from that road and taken to a forest called Malaysia forest in Nimbo and our people are not talking, especially people like you who live there.

I want to correct an impression. It is not true that the kidnapping takes place always.

It happens but it is once in a while. That is why I told you that my Governor Ugwuanyi has done well. When the crisis started in Nimbo community in Uzo Uwani local Government Area, the governor immediately stepped in and made sure that the ugly incident did not repeat itself. He moved into the place and made sure that peace was maintained. He has also stationed police patrol team to police the road in question. So, it not true that the kidnapping is always taking place along the route.

Apart from the use of police patrol team on the road, the governor has also strengthened the local vigilant groups in all the affected communities to assist the police in ensuring safety on the road.

Meanwhile, the main reason we do not ply that road to go to Onitsha in Anambra State is that the road is in deplorable state and so we travel all the way to Enugu – Udi and then join Awka to be able to go to Onitsha. In my submission, which I sent to the governor, I requested him to support the security forces and vigilant groups in order to sustain the existing peace in the area. It is also my candid advice that there be made a legislation in the state empowering the vigilant groups to stop and search any vehicle suspected to be carrying arms for the criminals and bandits.

Let me also draw the attention of the government to the current invasion of our communities by men who move about parading themselves as shoe repairers. In the actual sense, a greater number of these boys you see pretending to be shoe makers are on espionage mission. They study the terrain. They are working hand in hand with the killer herdsmen. They are the ones that give information to the killers on when to strike a community.

Because they know all the routes, they also lead them through escape routes after they had committed heinous crimes against their victims. There should be regular screening of these “shoe repairers” by security men to be able to ascertain their identities and who they truly are. Yes, we agree that there is freedom of movement but we know that the freedom is not absolute.

This ugly situation brings us to another angle in the whole thing. Government should empower the traditional rulers to actually act as the chief security officers in their domain.

As it stands today, there are no powers at the disposal of the traditional rulers to check insecurity in their areas. This is a critical issue that has the capacity to ensure permanent peace in villages and communities in Nigeria.

We are dangerously under policed and that is why vandals could come into a village and kill as many as possible and escape un-arrested.

Security matters are for everybody. Traditional rulers should be given the powers to set up local security apparatus to guard his domain against killer herdsmen. This could be done through a by-law enacted at the local government level empowering traditional rulers to be chief security officers in the real sense of it.

If the communities are legally designated as the fourth tier of government, it will go along way in settling so many naughty issues in our country today. As a traditional ruler, I have no powers to do anything. I have no legal backing to stop and search those strange faces roaming my community What is your take on the current controversy over cattle colony and ranching?

Whoever is propagating the idea of cattle colony or grazing reserve in this country has an ulterior motive and I believe that those who are trying to sponsor this thing as bill in the National Assembly are creating what may destroy Nigeria.

The idea of a section of the country imposing cattle colony or grazing reserve on the people is not acceptable and the reason they are doing it is simple. They know that most of the private property in, say Abuja, is owned by Southerners but they fail to understand that these Southerners didn’t just commandeer the property. They used their hard earned money to buy them. There are laws through which one can claim ownership of landed property.

I am completely against cattle colony

10

Cattle colony/grazing be acceptable – Igwe

Igwe Spencer Ugwuoke is the traditional ruler of Obimo in Nsukka Local Council of Enugu State. In this no-holds-barred interview, he tells CHUKS EZE that he is clearly opposed to moves by governments and or individuals to impose private business initiative in the form of cattle colony or grazing reserves on the communities in the country.

because of the crises and tension it is generating among the people. Don’t you see what is happening in Benue State? Particular ethnic groups want to occupy that place. The reason they are fighting in Benue is because they want to occupy that Benue River and they want to settle there. In the next 50 years, these marauders who settle among the indigenes of that place will begin to claim equal rights with the original owners of the land.

That was how Usman Dan Fodio who migrated from Guinea to Northern Nigeria in 1804 attacked the Hausas, conquered them and foisted his leadership on them. Go and read your history books and you will understand what I am saying. No southerner can go to Kano and live for years and talk about becoming the Emir of Kano.

Yes, Southerners are in the North but they are there on individual basis, not for government to come to my domain, carve out land for cattle breeders. The implication is that when they settle there for a long time, they would never move out again but begin to claim ownership of the land.

The tussle over who owns the land would then be a source of conflict among these herdsmen and the original owners of the land.

These herdsmen are coming from Chad, Niger Republic and similar places and looking for where to settle. If you allow them to settle and occupy, in next the 50 to 100 years, they will become indigenes and claim equal rights with me and you which is not acceptable.

In America there is a way you live and on individual basis, they can make a person a citi-

zen of their country by giving him or her Green Card; which can be withdrawn at any time.

They give you American citizenship because you are not coming as a tribe to be allowed to settle, so if you do what they don’t accept, that Green Card could be cancelled.

I wonder why it is only in this Buhari’s regime that these things are coming up. What happened in Benue is worse than what happened during the pogrom, when millions of Ndigbo were slaughtered like rams. As this goes on in Benue, the federal government appears to be doing nothing about it. That is why we praise Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi. I am not among those who are campaigning for him. The most important thing he has achieved since he came to power is the enthronement of peace in the state, not even the members of the opposition parties can take that away from him. The first thing any government will do for this nation or for any state in this country is to plant peace there because when there is peace you have done 60 percent of what you were voted for. Governor Ugwuanyi is the best in Southern Nigeria; he is the best in the whole country.

Remember when these herdsmen came to Nimbo in Uzo Uwani Local Government. They killed people and were coming towards my community but the governor then stepped into the matter. Till date, we have not heard about Fulani herdsmen/ farmers’ clash in Uzo Uwani. While all other governors were fighting for their zone, our governor is fighting for the state to make it peaceful. Here in Nsukka, you know we are on the boundary and if he

had not stepped in to curb the herdsmen menace, it would have spread like wild fire.

Through dialogue, he calmed all the frayed nerves and everybody is happy. As I speak, there is no opposition to his candidature. This was unlike the regimes before him which were enmeshed in intractable crises. What I am telling you here are facts; I am a Knight of St. Paul’s, Anglican communion. I don’t tell lies and when you ask me a question, expect me to tell you what is right. I do not because as a traditional ruler, I am not partisan. I will tell you the truth and damn the consequences.

Governor Ugwuanyi has set a very good example. As we discuss, the governor is inaugurating over 400 persons whom he appointed as community liaison officers. Their duty is to interface between the communities and the government, a position that had never been contemplated before by any government. In Enugu State, Gburugburu Movement is for peace. When you have idle brains, crises will come up…

I wrote it in a memo to the federal government “if you want crises to reduce in this country, anybody who has been a Youth Corps Member and who was receiving N20,000 a month should not be sent back to the village without any allowance after the one-year service. When the youths complete their service, you don’t have to leave the person to go home to his parents to start giving him money for his singlets; giving him pocket money, giving him money to maintain his girlfriend.

I advocate that for any Corps Member who completes his service and has no job, such a

11

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 4, 2018

BOLD & BLUNT

reserve isn’t and can’t Spencer Ugwuoke

• Ugwuanyi

• IGP Idris

• Professor Ozumba Okafor, current VC UNN.

• Chinedu Nebo (former VCs UNN)

person should be entitled to an allowance of at least N15,000 monthly. When a Corps Member ends his service something must be given to him as allowance but when you leave somebody empty handed, it becomes an idle brain, which is the devil’s workshop. If he can’t go to his father or his mother to demand money to buy another wear, he would be forced to go out, but if you give him something doing he will not think of any crime. As soon as the person gets a job in an organization, the allowance stops automatically. That is how it is done in advanced countries of the world, so you don’t end up collecting salary twice.

In what other areas do you think Governor Ugwanyi has done well?

I know how far he has recognized traditional rulers as part and parcel of the his government--I have been on the throne for the past 39years. I have weathered many storms in past governments. Gov. Ugwuanyi has given our roads a face lift. You pressmen were at Enugu East senatorial zone where he was commissioning road projects. How many projects did Chimaroke Nnamani commission in Enugu North? Do you remember that when the then president of Nigeria, Olusagun Obasanjo came to Enugu State, he commissioned nine projects - one at Oji River and the rest 8 at Enugu East Senatorial Zone. I Spencer Ugwoke went to the Government House, met Chimaroke Nnamani and asked him, how fair do you think this is that the President came to Enugu State and commissioned nine projects,

one in Enugu West zone and the rest in Enugu East, none in Enugu North and he told me yes it is so.

When Nsukka man comes to power, let him do so in Enugu North Zone. When Chime came to power, we all excised patience, Chime tried, especially in Opi Agu - Nsukka Road but concentrated more in Udi and Enugu west. When it was our turn, we campaigned for Ugwuanyi to come to power to divert everything to Nsukka, Enugu North but as someone who has the fear of God, he stated that as a Christian, the best thing is not to do those things you condemned yesterday.

Leaders should set examples! What example are we emulating from Chimaroke Nnamani? As it stands today, Gov. Ugwuanyi is more popular in Enugu East and Enugu West than Enugu North where he comes from. This is an example! There is nothing he is doing here which he is not doing in Enugu West. We are very grateful to the governor; he is not being clannish and nepotic in his distribution of appointments and infrastructure.

The issue of ESUT Campus at Nsukka,which Chimaroke took to Enugu, the Medical School and Adada Campus, What do you think should happen about it?

It is an unconfirmed report but a reliable source has already hinted to me that ESUT Teaching Hospital is back at Nsukka around Ede-Obara area. I don’t care where they site it and am very grateful about that. What you said is true: this was established by the Army at Adada where we gave out a large area my community at Nkpologwu and Akpugo. Struc-

tures were already there to build on.

Small minds discuss persons, average minds discuss events while great minds discuss ideas.

I don’t have to discuss persons. They removed the campus to spite Nsukka people. Chimaroke Nnamani removed it, went to Agbani and established it and cancelled that one in Adada. Why this university is here in Nsukka is because the structures are there. If you people can remember, Ojukwu established the University of Science and technology in Port-Harcourt, he removed this university here and left only the Faculty of Agriculture.

That is why we are grateful. I have made it known several times that we recognize four Vice chancellors since this university came into existence. Four vice chancellors were recognized by us intelligent men in this zone and they are Prof. Frank Ndili, when he was Vice Chancellor; Prof. Gomwolk who built the Princess Alexandra Auditorium. Prof. Chinedu Nebo and Prof. Benjamin Ozumba, who is an honest Vice Chancellor.

These people whom I mentioned to you, they set examples. Remember the scripture told us, am talking to you because am an Evangelist (N’anwu na agafe dika Kpakpando nke ututu, Ihe onye ruru ka aga eji cheta ya) those who I mentioned to you don’t know me and I don’t know them but we are remembering what they did that is why we here (Nsukka) apart from this university we are not in the map of this country.

By next year June 8, Ozumba will complete his tenure and since the university came to Nsukka, no Nsukka Professor has been the Vice Chancellor; is it fair, is it the correct thing?

Thank you very much for this question. It’s true that no person from Nsukka cultural zone has been the V.C of UNN. After 58 years of existence! Tell me that federal university in this country where an indigene of the university town has never been Vice Chancellor except Nsukka. Let me tell you--I am sorry I am a traditional ruler but I am a traditional ruler that says the truth; if you want accept fine; if don’t want to accept it you throw it away--I am not trying to become Vice President neither am I trying to become deputy governor. Look at the University of Nigeria established 58 years ago, no person from the Nsukka Cultural Zone has been the Vice Chancellor, yet in this country, we do things by rotation. If a northerner is the head of state, the next one we shall look for is a southerner is it not true?

Do you have capable professors?

How do you measure men? We don’t measure men by inches; it depends on what you mean by being capable. We have capable professors who have been tested. We have vice chancellors who had been deputy vice chancellors (admin) of this university who have been vice chancellors in some other smaller universities in Nigeria. We are talking about the University of Nigeria, Nsukka; we have never produced the Vice Chancellor of UNN. The vice chancellor tenure will finish next year; let it be known that we have capable professors. Let them tell us to give them and we will bring out five and they will choose one. Choose the wrong one and let us join you in seeing him wrong; it is better to take a decision and be wrong than to go on undecided.

How do you assess those who represent your people both at the National and State Assemblies. Are they doing well considering their current maze of fight for re-relection into the assemblies in 2019?

I don’t want to waste my time talking about people who do not have focus. I said before that Nigerians are not mature for this form of democracy. It is for advanced countries who actually know the true meaning of democracy.

It takes mature minds to really understand that democracy is the government of the people, by the people and for the people.

Here, we define it but we cannot apply it. It is

too sacred if we actually know. In the United States from which we borrowed the presidential system, 90 per cent of them is literate. It is more difficult to lead illiterates than those who are literates.

Take a look at all those who parade themselves as members of the House of assembly , House of Reps and so on and ask yourself what they have done. These are people who had been there for eight years and above but have no single thing to show for it. When we had our first Senator, we shouted that he did not do well but when we had the second one, we discovered that his term was the worst.

Now we have the third senator. He is barely three years in office so he could be excused.

In my address to the people of Enugu State and in the presence of the governor, I said the first senator we rejected appears to have been the best because the one that took over from him was a disaster after spending eight years in the red chambers. For now, Senator Fide Okoro stands out as the best so far. Like I said earlier, let us give Senator Utazi the chance to perform. He has the powers to make or kill himself. He has the time to do things differently now.

That is why we hear the adage that ‘uneasy lies the head that wears the crown’ but this statement must only be used by those who had worn the crown. If you have never worn a crown, how would you assess the uneasiness? It is me that is wearing the crown that knows the genuiness of that adage. (General laughter).

It is also in our society that someone will be in the House of Representatives for 12 years and be angling to go back for a fourth term. In Nsukka/Igbo Eze South Federal Constituency, the man there representing me would have been there for 12 solid years by 2019 and here we are seeing the same man working to go back. To me, it is not acceptable. It is not acceptable to the people of Nsukka local government. Anybody from Nsukka local government seen supporting the evil plot must be met with resistance. We are ready to resist that move and time to start the resistance is now.

It is instructive to note that when the federal constituency was created, the traditional rulers as well as the leaders of thought from the areas met and resolved that Nsukka Local Government should be the first to produce a candidate but with a caveat that the person will only be there for four years and that was how we started.

The late Hon. Alex Ike Eze (may his soul rest in peace) who hailed from Obimo in Nsukka West was there for four years. After him, Hon. Charles Ugwu from Eha Alumona in Nsukka East was in the House of Reps for four years.

After him, we said the slot had to go down to Igbo Eze South for them to have a bite. Do not forget that Nsukka Local Government has two state constituencies. Now it went to Igbo Eze South, which has only one state constituency and for the past eleven years, one person has held on to the seat. The same one person thinks we are all fools and that we have nobody capable of going to the House of Reps.

In my candid opinion, the seat should go to Nsukka West. Let us stop playing the ostrich.

I am 39 years on the throne as the traditional ruler of Obimo. Not many traditional rulers would have the courage to say all these for fear that their certificates might be withdrawn. In those dark days of Chimaroke Nnamani, my certificate was seized from me because I said the truth but I was never bothered because I know I have a job that can feed me. I am a graduate of Univerity of Kumasi in Ghana where I read Estate management and so with my degree, I can still feed my family.

I told him to take the certificate. But after I responded to his query, he quickly sent the certificate back to me.

Now back to the issue of Hon. Pat Asadu who had been in the House of Reps for 11 years; you journalists must ask him if he would love to stay longer in that chamber were it a prison yard. After 12 years in the House of Reps, he is still working to go back? I think there is something wrong with the way we think and the earlier we change the orientation the better for us.

It is the turn of Nsukka West to produce the next House of Reps candidate and that is my take on the issue. If what I am saying is the truth, I know God will hear my prayers.

Before I conclude this interview, let me praise the effort of the Chairman of Nsukka Local Government, Hon. Patrick Omeje Jnr and his Deputy, Hon. Cosmo Agbo. They have shown that they really understand leadership and I urge them to remain focused.

12

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 4, 2018

POLITICS

‘Restructuring represents second independence for Nigeria’ • Buhari must reassure Nigerians by turning heat on herdsmen – Afenifere • We are too divided now to continue along this same path – Ohanaeze Ndigbo • Evaluate 2014 Confab Report and adopt relevant sections – ex-President Jonathan G.G Darah is Professor of Literature in English at Delta State University and a specialist in African literature and folklore. A former teacher at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife, Osun State, Darah was a one-time Chairman of the Editorial Board of The Guardian newspapers in Lagos. In this report, Darah, cochairman of the Central Organizing Committee of the South-South Mega Rally On Restructuring, which held recently in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, along with representatives of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Afenifere, leadership of the Middle Belt, among others, examine restructuring as a panacea to Nigeria’s political problems, explaining how it will strengthen the country’s unity rather than lead to its break-up. From Yenagoa, CLEM ONYEMAECHI reports.

R

enowned academic, Professor G.G Darah has said that restructuring of Nigeria would replicate the kind of relief Nigerians felt when the country attained independence in 1960.

Darah who was the Co-chairman, Central Organizing Committee of the South-South Mega Rally on restructuring, spoke in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State while presenting the welcome address on behalf of the organizing committee at the Oxbow Lake Pavilion in the state capital, venue of the rally.

He stressed that the campaign and rallies for the sensitization of Nigerians to key into the quest to restructure the country was birthed at the Adamasimgba Stadium, Ibadan, Oyo State on September 7, 2017 “This is the second of these mega rallies aimed at bringing everybody into the campaign to save our country from the darkness of poverty, oppression, exploitation and mass murders going on now”, he said, adding that similar rallies would be staged in the South East and in the Middle Belt.

Darah insisted that “restructuring is mandatory; restructuring is inevitable, the momentum of restructuring is unstoppable; it is irreversible.”

According to him, the gains of restructuring Nigeria are numerous.

“For example, when we reorganize Nigeria, we will be able to make a law that all the states in Nigeria will have a 100 percent control of their resources.

“The first primary gain of restructuring is to empower the states of Nigeria to have 100 percent ownership, control, management and utilization of their resources. Restructuring will mean that many of the functions, activities and authorities now monopolized and misused by the central government in Abuja will be devolved and sent to the states, local governments, to communities, to kingdoms and associations.”

He called for massive support to the campaign to make it successful in the long run.

• Darah “Therefore I urge you in the name of PANDEF, in the name of Southern Peoples Forum, in the name of the Middle Belt Forum; in the name of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Forum to join the campaign for restructuring so that we can win in a short time second independence for Nigeria so that prosperity will be our lot and God will bless Nigeria more and more,” he stressed.

Speaking on behalf of the socio-cultural organization of Yoruba nation, Afenifere, Chief Ayo Adebanjo said it was on the basis of federalism that Nigeria got her independence in 1960, which was later truncated by the military when it sacked the civilian administration of Prime Tafawa Balewa in January 1966.

He said the basic demand by the proponents of restructuring is a

return to the structure prevalent in Nigeria prior to the 1966.

“Send us to the constitution under which we had our independence. If anybody doesn’t want to cheat, if anybody doesn’t want to cause confusion, then do that for us, simple so that everybody can have equity. We are not asking for anything unusual,” he maintained.

Adebanjo dismissed insinuations in some quarters that restructuring is tantamount to breaking up the country. He said: “Nobody should confuse you by saying restructuring is breaking the country. That is deceit; that is propaganda. Anybody opposed to restructuring is the man who wants to break the country.”

He challenged President Muhammadu Buhari to convince Nigerians that he is not sponsoring terrorism by aiding and abetting the wanton killings by the rampaging herdsmen across the country, accusing Buhari of looking the other way while the herdsmen go on a killing spree.

He called on Buhari to take a decisive action against the activities of the herdsmen by mandating the Inspector General of Police, Ibrahim Idris, to go after the herdsmen and halt the killings to restore peace, law and order in the country.

The Afenifere Leader recalled that the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breaders Association had once written to the Governor of Benue State informing him of their impending attack on the State, and indicating their determination to take over Benue State, yet Buhari did nothing.

“Those people are known; they are not unknown. We have the Inspector General of Police; we have the DSS. If Buhari is the President of this country who does not aid cattle rearers, he should send the IG to go after those people who wrote that letter, get them arrested and prosecute them. Until he does that, he is aiding and abetting terrorism,” Adebanjo insisted.

Presenting the position of Ndigbo, Chief John Nnia Nwodo, and President General of Ohaneze Ndigbo said Nigeria is in dire need of restructuring because the country is moving backwards when every country is moving forward.

“The essence of a federation is to crystallize unity of the federating units,” Nwodo pointed out, but regretted that the much sought after unity has since taken a flight from Nigeria.

He recalled the glorious days when the bond of unity was strong among the diverse peoples of the federation and cited the example of one Igbo businessman called Okonkwo who lived in the north and was elected Cont’d on page 13

13

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 4, 2018

POLITICS

Cattle colony is unrealistic, by Ijaw leader Cont’d from page 12

into the Northern House of Chiefs.

“The place he founded his company is now called Kwankwaso because they (northern community) couldn’t pronounce Okonkwo and Sons. They called it Kwankwaso. It was when Nigeria was united.

“We no longer are united. Nigerians are killings Nigerians everywhere.

In Ondo, they nearly murdered the former Secretary to Government of the Federation in his own farm. In Benue, they are killing them day by day. In Plataeu, they are butchering them day by day. In Enugu, they came to Uzouwani Local Government, Nibo Town and killed 100 people.

“In Agatu in Benue State, they killed 500 people. It has never been this bad. That is why we want restructuring because when we are restructured, you have domestic police. Your state will make laws for the good governance of your state. And any herdsman coming here will only come on the conditions of the Bayelsa State Government. In the same way, our people going to any other part of Nigeria will go on the terms of the government of that state”.

Nwodo emphasized that the struggle to actualize restructuring requires all of us, insisting that the peace we have in the country at the moment is an uneasy peace.

“It cannot be a well grounded peace until we are all happy and proud to be equal members of the Federal Republic of Nigeria”, he submitted.

In his remarks, the Special Guest of honour and former President of Nigeria, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan urged Nigerians to closely study the recommendations of the 2014 national conference, with a view to finding a common ground in resolving issues agitating the people.

Represented by Senator Nimi Barigha Amange, Jonathan said the call for restructuring is not misplaced, as it would go a long way in addressing the

• Darah structural challenges of the country and ensure equal rights to all Nigerians.

On his part, Bayelsa State Governor, the Honourable Seriake Dickson,

called on the Federal Government to restructure the country before the 2019 general election.

Governor Dickson noted that only re-

structuring will guarantee the development, unity and peaceful coexistence of the country.

The governor maintained that those championing the cause of restructuring are the patriots and true believers in the Nigerian project.

Dickson, who emphasized the need for consensus building to foster better understanding on the issue and convince opponents of restructuring, pointed out that, no amount of military intimidation, blackmail and wanton killings would suppress the agitations for resource control, environmental justice, equity and proper federalism generally.

While commending the All Progressives Congress, APC for setting up the El-Rufai Committee on restructuring, Governor Dickson, however, called for sincerity of purpose by synchronizing areas of divergent views and pushing President Muhammadu Buhari to sponsor executive bill to the National Assembly for debate and passage by the National Assembly.

Chairman of the occasion, Chief Albert Horsfall urged the people to be positive and united in the struggle for resource control.

Dr. Bala Takaya of the Middle belt also called on youths and the womenfolk to join in the task of taking back the country from the precipice. While stressing that the Middle Belt is in the vanguard for the call for true federalism through restructuring, he said only true federalism will give a sense of belonging to all ethnic nationalities in Nigeria and stop the ongoing ethnic cleansing across the country.

Others at the mega rally were former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Chief Olu Falae, former Governor of Plateau State, Senator Jonah Jang, former Ijaw Youth Council President, Chief Asari Dokubo, Senator Stella Omu and representatives of the governors of Delta and Akwa Ibom States.

Herdsmen: One problem, many solutions to latest blight on Nigeria’s image Cont’d from page 9 He said restructuring the appointment of top security hierarchy to reflect fair representation of the geo-political zones in the country will provide a sense of security among all the ethnic groups in the country, especially now that the country is sharply divided along ethnic lines.

He lamented that the composition of the Nigeria Police Force Management team composed of IG, DIGs, AIGs, the Force Secretary among others, which formulates and implements Policies for the Nigerian Police Force, has only one Igbo man, a DIG. Intersociety said out of 29 AIGs in Nigeria Police today, there is no single Igbo person, apart from the fact that they with South South have no single zonal Commander out of 12 zonal command manned by AIGs. The group lamented: “In the categories of CPs, DCPs and ACPs, the South East population is terminally diminishing, with orchestrated plans or policy to eliminate the zone from the top command structure of the force. It is further appalling that out of the country’s 37 State and FCT serving CPs, only two are from South East and the entire Igbo nation, with their retirement barely one

year ahead”.

The group said that the way the killings are being carried out without any response from Federal Government and President Muhammad Buhari, the Igbo who are predominantly Christians in Nigeria and the larger Christian community in the country are at the risk of progrom.

They said the latest killings in Kogi State, where the governor was known to be subservient to the Fulanis and ceded hectares of land to them was a clear indication that the killings were not about grazing land but part of the Jihadist agenda.

In his own opinion, a popular political leader in the Middle Belt and Chieftain of Social Democratic Party (SDP) Chief John Dara said the way forward is to hand Nigeria over to a new party like SDP as, according to him, the consistent failure of politicians on the platform of People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and All Progressives Congress (APC) which have controlled the affairs of the country for nearly 20 years makes it imperative for Nigerians to embrace a new party.

Chief Dara who is also a champion of restructuring and founder of Citizen Unite for Reconstruction and Equity (CURE) Initiative in his verdict sated that “Nigeria needs to urgently build up an alterna-

tive value-driven party that can move the nation forward. After extensive research and consultations, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) has been found to be an ideological progressive national party that can rally Nigerians for unity and national reconstruction.

“Let the youth, women, workers, professionals and all yearning for a great new nation join and mobilize others into this chosen vessel to build the nation of our dream. Ignore the distraction from the many mushroom parties, focus on moving all patriotic interventionists, rescuers, civil society organizations and other coalitions into SDP; let us be ‘on the march again’ to excellence and greatness. Join your local chapter of SDP today.”

In his words, a Chieftain of APC in Enugu State, Prince M O Agu said the problem of herdsmen has to be addressed holistically without political and sentiments attached to it.

“The only way to address the issue is to get to the root of the matter holistically and find out the grievances of the herdsmen; it is unfortunate that the issue has become a slight dent on the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari,” he said. “Buhari is getting it right to reasonable degree and I think he has to be given more time in office to enable him

deal with the challenges effectively.”

Speaking in the same vein, the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) said that the way left out is to dissolve and let every tribe or region go their separate way.

Elaborating on the position IPOB, the Director of Media and Publicity Emma Powerful said Nigeria has gone beyond repairs and the situation of things in the country toady is an embarrassment to humanity.

Dwelling on embarrassing nature of the Nigerian scene, Powerful said: “Shameful enough to Nigerians, we are discussing cows and how to manage cows instead of how to build industries and provide jobs for the ever increasing number of jobless youth; nothing is being done about science and technology which is the key driving force behind modern development, civilization and progress of any nation today.

“We are begging Fulanis to stop killing their fellow Nigerians. We are begging them to allow the existence of Nigeria to be renegotiated into acceptable standard of governance to usher in political stability, economic growth and modern development just to say the least.

“To us, the only way out is to dissolve Nigeria, anything short is cosmetic and will be resisted by IPOB.”

The Oracle Today

14

Wednesday April 4, 2018

NEWS Extra

Only PDP can restore dignity of Ndigbo – Secondus

By CHINEDU NWAFOR

N

ATIONAL Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Prince Uche Secondus, declared, Monday, that only the former ruling party has the plans of restoring the dignity of Ndigbo.

Secondus who spoke at the Government Secondary School Afikpo North during a rally organised in honour of Governor David Umahi by the Ebonyi South Public Officers Forum, was apparently replying claims by the Minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi, who said that only in that All Progressives Congress (APC) that Ndigbo has chances, while delivering a convocation lecture at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka.

He said the people can no longer be deceived through such statement, maintaining that PDP remains the best party for Ndigbo and the only platform with a future.

He accused the present APC federal government of nepotism and marginalizing Ndigbo and other ethnic minorities in the country, vowing that PDP won’t rest until power was wrestled from APC government.

He further maintained that PDP is the only platform with a true national formation.

“Today, we can no longer be deceived. Nobody we put a wood on our eyes again. The best party

for Ndigbo is PDP. That is where the future is. We cannot be deceived. I heard that a Minister went to a University at Awka talking about APC and the chances of Ndigbo.

“That’s another deceit. We have been meted with deceit, lies and nepotism. When we talk about how they have practised nepotism, they will say it is a hate speech. Our people have been marginalized.

“Our party is founded by Dr Alex Ekweme and other leaders across this nation on the ground of national unity. That is why nobody can lay claim to this party and by the grace of God, and the yearnings and aspirations of our founding fathers, we will continue to preach that gospel until our people are liberated from the hands of our oppressors.

“When you cannot include Ndigbo and other minorities in the affairs of the nation, are you fair to us? PDP will restore the dignity of Ndigbo and the rest of the minorities. PDP were there for 16yrs and we ran all inclusive government; even the people from opposition were appointed into offices. That was the government of PDP from 1999 to 2015.

“PDP has a large heart and that why it runs all inclusive government. In spite of the multiethnicity, PDP remains the only platform that has a true national party. We have over 20yrs experience in party administration and

governance.Nigerians have seen what have happened so far,” said Secondus.

He said it was only PDP governors that are performing among the incumbent governors.

He said PDP has been fully repositioned to take over power from APC, just as he assured that the era of imposition in the party

was gone.

“Your Excellency (referring to Governor Umahi), it is only you and all your brother governors from PDP that working in this country.”

He commended Governor Umahi for his developmental strides, insisting Ebonyi has no better choice than him.

“Today we must tell ourselves the truth and the truth is that before 2015, Ebonyi was not like this? Our founding fathers started this struggle. Very Eminent personality and founder father of our nation, Chief Dr. Akanu Ibiam, he is from Afikpo and today, God has given you another illustrious son in the person of Dr. David Umahi.”

• Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa (right) extending pleasantry with Traditional Rulers during a town hall meeting in Ughelli Photo: Jonathan Awanyai.

Address poverty, unemployment Easter: FRSC assures free-flow – IMF tells Nigeria of traffic on Niger Bridge

T

he Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) on Sunday assured motorists and travellers that the Niger bridge would be devoid of traffic during the Easter season.

Zonal Commanding Officer of RS5, Benin in charge of Anambra, Delta and Edo, Mr Kehinde Adeleye, gave the assurance during a management retreat for officers in Anambra Command in Neni, Anaocha council.

Adeleye said the zone was keying into the mandate set out by the national headquarters of FRSC for the Easter patrol.

He said logistics were on ground to ensure free-flow of traffic at the Asaba and Onitsha ends of the Niger bridge and charged the officers and men in the zone to brace up for the task ahead.

“My task is not different from what the national headquarters has rolled out for us last week.

“We are going to manage traffic such that there will be no gridlock on all the corridors and ensure that motorists get to their destinations without difficulties because broken down vehicles and everything causing obstructions

will be removed expeditiously.

“So, effective from March 28, we will be all out with full force and after this retreat, we shall localise the lessons so that all the regular and special marshals will have all the information and deploy every resource for the task ahead.

“We have two heavy tow trucks one in Asaba and another one in Awka, when the need arises we have the logistics to fall back on,’’ he said.

The ZCO said the retreat was a time for team building and brainstorming with the aim of achieving the corps core objectives for 2018.

He lauded the Anambra command for coming up with the retreat which, he noted, should have come much earlier and expressed confidence that it would help to improve the attitude of the participants.

Earlier, Mr Sunday Ajayi, Sector Commander of the FRSC in Anambra, said the retreat was meant to remind the top officers of the command, unit commanders and leaders of the Special Marshals unit of the corps strategic goals.

Ajayi said the lessons from the exercise should be replicated at the local level for more effective discharge of their duties.

He congratulated the participants, adding that he was sure they would come out reinvigorated.

The retreat has road walk as part of the event and decoration of Chief Anthony Onukweme, Chairman Toni-Mas Petroleum as Honorable Special Marshal by the zonal commander.

By VICTOR NZE

B

ARELY a week after Microsoft Founder, Bill Gates scored the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP) of the Muhammadu Buhari administration low, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has told the Federal Government ‘fasttrack economic recovery and help the country reap its longer-term potential.’

The IMF in its latest economic health check of sub-Saharan Africa’s largest economy, Tuesday, while noting that the country’s economy is exiting a painful recession, stressed the need for policy implementation to move quickly and comprehensively to facilitate economic recovery and help the country reap its longerterm potential.

According to the IMF, growth in Nigeria which recovered to 0.8 percent in 2017 after a historic collapse in oil prices, exacerbated by falling oil production and inadequate policies, had taken a heavy toll on the economy (chart).

“The recent rise in oil prices is supporting the recovery, but more needs to be done to reduce unemployment and address poverty,” reported the IMF. According to the report, rising oil prices, new foreign exchange measures, attractive yields on government securities, and a tighter monetary policy have made foreign exchange more readily available and helped contain inflation.

“Consequently, investors are returning to Nigeria,” it noted.

Continuing, in its report, the

IMF said: “Economic growth in the fourth quarter of 2017 was positive for the third consecutive quarter, driven mainly by recovering oil production. The economy, excluding the oil and agricultural sectors, saw a first modest year-on-year expansion, after seven quarters of contraction.

“Policies initiated under the government’s Economic Recovery and Growth Plan has started to tackle some of the challenges facing the economy. They include the beginning of convergence in foreign exchange windows by reducing the number of existing exchange rates in the economy, a narrowing of the parallel market premium, some improvement in tax administration, anti-corruption efforts, and significant strides in improving the business environment.

However, despite these positive developments, IMF pointed out that economic situation remains challenging, as it further noted that inflation, especially of food prices, remains high, as well as vulnerabilities in the banking sector which are still rising.

“Low tax revenues are keeping the fiscal deficit high, leading to more government borrowing that is crowding out private sector activity. Distortions in foreign exchange markets are slowing efforts to attract longer-term investment and diversify the economy.

“Nigeria is also faced with important social, economic, and political challenges. Factors weighing on the economy include a large infrastructure gap, high gender and income inequal-

ity, corruption, and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the northeast,” the IMF said.

Recovered loot: Magu lied – Finance Minister

T

HERE APPEARS TO BE CONFLICTING VERSIONS OF ACTUAL MONEY RECOVERED IN the anti-corruption campaign of the Federal Government as the Ministry of Finance, and that of Information are reportedly at loggerheads with the and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over amount recovered from corrupt punishment.

In May 2016, Minister of Information, Mr. Lai Mohammed, said government recovered N78.3 billion, $185 million, £3.5 million and €11,250. In addition, he disclosed that 239 non-cash recoveries were made with interim forfeiture amounting to N126 billion, $9 billion, £2.4 million and €303,399.

He also put anticipated repatriation of looted funds from offshore sources at $321.3 million, £6.9m and €11,826, the minister added.

These figures are, however, different from those recently given by acting chairman of Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr Ibrahim Magu, late last year at the seventh session of the Conference of State Parties to the United Nations Convention Against Corruption in Vienna, Austria.

According to Magu, EFCC monetary recoveries between May 2015 and October 20, 2017 were in excess of N738.9 billion, which is equivalent to over $2.9 billion, adding “this does not include smaller currencies like Durham, CRA and British Pound,” he added.

The Oracle Today

15

Wednesday April 4, 2018

NEWS Extra

‘Get Alert’ promo: Fidelity Bank savings base hit N170bn in 3yrs

F

IDELITY Bank Plc.,Tuesday, disclosed that its savings base has increased to N170 billion in the last three years due to the adoption of retail banking strategy, “Get Alert in Millions Promo’’.

The bank’s Managing Director, Mr Nnamdi Okonkwo, said this at the fifth/third bi-monthly prize presentation of the Fidelity “Get Alert in Millions Promo Reloaded’’ in Lagos.

Okonkwo, represented by Mr Obaro Odeghe, the Directorate Head, Corporate Banking, said that the savings base rose to N170 billion from N89 billion in 2015, an increase of 91.01 per cent.

“About three years ago, the savings base of the bank was about N89 billion and till date, I can tell you that we have crossed the N170 billion threshold and it is still going. So, clearly we have really demonstrated a lot of attraction since this promotion started,’’ he said.

Okonkwo said that the adoption of retail banking strategy generated a lot of deposits from existing customers, attracted new customers, and enhanced financial inclusion in Nigeria.

He said that the bank would continue to embrace initiatives that would improve the lives of its customers.

Okonkwo said that the pro-

mo was introduced to improve the lives of the customers as well as reward loyal customers who had been banking with the bank over the years.

He said that the bank would continue to play strong in the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) base to ensure growth of small businesses.

Okonkwo said that the bank had a lot of initiatives aimed at supporting the growth of SMEs apart from giving out loans.

According to him, the bank

helps SMEs in advisory services and project analysis to ensure proper utilisation of loans.

Okonkwo said that the bank had given a total of N81 million in cash and 90 consolation prizes to 183 winners under the “Get Alert in Millions Reloaded’’.

He said that the bank major priority was to reward its customers through different initiatives to improve their living standard.

Okonkwo said that the consolation prizes included television sets, generators and refrigerators, noting that the grand prize of N10 million would be won by a lucky customer at the end of the promo.

The winners emerged from a transparent randomisation process monitored by the bank’s control team and witnessed by officials from Consumer Protection Council (CPC) and other regulators and stakeholders.

Dapchi: CAN unserious over kidnapped school girl From BONIFACE OKORO, Umuahia

A

human rights activist has lambasted the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) for treating the non-release of Leah Sharibu, one of the abducted students of Federal Government Science and Technical College, Dapchi in Yobe State, with levity.

Njoku also expressed concern over the security of Nigeria as a nation while accusing President Buhari of empowering Boko Haram terrorists at the expense of Nigerian soldiers fight the insurgents.

Leah Sharibu, a Christian, according to reports was still being held captive because she refused to denounce her faith.

According to her colleagues who have regained their freedom, the Boko Haram terrorist had asked Miss Sharibu to denounce Christianity as the only condition for her release but she decline.

Njoku said the development remains a litmus test for CAN and Christians in the country, saying

that he had expected a collective protest for the girl’s release, instead of mere statements.

“CAN should have marched on Abuja to demand for the unconditional release of Miss Sharibu.

These people know what they are doing. Why is it that only Miss Sharibu, a Christian, is left in the custody of the Boko Haram terrorists?” he queried.

Continuing, Njoku said: “If there is no protest, her release would be a mere wish and the President will not take it serious.

It is only the CAN in Ondo state that has spoken out against her continued incarceration. But I am saying it is not enough, there should be a collective protest by the CAN and every Christian for the girl held captive and not released up to this moment.”

Njoku said that Nigeria’s security was now a mirage since people could be abducted and released at will in a dramatic fashion.

“Our security is now a mirage, it is in disarray,” Njoku exclaimed while reacting to the release of the 110 girls of Dapchi Secondary School in Yobe State in an interview with The Oracle Today.

NAFDAC registers 54 products in first S’East zonal registration

T

he National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) said it registered 54 products in one month in its first zonal registration conducted within the South-East.

NAFDAC’s South-East Coordinator, Mr Fori Tatama, who made the disclosure, Tuesday, in Enugu said: “Fifty four products met NAFDAC regulatory requirements and they were duly certified by the agency fit for human consumption and sales.

“The remaining nine out of the 63 products; their owners were advised to go back and perfect some regulatory requirements and procedures, before they can re-apply for registration. The NAFDAC’s decentralisation of products’ registration has helped to reduce cost and shorten the time by which products get registered.’’

The zonal coordinator said following the decentralisation directive, a total of 63 products were considered for testing, analysis and other regulatory verifications by the agency within a month.

He said the agency had fixed every first Wednesday of the month

for their monthly zonal registration approval meeting.

“Today, NAFDAC has truly decentralised its registration to the zonal level for products of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Our people who are into cottage and home-grown businesses can get their products registered in NAFDAC zonal office.

(From left to right): (Sitting) Director of Training, LaFayette & Associates, USA, Mr. Charles Alphin Jr, Senior Trainer, Arlie Holliday, Senior Trainer, Mr. Charles Alphin Sr, Dr. Bernard LaFayette, Director of Programmes and Public Affairs of The Foundation for Ethnic Harmony in Nigeria, Joy Imeli and Director of Programmes of the Emory Center for Advancing Nonviolence, Mr. James Roland with the beneficiaries of the Chairman/ Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, Mr. Allen Onyema’s FEHN-sponsored programme at their graduation ceremony in the United States.

2019: Clergyman joins Ebonyi governorship race ENERAL Overseer of the Eternal Light of World Christian Church, Prophet Adol Awam, has announced his decision to join the governorship race of Ebonyi state seat of power come 2019.

Awam said he would run under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Awam who stated this in Abakaliki while briefing Journalists on his political ambitions, debunked the reports making the round that he was being sponsored by State Governor David Umahi of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to further destabilize APC in the state.

According to him, ‘those peddling such unfounded rumours against him are irrelevant politicians who are jittery that his ambition could pose a threat to their expectations during the forthcoming governorship election.’

He further stressed that any candidate that must defeat Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi State must come from the North senatorial zone considering the zone’s numerical strength, political awareness and achievements in Ebonyi political arena.

“As a strong politician from Ebonyi North senatorial zone which has the highest capacity and strength in the state, I stand the chance of winning the 2019 general election and becoming

business with stakeholders by making the corps products available to members of the public.

“It is toward the satisfaction of the corporate goals of the corps that this forum is convened as a means of strengthening capacity and knowledge base of personnel to perform at a record level,“ he said. The commander said that the command would carry out public enlightenment and advocacy visits to enforce traffic regulations during the Easter Special Patrol.

He urged road users to be disci-

plined, courteous and obey traffic rules, avoid drunk driving, overloading, use of cell phones while driving and excessive speed.

“We must share in the FRSC of the value of think safety, act safely toward ensuring safer roads fuller lives for all road users.”

In a paper entitled, “Enforcement Devoid of Preventive Litigation”, Mr Chibuzor Akujuobi, Sector Legal Officer, said the essence of road traffic laws and regulations was to maintain orderliness on the road and safety for road users.

By CHINEDU NWAFOR

G

Road crashes: FRSC to step up enforcement, rescue services in Akwa Ibom

F

ederal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Akwa Ibom Comamnd, said it would step up enforcement and rescue services to reduce road crashes and fatality in the state.

The Sector Commander, Mr Sunday Oghenekaro, said this during the command’s 1st quarter retreat held in Uyo, Tuesday.

“The corps is set to reduce incidences of road crashes to the barest minimum even as it works toward zero crash,” Oghenekaro said. He said that the command would promote ease of doing

the next Governor of the State and I want to state that Governor David Umahi can never sponsor and will never contribute to my governorship ambition,” he said.

The APC governorship aspirant expressed optimism that the APC would win the 2019 general election without any hitch in the state; adding that his administration would give priority to the welfare of Ebonyians and industrialization of the state.

“I heard the rumour making the round that the Governor is behind the clarion call of my people to contest the forthcoming gubernatorial election come 2019. This is a lie of the highest order, laughable and a tantrum thrown by frustrated people who are apprehensive of my outing to respond to the call of my people.

“I want to use this medium to call on all APC faithful and indeed all Ebonyians in the state to rise up and put on their armour (which is PVC) to face the challenges in the state and work closely to see that APC wins the election come 2019. The time is now and together we can make it”, he said.

Earlier before Awam resigned from active politics to establish a church, he served as a chairman of Ebonyi local government area of the state under ex-governor Sam Egwu’s regime. He was also a governorship aspirant of the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria in 2007.

The Oracle Today

16

Wednesday April 4, 2018

NEWS Extra

Onitsha market fire: Traders protest non-payment of compensation

By THEO RAYS, Onitsha

T

RADERS at the Udoye Market Ugwuagba Obosi, in Onitsha, Monday, took to the major streets in the area to protest non-payment of compensation by the State Government after about one and half years that fire gutted their shops and wares.

Speaking to newsmen during the protest, spokesman for the fire victims, Mr. Robert Okolo, recalled that on the fateful day, 19th October, 2016, 19 vehicles, four shops, bags of rice, machines, among other valuable goods were gutted by fire.

“The Commissioner for Environment, Mrs Chinwe Nwaebili was physically present and pledged

that we will be compensated in no distant time and since then till now we have not seen anything.

We heard that some persons may have diverted the financial compensation meant for us and we plead to Governor Willie Obiano to come to our rescue by making the compensation possible to get to us.

“We voted for him and believe that he will help us because some

of us have gone back to village, some are now jobless while some scavenge to keep body and soul together,” he said.

Also speaking, an elder in the market, Chief Felix Ezedimaso, said that his engine was set ablaze and urged the Governor to come to their rescue and help them that they are dying.

Another victim, Mrs Ezuma Juliana who deals in lubricants, said

she lost over #.5million worth of wares to the inferno adding that she has been begging to start off again.

Also Mrs Augustin Odii Obi, said: “My wares worth #.4million were consumed by the fire and since then I have been having High Blood Pleasure”, and pleaded to the Governor to help them.

Engr Clement Nwachukwu told newsmen that he lost three vehicles to the rampaging inferno and

P

C

• A cross section of participants at the Federal Aviation Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) Aviation Security Retreat taking place in Katsina State, under the theme of: ‘Emerging security threats to civil Aviation in Nigeria: The way forward.’

NOA traces loss of confidence in politics to thuggery From BONIFACE OKORO, Umuahia

T

HE National Orientation Agency (NOA) has blamed youths for perpetrating thuggery which has made Nigerians to lose confidence in politics.

Abia State Director of NOA, Dr. Mrs Ngozi Uduma, laid this blame on the doorsteps of the youths during a one-day workshop on security sensitization and re-orientation programme against political thuggery,

Senate re-introduces contentious Electoral Act Amendment Bill

T

he Senate, Tuesday, commenced a fresh move toward reordering the sequence of elections by reintroducing the Bill to amend the Electoral Act 2010.

This follows the refusal by President Muihammadu Buhari to assent to the original document, when presented to him, penultimate week.

The bill, which was presented

by Sen. Suleiman Nazif, passed first reading at plenary.

Following the resolve of the leadership of Senate and House of Representatives to harmonise position on the contentious amendment bill, the House of Representatives re-introduced its version last week.

President Muhammadu Buhari withheld assent to the first ver-

Nwodo douses tension in Ohaneze, Bayelsa Chapter

By CLEM ONYEMAECHI, Yenagoa

Police to domesticate community policing in Enugu

ommissioner of Police in Enugu State, Mr Mohammed Danmallam, has assured that he would replicate and domesticate community policing framework in the 43 police stations in the state.

Danmallam gave the assurance at a Stakeholders’ Forum to domesticate Community Oriented Policing (COP) Framework in Enugu on Thursday.

Danmallam, who was represented by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in-charge of Finance and Administration, Mr Imaikop Okponkpong, said that the command was the first to domesticate the community policing framework in the country.

“The command is doing this in collaboration with stakeholders in the community and representatives of our sister security agencies.

“The command is committed to further contextualise and domesticate this community policing framework to ensure that it meets the realities and peculiarities of policing in the state. “Following the validation of its pilot scheme in Central Police Station in Enugu, the command will implement the framework across the 43 police station in the state,’’ he said.

pleaded for government compensation to enable them start life afresh It would be recalled that on 19th October 2016 fire said to have emanated from the refuse dumping site, gutted their market damaging vehicles and other wares worth over N500millon.

sion of the bill, which originated from the House of Representatives and was later passed by both chambers of the National Assembly.

In declining assent to the bill, Buhari said the proposed law would usurp the constitutional powers of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to decide on election matters, including fixing dates and the order they would go.

In addition, the President explained that he was complying with Section 58 of the 1999 Constitution, particularly sub-section 4, by refusing to sign the bill.

Earlier, introduction of the bill had generated controversy, with some lawmakers alleging that it was targeted at Buhari in the 2019 elections.

kidnapping, drug addiction and the need for mutual co-existence in Nigeria.

Mrs Uduma said that Nigeria would experience more sustainable democracy if the menace of political thuggery is eradicated.

According to her, activities of thugs have caused public loss of confidence in politics as they no longer believe that elections are meant to choose representatives through approved electoral processes.

Urging youths to shun being used as thugs during elections, Mr Uduma noted that youths were catalysts for development. “Most of the world’s developmental strategies largely depend on the youths. This societal segment is believed to assist in producing sustained economy and stable democracy of a nation,” she said.

According to her, they are the engines and pillars upon which every human society depend, adding youths should always promote and give to the society economic balance, political stability and social justice.

Lamenting the effect of violence on the polity, she said that “political thuggery in the society, especially during electioneering, has caused Nigeria a lot of setback resulting from senseless killings and destruction of property worth billions of naira.

She blamed such anarchy on desperation for political power and the feebleness of laws and law enforcement institutions, thereby making politics a do-or-die affair.

“The politicians use any means to

get into power and this is usually made manifest during election periods when various forms of election malpractices are the order of the day. There is election rigging, snatching of ballot boxes, intimidation and threat to opponents, assault, kidnappings, assassinations, harassment, maiming and killings.

For credible elections, she suggested that these vices, including drug addiction, must be quickly addressed. “Illicit drug intake is the root cause of most crimes in the society. Majority of crimes being committed are mostly perpetrated under the influence of hard drugs”, she pointed out.

Mrs Uduma advised Nigerians to embrace peace and unity, saying the test of maturity and love lie in the ability of the people to value their differences and live together in harmony.

National President of the Southern Nigeria and Middle Belt Forum for Development, Barr. Sydney Imobhio, in his speech, advised Nigerians to strive for unity, rather than disintegration.

Also, the Senior Special Adviser to Abia State Government on Security Matters, Captain Awa Udensi (Rtd), called for collaborative efforts between all the stakeholders, including parents, traditional rulers, community leaders and Churches, to stamp out thuggery and other social vices.

Representatives of the Nigerian Police, FRSC, NDLEA, Nigerian Prisons, NYSC, Nigerian Peace Corps, educational institutions, Political parties, among others, graced the programme.

resident General of Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief John Nnia Nwodo (jnr) has urged Igbo people resident in Bayelsa State to love one another and work hard to uplift their living conditions.

Nwodo gave the charge on arrival in Bayelsa for a Mega Rally on restructuring at the weekend as he was being received by the Ohaneze Youth Wing who gathered at the popular Tombia Junction in Yenagoa to receive the number one Igbo man into Bayelsa.

The former minister of information who expressed surprise at the reception said he was not expecting such gesture since he did not inform them of his visit, more so as they were grappling with leadership crisis which he said necessitated setting up of a caretaker committee to manage the chapter.

He said he looked forward to discussing the developments within the Ohaneze chapter with Governor Dickson after which he would in his next visit have an all-inclusive meeting with all Igbos resident in Bayelsa and thereafter formally present to the governor those who would be interfacing with him on behalf of Ohaneze in Bayelsa.

“I thank you immensely for this reception. My advice to you is to be your brother’s keeper. Already I know that nothing will ever happen to me here because Ndigbo are here and they are strongly behind me. And I know that if I am hungry, I have where I can go and have dinner tonight”, he joked.

Nwodo urged them to always identify with any good thing happening in the state, urging them to attend the rally on restructuring in good number.

“Come out en masse so that when I say that you are among those making things happen here, the governor will look for you, politicians will look you and others doing anything of note will take you into serious reckoning”, he admonished them.

The Ohaneze Leader urged them to steer clear from crime, diabolic and fetish practices. “Be consistent and hardworking in whatever trade or vocation you are engaged in and carve a niche for yourself.

“Train your children in education.

Those who do not have voter’s card should go and get it.it is very important so that anybody who wants our support during the election, we can make a good bargain with our numerical strength”, he advised.

Responding, South-South Coordinator of Ohaneze Youth Wing, Chief Chinedu Arthur-Ugwa thanked Nwodo for visiting Bayelsa and prayed that no weapon fashioned against the Igbo Leader will prosper.

BU$IN£SS The Oracle Today

•

•

Energy

17

Wednesday April 4, 2018

Finance

•

•

Stock

Insurance

•

Aviation

•

e-Platform

Call masking activities plunge international call volume by 59%

•

Tourism

Energy

NNPC to partner S/East on AbaYola pipeline security P20 Travel

Marriott hotels promise ‘exciting’ Easter experience P26

Minister of Commuications, Shittu.

By SAMSON AKINTARO

T

ELECOM operators in Nigeria have lost huge revenue from international calls as a result of call masking activities. This came as incoming international call volume dropped by 59 percent, according to a Pricewaterhouse Cooper (Pwc) report on International Termination Rate (ITR).

The steep decline, according to the report, started from October 2016 when the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) jerked up ITR, which refers to the rate paid to local operators by international operators to terminate calls in Nigeria. Prior to NCC’s intervention, the ITR was considered very low and creating imbalance of payment as Nigerian operators paid the international operators in dollars to deliver international calls, a situation which got worsened as naira value plunged.

“The NCC in October 2016 decided to increase the ITR to 0.08 USD (24.40 Naira), so as to increase the level of ITRs received by Nigerian operators for terminating international calls in Nigeria. However,

there was a steep decline in incoming international call volumes after October 2016, the month in which the NCC set the ITR to N24.40. This decline suggests that a degree of call masking or call re-routing may have occurred from October 2016” PWC said in the report. It further noted that by February 2017, two leading operators in the country had recorded 59 per cent and 51 per cent year-on-year decrease in incoming international call volumes respectively.

Call masking, according to NCC, is an illegal act of disguising international calls as local calls in order to profit from price differentials between international and local calls. The Commission had recently sanctioned some organisations believed to be engaging in this activity by suspending their operating licenses. The regulator also barred over 750,000 numbers assigned to several Private Network Links (PNL) and Local Exchange Operator (LEO) licensees, which number ranges were found to have been utilized for the practice.

Industry analysts however are of the opinion that the regulator

CBN EXCHANGE RATES MARCH 19, 2018 Currency

Buying(NGN)

Central (NGN) Selling(NGN)

POUNDS STERLING 430.3888 EURO 376.274 SWISS FRANC 321.5831 YEN 2.8989 CFA 0.553 WAUA 442.4247 YUAN/RENMINBI 48.17 RIYAL 81.249 SOUTH AFRICAN RAND 25.9352 DANISH KRONA 50.5056 SDR 443.5213

431.095 376.8915 322.1108 2.9036 0.563 443.1507 48.2495 81.3823 25.9778 50.5884 444.2491

431.8013 377.5089 322.6385 2.9084 0.573 443.8767 48.329 81.5157 26.0203 50.6713 444.9769

may not have addressed the issue the way it should, noting that call masking still continues even after the supposed perpetrators have been sanctioned. Specifically, the President of Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NiRA) Reverend Sunday Folayan argued that the sanctioned organisations are just the small part of the call masking ecosystem, which he said also involves the connivance of the telcos’ staff. According to him, some staff of the telcos are involved the call masking system and are helping other companies to steal from their employers, the telcos, by passing calls that are unknown. “What is certain is that the Interconnect clearing houses do not inject calls, it is their clients – the networks that do just that” he said. The NiRA President suggested a reduction in call rates to discourage to discourage call masking. “If the major telcos drop their international rates, the call refillers will have no business again, and we all can enjoy lower international rates, and peace of mind” he said.

Meanwhile, NCC is on the verge of reviewing the current ITR and

Mobile Termination Rate (MTR), which applies to local calls. While the regulator did not expressly state whether the review would be upward, it declared that the review would be in tune with current market realities, which obviously implies an upward review for international and local calls termination. The Commission’s consultant, PWC, in its reports on termination rates had urged the NCC to set an ITR floor at an “economically efficient level based on costs (including the costs of international transmission) and still leave room for operators to negotiate with international carriers the total compensation for the international termination”.

This, it said, would enable Nigerian operators to maximise their revenue, and their customers’ marginal utility rate. “This would also enable NCC to minimise grey market, as it would remove cost-driven incentive for the activity. The approach rationale is to ensure Nigerian operators are compensated for international transmission and enable them to strike the right balance between higher revenue per minute and higher risk of grey traffic” the consultant said.

Insurance

Kaduna Govt understudies Oyo Health Insurance Scheme P28

Stock Market Highlights As At 19th MARCH, 2018

Summary ASI DEALS VOLUME VALUE EQUITY CAP S/N

41,454.30 4,913.00 379,933,801.00 N5,131,929,213.74 N14,975,640,568,128.01

Coy (By Volume) Volume

ACCESS ZENITHBANK UBA TRANSCORP JAPAULOIL WAUA

77,912,662 58,418,406 43,945,128 22,925,500 18,084,741 419.6909

Value(N)

N885,116,264.74 N1,784,552,494.20 N525,006,259.65 N44,787,945.16 N12,819,059.52 420.3804

5 Top Gainers

Symbols Last Close PRESCO N68.7 NESTLE N1317 GLAXOSMITH N25.5 NB N126.5 CADBURY N14.55

Five Tope Losers

SEPLAT FO UNILEVER WAPCO GUARANTY

N722 N44 N55.2 N50 N46.9

Current Change %Change N72 3.3 4.80% N1320 3 0.23% N28.05 2.55 10.00% N129 2.5 1.98% N15.25 0.7 4.81% N700.1 N40 N52.45 N48 N45.3

-21.9 -4 -2.75 -2 -1.6

-3.03% -9.09% -4.98% -4.00% -3.41%

The Oracle Today

18

Wednesday April 4, 2018

BUSINESS

Massive redeployment looms at First Bank Stories by VICTOR NZE

F

Digitisation of IGR is invaluable to support Public Sector customers,” Adeduntan said.

He further disclosed that the bank had recruited more, including engaging someone from JP Morgan to strengthen its risks management and corporate governance.

Adeduntan’s position comes just as bank insisted it would not

be able to pay dividend to shareholders for the 2017 financial year, in line with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN’s) directive barring banks with low capital adequacy ratio (CAR) and high non-performing loans (NPLs) from sharing their profits with shareholders.

Adeduntan explained that First Bank would rather “retain the profit for capital purposes and

buffer its books,” even as it plans to prune its NPLs to less than 10 per cent, and cost to income ratio to 50 per cent by 2019.

The bank however explained that the fact that it will not be paying dividend does not mean its holding company, FBN Holdings Plc, will not be paying dividend, as some subsidiaries under the group will declare dividend.

IRSt Bank of Nigeria Limited has moved to explain that its huge investments in new technologies as well as digitisation of its processes will not lead job losses.

Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, First Bank, Dr. Adesola Adeduntan, who made the clarification at a recent media parley in Lagos, added, however, that the process will instead lead to ‘massive redeployment across job functions and realignment,’ which he said will affect about 70 per cent of its workforce.

Adeduntan also noted that about 75 per cent of its staff are younger than 40, and as such, are being groomed to take over the bank’s operations.

“We recognise the criticality of IT and People, and we are achieving our transformational objectives across these areas. FirstBank remains Digital First in our thinking. We are embedding this mindset across the entire operating model – from customer processes through enterprise middle office and back office.

“We have also now realigned our execution framework along business and functional work streams. Digital product drive for Retail is critical to achieving lower cost-to-serve, and improving customer experience; ‘Retailisation’ • Chairman of Rivers State Internal Revenue Service, Mr Adoage Norteh (l) issuing the State Governor, Nyeof Wholesale Banking value; and som Wike with the Rivers State Tax Identification Number (RIVTIN) Card during its launch along with the Rivers State Tax Management System (RIVTAMIS), Monday, at the Government House, Port Harcourt.

Data center, cloud key to Africa’s digital transformation – Opeke

By SAMSON AKINTARO

T

he Chief Executive Officer of MainOne, Funke Opeke has highlighted the opportunity for increased investment in shared fiber network infrastructure, data center and cloud computing infrastructure in Africa. This, she said was key to further unlocking the gains in the digital transformation of the continent.

She spoke at the 2018 TMT Finance Africa Conference, a forum driving investment for telecoms, media and technology sector across Africa, held in Cape Town, South Africa recently. Ms. Opeke joined panelists from DLA Piper, Teraco, PAIX and Rack Center to discuss the need for continued investment and growth within the telecom sector and data center market in order to realize the vision for increased ICT adoption in Africa.

She highlighted that MainOne, through its subsidiary, MDXi Data Centre has recently invested an additional N12billion in its Lekki data centre in order to grow its capacity from 300 to 600 racks as the leading data centre in West Africa. She stated that this investment is a part of MainOne’s plan to invest additional $300 million to enhance communication infrastructure across West Africa over ten years.

FG moves to review AfCFTA proposal

F

EDERAL Executive Council (FEC) has agreed to set up a committee to meet and review within two weeks the content of the proposal for the Africa Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) and report back to the Federal Executive Council.

Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr Femi Adesina, said this, Wednesday, in Abuja while addressing state House correspondents on the outcome of the FEC meeting.

He named members of the committee from the Ministries, Departments and Agencies as: Finance, Budget and National Planning, Labour, Foreign Affairs, Science and Technology, FIRS, CBN, Customs and Immigration.

According to him the committee will “look into the proposals that are contained in the AfCFTA and they will brief the FEC within two weeks and a way forward will then be unfolded.’’

He said that the explanation was necessary because the agreement was to be signed in Kigali, Rwanda, on Wednesday but the President did not attend the AU summit.

Adesina said that the explanation by President Buhari to FEC which the council bought was that he would not want to agree to anything that would hinder local entrepreneurs as on the surface the agreement had the capacity to do so.

He further said that the Presi-

dent said he would not want to sign an agreement that could encourage the dumping of finished goods in Nigeria as it would be contrary to the country’s interest.

Also Buhari stated that the country had yet to understand the full economic and security implications of the agreement and that more consultations with stakeholders were necessary.

Explaining further, Adesina stated that some of the African countries could have signed treaties with other nations which, by the AfCFTA, would warrant their

pumping products not needed in the country from other nations.

Also the FCT Minister, Mr Bello Mohammed said that FEC approved a contract for the provision of security equipment and associated infrastructure including furnishing for the UN building currently under construction in Abuja.

He recalled the bombing of the building in August 2011 by Boko Haram which destroyed the building and the federal government elected to rebuild the complex because of the strategic partnership it had with the United Nations.

Heritage Bank unveils ‘Octopus’ digital platform

H

eritage Bank Plc has taken a step further to revolutionalise banking in Nigeria with the introduction of an advanced intelligent digital experience known as Octopus.

The solution, which is a fullfledged digital bank, has been described by financial technology experts as a game-changing innovation, poised to connect all your bank accounts with your Debit Card details or account holder information.

Octopus represents an omnichannel multi-platform experience squarely targeted at the customers of tomorrow- young, smart, professional and tech savvy pioneers of the new digital economy.

Bank agnostic, Octopus will provide all customers of any Nigerian bank the opportunity to access a platform that consolidates and connects all their Bank accounts delivering convenience and ease of access on an innovative platform and digital community.

It is designed to deliver omnichannel user experience across multiple devices, where most of customer’s daily city activitiesbanking, cinemas, stock markets, social interactions, churches, universities, meetings, restaurants, utility bills, fans clubs, associations and any other communities have been digitised and consolidated.

It also serves as a single window into several players of the same industry and it is embedded in the same social media platforms where people are such as Facebook and Telegram.

Announcing the launch of Octopus, the Managing Director of Heritage Bank, Ifie Sekibo described the initiative “as a truly intelligent adventure that does everything differently.”

According to him, Octopus is an intelligent digital experience that combines digital transactions and a community lifestyle that empowers customers with the power to build their world and perform digital transactions how they want.

He further added that Octopus would be available across all major platforms, including the revolutionary Octopus Bot on the Telegram platform, Facebook as well as Octopus Apps on the Google Play store (for Android) and Apple store (for iOS), which could be used by non-Heritage Bank’s customers.

Easter: Dana Air announces ‘Buy One, Get One free’ promo

D

ana Air has announced a ‘Buy One, Get One free’ (BOGOF) promo for any of its guests that book a return ticket between 12 midnight on Thursday, March 29, and 12 midnight of Friday, March 30, being Good Friday.

The airline has also partnered Royal Films Academy on a movie titled ‘Forgotten in Libya,’ as part of efforts towards encouraging the youths to stay in the country and avoid migrating to countries where they are not welcome.

Accountable Manager of Dana Air, Obi Mbanuzuo, who made this known during a chat with newsmen in Lagos said the promo is ‘just our way of appreciating our valued guests for their patronage.’

“Also in the spirit of Easter, we have introduced special fares of

N18,000 premium economy and N45,000 business class to any of our destinations and you can avail these special fares by booking online.

The BOGOF promo is for any of our guests that book a return ticket between 12 midnight on Thursday 29th March, and 12 midnight on Good Friday.”

On the partnership with Royal Films, Obi noted said: ”Dana Air’s commitment towards anything and everything that will contribute positively to the well-being of Nigerians has always caught our interest and we will continue to support projects and movies like this to encourage our youth not to leave our dear country for another country where they are not welcome.

“Recently, we were regaled with stories of Nigerians who were deported from another African Coun-

try and subjected to inhuman treatments and that was really uncalled for and unacceptable.”

According to Mbanuzuo, the movie, ‘Forgotten in Libya’ will premiere March 30 in Owerri and will be distributed free to all tertiary institutions in Nigeria.

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 4, 2018

19

The Oracle Today

20

Wednesday April 4, 2018

BUSINESS

Air travellers’ complaints rise by 40% in two months – CPC Stories by VICTOR NZE

F

OLLOWING the rise in complaints by air travellers to the Consumer Protection Council (CPC), which had shot up by 40 per cent in two months, the agency has moved to dismiss insinuations that it is usurping the responsibilities of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

The council also pointed out that aviation sector had the third highest complaints from the members of the public in the council in 2017 after electricity and banking sectors respectively.

Director-General of the CPC, Mr. Babatunde Irukera who stated this, weekend, in Lagos during an interactive session with journalists noted that there was no confusion in the laws setting up the two organisations, NCAA and CPC. “Overlapping regulation is not confusion, error or legislative blunder, but deliberate design and it always underscores the importance of what is being regulated. The constitutional responsibility of government is to protect the citizens, including exploitation of citizens by organisations and even the government.

“Sector regulator may not be able to provide end to end pro-

tection to consumers. NCAA for instance that is regulating airline operators in the aviation industry, there is a potential for conflict and regulatory factor. Statutorily, we are recognised by the law of the land,” he said.

He expressed that the first complaint to be resolved under his management was in aviation industry, but noted that every statement made by the council was after the discussions with representatives of NCAA. Irukera who explained that complaints received from the public electronically are responded to within 48 hours while manual complaints are responded to within seven days, however, said that the council was looking at a way to respond to electronic complaints almost instantly, assuring that a new porter that would be electronically generated would respond to complaints almost immediately.

“Our benchmark is to be able to resolve at least 97 per cent of the complaints within any reporting period.

“As an industry, from its potential, the aviation is under-performing, perhaps not a reflection on people or individuals. It is a statement of what it can contribute to GDP and what it is contributing to

Access Bank declares N319.9bn gross earnings ccess Bank Plc has achieved prudent provisions in the course A gross earnings of N319.9 bil- of the year, thereby dampening lion for the financial year ended profitability, as profit before tax December 31, 2017, against N247.2 billion recorded in the corresponding period of 2016.

The bank’s audited result showed that total income grew by N459.1billion, representing an increase of 20 per cent over N381.3 billion recorded in the same period in 2016.

However, profit before tax declined by 11 per cent to N80.1 billion from N90.3 billion in 2016, while net interest income grew by 17 per cent to N163,452 billion in 2017, from N139,148 billion in the comparative period of 2016.

Similarly, non-interest income grew by four per cent to N139.1billion, in 2017 from N133.4 billion in 2016, leading to an 11 per cent increase in the Group’s operating income to N302,596 billion in 2017, from N272,605 billion in 2016.

The bank explained that the growth in the Group’s earnings is underlined by an expansion in its core business, on the back of an enhanced asset.

Loans and advances grew 11 per cent to N2,064 trillion in 2017, from N1,855 trillion in December 2016.

The total assets of the bank also grew by 18 per cent to N4,102 trillion in December 2017, from N3,484 trillion in the corresponding period of 2016, as the Group recorded an increase of 13 per cent in shareholders’ returns at N515 billion in December 2017, from N454 billion in the corresponding period of 2016.

“Although the Group posted significant growth in earnings, the adverse and lingering effects of the macro on asset quality in the industry led to the bank taking

declined 11 per cent to N80.1 billion in 2017 from N90.3 billion in 2016.

“Nonetheless, Access Bank’s fundamentals remain strong and the Group remains poised for sustainable growth in the coming periods,” the bank’s Group Managing Director, Herbert Wigwe, said.

The group proposes a final dividend of 40 kobo per share to its shareholders, in addition to 25 kobo interim dividend paid during the period, making a total of 65Kobo for the financial year, but subject to approval at the yearly general meeting.

the GDP. We can perform better.

We have far better, eager market than many countries where their aviation is much higher than ours.

“Some of the people out there

are doing their best, but, they can actually do better. It is obvious that in GDP, we are actually underperforming,” he said.

He emphasised that complaints

received by the council had increased by 40 per cent in the past two months while resolution rates had gone up to 78 per cent within the same period.

• Aliko Dangote, Bill Gates, and the Kaduna State Governor, Nasir el-Rufai signing a Memorandum of Understanding on improved access to immunization across Northern Nigeria.

9mobile rated best in voice clarity OBILE service provider, 9mobile, has emerged as the mobile operator with clearest voice quality ahead of other telcos operating in the country.

The rating was contained in the latest result of the annual mobile network test conducted by P3 Communications, the largest European and international leader in mobile telecoms benchmarking. The mobile network test was conducted across countries in the world including Nigeria.

The test considered data speed and voice clarity as key parameters.

An on-device testing methodology was used to measure speed and latency of the four largest broadband operators in Nigeria including MTN, Airtel, 9mobile and Glo on the road.

In the industry report, 9mobile

emerged the overall best scoring 257 points ahead of MTN which scored 182 points; Airtel, 142, and Glo, 130. Travelling at a measuring distance of 9,000 km with 17 per cent population measured, the test route covered different parts of the country such as Lagos, Ibadan, Benin, Port Harcourt, Ilorin, Abuja, Kaduna and Kano.

The global test has been conducted in several countries across the world including the United Kingdom, Sweden, Germany, Australia and Netherlands amongst other key global markets.

Commenting on the newest global recognition, Director, Network Operations, 9mobile, Abdul Adegbuyi, expressed delight at the feat and said it affirmed the unalloyed commitment of the telco to continuously innovate and invest in human and material resources as well as technology that impact positive-

with Nigeria during their development phases and that Nigeria, like most countries in Africa, presents a wealth of business opportunities for South African companies,” said Phume.

He added that the visit was an opportunity to continue pursuing economic collaboration and partnerships with Nigeria, and crafting the way forward for sustainable economic development and the development of investment in the African continent.

Responding, General Marketing Manager of Lekki Free Trade Zone, Mr Oyewole Adegoke said there were efforts to market Nigeria by focusing on key economic sectors as identified by government.

Adegoke said he was delighted to host a business delegation from South Africa and to disseminate information on current investment opportunities in the free trade

zone to SA businesspeople.

“Our aim is to market Nigeria’s economic potential to investors across the world, as a private organisation working closely with the Nigeria Export Processing Zone Authority (NEPZA) and its stakeholders,” said Adegoke He added that it would be of benefit for South Africa and Nigeria to have South African companies operating from the free trade zone as preferential policies and incentives granted to investors are aimed at easing doing business in Nigeria.

Commenting, General Manager at Dermacell Cosmetics and Healthcare, manufacturers and suppliers of skincare products using Aloe Ferox as its main ingredient, Mr Junior Mokgapi said that setting up a manufacturing facility in the free trade zone would allow his products to penetrate Nigeria, opening a market into the West Africa re-

By SAMSON AKINTARO

M

ly on the delivery of qualitative solutions to customers and relevant stakeholders.

“9mobile is synonymous with innovation, and in living up to this brand value we have continuously infused innovative thinking in all that we do. At 9mobile, our passion for innovation has resulted in the development of innovative services and solutions, thereby delivering high value to our customers.

Most recently we reloaded Moreblaze – the fastest data package in Nigeria; all these typify our spirit of innovation, and valuable products and services which enrich the lives of our customers”, he stated.

Adegbuyi assured that 9mobile would not rest on its oars as it would continue to raise the bar of excellent service by innovating many more positive ways technology can be leveraged as an enabler of national development.

Lekki Free Trade Zone woos S/African businesses T he South African business delegation taking part in the Outward Trade and Investment Mission (OSM) in Nigeria continued their search for trade and investment opportunities in different sectors of the Nigerian economy with a visit to the Lekki Free Trade Zone, in Lagos.

South Africa’s Foreign Economic Representative (FER) in Nigeria, Mr Calvin Phume remarked it was important to expose the South African business delegation to the likes of Lekki Free Trade Zone in order to showcase the vast opportunities available across the Nigerian economic sectors where they can look into setting up public-private partnerships and jointventures.

“Opportunities are abound in Nigeria. South Africa has taken a conscious decision to partner

gion.

“Nigeria is one of the biggest economies in Africa. If one can crack it into Nigerian market and conduct business, then the rest of Africa has no boundaries,” said Mokgapi.

Also, Founder of Valotech 228, a supplier of rail signalling design and construction, installation and rail maintenance solutions, electrical installations, and mechanical design, Ms Dorothy Mofomme said her main objective for coming to Nigeria was to try and penetrate the market and fill the gaps.

“We noticed that there is a need for rail infrastructure development, especially with all the critical infrastructure projects and activities going on here. Setting up shop in the free trade zone would be advantageous as all rail, roads and ports are in close proximity,” said Mofomme.

The Oracle Today

21

Wednesday April 4, 2018

ENERGY

NNPC to partner S/East on Aba-Yola pipeline security

By SOPURUCHI ONWUKA

T

HE Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) is seeking the help of the governments of the southeast states to revive its distribution facilities that channel petroleum products from refineries and depots in the eastern axis to the north.

Group Managing Director of the corporation, Dr. Maikanti Baru, stated that the cooperation of the governors of the states was necessary to curb vandalism on the Aba-Enugu pipeline and enhance efficient supply of fuel from Aba and Enugu depots to Makurdi and Yola.

Dr. Baru who paid a visit to Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State appealed to the governors to assist security agencies in curbing high rate of hot taping of petroleum products from the distribution pipelines during inter-depot pumping.

According to him, availability of the pipeline would improve if all valves installed along the channel are totally dismantled to plug leakages from third party facilities mounted by thieves to siphon products.

He explained that unavailability of the pipeline accounted for the protracted downtime at the Enugu Depot, adding that reviving the depot would help

• NNPC GMD, Dr. Maikanti Baru, exchanging pleasantries with the Enugu State Governor, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi. in meeting the petroleum products demand in the South-East, north Central and North East regions.

Dr. Baru who lamented the incessant acts of vandalism on the Aba-Enugu products pipeline said at some point, about 700 breaches were recorded on the pipeline, a situation that has hampered efficient supply

and distribution of petroleum products not only in the state, but in the entire South-East region.

He explained that even after the Aba-Enugu pipeline was repaired, it still had to be shut down following observed loss of over 50 percent of the products pumped through the line.

He described Enugu Depot as

a major NNPC supply and distribution infrastructure in the entire South-East region which requires the support of all stakeholders bring back to life.

According to Dr. Baru, the Osisioma and Nsirimo areas in Abia State as well as Ishiagu in Ebonyi State were the major vandalism flash points where illegal connections for diversion

of products had been observed almost on a daily basis.

He called on Governor Ugwunyi to coordinate regional cooperation with NNPC and security agencies to secure the pipeline and enhance efficient supply and distribution of petroleum products in the area.

“This depot is not only strategic to the South East, it also serves as a bridge to Makurdi Depot in the North Central as well as the Yola Depot in the North East,” he noted.

He also charged the governor to collaborate with relevant government agencies to enforce the sale of petrol at filling stations in the state at the government-regulated price of N145.

“You wouldn’t want to watch as unpatriotic marketers profiteer over your innocent citizens.

We still believe marketers anywhere in this country can make profit selling at the official pump price,” Baru added.

Governor Ugwuanyi who played host to Dr. Bary pledged to coordinate regional security for Aba-Enugu pipeline, revive depots in the region and enhance products supply.

He promised that the Enugu State Task Force on Petroleum Products would work with NNPC officials and relevant security agencies to ascertain the exact incident spots with a view to securing the pipeline.

Caverton lands 11 choppers for Chevron JV contract

I

NDIGENOUS offshore transport logistics contractor to the Nigerian petroleum industry, Caverton Helicopters, has delivered 11 additional coppers to boost its fleet.

According to the company, the new set of aircraft comes in the face of a new contract to service the transport logistics requirements of Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL) which operates onshore, swamp and shallow water joint oil and gas exploration and production with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation.

According to NNPC sources, Caverton had last year secured a five-year logistics support contract from CNLfor provision of aviation services. The contract agreement holds a promise of tenure extension by additional two years.

The company weekend officially unveiled the 11 new helicopters to showcase its improved capacity for high quality services to the oil and gas sector.

Chief Executive Officer of Caverton, Mr. Olabode Makanjuola, thanked the joint venture partners for their consistent patronage, pledging that the company would continue to grow its

capacity.

He narrated how Caverton grew from a business run by six family members to an independent firm of over 700 employees in a field dominated by foreign multinational players.

He also thanked the JV partners for the opportunity to participate in the latest Escravos project, even as he expressed confidence

that Caverton would work hard to meet the expectations of its clients.

The Group Managing Director of NNPC, Dr. Maikanti Baru, whose company holds some 60 percent stake in the joint venture, restated the corporation’s commitment to support indigenous companies operating in the oil and gas industry in line with the

Sirius expecting wellhead systems Ororo field

S

IRIUS Petroleum says its wellhead systems are underway for planned deployment on two wells at Ororo field.

The company said two further well head systems are sailing to Nigeria where they are planned for deployment on Ororo-4 and Ororo-5 wells.

All the well head equipment and services for the Ororo Field are being supplied through Cameron, a Schlumberger Group company.

The Cameron SOLI Drill modular compact wellhead systems increase casing and tubing hanger landing reliability and help prevent debris from entering the

wellhead.

The hangers and pack offs are designed with angled shoulders to repel debris, such as dirt, metal shavings, and cement plugs, the company stated.

Sirius had in late 2017 announced the delivery of its first two sets of Cameron SOLI Drill modular compact well head systems in Nigeria for the company to commence the drilling program at Ororo-2 and Ororo-3.

The company said it plans to commence the drilling of its first well on the Ororo Field, the Ororo-2 in April 2018 which will be in a location close to the Ororo-1 well which was originally successfully drilled by Chevron in 1986.

provisions of the Nigerian Content Act. He expressed confidence that the company would deliver on its new contract to provide aviation services for the Chevron operated Joint Venture project based in Escravos.

“The award of a new contract by the NNPC/Chevron JV and the capacity of the Caverton Group

to respond and mobilize with the introduction of 11 brand new helicopters exhibit the quality of character and tenacity of purpose of the company’s management.

“The development also represents true commitment towards ensuring seamless running of the nation’s oil and gas industry and by extension the Nigerian economy,” Baru said.

Eland to deliver back-up power engines for Opuama drilling

D

espite strong output from its Opuama wells in Nigeria, Eland Oil & Gas said it has decided to halt drilling operations as the program continued to encounter intermittent power problems.

The company is arranging for new back-up power engines to be delivered to site; they are expected to arrive in April.

As a result of the halt to the drilling program, Eland now expects to complete the Opuama-9 well in April, with the drilling of Opuama-10 due to

follow immediately afterwards.

“Although any delay is frustrating it is not unexpected during a multi-well drilling campaign,” said George Maxwell, Eland chief executive.

“I am very pleased with how our team and our partners have responded to the challenge and it should not mask the success of our ongoing drilling campaign which has increased gross production from 12,000 bopd to a record 23,164 boepd in under six months.”

The Oracle Today

22

Wednesday April 4, 2018

ENERGY

Refinery rehab: Sustained promises, no result

D

espite appalling failure to register any convincing effort in recovering the country’s moribund refineries, the current administration of the federal government has declared that it is still committed to its 2015 promises to revive the nation’s four three refineries.

The four refineries located in Port Harcourt, Warri and Kaduna hold total crude oil processing capacity of 445,000 barrels per day but have remained inanimate for decades on account of poor maintenance and obsolescence.

Efforts to by previous administration of the government to procure materials from original equipment manufacturers and use domestic labour to rehabilitate and upgrade the four plants were halted by the new government after political transition in 2015.

Erstwhile Managing Director of Port Harcourt Refining Company Limited, Dr. Bafred Enjugu, had told The Oracle Today that that all materials and equipment for the rehabilitation and upgrade of the refinery were fully procured from the original manufacturers, explain that the original refinery builders, JGC of Japan, declined to send workers to Nigeria on security concerns.

He cited massive pre-election bomb blasts, kidnap of the Chibok school girls, Boko Haram rampages in the Northeast and serial bomb attacks on public places including the Abuja office of the United Nations as key security incidents that scared the Japanese from taking up the maintenance contract.

He said that the JGC, instead,

recommended third party service providers, Technimont of Italy, as certified technical experts that could deliver the maintenance and upgrade jobs efficiently.

Dr. Enjugu explained that Technimont had advanced outrageously high charges on security premium. He said the management of Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), after considering the cost proposed by the Italians, decided to mobilize in-country technical capacity to drive the maintenance job.

The maintenance programme, he said, was halted midway when the new administration of the federal government took over in 2015 and swept off the heads of government establishments.

Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, who doubled as Group Managing Director of NNPC, had declared that the refineries would be working optimally by December 2015, threatening to sell any of the plants the management of which failed to get efficient by them deadline.

After the deadline failed woefully by 2016, the minister’s proposal to sell the refineries was met with a spate of public outcry, forcing President Muhammadu Buhari to intervene with directive to halt the any arrangement for sell of the plants.

Since then, several proposals have been flying about the refineries. From clustering plans to modular refining, joint operating ventures and rehabilitation, the refineries have not seen any action plan that suggests effectual and palpable rehabilitation.

Earlier in the month, NNPC an-

•Port Harcourt Refinery. nounced that it has accepted bids from consortia of local and foreign companies for the rehabilitation but the arrangement which cedes output from the refineries to the financiers compromises the prime objective of using cheap products from the refineries to crash pump prices or weed out importation losses.

Under the models adopted for the refinery maintenance, the private consortia would invest own funds in rehabilitating the plants and recovery cost plus margin in commodity offtake from the refineries.

Nestoil, BP in African farm down, farm out

By SOPURUCHI ONWUKA

I

ndigenous Nestoil, a unit of Obijackson Group, is working to farm down its interest in Oil Mining Lease (OML) 42 acreage held by Neconde, as the company takes apparent steps to navigate through acquisition debts, stagnant output volumes, price slump and protracted production downtime.

According to sources close to the company, Nestoil would be farming down its 80 percent interest in Neconde which staked $585 million on 45 percent interest in OML 42 divested by Shell and joint venture partners as they cashed out from vulnerable onshore assets in the Niger Delta.

The company’s plan to cut its 80 percent equity in Neconde coincides with declaration by BP to totally divest its stake in Gulf of Suez Oil Company (GUPCO) which manages its interests in oil and gas assets in the region.

The report that Nestoil would be shedding stake in Neconde comes as surprise to industry observers who actually think that the Obijackson Group should be

thinking of acquiring more assets and stakes in the upstream to sustain its chain of businesses exploration, production and services.

Shading stakes from Neconde means that Nestoil would be cutting its risks and debt exposure by loosening grip in brownfield OML 42 where it is in acquisition and operations partnership with Yinka Folawiyo and KOV during and after the field was divested by Shell, Total and Eni in a programme that spawned small indigenous independent companies in 2012.

Neconde was created to form the platform with which the partners in the asset acquisition continue with a joint venture with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). The corporation eventually conferred its overriding 55 percent stake on its exploration and production unit, Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC), which now operates the field.

With NPDC as operator, it means that Neconde, with huge debt burden, remains mere financial interest in OML 42 where expected production boom from prevailing 20,000 barrels per day has failed

to happen as in the case of Aiteo’s Oml 29 which has breached 70,000 barrels per day.

Meanwhile in Egypt, BP has placed its stake in GUPCO which operates its assets in the Gulf of Suez region of Egypt on auction.

GUPCO is in joint venture worth about $500 million with Egyptian Petroleum Company (EGPC).

Secondary sources have it that BP is throwing in GUPCO in exchange for focus on newer, deepwater gas fields off Egypt’s Mediterranean coast where Eni has declared record production.

Reports have it that startup of the NW-7 well has led ENI to achieve record production from its Nooros gas field offshore Egypt.

The Nooros field reached flows of 32 Mmcm/d, the highest ever recorded by an ENI field in Egypt.

The NW-7 well was the 13th well drilled within the field.

ENI will see production levels increase even further when the firm completes the drilling and commissioning of its 14th well on the field.

The well is currently being drilled and is expected to be brought online in June, bringing production up to 34 Mmcm/d on the Nooros.

Whereas the arrangement is benign in the surface, financial analysts interpret it as another loan by the administration which has become detested for its penchant for mopping up strings of local and foreign loans that threaten to plunge the nation back into long term debts and economic recession.

Dr. Kachikwu told The Oracle Today that the deadline for revamping the refineries has been reset for 2019 when the first term of the current administration is expected to end. He said the process for bring the plans and

proposal for the refineries into effect was slow but on course.

While in Lagos receive a media award, the Group Managing Director of NNPC, Dr. Maikanti Baru, declared that government would not relent in its commitment to get the four refineries back to optimum production capacity.

Dr. Baru said the corporation was holding far-reaching discussions with some consortia to get the best funding options towards the refineries’ overhaul. This, he said, was part of the ongoing reforms in the NNPC.

FG intensifies search for oil in the North

G

overnment is pressing on with endless search for oil in major sedimentary basins in the northern parts of the country after years if private and regional efforts failed to strike commercial hydrocarbon volumes in the region.

Apart from repeated exploration failures, recent security incidents involving fatal terrorist attacks on a combined team of geologists and officials of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) officials underscore the high level determination with which oil search is driven in the region.

Group Managing Director of NNPC, ‘Dr. Maikanti Baru, declared at an event in Kano that the corporation would embark on costly drilling campaigns in two mapped areas where seismic data indicate bright exploration points.

He however pointed out that the exploration team would be provided security cover under an arrangement for collaboration with security forces.

He said the corporation was mobilizing rigs for eight wells in two locations in Chad and Gongola Basins. Dr. Baru said the corporation planned to drill four wells in areas

that it had acquired 1,961 square kilometres of 3D seismic data out of the planned 3,550 square kilometres.

He stated that the NNPC would be going into the deeper Maiduguri sub-basin to acquire more 3D seismic data as soon as normalcy returns to the Chad Basin.

“While waiting for normalcy to return to the Chad Basin, we have stepped up efforts in the lower Benue Trough. So far, we have acquired 20 kilometers of 2D seismic data out of the planned 455 kilometers of 2D seismic data.”

On the Gongola Basin, he said four wells were also being planned for drilling to further test the prospects identified around the Kolmani River-1, Nasara-1 and Kuzari-1 in 2018.

He stated that it was in line with this collaboration that the corporation developed a strategy involving various geoscience departments in the country’s tertiary institutions, which culminated in the renewed search for hydrocarbon deposits in the inland basins.

“Our search is primarily targeted at increasing the hydrocarbon reserves of the country and also to harness these resources, which may be in other parts of the country,” Baru added.

The Oracle Today

23

Wednesday April 4 , 2018

e-Platform

MDAs using ICT projects as conduit pipe, NITDA alleges …Okays CBN’s cyber security projects Stories by SAMSON AKINTARO

T

HE Director General of the National Information Technology development Agency (NITDA) Dr. Isa Pantami has vowed to stop wastage and shady deals among government’s Ministries, Agencies and Departments (MDAs) over ICT projects. This is because, according to him, most ICT projects by the MDAs are being used as conduit pipes to siphon money.

With this, he said, a lot of IT projects being budgeted for yearin-year-out turns out to be failed projects. “In the past, over 90 percent of IT projects have failed in Nigeria, allowing the sector to continue with this trend would not move the Country forward. Our responsibility as the clearing House for all IT projects in Nigeria is to ensure that, there is value for money in any IT project executed in the Country” Pantami said.

The NITDA DG added that the agency’s investigations into spending on goods, works and services in both public & private sectors revealed that billions of naira was being spent on IT projects in the country without a corresponding return on investments. “Many MDAs see ICT as a conduit pipe for siphoning public funds in Nigeria, NITDA under my leadership is out to reverse the ugly trend” he said.

In 2017, NITDA had issued directives mandating the MDAs to seek clearance of all IT projects from the agency before execution or procurement. This, the agency said became imperative with the realization that government’s investments in IT over the years were not commensurate with the value derived from such investments and had also failed to evolve a digitally-enabled public service that will advance the citizens’ yearnings of

digital economy made it necessary for strategic repositioning of IT procurement in the public sector.

“The Agency’s assessment of the 2017 Appropriation Bill revealed that MDAs proposed to spend approximately Forty-Two Billion, Five Hundred and Sixty Million, Nine Hundred and Forty-Five Thousand, One Hundred and Ninety-One Naira (42,560,945,191.00) on IT projects. This represents 2.1% of the total capital budget of Two Trillion, Forty-Eight Billion, Nine Hundred and Eighty-Nine Million, Five Hundred and Seventy-Eight Thousand, Two Hundred and Twenty-Two Naira (N2,048,989,578,222.00). It is therefore imperative to ensure that maximum value is derived from such huge investment of public funds, especially at a time when the need for accountable, transparent, efficient and effective public spending is high on the current administration’s agenda.

“We are therefore calling on MDAs and other government establishments to ensure that their IT projects in the 2017 Appropriation Act are put forward for clearance before implementation. It should be noted that a breach of the provision of NITDA Act and any other directive pursuant to the Act is an offence under Section 17 and punishable under Section 18 of the Act” NITDA had said in the directive.

However, there are indications that the government institutions have largely ignored the directive due to lack of a stern legal framework to make them conform to the guidelines. But the NITDA DG has vowed that he will end the practice and make the MDAs do the right thing by seeking approval before implementation of any IT project, adding that the agency’s responsibility as the clearing House for all IT projects in Nigeria is to ensure that

there is value for money in any IT project executed in the Country.

Meanwhile, in line with that resolve, the agency said it had just cleared a number of ICT security and systems infrastructure upgrade projects of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). The projects cleared, according to NITDA include: Enterprise Network Security – Gateway Security Project, aimed at upgrading the Bank’s network security appliances and ensures that network security appliances

are highly available and provides comprehensive real-time protection against advanced threats. The Intelligence Security Operations Center project that is aimed at providing a dedicated center, technology and team for continuous monitoring of the Bank’s network to prevent, detect and deal with Cyber-attacks. Implementation of a Network Access Control (NAC) Solution – a security approach designed to restrict the availability of network resources to endpoint devices – aimed at enhancing infrastructure security as well as limit potential effects from emerging security threats. The Identity

Data breach: Facebook to crack down on abuses

S

• DG-NITDA, Dr. Isa Pantami

Africa needs 5G to achieve digital economy – Ericsson

E

RICSSON, a networking technology company has challenged countries of the world, especially Africa on the need to develop a strong 5G network, which describe as the solid foundation for digital economy.

The President and CEO of Ericsson, Börje Ekholm, who gave the advice in a keynote speech at the just concluded 2018 Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain, spoke with the coanchor of Squawk Box Europe on CNBC, Karen Tso, during the day’s first keynote session called The Foundations of The Digital Economy.

He reinforced many of the same messages from his press conferences that 5G has moved from buzzword to a commercial reality, highlighting the company’s 38 MoUs and several commercial contracts with service

providers. “We see 5G as a way to show the value of the network.

A lot of technology depends on a strong mobile infrastructure, he said.

He added that while increased speed would be important with 5G, lower latency and longer battery life could be even more so. 5G has been designed to be the industrial internet, with remote control of machinery and maintenance with augmented reality as two prime examples.

In Nigeria, service providers are beginning to roll out 4G services, which come with higher speed of connectivity, but the connectivity speed of 5G is far more higher than that of 4G, among other fascinating features that will boost broadband penetration, which 5G has.

“At the same time, the consumer will see this too, for instance, in health care and autonomous vehicles where low latency will be a

and Access Management Solution project aimed at ensuring that the right individuals access the right resources/applications at the right times and for the right reasons.

Recall that the NITDA DG in one of his recent press statements alerted the country on potential cyber-attacks likely to be experienced, targeting banking, health and other systems, power and transportation systems, as well as other critical national infrastructure. The CBN, in its efforts towards mitigating these threats, especially in the country’s financial institutions, initiated the implementation of these projects.

The Director General, in his clearance letter, commended the Bank for the proactive manner in handling these threats and reiterated NITDA’s continued support for all initiatives aimed at ensuring that the country’s cyberspace is safe and secure.

critical factor,” Ekholm said.

Ekholm addressed the need for the right regulatory regime, a point he also made earlier, while emphasising deregulation in Europe and easier site permitting processes, which will allow for the rapid build out of sites necessary for 5G. “It’s important for governments to see networks as critical natural resources. About 100 years ago, we built out railways and roads, but the future roads are digital highways”, Ekholm added.Tso and Ekholm finished by looking ahead to the future on several levels – commercially, in terms of new devices and in how 5G will dramatically change the lives of Africans and other continents.

“5G will be a commercial reality for a couple reasons. The first is data traffic. We need 5G to bring cost per gigabyte down.

We also see that early movers in

new technology gain a benefit.

We saw that with early movers in 4G – they get higher average revenue per user and higher market share,” Ekholm said. Ericsson predicts there will be a billion 5G devices on the market by 2023, and they could likely shift how people interact with connected devices.

ocial media platform, Facebook, said it had taken steps to crack down on abuses to ensure safety of data on its platform. The founder of the platform, Mark Zuckerberg, said in a statement that the step was also to ensure that people’s trust was gained.

“We are announcing some important steps for the future of our platform. “These steps involve taking action on potential past abuse and putting stronger protections in place to prevent future abuse.

“Protecting people’s information is the most important thing we do at Facebook. “What happened with Cambridge Analytica was a breach of Facebook’s trust.“More importantly, it was a breach of the trust people place in Facebook to protect their data when they share it,’’ Zuckerberg said He said that people use Facebook to connect with friends and others, using all kinds of apps. Zuckerberg said that Facebook’s platform helped make apps social; so one’s calendar could show ones friends’ birthdays, for instance. He said that to do this, Facebook allowed people to log into apps and share who their friends were and some information about them. “Henceforth, Facebook will require that developers get people’s permission before they access the data needed to run their apps. “For instance, a photo-sharing app has to get specific permission from the owner to access one’s photos.

“Over the years, we have introduced more guardrails, including in 2014, when we began reviewing apps that request certain data before they could launch. “We are also introducing more granular controls for people to decide what information to share with apps. “These actions will prevent any app like Aleksandr Kogan’s from being able to access so much data today. “But even with these changes, abuses of our platform and the misuse of people’s data still occur and we know we need to do more,’’ the founder of the platform said. He explained that Facebook would set a higher standard on how developers build on the platform; what people should expect from them and from the Facebook itself.

24

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 4, 2018

ISSN: 2545-5869

VOX POPULI SACRUM

www.oraclenews.ng

EDITORIAL

Cultism – Bayelsa cuts head to cure headache Cont’d front page 1

to opportunities, mostly at the expense of others.

enforce their rights to the mineral licences governments awarded, until the boys made enough money to create an army of illegal enforcers.

THE ideals of the Pyrates then spread to other schools. Other groups spawned, some of ENFORCEMENT of the laws on cultism has been whose members were initially from those weak. Tougher laws are no guarantee that the the Pyrates rejected, and later as contestants results would be different. Many reasons can for power on campuses. Those struggles explain the dilemma. Cultists are smart. Their were from political powers, to influence over memberships spread deeper than the law school authorities. anticipates.

STUDENTS expelled for cult activities, rebels who watched from outside, and anyone who THEY are wealthy enough to compromise security. They do compromise security. From their understood access to power through invidideeper roots in the universities, many of their ous means, including a proclivity to mystics, members have grown to leadership positions embraced cults for their economic benefits. in society, and they offer the same protections They were soon unable to cope with recruits, to their members as they did in school, or in who in turn formed their own groups. their formative years.

CULTISM, just as it was 66 years in Ibadan, is a response to need for survival. With a society SUBVERSION of the law is an essential survival kit for cults. The authorities therefore should pay that pays less attention to the pains of its more attentions to dismantling the attractions members, cults have become the rescue for that cults hold for their members than in makmany that the economic opportunities have ing laws that are not effectively enforceable. left behind. They have prospered; they have become great examples to other aspirants to THE 2012 anti-cultism law, provided for 10 years survival. imprisonment without an option of fine. Was the increase in the number of years to 20, WHY would Bayelsa be so cult-blighted? It apwithout an option based on evidence that an pears that oil and gas explorations, and the increase in the years of imprisonment would injustices that they mete to the host commake enforcement more effective, or that it munities have aided the creation of many would deter offenders? groups that the oil companies first used to

related activities, without a warrant

•

• Conduct stop and search on motor vehicles, tricycle, boat or any place suspected to be used for cult and its related activities Arrest of the occupier of the house or where cult activities are suspected to have taken place or about to be held THE anger that resulted in the law can be gleaned from the Governor’s speech when he signed the law. “As a government we cannot allow this ugly trend of events to continue unabated.

A situation where children below 15, 16, 17 and majority of our youth population are members of one dangerous cult group or society, where they carry guns and other dangerous weapons and shoot, maim, kill and create insecurity in parts of the State is totally unacceptable. As a responsible government, we must put an end to this and it has to be now,” Governor Dickson said.

WHAT are the causes of cultism? The Governor’s anger does not identify the causes of the problem. He does not admit that there are any issues. Unemployment, injustices, and the tussle for power linked to the benefits of oil and gas explorations create and fund cults.

THE award of what Bayelsa State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Don Awunah called “comprehensive powers to confront crime and criminality NONE of them seems to be the case. head-on”, could result in further injustices that Governor Seriake Dickson rather could escalate the cult wars. justified the amended law by stating that it was meant to check the AWAY from the law, Bayelsa State Government rise in cult activities among youths. has to love its people enough to create hope, The amendment, he said, would a future for them. These are better deterrents give law enforcement agencies than long prison terms. more powers to proactively protect lives and property and safeguard Our Vision the future of the State.

THE law provides for destruction of buildings and premises used for cult activities, initiations as well as the storage of arms and dangerous weapons. Such places can also be forfeited to the Government, which would not pay any compensation if it destroys such buildings and premises.

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.

BY the law, the onus is also on landlords and property owners not to allow criminals and cultists to turn their property into crime centres.

The government expects reports of illegalities to be made to it for the implementation of the law.

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.

AMONG the provisions are, the police: • Can arrest any person it suspects of involvement in cult and other

Mission

25

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 4, 2018

OPINION

Eze Ndi Igbo as a business venture

By OBISIKE NWOSU

L

ET me make some predictions right away: As preparations for the 2019 elections begin, more Eze Ndi Igbo will germinate like Pentecostal churches in Lagos, in many parts of Nigeria. Some already established Eze Ndi Igbo would be in court because, now, there is politics and money involved. What hitherto was a mere sociocultural symbolism has been seized by political finance sleaze and the quest for quick money.

I remember in my days in the university, as the Secretary of Imo State Students Association in the 80s, we installed one of my course mates as Eze Ndi Igbo. It was one of the activities of our cultural week. It was fun, it was cultural. It was in the reflection and emulation of the new Igbo social order in which one distinguished member of the community is designated as paramount, contrary to the maxim of Igbo enwe eze.

It was designed for the bonding of the students of Imo State origin outside Igbo land.

It was in this socio-cultural context that many Igbos, especially among the business community, had Eze Ndi Igbo in different cities of Nigeria outside Igbo land.

Eze Ndi Igbo used to be a unifying and rallying point. That is what it was before the practice got mixed up with politics, money and greed. Today, the motive has changed largely. Eze Ndi Igbo is now more pecuniary

than socio-cultural. In some cases, I dare say, the quest is pure fraud.

It is a known fact that in most States outside Igbo land, the next largest non-indigenous ethnic group you find is the Igbo.

In some States, their numbers are large enough to swing votes. Since the advent of this fourth republic, politicians have been courting these Eze Ndi Igbo as subterranean campaign linchpins for Igbo votes. That is the highway Eze Ndi Igbo took to the corruptive influence of money politics.

Having seen how the financial fortunes of some Eze Ndi Igbo got bolstered by political campaign sludge funds, more ambitious and greedy men have seen Eze Ndi Igbo more or less as a business venture. Everybody now wants his own territory, or indeed, kingdom.

Some sharp guys, in various towns have learnt how to sell politicians a dummy, promising to corner for them, the large, hard-to-ignore number of potential Igbo voters. These dubious minded men find Eze Ndi Igbo as a veritable platform to make quick cash. Hence, the mushrooming and fierce competition for the otherwise puerile stool.

While the activities of the authentic Igbo town unions operate under proper constitutions, the new Eze Ndi Igbo’s cardinal rule is like the British constitution – unwritten. These Eze Ndi Igbo are neither born nor elected by any subjects. They rather

emerge by self-conferment, legitimised by the partakers of their booze binge. Some landlords among them now build what looks like the obi or palace, where their scam partners, often conferred with spurious chieftaincy titles, congregate to give effect to the lie that the Eze has followers.

In Nigeria these days, with booze and baloney, followers come on the cheap.

I remember that it was on a visit by some of these self-serving Eze Ndi Igbo that the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, made that regrettable and condemnable statement of pushing Igbos into the lagoon, if they didn’t vote for his choice, in the heat of the 2015 gubernatorial election.

The activities of some of these Eze Ndi Igbo have also provided cannon fodder for others who look for Igbo-bashing opportunities like the dehumanising treatment meted out to one Eze Ndi Igbo of Akure by the Oba of Akure, three years back.

The 2019 elections are coming. While some Nigerians are positioning for elective positions, some are angling for electioneering campaign funds. One of the profitable platforms for these campaign funds is Eze Ndi Igbo. Unlike political party platforms, it does not require INEC registration. In fact, it needs nobody’s registration. All it takes is hubris and treachery.

When you observe the conduct of some of these Eze Ndi Igbo charlatans closely, you cannot but loathe their misappropria-

tion of a communal representation for selfish pecuniary gains. Selling of chieftaincy titles, under the guise of recognition for prominent personalities, is one of their negative stocks in trade. But that doesn’t generate as much financial benefits as extorting money from vote chasing politicians.

That is where they do the greatest damage to Igbo name and interests.

I was amused to no end in an event organised by some traders in Lagos, not long ago, when the MC introduced one hustler as the Eze Ndi Igbo of a certain suburb.

With all the braggadocio in the world, he swaggered into the venue with a borrowed air of royalty, not minding that his scruffy regalia was a riot of costumes.

Indeed, he was a mockery of both the ancient and modern Eze. I can’t forget that he had in tow, as his palace chief, an apparent drunk who I noticed wore shoes of different colours (could it be a fashion statement?).

Obviously, that Eze Ndi Igbo had not been visited by politicians and their campaign funds. When they do, his fortunes will definitely change and his palace chief will be able to buy a new pair of shoes and, of course, aspire for his own kingdom.

That’s how Eze Ndi Igbo has been growing like cancer cells outside Igbo land since the return of democracy.

• Nwosu wrote from Lagos

Ekiti 2018: Oyegun’s sermon to APC members

By EHICHIOYA EZOMON

W

hen concerned members were wondering if the All Progressives Congress was absolutely ready for the July 14 governorship election in Ekiti, the party National Chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, visited the state last Monday, to allay their fears.

Those worries stemmed from the apparent lukewarm to electoral contest by the chapter of the APC, which consecutively boycotted council elections in 2015 and 2017, citing likelihood of bias by the Ekiti State Independent Electoral Commission (EKSIEC).

With those boycotts, the APC has ignorantly allowed the ruling Peoples Democratic Party in Ekiti to fortify its stronghold at the grassroots critical to mobilizing for elections into state and national positions.

What’s more! The state PDP has logged in years of campaigning in readiness for the July poll. Practically on daily basis, Governor Ayodele Fayose and his “anointed candidate” and Deputy Governor, Prof. Kolapo Olusola, would mobilize well-choreographed crowds of party members to any events - public or private, and turned them into campaign activities.

But what about the APC, its aspirants and followers? They are almost nowhere to be found in the field, with only occasional one-off “launching ceremonies” by the aspirants at the party headquarters in Ado-Ekiti. Other jostlings are simply media photo-ups at their “country-homes.”

And this is happening barely weeks to the pivotal governorship election!

It’s amid this despondency that Odigie-Oyegun “suddenly” showed up in Ado-Ekiti, to kick-off a nationwide membership drive, which is indicative of the existence of a lacuna requiring urgent

and decisive action(s) to ameliorate in the party.

Accompanied by some members of the National and State Working Committees (NWCs), and the Minister of Mines and Solid Minerals, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, Odigie-Oyegun had audience at the party secretariat and Eagle Hall in the capital city, where the governorship aspirants “mobilized thousands of members to receive the team.”

He told the expectant members that his visit was not happenstance, but to show the readiness of the APC to win the governorship poll in the state. “Ekiti is facing an important election that will happen in this nation,” he said. “God has put it in our hand; God has put it on your laps and God has chosen Ekiti to be a major factor in the politics of this country in July 2018.

“We, in the National Executive, have decided that the coming election in Ekiti is one we will work as hard as possible to win. No stone will be left unturned: it is a must-win election... We are going to mobilise the entire country, the entire APC structure, to ensure that you are not alone and that all the resources you need for the election are made available to you. At the end of July, Ekiti will be APC.” This solidarity message would gladden the hearts of the APC members and sympathizers in Ekiti. But the more reassuring, especially to the governorship aspirants, was Odigie-Oyegun’s promise that the party would allow a level-playing ground at the primaries.

The pledge came in the wake of “rumours” that the hierarchy of the APC had “anointed” a candidate, like what obtains in the PDP, which has set other aspirants against Governor Fayose for unilaterally choosing his deputy as the party’s candidate for the poll.

Odigie-Oyegun said: “I want to assure

that in Ekiti State, we will have free, fair and credible primary. We will provide security at the primary. It will be an open event and will be covered and recorded on television from the beginning to the end. There will be proper identification of delegates to prevent impersonation.

“At the voting point, party chairmen of the local government (chapters) and wards will stand at a distance away, but they will ensure that those who will vote are bona fide delegates. Anybody found impersonating will be handed over to the police. A formidable group of (APC) governors will be mobilized to superintend, guide and ensure that the election is totally free and fair.”

These declarative statements, beyond the realm of a gentleman’s agreement, are like a jolt to rouse the Ekiti APC, and which, hopefully, the national headquarters of the party would implement to the letter, to stem a possible downside at the election.

Yet, realizing the need to regain lost ground, due to APC’s boycott of the Ekiti council elections twice, Chief OdigieOyegun issued a “code of conduct” that mandates: Aspirants to sign an undertaking to maintain decorum; not to campaign as if there is no tomorrow, or with enmity, to avoid discord in the party; not to behave as bad losers; to collapse their structures into the person that is chosen at the primary; and to eschew division and factionalisation in the party.

Even so, the APC chair reminded members that President Muhammadu Buhari’s avowal to offer voters a level-playing field, and not compromise free and fair election, “means (that) whether we are in power at the federal level or not, we must all work hard to deserve the victory that belongs to us.”

What else do the Ekiti APC want, especially the aspirants: Chief Segun Oni, Dr.

Wole Oluyede, Mr. Kola Alabi, Mr. Victor Kolade, Dr. Bayo Orire, Senator Gbenga Aluko, Captain Sunday Adebomi, Dr. Mojisola Kolade, Chief Diran Adesua, Mr. Bimbo Daramola, Senator Ayo Arise, Dr. Wole Oluleye and Dr. Makanjuola Owolabi, who were present at the membership drive flag-off in Ado-Ekiti?

Will the losers at the primaries take their defeat in stride and good faith, and work with the winner for the good of the APC? Surely, the July 14, 2018 governorship ball is in their court to play to score, or flunk and remain in the political wilderness till 2022!

• Mr. Ezomon, Journalist and Media Consultant, writes from Lagos, Nigeria.

THE GROUP Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief Ikeddy Isiguzo Editor Felix Oguejiofor Abugu Deputy Editor/Head, Lagos Bureau Sopuruchi Onwuka Abuja Bureau Chief Tony Ailemen Head, Graphics & Designs Nnamdi Alex Chukwu Business Manager Kelechi Nze Circulation Manager Felix Oti

The Oracle Today

26

Wednesday April 4 , 2018

e-Platform

How we will reposition 9Mobile, by Teleology Stories by SAMSON AKINTARO

W

ITH the successful payment of US$50 million non-refundable deposit to the Trustee for the bank syndicate presently holding ownership of 9Mobile, Teleology Holding has unveiled ambitious plan of action that will guide its rapid of the network and all aspects of the operations.

According to Adrian Wood, Teleology’s Director and pioneer Managing Director of MTN Nigeria, “9mobile is transiting into a new phase that will be defined by optimal value delivery: value to our employees, value to our customers, value to local communities and indeed to all stakeholders.”

He added that the new organization to emerge would be “engineering led and brand driven.” In delivering service, “we will strive to ensure that 9Mobile operations deliver fulfillment to our customers, empowerment to local communities, protection to the vulnerable, and excellent rewards not only to our shareholders but to all stakeholders. Mr. Wood added that Teleology has set out a 10-point plan that aggregates its mission and how it intends to turn the 9mobile organization around.

It plans to double the 9Mobile network with new 3G/4G specific cell sites as well as a several thousands of kilometers of fiber optic cable across the country. It will drive a special program of rural internet coverage, focusing on 4G with broadband access planned for all of Nigeria’s 774 Local Government Areas. Youth engagement

and employment programs are also planned with all build contractors, distributors and consultants, he said, while investment in broadband internet access technologies which are completely new to Nigeria, are also planned. Very importantly, he added, the 9Mobile network will be optimized for high speed and high capacity data including imaging, video, games, music, IPTV and more.

“Any 3-point plan or 3-dimension idea is naïve and completely missing the scope and complexity of the urgent Nigerian need to be brought into the 21st century broadband era”. Teleology, he added, envisages an increase of 50% in direct employment in the new 9Mobile. There is also an active plan to introduce within the first year, several million 4G-capable premium quality smartphones, at exceedingly affordable pricing.

“Nigerians should look forward to a new regime of intensely exciting and innovative brand loyalty rewards programs, from the new 9Mobile,” he said.

He disclosed that Teleology had entered into an alliance with Safaricom, the largest network operator in East Africa. Safaricom is famous for its global “mpesa” mobile financial services system, which advances financial inclusion and supports the network with the highest operating efficiencies in Africa.

Coming at a period when competition in the Nigerian telecom industry has for some years been limited to price wars between the various GSM companies, clearly, Teleology’s coming will very likely herald

a new era of intense competition and quest for market share among Nigeria’s telecom operators. Teleology is promoted by a group of 12 telecom industry veterans with considerable experience not only in Nigeria and Africa but in the global telecom space as well. The ex-

ecutive management for instance, boasts more than 337+ years of collective frontline operational management experience.

Wood thanked Barclays Africa, the Financial Advisers to the transaction, the Nigerian bank syndicate, the fulsome backing and

S

to help them connect to others and express themselves in a way that’s unique and personal to them.”

Speaking at the launch in Lagos, Mr. Olumide Ojo, Director Information Technology and Mobile, Samsung West Africa, said the Galaxy S9 and S9+ cameras are built with these consumers in mind, with a Super Speed Dual Pixel sensor with dedicated processing power and memory to

MainOne Partners Ogun on Smart City development

C

• Adrian Wood, Managing Director of MTN Nigeria

Samsung S9, S9 plus hit Nigerian market

AMSUNG Electronics has officially unveiled its flagship devices, Galaxy S9 and S9 plus in Nigeria with a declaration that the phones would revolutionize the way people communicate, share and experience the world. Made for an age in which consumers increasingly communicate and express themselves more with images, videos and emojis, the Galaxy S9 and S9+ drive innovation with Samsung’s advanced camera. Redesigned with a new Dual Aperture lens that powers an innovative low light camera, Super Slow-mo video capabilities and personalised AR Emoji, the Galaxy S9 and S9+ ensure users do not miss a moment and make their everyday epic.

According to Samsung, the Galaxy S9 and S9+ deliver an enhanced entertainment experience with powerful stereo speakers tuned by AKG, immersive audio with Dolby Atmos and a refined edge-to-edge Infinity Display – a key staple in Samsung’s design heritage. “In addition, the Galaxy S9 and S9+ come with the new SmartThings app, which unites Samsung’s existing IoT services into one single, smart experience.”

“The way we use our smartphones has changed as communication and self-expression has evolved,” said Jingak Chung, Managing Director, Samsung Electronics West Africa.

“With the Galaxy S9 and S9+, we have reimagined the smartphone camera. Not only do the Galaxy S9 and S9+ enable consumers to shoot great photos and videos anywhere, it’s a smartphone that’s designed

support of the NCC and CBN which made 9Mobile’s survival possible, and the loyal 9Mobile management and staff who carried on in the face of skepticism, doubt and negative market sentiment.

take amazing shots with high photo quality.

“The Super Slow-mo phones’ cameras make every day moments epic with dynamic, slow-motion video that captures 960 frames per second. The Galaxy S9 and S9+ also offer automatic Motion Detection, an intelligent feature that detects movement in the frame and automatically

begins to record – all users have to do is set up the shot. After capturing the Super Slow-mo video, users can select background music from 35 different options or add a tune from their favorite playlist. Users can also easily create, edit and share GIF files with a simple tap in three playful styles of looping to watch the action over and over again” he said.

• From left: Rifugio Samsung Partner, Samsung Electronics Store, Ikeja City Mall, Mr. Kayode Thomas; Director, Information Technology and Mobile, Samsung Electronics West Africa, Mr. Olumide Ojo; President, Samsung Central Africa, Mr. John Park; Samsung Ambassador, Mr. Bankole Wellington (Banky W) and Manager, Information Technology and Mobile, Samsung Electronics West Africa, Mr. Hung-Bae Kim during the launch of the Samsung S9 and S9+ smartphones at Samsung Experience Centre, Ikeja City Mall recently.

ommunications Service and Network Solutions Company, MainOne, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ogun State government to build two hundred and fifty (250) kilometres of Optic Fibre cable to further enhance internet connectivity for service institutions in commercial areas of the state, with a view to becoming the smart city.

While signing the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), Secretary to Ogun State Government, Barrister Taiwo Adeoluwa, explained that technological infrastructure was part of the efforts of the government to take the State on the technological highway, and pave the path for Smart City development in Ogun State. According to Adeoluwa, MainOne would invest in building broadband infrastructure in Ogun State while Ogun State Government would enable ICT development by ensuring free Right of Way (RoW) to the company to ensure the success of the project.

The SSG who also hinted that the agreement would ensure the construction of data centre in Sagamu interchange said the target of the government was for Lagos to be feeding on Ogun. In his words, “We’ve been working hard and desperate to leave a system-driven environment. The MoU we have signed in the short term is for a 30year tenure and that would tell you we’ve not done it for ourselves but for the benefit of Ogun State, our youths and children unborn.”

“Today, we are taking Ogun State to the next level, people still have no idea of what is erupting at the Business District but we what are doing now is in line with our resolve to deploy bigger infrastructure to support technological investors in the state. MainOne would be giving us points in 12 locations now; our model schools would be connected, the secretariat would be connected and other public buildings’’, Adeoluwa noted.

With this partnership with MainOne, Ogun State has joined the Smart City State train and is poised to enable its emergence as a leading technology hub in Nigeria, similar to MainOne’s initiatives in Yaba’s Innovation Hub. Experts believe this project will greatly improve quality of life for Ogun indigenes and accelerate the digital transformation of businesses across the state.

• Amosu, Ogun State Governor

The Oracle Today

Wednesday April 4, 2018

Travel & Hospitality

27

Marriott hotels promise ‘exciting’ Easter experience

Stories by VICTOR NZE

S

HERATON Lagos Hotel, Sheraton Abuja Hotel, Four Points

by Sheraton in Lagos and Le Meridien Ogeyi Place, Port Harcourt have announced their readiness ‘to deliver an unforgettable Easter experience to loyal guests and patrons.’

According to the Area General Manager for Marriott International Hotels in Nigeria, Barry Curran, the hotels are offering the ‘perfect staycation this coming Easter season.’

“If you are thinking of that perfect Staycation at any of our venues in Lagos, Abuja or Port Harcourt this coming Easter season, you will not go wrong. Our well planned Sheraton Lagos Hotel room’s package commences from N63,600 only, those who book these rates will get a welcome drink on arrival and 20 per cent off brunch on Easter Monday. Complimentary breakfast for one kid under 12 years per paying adult.

“Good Friday and Saturday evening will feature a live band at our pool bar and happy hour from 7-9pm where unique cocktails will be sold. On Easter Sunday, Guests are sure to enjoy a special brunch for N16, 000 per person inclusive of non-alcoholic beverages, while kids 12 and below will eat at half price. Guests can equally enjoy a perfect ambiance during brunch and kids are also in for a treat with bouncy castles and face painting activities to ensure a great time.

“At Sheraton Abuja Hotel families and friends will experience an

enriching Easter brunch at our Papillon restaurant for just NGN 9,000 per person. The Easter weekend package room rate deal is perfect for families and goes for as low as NGN 35,000 per night inclusive of breakfast, free access to the internet and the Sheraton fitness for an energizing experience from the 29th of March – 2nd of April, 2018.

“Kids are not left out as there will be lots of fun games and activities such as the ‘Egg-citing’ egg hunt game by the Easter Bunny with lots of prizes to be won; a take home art painting activity with an instructor for kids by Art Splash Studio for NGN 3,000 per kid where the first 10 kids get to paint for free (one child, per paying adult).

“For those visiting Four Points

by Sheraton Lagos our Easter offer is set to run from March 30th till April 2nd 2018. On good Friday, Guests will have the opportunity to relax and unwind with a live music performance at the hotel’s famous rooftop bar, a well-known hang out spot with a fun atmosphere and panoramic view of the bar, barbeque, wine, great beer and music.

“The room’s package will start from N45, 000 per night for single occupancy inclusive of buffet breakfast for one and all taxes, high speed internet, use of the gym, swimming pool, kiddies’ playground access with a bouncy castle and PS4 game. You can pamper yourself or a loved one with 90 minutes of invigorating treatments at our Spa which includes a full body massage and mini facials.

“Our Four Points Lagos teams will offer an extended special East-

Abia Govt. launches creative hub for tourism

A

bia Government has established a creative hub to boost tourism, arts and culture sector in order to create a sustainable economy, an official said, Thursday.

State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr Obioma Ogbonna, who made this known in Umuahia during an interactive session with stakeholders, said that the initiative would be used to create a platform for connecting creative entrepreneurs.

He said that the creation of a creative hub would provide an avenue for the identification, development and marketing of the diverse cultural and tourism potential and stakeholders in Abia, adding that the tourism, arts and culture sector is a powerful engine that could drive economic growth and development, adding that the state government was determined to explore the sector.

He urged stakeholders in the tourism, arts and culture industry to take advantage of the opportunity provided by the state government through the creative hub.

In his remark, Chairman, Movie

Producers Association, Mr Ebere Iheanacho, commended the state government for providing an opportunity for creative minds to brainstorm, noting that the initiative was a turning point for the state and expressed the hope that the objective of the programme would be realised.

President of Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP), Mr. Nkereuwem Onung (second left) with officials of Plateau State Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Hospitality in Jos, including commissioner for Tourism, Tamwakat Weli, Martha Azi, Permanent Secretary, Danbaba, Director of Tourism, Dantala, Director of Culture and Special Adviser to Governor on Tourism Mr. John Likita Best.

“An Easter Deluxe room pack- area and an exciting Easter Sunday er Sunday brunch at the Brazzerie Restaurant with eclectic cuisine age beginning at N58,000 and an Brunch for both singles and couall-inclusive of a glass of Sparkling Easter Executive Suite package for ples on the 1st of April, 2018. Equalalcoholic or nonalcoholic wine and N155,000 only. Both are inclusive of ly on offer is a 50 per cent discount an Easter Bunny experience on a buffet breakfast for 1 person at the for children under 6-12 years, comdedicated kiddie’s playground with Ororo Restaurant, welcome drink plimentary for kids under 5 years upon arrival, Standard in room in- per paying adult. The Easter menu bouncing castle.

According to Curran, Le Meridien ternet, 4pm late checkout based is a full Family Brunch Buffett setup Ogeyi Place, Port Harcourt will be on availability, SPG Star Points Eligi- inclusive of BBQ. “Our teams are committed to celebrating the Easter Season with bility and Complimentary Access to delivering a truly inspiring Easter two delightful packages which the Gym. “The hotel will equally organize a experience that guests will rememstarts from the 26th March till the fun egg hunt for kids in the lobby ber for a long time” Says Barry 8th of April 2018.

Curra.

Kebbi ends int’l horse race

K

EBBI State Governor, Abubakar Atiku Bagudu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the promotion of tourism in the state to foster unity and speedy development.

The Governor who made this known at the closing ceremony

Westin unveils Project Rise programme

W

estin Hotels & Resorts announced the launch of Project Rise: ThreadForward, an unprecedented sustainability programme that collects, processes and reweaves hotel bed linens transforming them into thousands of pairs of children’s pajamas.

The first-of-its-kind pajamas will be distributed to children in need, whose circumstances can contribute to shortened and more fragmented sleep. Beginning April 16th, Westin will give the gift of better sleep beyond the brand’s hotels, in cities around the world: from New York and Toronto, to Mexico City and Cape Town, and will encourage guests to support by purchasing a pair of pajamas on westinstore.com to benefit the program.

“As people integrate wellness into their lifestyle more holistically on the road and at home, giving back has increasingly become important to their overall sense of well-being,” said Brian Povinelli, SVP & Global Brand Leader, Westin Hotels & Resorts, adding: “Wellness is in the Westin brand’s DNA, and Project Rise: Thread Forward is evidence that we can empower the well-being of our guests and associates as well as make a difference in the communities around us - hopefully inspiring change in the industry as a whole.”

Last year Westin introduced a global campaign called Let’s Rise, taking on the distractions and unpredictability of travel and empowering people to regain control of their well-being when they need it most.

of an international horserace organised by the Royal Horse Racing Club held at the race course Birnin Kebbi, weekend, said his dream was to ensure that indigenes of the state wherever they might be, excel in competitive activities in and outside the country.

Bagudu affirmed his willingness to support the managers of the horserace specifically mentioning the name of the former Governor of Kaduna State retired Colonel Abubakar Dangiwa Umar.

This is even as he expressed appreciation to participating countries such as Niger, Burkina Faso, Cameroon and Chad, which he said was a manifestation of good relationship.

In an address, Colonel Abubakar Dangiwa Umar said the competition attracted participants from Nigeria, Niger, Cameroon, Chad and Burkinapaso, commending the Governors of Kebbi, Zamfara, Kano and Katsina states for supporting the club and ensuring success of the competition.

Colonel Umar acknowledged that due to support received

from Governor Abubakar Atiku Bagudu and confidence reposed on them, made it possible to attract many countries and large turnout with the belief that justice and fairness would prevail in determining the winner.

During the ceremony, the Commander of National Guard, Niger Republic, Dosso Aliyu Mutani decorated Governor Abubakar Atiku Bagudu with sword of gallant warrior in recognition of his commitment to hosting the event in good and friendly manner.

Horse race chairmen of Niger and Burkina Faso, Rahid Naomon and Saleh Mustapha also presented souvenir to the Governor.

At the event various trophies were competed for including the President Muhammadu Buhari Cup, Sir Ahmadu Bello Sardauna Sokoto Cup, Senate President’s Cup, Sultan Cup Alhaji Sa’adu Abubakar and Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu Cup. The first position was won by a horse rider from Niger Republic, Alhaji Saldu Mustapha.

The Oracle Today

28

Wednesday April 4, 2018

AVIATION

AON lauds FG on AfCFTA treaty Stories by VICTOR NZE

U

MBRELLA body of indigenous airline owners, the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) have thumbed up the Federal Government of Nigeria for heeding to the concerns raised by members of the organized private sector (OPS) by halting its planned move to endorse the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement which was due for signing at the justconcluded meeting of African Heads of State in Kigali, Rwanda, last week.

It would be recalled that President Muhammadu Buhari on March 18, canceled his scheduled visit to Rwanda to attend an Extra-Ordinary Summit of the African Union on March 21, where he was to sign the framework agreement for establishing the African Continental Free Trade Area during the Summit that would host leaders of African countries.

According to a statement from the Presidency, the trip was canceled to allow for more consultations with stakeholders in Nigeria over the trade agreement.

It would be recalled that the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Organised Private Sector (OPS) including the Manufacturers of Nigeria (MAN) had kicked against AfCFTA. The fifth meeting of the African Union Ministers of Trade (AMOT),

which held penultimate week in Abuja, and incidentally chaired by Nigeria’s Minister of Trade and Investment, Okechukwu Enelamah, had already adopted the legal instruments constituting AfCFTA. This is also as the Federal Executive Council (FEC), penultimate Wednesday approved that Nigeria should sign the framework agreement for the establishment of the initiative.

The instruments constituting AfCFTA include the Agreement Establishing the AfCFTA, the Pro-

tocol on Trade in Goods, the Protocol on Trade in Services and the Protocol on Rules and Procedures for the Settlement of Disputes.

It would also be recalled that the AMOT meeting adopted the Transitional Implementation Work Programme which also includes a built-in agenda for the finalization of some annexes to the Protocol on Trade in Goods and other arrangements for the operationalization of the AfCFTA. However, commending the Federal Government for stalling on

the agreement, AON Chairman, Captain Nogie Meggison who spoke at the AON office in Lagos, Monday, said the pause was important and will allow government consult with technocrats on the policies to give Nigeria a winwin and mutually benefiting position for Africa and Nigeria and that it will position Nigeria to take full advantage of the AfCFTA. Meggison noted further that rushing to sign the treaty would have given other African nations and possibly some foreign nations unfair advantage into the Nigerian market which would likely erode the good work Government has so far put in place to diversify the economy. ”I would like to on behalf of AON and other well-meaning investors, entrepreneurs and other professional bodies that believe in Nigeria and have invested and continue to invest in Nigeria, to thank the President for taking a bold step to make a difference by not only taking on board our recommendations but also taking a strong decision to pause with the signing of the AfCFTA Treaty.

• Minister of State for Aviation, Sen. Hadi Sirika with Directors from the Ministry of Aviation and Managing Director, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) during a recent inspection of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu.

3 crashes in 4 weeks dent Aviation safety record T HREE deadly air crashes that have killed 170 passengers in the past 4 and a and weeks may indicate that 2017, the safest-ever year for aviation, represented a statistical blip.

A total of five fare-paying customers lost their lives in just two crashes on planes of 14 seats or more in the whole of last year, and there were no passenger fatalities at all involving jet-powered aircraft.

With 2018 only 2 1/2 months old, that death toll has already jumped exponentially, including the first fatal jet crash since the end of 2016. The trend highlights the relatively higher risk associated with flying on smaller aircraft, especially turboprops, in locations with challenging terrain and less developed airport infrastructure lacking the most modern navigational aids.

“The airline industry probably isn’t as safe as looking at 2017 in isolation would have us believe,” Paul Hayes, safety director at London-based aviation consultancy Ascend FlightGlobal, said in an interview. “But three fatal accidents in a few weeks doesn’t mean that safety has got worse.”

This week’s crash involving Bang-

ladesh-based US-Bangla Airlines, which killed 45 passengers, appears typical of deadly incidents in the past few years. It featured a turboprop model — a Bombardier Inc. Dash 8 — and an airport, Kathmandu, that’s ringed by mountains and notorious among pilots.

Hazardous Role Hayes, whose Airline Safety & Losses review proclaimed after 2017 that “the age of zero accidents is here, more or less,” said an air traffic control transcript from the plane’s final

moments indicates confusion over its position and which runway it had been allocated to.

A Febraury 18 crash that killed 60 passengers on a flight operated by Iran Aseman Airlines also involved a turboprop, an ATR 72 built by Airbus SE and Leonardo SpA, which hit a 13,000-foot mountain. Both 2017 incidents with passenger fatalities again featured propeller aircraft, with one person dying when an ATR 42 came down after takeoff in Saskatchewan, Canada, and five killed when a Czech-

built Let L-410 crashed short of the runway in eastern Russia.

Hayes said it’s not the planes themselves that are the issue, nor even the maintenance regimes at little-known operators, but the testing routes on which aircraft are deployed. “Turboprops generally operate in more hazardous environments,” he said. “In places like Papua New Guinea roads don’t exist and the only way is air, but the mountains and low cloud mean that it’s never going to be entirely safe.”

F

Airports Authority of Nigeria has automated the collection of Passenger Service Charge at her local airports.

“This is in line with the directive by the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) that check-in procedures at the airports be streamlined to improve the facilitation of passengers.

“With this development, the use of the Passenger Service Charge sticker at the departure gate was discontinued with ef-

fect from Monday, March 19, 2018. Henceforth, departing passengers who have checked-in prior to arrival at the airport can proceed directly to the boarding gates,” said the statement.

In a related development, the Airport Council International (World) team has concluded its review of the Port Harcourt International Airport and would next week begin the Review of the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, towards the Certification of the Aerodrome.

FAAN automates PSC collection

ederal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has automated the collection of the 5 per cent Passenger Service Charge at its local airports.

According to a statement by the General Manager, Corporate Affairs of FAAN, Mrs Henrietta Yakubu, said the move is part of efforts aimed at easing passenger facilitation at the nation’s airports.

“As part of efforts aimed at easing passenger facilitation at the nation’s airports, the Federal

“We are happy that President Buhari postponed his trip to give us an opportunity to put our house in order before signing the Treaty and to put Nigeria first,” Capt. Meggison stressed.

The AfCFTA is one of the flagship projects of the African Union Agenda 2063 and is aimed at creating a single continental market for goods and services, with free movement of business persons and investments and one currency.

On how the treaty would have negatively impacted, he stated that a foreign company can easily bring in a shipload of rice to a Nigerian neighboring country and re-bag as produced in Africa.

“History has shown that rushed Treaties have put us in a disadvantageous position. That is why we have over 600 unemployed pilots roaming our streets; not to mention the numerous unemployed university graduates.”

“While we think the AU 2063 Agenda is a good idea, we are however against the immediate signing of the AfCFTA. We must pause and carry along the numerous professionals, technocrats and investors in order to position Nigeria not to make the mistakes of the past.”

He said the AON is calling for caution in government signing the AfCFTA and suspension of implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) until the country comes up with a clear agenda to position Nigeria to take full advantage of the Treaties; highlighting several concerns including Unresolved Challenges Associated With Visa Free Movement (Nigerians need 34 visas to move around Africa); Uneven Taxation & Levies across Africa; restricted currency repatriation policies; and Unrealistic Competition & Unfair Trade; Unemployment of our youths.

He noted also that in spite of the globally recognized importance of Nigeria in the global stage as an economic driver for Africa, which is the most populous nation, and indeed largest economy in Africa with its abundant young and educated human workforce (60% below Age 27), a naturally blessed geographical position at the middle of Africa (a natural hub 4 hours flight from most parts of Africa), and material resources and large market (200 Million people), Nigeria aviation and manufacturing industry has remained seemingly in the doldrums.

He added that it is even more disturbing that in the 21st Century, when the rest of the world is strategizing and re-aligning for strong and sustainable economic expansion, the country is still battling with corruption, inadequate infrastructure, poor electricity, bad roads, inter-tribal and religious wars, among others.

Meggison therefore urged government to use this opportunity to immediately call for consultations with the Nigerian Business Community of Entrepreneurs and Experts on Trade Policies to review the SAATM/AfCFTA Treaties so as for it ‘to make an economic impact on Nigeria and create jobs for our ailing youths.’

Nigeria, South Africa as well nine other African nations are yet to pen their signatures to AfCFTA.

The Oracle Today

29

Wednesday April 4, 2018

INSURANCE & PENSION

Capsicum Re Kaduna Govt understudies Oyo YOA, partner to strengthen domestic market Health Insurance Scheme

By VICTOR NZE

A

N eight-man delegation from Kaduna State has completed a two-day study tour of Oyo State Health Insurance Scheme (OYSIA).

The team led by the Chairman of Kaduna State House of Assembly Committee on Health, Dr. Isaac Zankhai and the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Human Resources, Alh. Shehu Muhammed said, last Wednesday, that they were in Ibadan to under study how the Oyo State Government had initiated the first state insurance scheme in the country.

Dr Zankhai urged the Oyo State Government to remain committed to its vision of ensuring comprehensive quality healthcare cover-

age for all, saying that Kaduna State would template on the success and challenges of Oyo State Health Insurance Scheme to facilitate its proposed contributory health insurance scheme.

He stated that what they saw during their visit to the Oyo State House of Assembly, Offices of the Head of Service and Commissioner for Health as well as OYSIA office and accredited Hospitals was an eye-opener to them, which would be leveraged on and replicated in their state, thus, commending the Oyo State Government’s determination to reposition the healthcare delivery system in the state.

Receiving the Kaduna State delegation at the caucus room of the state House of Assembly, the Speaker, Micheal Adeyemo ex-

pressed appreciation to the eightman delegation for embarking on the tour for the benefits of the people of Kaduna State, urging that efforts should be made to make the scheme affordable and accessible.

Adeyemo equally extended appreciation to Governor Ajimobi for making the health care delivery system in the state a unique one, adding that the governor placed much premium on effective healthcare delivery which is being supported by the legislators.

The speaker reassured that OYHA would continue to support the government with the enactment of laws that would boost the development of the state in all facets as well as effective and efficient oversight functions, noting that the state government public

•A cross section of Cross River State pensioners picketing the Governor’s Office, last Tuesday.

Pensioners picket C’River Governor’s Office over gratuity From ANIEKAN ANIEKAN, Calabar

H

undreds of pensioners have staged a peaceful demonstration to demand the payment of their gratuities which have been outstanding since 2013.

The pensioners who marched along some roads in Calabar, the state capital, ended their protest at the Governor’s Office Calabar and demanded immediate payment of their entitlement.

The pensioners who complained that about six of their colleagues have died within the past seven days, carried various placards with inscriptions and demanded to see the State Governor, Ben Ayede in person.

Leader of the delegation, John Idagu, said they were at the office of the governor to inform him of their plight and ask him to address it before all pensioners pass on.

“We are here to let the governor know that we have buried about

six of our fellow retirees in the last one week because government has not paid us our gratuities since 2014. Government must not wait until we all die before they pay us.

“Many have died without this gratuity; many may still die without it if something is not done about it urgently. Please, Your Excellency, save our souls”, he said.

He listed those who have been buried in the last one week without collecting their gratuities to include; Augustine Etta; Sylvia Edem Bocco; Naji Abang Naji; Sylvester Ibok and Vincent Eja who, he said, died a pathetic death.

He appealed to the governor to maintain the chain and plan of payment of gratuity to 2014 and 2015 retirees and beyond saying; “This appeal has become very necessary as majority of retirees in the state fall within this range and group”.

No government official addressed the pensioners as the State governor was said to have

been away for the past three weeks following his endorsement for 2019 by the Northern Senatorial District of the State.

enlightenment programme calling on people to embrace the scheme is yielding positive results.

In her own remarks during a visit to her office, the Oyo State Head of Service, Mrs. Hannah Ogunesan stated that programmes initiated by the state government were meant to close the gap in the health sector and provide comprehensive healthcare delivery for the state citizenry, promising that the state would not relent in its avowed determination in the provision of adequate healthcare services for the people of the state at a bearable cost.

While receiving the team, the State Commissioner for Health, Dr Azeez Adedutan disclosed that the scheme has recorded over 20,000 independent enrollees apart from the state civil and public servants, who have been mandated to register for the scheme with minimum premium of N650 monthly, noting that the government is repositioning the health sector for effective service delivery and efforts will be geared towards the renovation of all hospitals in the state through the endowment fund, budgetary provision and support from intervention funds.

In his welcome remarks, the Executive Secretary of the scheme, Dr. Olusola Akande maintained that the approval of the mandatory enrolment of all civil servants in the state on the health insurance scheme has resulted to the wider coverage and sustainable health delivery services in line with international best practices of universal health coverage, adding that cross fertilization of ideas across states would impact on national growth.

He further disclosed that the health care scheme has been extended to all shades of people at all levels in the state, commending Governor Ajimobi for the scientific approach to addressing issues in the health sector of the state and the commitment to make health care system in the state to an enviable height.

Some of the hospitals visited include Jericho Nursing Home, Ibadan, Comfort Medical Centre, Total Garden, Ibadan and Bashorun Oluwo-N-La Primary Healthcare Centre, all of which are partners of the state government on the health insurance scheme.

T

o further enhance the nation’s insurance industry, risk service provider, YOA Insurance, and Capsicum Re, have entered into partnership to provide capacity for local insurance operators to insure high rate installation risk in the country.

Capsicum Re, a full service international reinsurance broker based in London, and Bermuda, was founded by Grahame Chilton, and Rupert Swallow, in the belief that what customers really want (and were missing) is advocacy for their requirements in the marketplace.

“Relationships are at the core of our offering, and our unique business structure fosters a dynamic and entrepreneurial environment that has attracted market leading reinsurance brokers, and empowered to deliver a ‘back to relationship’ broking service.

“We work in partnership with Arthur J. Gallagher, the fourth largest insurance broker in the world as its reinsurance intermediary. Together we have created an unparalleled service offering for customers that is challenging the larger brokers in the global reinsurance market.

“Combining the best advocates in the industry, market leading analytical capabilities, and the support of Gallagher has facilitated our rapid growth, and our ability to provide a proposition that is challenging the larger brokers in the global reinsurance market, and offering customers a sensible alternative,” said a statement from YOA. Managing Director, YOA Kunle Omilani, who spoke on the underwriter’s strategies for advancing the growth and development of the insurance industry, said the sector plays a vital role in a growing economy by indemnifying risks faced by individuals.

He said insurance companies also contribute to the economy through investments, and are therefore recognised worldwide as significant players within the financial services industry.

He noted that over time, through human inventions, science, and technology, businesses have advanced monumentally. However, despite human creativity and initiatives, the issue of high risk still remains a problem in the country.

He added that insurance as a component of risk management is probably the most recognised as an investment vehicle to boost economies.

Kano Assembly to amend pension law

K

ano State House of Assembly has commenced a process to amend the state law that provided pension and gratuity for former governors and deputy governors.

Kwara State Assembly, it would be recalled, has already passed a law stopping the payment of pensions to former chief executives of the state, among other government functionaries.

The decision to commence the amendment of the law followed a motion of urgent public importance raised before the legislature by a member, Alhaji Labaran Madari (APC), representing Warawa Constituency.

According to Madari, the

amendment of the law is to reduce unnecessary spending of public funds through payments to former governors and deputy governors who are also holding political offices after their tenures.

Madari said that the decision to review the existing law was to suspend such payments pending when the person would no longer hold any other political office.

The member also said that any deputy governor who later becomes governor due to any reason, his pension as former deputy would also be stopped.

He said that the decision was necessary due to economic issues caused by the over depend-

ence on crude oil by past administrations.

“As representatives of the people, it is our responsibility to find ways to reduce the burden on government so as to enable it execute projects that are of benefits to the general public,” the legislator said.

The assembly members at a plenary presided by the Speaker, Alhaji Abdullahi Ata, suggested the creation of an ad-hoc committee to handle the issue.

The assembly set up an ad-hoc committee under the leadership of the House Majority Whip, Alhaji Kabiru Hassan-Dashi, and was given two weeks to submit its report.

The Oracle Today

30

Wednesday April 4, 2018

INSURANCE & PENSION

Insurance brokers task FG on adequate infrastructure

By VICTOR NZE

T

HE Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers (NCRIB), has called on the Federal Government to redouble its efforts towards the provision of critical infrastructure.

President of NCRIB, Mr Shola Tinubu, said that the provision of infrastructure such as portable water, power supply and healthcare among others would encourage more Nigerians to pay tax.

Tinubu, who made the call at the council’s quarterly briefing in Lagos, Wednesday, also urged the Federal Government to ensure that taxes paid were used in providing adequate infrastructure.

“It behooves on government to live more to its fiscal responsibility when adequate compliance is received from us in terms of tax payment. Infrastructure such as

good roads, water, electricity and hospitals, among others must be provided by the government,’’ he said.

On the Voluntary Assets and Income Declaration Scheme (VAIDS) introduced by the Federal Government in 2017, Tinubu assured that insurance brokers would comply with the scheme.

“We insurance operators iden-

tify with the Federal Government’s lofty ideas on VAIDS and will comply.’’

He expressed joy that the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) had halted implementation of the controversial insurance tax law as insurers had been canvassing for its stoppage.

According to him, it places a huge tax burden on them.

“To the insurers, this was cheering news as some underwriters had often complained of huge taxes imposed on them by the Federal and State Governments. However, it would encourage the operators to comply with (VAIDS) by declaring their assets for proper taxation.

“I also want to stress that no nation attain economic buoyancy through excessive taxes. Exploring

Death benefits breach N130 bn in 2017

T

of Health to the constituency to flag off the Federal Government’s National Health Insurance Scheme.

He commended his members for finding out time to come to An-

ambra to witness the programme which he said targets about one hundred thousand beneficiaries spread within the three councils of Njikoka, Anaocha and Dunukofia.

he cumulative death benefits accruing to claimants in the third quarter of 2017 reach the neighbourhood of N130 billion, according to figures from the National Pension Commission.

The commission which regulates contributory pension and terminal benefits in the country declared in an official statement that actual payable death benefits stood at N129.70 billion in the period, adding that the payment comprised of life insurance of 42,851 deceased employees from both private and public sector of the economy.

According to the commission, total retirees receiving pensions under the Programmed Withdrawal (PW) sttod at 165,740 in the period. Out of the figure, 3,725 retirees came from public sector while 3,606 came from the private sector.

During the quarter under review, the document revealed that 7,331 retirees were paid the sum of N17.91 billion as lump sum and N0.27 billion as monthly programmed withdrawals.

The report shows that from inception to date, a total of 165,740 retirees have been paid the sum of N427.16 billion as lump sum and N5.63 billion as monthly programmed withdrawals.

isgruntled customers are helping foreign insurers quickly gain market share in China, aided by a regulatory crackdown on short-term investments packaged as insurance that has hurt many of their local rivals.

The growth of China’s middle class and their rising wages have meant more people are looking for insurance, said Asia-focused AIA’s regional chief executive, John Cai, who leads the company in China and some Southeast Asian markets.

“We have the differentiated strategy by focussing on selling protection products … and we reaped the benefit of that,” he said, referring to a 60 percent jump last year in the Hong Kong-based company’s value of new business in China, up from a growth rate of 54 percent in 2016.

Foreign insurers, including AIA Group, Aviva and Prudential have been in China for decades, but their collective market share is still below 10 percent as a result of regulatory restrictions and limited awareness about insurance as coverage rather than an investment.

Current rules limit foreign holdings in Chinese insurance joint ven-

tures to 50 percent. AIA is the only wholly owned foreign insurance firm in China as its operations were set up before the restrictions were introduced.

Beijing said last year it planned to lift the ownership cap to 51 percent for foreign insurance joint ventures in 2020 and remove the limit completely two years later, which would allow for further expansion.

Both Prudential and Aviva saw new business profit in China, a key measure of long-term profitability, more than double last year on the back of higher demand for traditional protection products.

Many foreign insurance companies are strengthening their presence in smaller cities, where insurance penetration – measured in terms of the value of premiums underwritten as a percentage of gross domestic product – is lower than the 3 percent of GDP figure for the country as a whole.

Insurance ownership in the United States runs at 7 percent of GDP and is at 10 percent in Britain and Japan. China’s relatively low rate and strong economic outlook is the biggest draw for foreign insurers.

That has led to a hiring binge: leading foreign insurers are looking

to bring on up to 40 percent more front-line sales agents in China this year – twice the rate of recent years, executives and consultants said.

AIA, for example, had close to 35,000 agents at the end of last year compared with 15,000 in 2014, and Cai expects a similar hiring growth rate as the company expands into second- and thirdtier cities.

The sector regulator in China is also likely to make it easier for foreign insurers to expand into new provinces, said a Beijing-based lawyer who works with the China Insurance Regulatory Commission.

Top Chinese firms such as China Life Insurance and Ping An Insurance Group remain dominant players on their home turf, collectively holding about 90 percent of the life insurance market.

But their industry is in the midst of a massive regulator-driven clean-up of the life insurance sector, the world’s No. 3 market, to limit risk to the financial system.

Last month, Beijing took control of Anbang after keeping it under the microscope over the past year or so for risky behavior.

FG retirees demand payments of 2017 benefits

F

ederal Government Pensioners under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), have registered their demands on the National Pension Commission (PenCom) for the payment of pension entitlements of workers, who retired from January 2017 till date.

They noted that the Federal Government and the Commission had promised them prompt payment of pension immediately after retirement, or at most, three months after, but have not kept to their word.

The pensioners, who spoke under the auspices of the Association of Federal Contributory Scheme Pensioners, Oyo State chapter, insisted that the government ought to keep its promise in order to preserve the life of pensioners as well as their family members and dependants.

The pensioners’ association, in the letter signed by its President, Amao Shittu, and its Secretary, Prince Akingbade, also criticised the total amount being paid to federal pensioners under the new pension scheme as take home, after various deductions for Annuity or the Programmed Withdrawals, saying ‘they are nothing to write home about.’

“We wish to demand further that some of our members have not even received any of their retirement benefits, especially those who retired from January 2017 to date. Their retirement benefits have not been paid to them, and this is causing serious problems in the life of members who are affected.”

Speaking on the accrued interests arising from the Accrued Pension Benefits Bond with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the group disclosed that no federal government pensioner has been paid the interest accrued from this bond since the inception of the new pension scheme in 2004, and thereby, called for payment of the entitlements.

“The Federal Government through the Central Bank and PenCom still owe all categories of contributory pensioners the accrued interests on their initial entitlements since inception from July 2004, which was deposited with the Central Bank as Bond.”

taxation as a key revenue option of government is not the best.’’

According to Tinubu, modern economies are buoyed mostly on economy diversification and Nigeria cannot be an exception.

“When the compliance level is enhanced, payment of taxes would no longer be seen as a burden but a cardinal responsibility to be discharged by the citizenry,’’ he said.

• Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (right) presenting a souvenir to the Executive Director, Business Development, Nigerian Export-Import (NEXIM) Bank, Hon. Stella Okotete; during the courtesy visit of the Management of NEXIM to the governor at the Government House in Benin City, Thursday, March 15, 2018.

Nwankwo targets FG’s Health Insurance Scheme in Anambra communities S

By CHUKS COLLINS, Awka

PEAKER of House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara has commended the outpouring of love and trust by Anambra citizens, especially the constituents of Njikoka/Anaocha/Dunukofia Federal constituency he saw at the Enugwu Ukwu stadium, venue of this year’s 13th annual free medical outreach of Chief Dozie Nwankwo.

Nwankwo who represents the Federal Constituency in the National Assembly stormed the venue with no fewer than fifteen other colleagues including the Speaker, who was represented by Darlington Nwokocha (Isiala Ngwa North Federal Constituency) who is also the Deputy Chairman, on Federal Character.

Nwankwo while acknowledging the need to do more for the people, noted he set up the medical outreach since 2009, long before he joined politics, as a vessel to assist the needy, adding that he not only wants to indulge in lawmaking and oversight function duties, but involve his personal funds including all his salary, allowances and other entitlements in pursuing needs of his constituents.

Further disclosing that he would soon commission a state-of-the-art Information Communication Technology center he was building for the training of constituents, sited in Enugwu Ukwu, the lawmaker also promised to bring the Minister

Foreign insurers benefit as China tightens rules D

31

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 4, 2018

Crime Businesswoman charged for forgery

A

businesswoman, Amal Hassan, has been charged before Justice M. A. Nasiru of the Federal Capital Territory High court sitting in Jabi, Abuja, on a 2-count charge bordering on forgery.

The suspect was arraigned contrary to Section 366 of the Penal Code Act Cap 532 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria (Abuja) 1990 and punishable under Section 364 of the same Act by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, on March 21.

Count one of the charge reads:“That you, Amal Hassan, being one of the directors of the Outsource Company Ltd, on or about the 2nd day of September, 2015 at Abuja within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court forged the signature of one Sam Nda- Isaiah on a document titled ‘The Federal Republic of Nigeria Company and Allied Matters Acts, 1990 Company Ltd by Share Special Resolution of the Outsource Company Ltd RC: 1133186 dated 2nd September, 2015’ with the intention of causing it to be believed that the said document was jointly signed by you and Sam Nda-Isaiah who you knew did not sign it.”

Defendant pleaded not guilty to the counts.

In view of her plea, counsel to the EFCC, Takon Ndifon, urged the court to fix a date for trial.

However, Counsel to the defendant, Francis Mgboh, orally applied that his client be admitted to bail.

He said that the defendant had been on administrative bail granted to him by the EFCC since the start of the investigation and had not breached any of its terms.

Ndifon opposed the bail application saying “there must be material facts before granting bail”. According to him, the court cannot use its discretion on speculations.

He urged the court to refuse the application.

Justice Nasiru admitted the accused person to bail in the sum of N5million with two sureties in like sum. The sureties must be resident within the Federal Capital Territory and must be civil servants not below Grade Level 12.

The judge, thereafter, adjourned to April 23, 2018 for trial and ordered the defendant to be remanded in prison pending the satisfaction of the bail condition.

NDLEA discovers 2 warehouses stocked with Indian hemp

• Pa Daniel Idemudia and bags of Indian hemp recovered from the wrehouses

Stories by XAVIER NDAH

A

64-year-old grandfather has been arrested by the Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) during an onslaught against drug cartels in the state.

Principal Staff Officer Public Affairs, NDLEA Edo command Ofoyeju Mitchell said the suspect

identified as Daniel Idemudia was arrested in connection with one of the warehouses leading to the discovery of two clandestine warehouses in the State.

A total of 5,650kgs of dried weeds suspected to be cannabis sativa were found in the warehouses. The first warehouse contained 4,200kgs of cannabis while the second warehouse contained 1,45kgs of cannabis.

This major seizure is coming barely few weeks after the command publicly destroyed 136,844kgs of various narcotic drugs mainly cannabis.

According to the State commander, Buba Wakawa the seizures were made based on intelligence report received by the command. The first warehouse is a residential house located behind Tipper Garage, Egor, Egor Lo-

Three jailed for fraud

19 year dreaded cultist nabbed

A

• The three convicts

T

• Hassan

cal Government Area where 280 sacks of the dried weeds weighing 4,200kg. The second warehouse was located Ugwella-Gidi village, Ovia South West Local Government Area where 245 sacks of dried weeds weighing 1,450kgs were recovered.

Wakawa said that all the exhibits at the Egor warehouse were hidden inside the ceiling of a bungalow. A sixty-four-year-old grandfather, Daniel Idemudia who resides in the warehouse has been arrested. “We were shocked to discover 280 sacks of dried weeds suspected to be cannabis sativa all hidden inside the ceiling of the building.

This discovery will serve as a warning to others that their warehouses will be discovered and the drugs seized” commander stated.

The suspect, Idemedia admitted knowledge of the exhibits found inside ceiling in his house. In his words, “A friend of mine kept the cannabis inside the ceiling of my house. The house was built by my son who resides in Europe. He promised to handsomely reward me after selling the drugs”.

The commander has promised to arrest other members connected with the warehouses. He appealed to members of the public with useful information leading to the recovery of drugs and arrest of traffickers to provide such information to the Agency.

Meanwhile, NDLEA said the suspect Daniel Idemudia will soon be charged to court.

he Benin Zonal Office of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has secured the conviction of Adesuyi John (a.k.a Jimoh Shaka) at the Federal High Court Benin City, on a two count charge bordering on obtaining by fraudulent means.

The convict upon arraignment pleaded guilty to the charge. The defence counsel, Moses I. Oriazowanlan pleaded with the court to temper justice with mercy as the defendant was a first time offender.

He said his client opted for a plea bargain in order not to waste time of the court. He said he has also

admonished his client to embrace hard work and learn to make money legitimately.

Justice P. I. Ajoku accordingly convicted and sentenced the defendant to one month imprisonment on each of the count. The sentences are to run concurrently.

One of the counts reads:” that Adesuyi John (aka) Jimoh Shaka on or about the 28th of August, 2017 in Igarra within the jurisdiction of this honourable court did by trickery, obtained the sum of Three Hundred Thousand Naira (N300,000.00) from one Mr Ofoezie Gilbert and

thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 421 of the Criminal Code Act, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, C39, 2006 and punishable under the same Act”.In the same vein, the Benin Zonal Office also secured the conviction of Godwin Oye Daniel, aka. Mirabel Smith Adeleke and Omotayo Abiodun aka Ibrahim Gracious at the Federal High Court Benin City, Edo State.

The duo who upon arraignment pleaded guilty to the two count charge of obtaining by false pretence and were sentenced to one month imprisonment each.

19- year -old man Daniel Bartholomew said to be the most notorious cultist has been arrested by police detectives attached to the Ogun state police command.

The Command said the suspect had been on the command’s wanted list following his escapades in the crime world particularly his role in terrorising Agbara area of the state and its environs for quite some time now and all efforts to track him down proved abortive.

Commissioner of police CP Ahmed Iliyasu said “The suspect, Daniel Bartholomew who has been on the wanted list of the command for the role he played in series of cult clashes in places like Agbara, Lusada and igbesa was arrested opposite Crawford university by a team of policemen led by ASP Ajoba Lamidi when they were carrying out stop and search duty in the area”.

According to him, the suspect, who was on a motorcycle quickly made a U_ turn when he sighted the policemen but was hotly chased and apprehended.

Recovered from him are one locally made pistol and one expended cartridge. He has made a confessional statement to the fact that he is a leading member of the dreaded EYE confraternity.

Meanwhile, the commissioner of police CP Ahmed Iliyasu has ordered that the suspect be transferred to FSARS for discreet investigation.

The Oracle Today

32

Wednesday April 4, 2018

NEWS

FG will not re-introduce onshore/offshore dichotomy –Enang

By INI BILLIE, Uyo

S

ENIOR Special Adviser to President Muhhamadu Buhari on National Assembly Matters-Senate, Sen. Ita Enang, has said that the Federal Government has no intention of reintroducing the onshore-offshore dichotomy in Nigeria.

Speaking yesterday in Uyo against the notion that the government was planning to reintroduce the dichotomy, Enang said the insinuations were false, noting that it cannot be reintroduced without amending or repealing the law that abrogated the policy.

He urged the people not to worry as the federal government would not do anything to shortchange any part of the country.

“In summary, the Federal Government does not by any means plan to reintroduce onshore - offshore dichotomy.

“Instead, if the recommendation is accepted, the entire oil in Akwa Ibom State and within the territorial water depths will now be controlled by Akwa Ibom - the production and refining and the state will pay royalty to the federal government”.

Speaking on the deployable state of Calabar-Itu-Ikot Ekpene highway, the presidential aide reassured people of the state that construction works on the road would soon commence.

He blamed the delay in commencement of work on the road to contractual issues which he said had been resolved.

“We had a problem with the contractual terms. The contractors were demanding for adjustment due to fluctuations in price, it is not only Calabar-Itu-Ikot Ekpene road that has been affected,” he said.

He commended the efforts of the Akwa Ibom State government for mobilising the people of the state to participate in the Continuous Voters Registration exercise, and urged them to guard their voters card jealously as it would enable them to exercise their franchise in the 2019 general elections.

Enang appealed to the state government to ensure that all prospective beneficiaries of federal government programs are treated with fairness irrespective of their political or religious affiliations.

UK agency lifts suspension of funding for sanitation project in C’River

T

he United Kingdom Agency for International Development (UKAID) has lifted the suspension of funding for its Community-led Health Improvement through Sanitation and Hygiene Promotion in Nigeria (CHISHPIN) programme in Cross River.

Programme Manager, United Purpose, executing agency for the Global Sanitation Fund (GSF), Mr Nanpet Chuktu, disclosed this at a Programme Coordinating Mechanism (PCM) meeting in Abuja on Tuesday.

According to him, CHISHPIN is a three-year project targeted at increasing access to sanitation and hygiene, with the aim of reducing diarrhoea prevalence, especially in under-five children.

He said that the key target was to ensure that people changed from using basic latrine to improved latrine, while washing their hands with soap or ash at critical times and living in open defecation-free environment.

Chuktu said that the programme, which targeted Biase, Yala and Ikom Local Government Areas in the state, was expected to reach 774,354 people.

He said that the programme was designed to use the CommunityLed Total Sanitation (CLTS) approach.

The programme, with a project grant of 1.6 million pounds (about N640 million), began in November

2015 and is funded by the UK Department for International Development (DFID) under the UKAID direct impact window.

“Part of the reasons why the programme funding was suspended

by UKAID is the Cross River Government’s refusal to co-fund the project. The state government’s co-finance of this programme was part of the agreement and the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the beginning of the programme implementation.

“We are however happy to announce that the agency has lifted the suspension of activities in the three local governments in the state,” he said.

Chuktu noted that suspension of the programme had affected behavioural change among the communities, while leading to drawback and poor motivation among workers and project facilitators.

He noted that the five-month suspension had resulted in loss of time, with civil society organisations withdrawing services at the local government areas.

Nigeria’s Water Sanitation and Hygiene Ambassador, Ms Ebele Okeke, underscored the need to carry persons with disabilities along in all sanitation and hygiene promotion programmes so as to attain an inclusive society.

She said that the role advocacy plays in programme implementation could not be overemphasised, as concerted efforts should be made to scale up sanitation and hygiene in the country.

National Coordinator, Water Supply and Sanitation Collaborative Council Nigeria, Ms Priscilla Achakpa, said that Ondo, Ogun and Sokoto states had shown interest in the GSF programme.

According to her, there is the need for all tiers of government to show commitment towards scaling up sanitation and hygiene in the country by increasing funding for the programme.

• Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel and wife, Martha, being honored and endorsed for second term at a mega rally and reception, which was organized by youths of the five Local Government Areas (Abak 5), created from the old Abak division, comprising Etim Ekpo, Oruk Anam, Ukanafun, Abak and Ika L.G.As, held at Abak Township Stadium, Abak, weekend.

CVR: AKISIEC boss warns against multiple registration

By INI BILLIE, Uyo

C

HAIRMAN, Akwa Ibom State Independent Electoral Commission (AKISIEC), Mr Aniedi Ikoiwak, has warned citizens of the state against multiple registration in the ongoing continuous voters registration exercise.

Ikoiwak said in Ibiono Ibom local government area while addressing a stakeholders’ forum on continuous voters registration and collection of permanent voters card (PVC), that multiple registration will invalidate the process for those found culpable.

He said during the process of

consolidation of data, all forms of multiple registration would be deleted, and encouraged people who have lost their PVCs or want to change their voting unit to present themselves for replacement of lost cards and transfer respectively.

“If your name and bio-data appear twice or more in the system, such registration will be nullified and the data deleted. Sometimes, when people complain that they had registered and their names are not on the register, it could be because of multiple registration.

“Don’t go for fresh registration, if your card is defaced, just go for replacement and not fresh regis-

World Bank, EU train personnel from 52 MDAs in Delta

T

he World Bank and EU in collaboration with Delta government, Tuesday, started training of over 100 workers of state on financial reforms.

The workers were drawn from 52 Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) in the state.

Project Coordinator of the World Bank, EU sponsored State Employment and Expenditure for Results (SEEFOR) project, Mr Benson Okojo, said the training was to build the workers’ capacity on adequate budget preparation.

“We were able to identify 52 MDAs under our International Public Sector Accounting Standard (IPSAS) platform,” he said.

Ojoko said the exercise would enable them to understand the reforms that were being implemented under the SEEFOR project intervention.

According to him, one of such reforms is under our Component B which is budget reform.

“A lot of changes are being introduced. We are changing from the old ways of preparing budg-

et according to the heads, subheads of each sectorial budget to the new coding structure that has been informed by the adoption of IPSAS. “It was approved by the Federal Executive Council in 2010 and in 2011, there was a Federal Allocation Accounting Committee (FAAC) that now designed a new national chart among the three tiers of government,” he said.

Ojoko said that Delta was among the first five states that had adopted the new national chart of accounting.

“Having adopted the chart, Delta has been working by organising workshops and trainings for relevant stakeholders.

“This includes budget officers, accountants as well as staff of the Ministry of Economic Planning for the implementation of the programme in the state.

“This has made it possible for the state to prepare the 2018 budget which is already online and the World Bank had applauded the state for this effort.’’

tration,” Ikoiwak reiterated.

Ikoiwak also advised the people to always go back to the registration centres for claims and objections at the end of each registration phase to correct mistakes in their names and data.

He said the card reader would be the only instrument for accreditation in the 2019 elections and guaranteed voters that their votes would count.

“For the politicians, the PVC will be a serious instrument in 2019 elections. In 2019, the card reader will be the only instrument for accreditation and it will only read the PVC. The 2019 elections will be a different ball game, your vote will count and you will use the PVC,” Ikoiwak said .

In his response, the chairman of Ibiono Ibom local government area, Mr EkomAbasi Akpan, thanked AKISIEC for the sensitization tour of the area on the ongoing continuous voters registration.

He urged all the youth leaders, women leaders, the traditional rulers and the politicians to encourage their people to go out and register in the exercise.

Also speaking at the forum in Itu local government area, Sen. Anietie Okon, noted that PVCs were very important because future leaders of the country would be determined by those with PVCs. Okon, who is the chieftain of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Akwa Ibom, said that very soon only those with PVCs would benefit from government empowerment programmes in the state.

He urged the stakeholders to take AKISIEC sensitization tour very seriously and educate their people on the importance of voters registration and collection of PVCs.

33

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 4, 2018

Love and Living

...With Ireto Temofeh

MODEL OF THE WEEK

LOVE NEWS

Revealed: The SIX warning signs your husband is ready to have an affair

Y

ou might trust your partner implicitly, but in long term relationships everyone is tempted to stray at some point, according to a performance coach, so it pays to know the warning signs.

Dr Amy Iversen, who is launching a new practice in London, provides executive coaching to high-performing individuals from the worlds of business, law, and medicine and has revealed to Femail the six major signs that preceed an affair.

‘No matter how strong you believe your relationship to be, it is likely there will come a day when your partner feels tempted,’ she told Femail.

‘Infidelity can be so painful, we often make ourselves blind to the signs.

Whilst we may not always be honest with ourselves, women are intuitive.

‘We instinctively know when something is up. We have a sixth sense, and we should trust that.

‘Every relationship is different, but there are a number of indicators that proceed almost every affair. With a cool head and a cold hard look at the facts, the truth will reveal itself.

‘If you are smart and informed, you might even be able to avert the affair before it starts. Asking yourself the following six questions will reveal if you genuinely need to worry.’

A troubled or abusive childhood, or insecurity as a child can make a man more inclined to stray.

A strict or formal upbringing can increase the attraction of sexual exploration and delayed rebellion.

None of these criteria in isolation means anything. When found in tandem with other indicators they do make your suspicions more likely to be right.

2. What does his previous behaviour tell you?

Has your partner had a previous affair? Has there been any history during your relationship of him using dating apps, sexting, using masseurs or watching pornography? Has there been any history of sexually addictive behaviour?

What should you do if your partner is about to cheat?

Once you have complimented gut instinct with clear signs of his imminent affair, you’ve arrived at decision time. Every relationship is different.

There is no best way to proceed, but there is one important question every betrayed partner must ask themselves. What is it you really want?

When you weigh up all the factors in this relationship, what are you willing to forgive to survive as a couple?

1. What does his upbringing tell you? Remember, most people that considMen that come from broken fami- er an affair have no intention of leavlies with a history of infidelity are sta- ing their partners. It is rarely about tistically more likely to follow suit.

Continued from page: 34

Name: Omobolanle Tel: 07037197900 •

If you want to be our next ORACLE GIRL, e-mail or forward your photos/data to ireto007@yahoo.com. Call 07031028714.

ODD NEWS

Facebook takes out ADVERTS to say sorry after mass data breach wipes £50 billion off social media giant’s shares

M

ark Zuckerberg has taken out full-page adverts in British newspapers this morning to apologise for the ‘breach of trust’ which saw the details of 50 million Facebook users leaked to political campaigners.

The Facebook founder vowed to clamp down on allowing third parties access to data which can be sold on - although admitted he could not prevent other apps which had access to ‘large amount of data’.

It comes in the wake of a turbulent week for Facebook, which has seen more than £50 million wiped off the value of shares, after it

emerged political consultancy firm Cambridge Analytica used data to target voters online.

Under a headline which read ‘we have a responsibility to protect your information. If we can’t, we don’t deserve it’, Facebook took full-page adverts in the Mail on Sunday, Sunday Times, Sunday Telegraph, SundayMirror, Sunday Express and the Observer today.

In the apology, the 33-year-old wrote: ‘You may have heard about a quiz app built by a university researched that leaked Facebook data of millions of people in 2014.

This was a breach of trust, and I’m sorry we didn’t do more at the time.

We’re now taking steps to make sure this doesn’t happen again.

‘We’ve already stopped apps like this from getting so much information. Now we’re limiting the data apps get when you sign in using Facebook.

‘We’re also investigating every single app that had access to large amounts of data before we fixed this. We expect there are others.

And when we find them, we will ban them and tell everyone affected.

‘Finally, we’ll remind you which apps you’ve given access to your information - so you can shut off the ones you don’t want anymore.

‘Thank you for believing in this community. I promise to do better for you.’

The apology is formally signed off by the Facebook chief.

Facebook’s apology comes as Government officials moved in on Cambridge Analytica’s offices in London, taking vans full of evidence with them for further examination.

Teams searched the troubled tech company’s New Oxford Street headquarters after a High Court judge granted the Information Commissioner’s Office a warrant.

It took more than seven hours for investigators to comb through files, with paperwork and boxes of sus-

pected evidence piled into the back of a transit van.

A spokesman for the ICO told MailOnline it would not comment where the files were being taken to but confirmed officers left the premises.

The spokesman said: ‘We will now need to assess and consider the evidence before deciding the next steps and coming to any conclusions.

‘This is one part of a larger investigation by the ICO into the use of personal data and analytics by political campaigns, parties, social media companies and other commercial actors.’

34

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 4, 2018

True Confession

My twin sister slept with my husband

M

y name is Rosemary and I’m a twin. My twin sister is Anne, and ever since we were small, she has always been jealous of me. Maybe it was because I was prettier and more brilliant than her.

I remember those days in primary school when I used to come back home at the end of the term with the first position while Anne took average position.

My parents were always very proud of me and I guess this was what engendered the jealousy and envy in the heart of my twin sister.

Even at the university, boys looked in my direction and ignored my twin sister.

I won the contest for the most beautiful girl on campus and acquired all the hot and rich boyfriends on campus while Anne had to make do with those poor guys on campus that can hardly afford to take their babes out.

I didn’t need the pocket money my parents gave me since I got a lot of money from men.

But Anne, on the other hand, had to share her little pocket money with her poor boyfriend who found it difficult to even pay his school fee.

I laughed at both Anne and her boyfriend and made a ridicule of the poor boy in public.

I thought it was only a joke but my sister hated me for that and swore to get her own pound of flesh from me later. I thought it was the mere ranting of an ant.

Three years later, after we had both graduated from the university, I met Ike, a rich handsome young man who proposed to me within two weeks of meeting me.

When I announced my marriage plans, Anne did not rejoice with me and my parents. She just kept to herself. I wedded my husband in grand style and got a good job

with a bank.

However, my husband usually closed from work before me and whenever he got home there was nobody to cook his dinner for him, since I usually closed late from the bank.

So, in order to find a permanent solution to the problem, I begged my twin sister to come and live with us.

I thought it was better for my sister to live with us instead of getting a housegirl because I had heard how house-girls snatched women’s husbands. Little did I know my twin sister would try to snatch my husband.

I usually returned home from work around 10pm. My sister Anne had lived with us for a year and six months when one day, I had to close earlier than usual because my boss traveled that night.

So I arrived home by 7pm and caught my twin sister, Anne, and my husband Ike, on the couch in the sitting room making love.

The three of us had a big fight and my parents had to come from the village to settle the matter. But my sister refused to apologize to me for what she had done and simply moved out of my matrimonial home.

I suspect that she might still be sleeping with my man elsewhere and I’ve sworn that if I catch her with my husband again, I will surely kill her. I believe blood is thicker than water, but not when adultery is involved.

My mother says it is an abomination for a twin sister to kill her fellow twin, but I don’t care. If my twin sister doesn’t want to die, she should leave my husband alone.

Period!

Do you have a story or comment about this confession? Call 07031028714.

Revealed: The SIX warning signs your husband is ready to have an affair Continued from page: 33 love, and infrequently about the other person.

Often, it’s the idea of an affair that proves so alluring – affairs are risky, dangerous, labile. For your man, it’s often about a desire to feel special. To feel important. Valued.

Confronting your partner before they take the first step, reminding them of what they stand to lose will nearly always stop an affair before it starts.

Assuming your partner admits his mistake and doesn’t want to lose you, this doesn’t need to be the end of your relationship – at this point help from an experienced therapist or coach can be invaluable.

In years to come you may look back on this as the moment you re-found a spark; jealousy can be a powerful prompt for desire, and many couples report their best sexual experiences in the aftermath of an affair.

For most of the time our relationships drift along in cruise control without demanding attention. An affair can shatter that complacency and remind a couple what they really mean to each other. Better than that, there can be wider learning for the both of you.

The lessons gleaned from coming through an affair can have profound influences on other areas of your life. Discovery is available to both partners, if you will allow it. If both of you can come to see the affair as an ‘emotionally enlarging’ experience, the shared trauma can forge deeper bonds.

Any of these can indicate a predisposition to infidelity. Another clue can be found through his social circle.

Does he have a lot of friends or close family who have been unfaithful to partners? His reaction to the past infidelity of others indicates where his moral lines are drawn.

3. What’s going on in his life right now?

Affairs are about so much more than sex.

They are often less to do with the other person, and more about an individual’s struggle with their own identity.

Getting fired, getting promoted, retirement; any event in man’s life that affects self-confidence can increase interest in exploring sexual opportunity. Death is also a powerful aphrodisiac. The death of friends of family, or bad news from a doctor can make the idea of an affair more appealing.

Esther Perel, an authority on the psychology of infidelity, states that the most common reason given for having an affair is to ‘feel alive’. After a brush with death, an affair lets a man grasp life with both hands.

4. Have you noticed any changes in behaviour?

The excitement and flattery a man feels at the start of an affair manifests itself in noticeable changes of behaviour. He might suddenly be spending a lot more time on his appearance. New aftershave, an obsession with working-out, or uncharacteristically sharp clothes can be telling signs.

Affairs also require planning and subterfuge.

Taking calls in a different room, hushed conversations, and engaging heavily with social media are classic symptoms of a man about to stray.

Often before a man begins an affair for real,

he will become increasingly emotionally preoccupied with the object of his affection - called an emotional affair.

Is he talking a lot about someone in his circle at work? Quoting things that they have said for example. In the early stages, before the affair properly begins, he may not hide this from you.

This is your chance.

5. Does your relationship feel different?

A man considering infidelity will find ways to emotionally justify his decision. He may suddenly become highly critical of your behaviour and looks. It may feel like he is continually looking for opportunities to start an argument.

He may cut off emotionally as he struggles with guilt. Conversation may never stray beneath the surface as he becomes paranoid about letting something slip. The prospective affair will probably affect your sex life in some way.

Titillated by the excitement, his libido may suddenly increase, or he could turn away from

you all together. Moments of spontaneous affection or gifts can indicate a man coming to terms with betrayal.

6. Has anything changed in your life?

Let’s make one thing crystal clear. His affair is not your fault. Changes within your own life, however, may influence the situation. Men are more open to the idea of an affair when they feel neglected.

The appeal of adultery is often the need to feel special once more. If something in your life is suddenly taking up a lot of your time, if you are tied up with the kids, if you’re working long hours or looking after an elderly parent, you may find you don’t have much to invest in the relationship.

You may be unable to lavish the attention on him you once did. Perhaps a health issue has occupied your time and your thoughts? Perhaps you’ve had an affair yourself? Anything that has left him feeling less important could contribute to the likelihood of his betrayal.

Romantic Joke THE PICTURE

A man walks into a bar and orders a shot, then he looks into his shirt pocket and orders another one. After he finishes, he looks into his pocket again and orders another shot. The bartender is curious and asks the man why he looks into his pocket before ordering each shot. The man replies, “I have a picture of my wife in my pocket, and when she starts to look good, I go home.”

35

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 4, 2018

Relationships and Love Advice

My boyfriend wants me to stop hanging out with my best friend

Love Search Women seeking relationship/ marriage Ezinne, tall, light-skinned, beautiful and sexy, from Enugu, but willing to come to Lagos, needs a man that can take care of her. 08135416025.

Vivian in Enugu, but willing to come to Lagos, needs someone to care for her and help her in her education. 08160542364.

Uchechukwu, 37, a graduate, tall, needs an evangelist or God fearing, tall, educated, employed and naturally endowed Igbo man for marriage. 08069088945.

Joy, 29, a caterer in Lagos, from Delta Igbo, needs a responsible, matured, working man based in Lagos for marriage and job support. 08158522286.

Dear Love Doctor,

I

have a best friend (a guy) for eight years now, and we basically grew up together. I met my boyfriend last year and we’ve been together for about a year now. I’ve been a great partner to him and have treated him well to this day.

However, the problem is that he has a huge issue with me hanging out with my best guy

friend alone. I’d like to add that my best guy friend is like family to me. The brother I never had. For the 8 years we’ve been friends I can’t say that I’ve been interested in him in a romantic way.

I can’t say for certain that he has never had any feelings for me but what I know for a fact is that I haven’t made moves on

him, and he hasn’t made moves on me. We also hardly see each other because we live in different cities.

So right now, I don’t understand why my boyfriend is acting this way. What do I do?

From Nkoli.

Love Doctor’s Advice:

S

you’ve had since childhood.

Imagine if we all did that? We’d end up friendless every time we broke up with someone and I think some people actually do end up like that, sadly.

Assure your boyfriend of your love for him and tell him to stop being petty. He should open his mind and be mature enough to respect your friendship or platonic relationships with other people.

Being in a relationship will be a challenge for a person who insists on being absolutely free to do anything he/she wants, anytime he/she wants. If you want to be in a relationship, there are

Call Love Doctor: 07031028714, 08131161840, 08077821830 for Counseling, infertility & Direct Hookup.

Men seeking relationship/ marriage Chris Attah needs a beautiful, educated, working lady for marriage. 08130012572.

Dear Nkoli,

ome people may say that “your boyfriend should be your best friend” and that once in a relationship, “you should not be hanging out with a male friend because it is disrespectful to your boyfriend.”

However, the truth is that you have known your best friend most of your life and you’ve only known your boyfriend for only a while. You should not sacrifice your friendship to your best friend over a relationship that may not even work in the long run.

You can’t ‘throw’ your friends away every time you get into a relationship, especially ones

Sarah from Jos needs a HIV positive man of 35-40 years for marriage.

08090925014.

bound to be some sacrifices involved. You can’t have your cake and eat it too.

Therefore, on your own part, make sure you don’t cross the boundaries in your friendship with your best friend. Do not hang out “too much” with him or overdo things. If you abuse your freedom to hang out with your best friend, your boyfriend will begin to see him as a threat to your relationship and this could result in a breakup. Therefore, do everything in moderation, and your boyfriend will understand.

Do you have advice on this problem? Please share your thoughts. Call 07031028714 or 08131161840.

Email: ireto007@yahoo.com Do you have a marriage/wedding, birthday, anniversary or club or town meeting announcement to make? Call 07031028714 now!

Note: If you have fertility problems like childlessness, inability to conceive or get pregnant, miscarriages, fibroid, low sperm count, STDs, or need a male child or female? Call 07031028714, 08131161840.. Love Doctor can help you succeed in your marriage/relationship.

Ires needs a working lady in Lagos for a relationship leading to marriage.

08131161840.

Mike, tall, living and working in Lagos, needs a tall, fair, Igbo or Yoruba nurse or lawyer between 20-35 years for marriage. 08077821830.

Chigozie, 37, from Ebonyi, fair, 5.6ft, works in Lagos, needs a God-fearing, working class lady for a relationship leading to marriage. 08164630953.

Nathaniel, living in Abuja, huge, works, needs a honest and trustworthy lady who is ready to genuinely love and settle down for marriage. 08124647578.

Francis, 35, from Benue state, in Lagos, businessman, needs a responsible lady between 30-34 years for marriage.

07066418095.

36

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 4, 2018

It happened to me:

I

married young, and unfortunately realised too late that I had married the wrong person. My husband, who had been sweet and kind while we were going out, didn’t seem to want a wife; he wanted a slave! And every day, that’s what I felt I had become.

The more I did for Ray, the more he demanded, until it seemed that, between the hours of housework he insisted I do every day, and the elaborate meals he wanted me to cook, I didn’t have time for anything else. My social life dwindled, and by our first wedding anniversary, I was absolutely miserable.

I was too afraid to leave as I feared the consequences, for Ray was a very angry man. He hadn’t hit me yet, but his cruel threats and financial imprisonment were just as debilitating. And his family were even worse.

Knowing Ray’s parents, it was easy to see where he got his personality traits from. Nothing he did was ever good enough for them, and nothing I did came even close. They seemed to be at our house all the time, checking up on their son’s wife, and Ray would almost have anxiety attacks over his mother’s pending approval of my cooking and cleaning.

He never seemed to care how I might feel about her constant criticism. If she didn’t like what I had cooked, I was sure to get a serving of his most vicious insults once they had gone. If she did approve, he would claim to have prepared most of it himself.

The worst incident in our marriage was the first Christmas lunch, which I had to prepare. I was a nervous wreck as I basted the turkey, roasted the potatoes and glazed the enormous ham, all without any help, and it showed in the cooking.

The food was either overcooked or undercooked as I rushed around in a state of panic, trying to make sure everything was perfect. In front of everyone, Ray said Christmas was ruined, and that it was all my fault. Nobody disagreed.

For 12 months, I awaited the next Christmas with a growing sense of dread. I pleaded with Ray to ask one of his sisters to help me, or for him to help me himself, but he refused, and sneeringly told me I’d better do a better job than I had last year. Then he told me that he wasn’t going to buy me a present until after Christmas, all based on how I did preparing the Christmas lunch.

I knew that Ray would find fault with whatever I did, and that this was just his way of getting out of spending any money on me — when he wouldn’t even give me two cents to buy the things I needed for myself. Something inside me snapped. For the first time, I knew I was going to leave my husband. But first, I was going to make his whole wretched family pay!

A few days before Christmas, Ray came home with a bag of fresh prawns.

“Cook these for entrée, and make sure they’re tasty!” Ray snapped. I nodded silently, forming my plan. I would make them tasty alright. So tasty with chilli they wouldn’t be able to taste anything else for a week!

The same day, I snuck out to a local delicatessen and asked for the hottest variety of chillies they had, and I bought a whole bag. I ground them up in blender, seeds and all, to make a fiery red paste. I would marinate the prawns in this concoction until Christmas, setting some chilli paste aside to add after the cooking as well! I couldn’t wait to see the look on Ray ‘s family’s faces as their tongues were set on fire.

Christmas day arrived, and nothing Ray or his parents said could dampen my

I poisoned my husband’s Christmas lunch

spirits, which seemed to make them try even harder because they were ruder and more critical than ever. Beaming with joy, I carried out the steaming plate of chilli prawns, and waited with baited breath. But nothing happened.

“These are actually quite good,” Ray father announced, praise that would have thrilled me once, but today only sickened me with disappointment.

“A little on the hot side,” his mother agreed, “But overall better than anything else you’ve ever cooked. Was this your idea, Ray?” With a sinking heart, I slunk out to the

kitchen to prepare the next course. I was still going to leave Ray, but I would never have the revenge I craved for nearly two years of misery. Or so I thought.

For you see, the strong taste of the chillies also masked the fact that the prawns themselves were not quite right.

I’d been concentrating so hard on their marinading, I’d forgotten that they wouldn’t keep in the fridge for quite as long as I’d had them there.

Even before they went home, Ray and his family were racing to the bathroom in what would become two full days of food poisoning. And it was while Ray

was in the bathroom that I left, never to return again!

Even though Ray took the credit for the prawns, I’m sure I got the blame for the entire family getting sick, but I wasn’t around to find out. However, it still makes me laugh to think that, though unintentional in the end, I got the best revenge of all by ruining their Christmas lunch for real!

Do you have a story or comment about this true confession? Call 07031028714.

37

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 4, 2018

The Law and You

With Barr. Ken Akpom 08162016410

Making a will and types of wills

I

received a lot of calls from many of our numerous readers all over the nation and the one that prompted me to delve into this particular topic was that from a young lady just recruited into the Navy. She appears to be doing so well in life but she is afraid of what may become of her dependents whom she loves so much if she dies in the course of her duties.

She has no time to visit or consult a lawyer to perfect what she calls her last wish of how her acquisitions on earth should be ‘distributed’ to her beneficiaries (that is her loved ones whom she would love to possess her wealth when she must have gone).

She went further by expressing her fears that at her death some gold-digger “wicked relatives” of hers may challenge her will as not competent and disputable with allegations or controversies.

Most of the fears of this my naval officer friend are properly taken care of in law, but the mistake that most people make is that they are ignorant over certain issues and instead of approaching the experts to assist them, they prefer to use people who do not know it like the experts do.

For some, their reason for this wrong approach in making their wills is that lawyers, the experts, charge exorbitantly. Come to think of it, is it not even better to spend just a little fraction of your income on a lawyer who will make you sleep peacefully in the bosom of the Lord when your time comes than to die and exist after death in agony?

Many of the disputes over wills of deceased (dead) persons deal with controversies or allegations over the following issues: i. Undue influence ii. Forgery iii. Lack of proper execution of the will iv. Revocation v. Incapacity of the testator to make it.

If you do not fully understand these facts please call on me or The ‘gold-digger’ who never sowed while the man was alive would like to apply customary law to outwit the deceased’s intenany lawyer near to you for detailed addressing. tions after his death as was in the case in my previous discussion that happened in a wealthy man’s family in Delta State.

Types of Wills Furthermore, there are different types of wills or different ways ii. The deceased (that is the dead) has the opportunity of approving those he wishes to be the administrators of his estates. to make a will, which include: iii. It affords the testator (The maker of the will before death) the opportunity to select or appoint a guardian/s to look after his a. Formal will – This is as required by the Will’s Laws. b. Nuncupative/Customary will – this is an oral directive made by children especially if they are young. iv. It affords the testator the privilege to make a positive demona deceased to his heirs to execute after his death. c. Mutual or Reciprocal Will – This is the type that husband and stration of his wishes/desires to whoever he chooses. v. It saves time and money especially when the deceased died wife or with children made together. d. Privileged will – This applies to certain categories of persons intestate in seeking for probate and waiting for a Letter of Adminin actual service like my navy friend who called me, soldiers, sea- istration before managing the deceased’s estates after his death.

A Will makes it happen immediately. men and crew members on a plane. e. Holographic Will – This is the will written in the hand of the testator (the maker). Does it stand? Call me or any lawyer near Finally, as I earlier said, it makes the testator very happy even when he is aware that death is imminent, because he would have you. f. Statutory Will – This is made in accordance with the require- arranged his house and estate very well. ment of certain laws/statutes.

General Requirements of a Valid Will It is my honest advice that you must bear in mind that in as much What Makes a Will Valid? as these types of wills exist, how best to make and use them in order to have complete peace of mind lies with the expert – the A will is not valid unless it is in writing (except Customary Will lawyers who know the law best and who will ensure the full im- in Nigeria), and signed by the testator (the person making the plementations of the will when the testator (The maker) is dead. will) or by another person, in the presence of, and at the direction of the testator. The testator’s signature must be made with the intention of executing the will, and in the presence of two or Advantages of Making a Will Come to think of it, are there any advantages in making a will? more witnesses. These witnesses must attest and sign the will in the presence of the testator. They need not be in the presence of The answer is capital YES. My reasons are as follows; i. It avoids the problems most families face after the death of each other in order to sign the document, as long as the testator the testator especially the legal wife and children of the deceased. is present at the time of each signing.

CASE 1 “My wife tore my will to pieces” Dear Lawyer, In 2011, I made a will and bequeathed my residential house to my second son who was doing very well in life the way I desired; but my wife stumbled on the copy of the will in my safe when I mistakenly forgot the key and she tore it to pieces saying that it was not fair. I was very angry and felt very troubled. Please, can this destruction stand since I did not consent to it?

CASE 2

How can I be sure that my will is valid or accepted?

Dear Lawyer, I am an educated man and I recently wrote my will without the assistance of a lawyer. How can I be sure that my will is valid or accepted?

From Ogbuefi,

From, Nwoke, Imo State.

Lawyer’s Answer:

Lawyer’s Answer:

Dear Nwoke,

Dear Ogbuefi,

Thanks for your mail. Please note that another person may destroy a will on behalf of the testator and at his direction and in the presence of the testator. That is only if the testator clearly intends that the will be destroyed. However, accidental destruction does not revoke a will. Call me for further explanation or consult any lawyer near to you for more advice and action.

A valid will must be in writing to avoid doubts, however customary will may not be.

Secondly, it must be signed by the testator in the presence of witnesses. Thirdly, those witnesses must attest to it in the presence of the testator even without knowing the contents of the will. Finally, there should not be alteration, interlineations or obliteration. Call me or consult a lawyer for more assistance.

• 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 4 2018

ENTERTAINMENT

With Douglas Omoyooma

I posed nude so what? – Jojo Charrie Born in Liberia, the controversial actress known as Jojo Charrie grew up in Ghana. 18 years ago she moved to Washington DC where she met Desmond Elliott who introduced her into the Nigerian movie industry. Today, she has starred in a couple of Nollywood movies and recently, she shocked the industry with a nude photo shoot on her birthday which went viral.

I

n an exclusive chat with Oracle Today, Jojo blasted crities insisting it was none of their business what she did with her body: “I did a nude photo shoot so what?

Nigerians are taking the matter too seriously but really, it is non of their business.

I am not mad at them; I am just enjoying it all. I don’t care. People must talk and complain, regardless of what you do or didn’t do. That is the kind of world we live in!

“To be honest, I have always thought of doing a nude photo shoot for a long time. When I was younger, I felt my body was too sexy and it scared me. I was ashamed of my body. Now that I am older, I have realised that it is a trend; everybody craves to have a sexy body.

Even people are going under the knife to have my kind of body so, why am I covering myself? I had to embrace myself. Like, this is who I am; this is me. So, the last time I came to Nigeria, I was like, let me do a nude photo shoot. I love my body just like I love myself. I wanted the world to see what I have got in me.”

What was her boyfriend’s reaction?

“He is very supportive of everything that I do as long as it makes me happy and comfortable. He made sure I was ready for the tongue lashing, before I posted those photos.”

Is she not scared she will lose her figure when she eventually gets married? “Not at all. That is where the beauty spa and waist trainer come in. I’ am not scared at all. I have to try everything possible to maintain my sexy body because I don’t want my husband to go anywhere else.

He met and married me looking all hot and sexy, I must strive to maintain that look for him.”

Nollywood Today, she has starred in a couple of Nollywood movies and was introduced to Nolywood by Desmond Elliot. What is her relationship with the actor turned politician?

“Wow! He is like a big brother and a fount of inspiration to me. He was the first producer that gave me a role in a Nigerian movie, The Trap, which was shot in the United States. In all, I did about four movies in the United States with Desmond. I have also shot Friends or Foes and Emeka the Lalala.”

What is her take on Nigerian guys and could she marry one? “I love Nigerian guys because they are hustlers. They are also very cool people. I love their confidence. They always want to represent their country. They are fun and very lovely set of people. Talking about marriage, I think Nigerian guys are fun and exciting to be with. I wouldn’t mind one,” she says giggling.

Dreams “I want to get married within the next two years, with kids, and living in my own mansion. I want to be a successful businesswoman, a CEO and a happy one too.”

• Jojo Charrie

39

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 4 2018

Entertainment

Easter rocks with Anioma Cultural Festival

Real reason Tiwa Savage is divorcing Tee Billz

T

he real reason Tiwa Savage and see Billz are going their separate ways after five tears of a stormy marriage has emerged.

According to sources, though the couple tried to get back together late last year, things just weren’t working out.

“It was with shock that news of Tee Billz suicide attempt was received by Nigerians. From the very first day of the marriage, it was obvious that the couple were not happy with each other. However, they always put up a facade and insisted all was well. It was Tee Billz suicide attempt that finally opened the can of warms in the marriage.

“Even though they tried getting back together, Tiwa Savage on her part is afraid that Tee Billz is still feeling insecure and and even though as an African woman, she will do all she can to save her marriage, she is afraid there could be a repeat and the consequences could be worse off,” a source revealed.

“For Tee Billz, iy is obvious that he cannot handle Tiwa Savage’s fame hence he has decided to let go. They both had a hefty discussion and the divorce was a mutual decision and they will remain be sties of a long time to come,” the source added.

Tiwa savage and Tee Billz hooked up in LA when Tiwa Savage was a starry-eyed wannabe and Tee Bollz was instrumental in guiding her carer to success as her manager for many years.

• Asagba of Asaba giving out a plaque to a winning team

By UZOR MAXIM UZOATU

T

HE Easter season throbs with the celebration of the annual Anioma Cultural Festival in Asaba, Delta State. This year marks the 15th anniversary of the festival of royalty, glamour, pomp and pageantry.

Arguably the finest cultural event in Delta State, Anioma Cultural Festival is the panoply of fashion, music, dance, traditional sports and creative arts of historical value to the Anioma people from the nine local government areas of Delta North Senatorial Zone. Initiated 15 years ago by the Organisation for the Advancement of Anioma Culture, OFAAC, the culture umbrella body of the Anioma nation, the unity-inducing festival has helped to reawaken the consciousness of the people to their cultural values.

This year’s fest is anchored on the theme, “Building Bridges”. Ever since its inception in 2003, OFAAC has remained faithful to the objective of preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of the Anioma nation, with the festival serving as a melting-pot for the revival and appreciation of Anioma culture.

Well over 300 delegates and stakeholders representing the four dialectical groups in Anioma nation gathered recently in the commodious Orchid Hotels, Asaba Delta State to put the plans for the festival in a fitting sync.

The committed and irrepressible President of OFAAC, Arc. Kester Ifeadi did not mince words in stating that the organisation is committed to the Anioma cause and as such this year’s festival can only get better than pre-

vious ones. Calling on all good-spirited sons and daughters of Anioma to come together in unity of purpose so the people can achieve the Anioma of their dream, Arc Ifeadi maintained that culture and arts are essential elements of education.

Different dance troupes, traditional wrestlers and other performing artistes from Anioma communities have upped their ante for epic performances on Easter Monday, April 2, at the AGGS (Anglican Girls Grammar School), Asaba. The Asaba International Airport, the gateway to the fest, welcomes friends, culture enthusiasts, corporate organisations and stakeholders. Anioma Cultural Festival showcases the award-winning Agwuba royal dance, Egwu-Ajah maiden dance, Uloko dance, Egwu Ohuhu, Olingba dance, Amala dance and multiform occupational and contemporary dances.

The festival has over the years enjoyed the support of the venerated royal monarchs of Anioma, representatives of Federal and State governments, corporate organisations such as Grand Oak Ltd, MTN Nigeria, Zenith Bank, Union Bank and Orchid Hotels Asaba, among others.

According to Paddy Ugboh, Executive Vice-President, OFAAC, “Our focus is to showcase the unique culture of the Anioma people and thus enrich Anioma, Delta State and Nigeria’s cultural life by promoting cultural diversity in order to foster harmony and friendship among people with different cultural backgrounds.”

Arc. Kester Ifeadi looks at the 15 years of resourcefulness with delight,

and remains poised on breaking new grounds in the mobilisation of Anioma people for cultural renaissance, empowerment and positive self-esteem. The major strategies for this evolution are built on advocacy, workshops, lectures, research, micro-credit schemes, exhibitions, and the trailblazing publication of the colourful magazine Anioma Essence.

In seeing culture as the totality of the people’s way of life, OFAAC undertakes the onerous task of boosting small-scale businesses within the Anioma communities for poverty reduction. There is the regular intervention of assisting interested participants from Anioma in entrepreneurial development through micro-credit schemes. This is aimed at empowering the poor and the less-privileged in Anioma nation. For Arc. Ifeadi, the scheme is as an important milestone in OFAAC’s poverty reduction drive in Anioma, which, in his words, “is consistent with the Millennium Development Goals, MDGs, of the United Nations.”

From the early beginnings 15 years ago of a handful of stalwarts, notably Arc. Ifeadi, Paddy Ugboh, Emeka Nmadu, Gideon Nwaomu and Barrister Monn Olodu, OFAAC has moved steadily to a large movement that attracts nearly 5,000 volunteers and loyalists. The non-partisanship of the non-profit organisation has made the body a darling of all Anioma sons and daughters.

The drums have been rolled out to make the Easter season of the Anioma cultural festival a once-in-a-lifetime celebration.

Obianuju is dedicated to women – Salassie

F

ast rising singer, Sallasie (Richie Okonkwo) who recently unleashed the video for his single, Obianuju, as declared that the song is specially dedicated to women.

The urban African act who premiered the video from his debut album entitled Anywhere Belle face at Ceci Plaza, Satellite Town, Lagos, said: “We are here to premiere the release of the first video from my album entitled Obianuju. We hit youtube on March 12 and we are hitting TV stations shortly. I decided to do a love song for my female fans that have been supportive to my career.

“They are our biggest fans. I am re-

leasing it to showcase my love for my female fans so it is a song that comes from the heart. I have been getting very positive reviews since the trailer hit the internet two weeks.”

Commenting on his challenges as a singer he continued: “Its been wonderful. I hear people sing my songs word for word and I am blown away! However, there are challenges. The biggest problem is the total lack of structures.

Electricity supply is epileptic. Recording music is stress. At a point I had to put the entire project on hold. Sometimes it could be nightmarish. “And then there is the issue of money. I am lucky I have patrons who have been

throwing their weights behind me.

Getting support as an-up-and coming artiste is not really easy. Distribution opportuneties are also lacking. You have a great song but getting it out there is a massive challenge and sadly, in Nigeria, many of our bank cards are not accepted so you can’t sell your music on iTunes and that means you can’t get money for your works so you have to rely on just shows.”

The event witnessed the act performing songs from his album and also featured a couple of artistes and also in the house to celebrate with him was Baba Dee of Naija Ninja fame.

• Tiwa Savage

Ola Peters launches Saviour Divine Album

I

n the spirit of the resurrection season, gospel musician and psalmist, Ola Peters is set to make an indelible print in the 2018 Easter holiday season with the official launch and release of his new four-tracker entitled, Saviour Divine, on March 25, at The RCCG Jesus Centre Ikoyi, Lagos hosted by Dr. Richard Ikiebe.

Speaking, Ola Peters said: “I am glad to inform my fans that the stage is set for the launch of my forth album entitled Saviour Divine. The launching of Saviour Divine is planned to be an evening of family worship experience with the sweet solemn and inspiration touch of ancient and spiritual songs which is far reaching to the deepest part of the being drawing us nearer in deep fellowship.”

Ola Peters, also a professionally trained chartered accountant has created a niche for himself in the gospel genre of hymnals and acoustic inspiration that reaches both the young and old across the Land. his previous albums are Iwo Ni, Priceless and Ejeka Yin Oluwa, a compilation of Yoruba hymnal series exclusively produced for His Excellency The Vice President Of Federal Republic Of Nigeria Prof. Yemi Osinbajo.

I don’t believe in monogamy – Wizkid

T

wenty seven year-old Wizkid (Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun) has revealed the reason he has kids from three different women and declared that monogamy is not for him.

Speaking on a radio interview recently he said: “Monogamy is not my thing because I have a lot of women who are dear to me. I have several girlfriends and they girls all know about it.”

Asked if a time will come when he will streamline the women and pick one, he replied: “That will be hard because I have a lot of women that are really really dear to my heart.”

The Holla At Your Boy singer is already a father of three kids from different women.

40

racleToday

The

www.oraclenews.ng

Head Office: 116 Awka Road, Onitsha, Anambra State, Nigeria. Lagos Bureau Office: 25 Remi Fani-Kayode Street, GRA, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria. Hotlines : 08091999222 , 08033580234 08036682255

Advertisement Rate Black & White

Sizes

N

Full Page (14 x6 cols) 305,000.00

Half Page (76 cols) 185,000.00 14” x 5 cols

333,500.00

14” x 4 cols

266,672.00

14” x 2 cols

133,336.00

10 x 6 cols

285,720.00

10 x 5 cols

238,100.00

10 x 4 cols

190,480.00

10 x 3 cols

142,860.00

9 x 6 cols

257,148.00

9 x 5 cols

214,290.00

9 x 4 cols

171,432.00

8 x 5 cols

190,480.00

8 x 3 cols

114,288.00

7 x 5 cols

166,670.00

7 x 4 cols

133,336.00

Quarter Page (7x3 cols) 100,002.00

6 x 3 cols

85,716.00

6 x 2 cols

57,144.00

5 x 5 cols

119,050.00

4 x 3 cols

57,144.00

4 x 2 cols

38,096.00

3 x 2 cols

28,572.00

2x2

19,048.00

1x2

9,524.00

1x1

4,762.00

Colour Sizes

Special Pages (3,4,5,6 &7)

N

Full Page (14 cols)

520,000.00

Half Page (7x6 cols)

27o,000.00

14” x 5 cols

433,300.00

14” x 4 cols

346,640.00

14” x 2 cols

173,320.00

10 x 6 cols

371,400.00

10 x 5 cols

309,500.00

10 x 4 cols

247,600.00

9 x 6 cols

334,269.00

9 x 3 cols

167,130.00

9 x 4 cols

222,840.00

8 x 5 cols

247,600.00

8 x 3 cols

148,560.00

7 x 5 cols

Full Page (14x cols) surcharge of 30% 10 x 5 cols surcharge 30% Half page (7x6 cols) surcharge 30% Quarter Page (7x3 cols) surcharge of 30% Inside Front cover (full page) surchage 30% Inside Back cover (full page) surcharge 30% Outside Back page (full page) surcharge 30% (Earpiece

N

676,000 402,350 351,000 168,987 780,000 780,000 1,000,000 400,000

Special Position

N

Front Page strip 2 x 6

465,000

Backpage strip

2x6

450.000

216,650.00

Back Page strip

6x2

530,000

7 x 4 cols

173,320.00

Front Page solus 6 x 2

500,000

Quarter Page

125,000.00

6 x 3 cols

111,426.00

Earpiece Window (2 x 2) Front

205,000

6 x 2 cols

74,280.00

Earpiece Window (2 x 2) back

179,000

2 x 6 (Strip ROP)

74,280.00

4x3

74,280.00

4 x 2 cols

49,520.00

3 x 3 cols

55,710.00

2 x 2 cols

24,760.00

1 x 3 cols

18,570.00

1 x 2 cols

12,380.00

1 x 1 cols

6,190.00

Centre Spread

1,000,000

Double Spread

850,000

Wrap Around

16,500,000

Half Wrap Around

10,000,000

Classified

3,000

Loose Inserts Rate Per 1000 Copies 43,000.00 Handling Charge 45.000.00

For adverts placement and bookings contact the following number: 08091999222, 08033580234, 08036682255

41

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 4, 2018

NEWS DRAFT Communiqué of the Summit of Northern Groups, Saturday, 24th March 2018

L

EADING Northern Groups and Associations held a Summit of their leaders at Arewa House, Kaduna on Saturday 24th March 2018.

The Summit was convened to assess the security, economic and political circumstances of the North and Northern communities in other parts of Nigeria. Specifically, the Summit reviewed the worrying state of insecurity under which virtually all Northerners live; the worsening economic fortunes of the vast majority of Northerners and the options that are available to the North as it prepares to engage the political process towards the elections of 2019.

The Summit noted that in spite of notable successes by the administration against the Boko Haram insurgency in the North East, many Northern communities still live under its threat. In many other parts of the North, communities are routinely exposed to attacks from shadowy killers, and suspicion and anger at known and suspected killers are pitching Northerners against each other. Armed bandits terrorise rural communities almost at will, while kidnappings and abductions have assumed alarming notoriety as crimes. The nation’s security and law and order assets are stretched beyond points where they can’t provide even the most elementary confidence and protection of citizens. The North has rarely been so exposed to multiple and varied threats.

The economy of the North continues to deteriorate in spite of the evident willingness of Northerners to work hard and earn legitimate incomes. Its basic infrastructure suffers massive deficits in funding while its growing population starves from lack of critical investment in human capital development.

Federal government spending is severely tilted against the North, while most State governments only pay lip service to real development in their states. Agriculture shows limited glimpses of recovery, but almost entirely through efforts of peasants

Decline alarms Northern leaders

• Buhari

• Prof Ango Abdullahi

• Dr. Ibrahim Yakubu Lame

and antiquated processes.

The North is completely deindustrialised, while the rest of the nation moves towards sustainable growth and development. There is no evidence of bold thinking, strong political will or serious concern by any leadership at any level to reverse the alarming decline of the Northern economy.

Since 2015, Northerners have occupied positions with the potential to make decisive differences in the economy, security or political fortunes of the region. The hopes that leaders who have exercised power since 2015 will reverse the abuse and neglect of the region in the previous decade have been betrayed. Weak governance, gross insensitivity and unacceptable levels of incompetence have been compounded by battles of attrition in which northerners have sapped each other’s strength. Weak and incoherent responses to provocations from other parts of the country around the imperatives of re-visiting the foundations and structures of the Nigerian state have created the false image of a North without its own positions beyond survival as the parasite of Nigeria. The historic gains in Northern political unity secured by Northern votes in the 2015 elections have been

wasted by the poor management of conflicts between and among Northern communities. Today Northern communities are erecting barricades against members of other communities, and politicians who have failed to lead and make impacts in lives of the poor and the vulnerable are daily feeding the people with hate and resentment instead of searching for genuine and lasting solutions.

In a region with enough resources for every community or trade, our people are now fighting for morsels, while leaders think of new ways to turn our misery into electoral capital.

The Summit, having undertaken a thorough analysis of the state of the North and our communities, therefore: 1. URGES all leaders, elders and communities to seek peaceful resolutions of conflicts between and among communities. Lives lost, injuries suffered and losses incurred in any community must be redressed firmly and fairly. The roots of co-existence and inter-dependence in all Northern communities are much deeper than the barricades being erected around communities. All persons who are involved in killings and crimes against communities must be brought to book.

2. DEMANDS immediate and decisive steps to improve the security of lives and economic assets in the North by the federal and state governments. Too many communities are at the mercy of attacks from sundry groups of criminals who appear to have unchallenged access to space and weapons.

3. APPEALS to Northern Governors and President Muhammadu Buhari to set in motion serious initiatives towards achieving higher levels of trust among Northern communities, which is vital for the imperatives of peace and justice.

4. INSISTS that the routine denial of the rights of the North to its fair share of budgetary allocations by the federal government must cease from the 2018 budget. Northern representatives in the National Assembly must live up to their oaths to protect the rights of their constituencies to equity in the allocation of national resources.

5. WARNS that no Northern politician should expect to be voted for in the next general election unless they demonstrate a willingness to champion a massive assault on poverty and underdevelopment in the North. In this regard, most political office holders from the North are

hereby served notice that they have failed the test to lead the region towards economic recovery and growth.

6. ASSERTS the rights of all Northerners to examine all options in political choices they will make in 2019. The leadership selection process must be critically interrogated to present the best leader to Nigeria as a whole.

No one should take the North for granted, and it is not for sale. It will resist shedding its blood for any candidate, and will critically scrutinize all politicians who will seek our mandate. At this stage, all options are on the table, and politicians who have betrayed the hopes and mandates of our people should be prepared to suffer rejection, in the same manner the votes of the North rejected the attempt to continue with impunity, corruption and indifference of the previous regime.

7. ADVISES all Northerners to be alert to plans to weaken the region through the manipulation of our fears and vulnerability and our ethnoreligious differences. There must be vigilant scrutiny of opportunities for manipulation by outsiders of our present challenges. We must stand up and unite against those who kill villagers in Kogi, in Zamfara, in Benue, in Adamawa, in Borno, in Kaduna and in every village or town. No Northern blood is more precious than others, and we can only heal if we adopt common positions to finding solutions to our problems.

8. INVITES attention of the rest of Nigeria that the North knows its interests and place and will defend them in the context of Nigeria. Our people are willing and eager to put our union as a nation on the table and discuss with other Nigerians the relative values of ALL options and negotiate them with responsibility and respect.

9. CAUTIONS the Presidency and members of the National Assembly and Governors to resist the temptation to abuse the political process in pursuit of their personal ambitions.

10. COMMITS to sustaining the strong interests behind this Summit through other activities and actions, which will strengthen Northern unity and prepare it to extract the maximum benefits from the 2019 elections.

The Summit welcomes the release of the Dapchi girls, and urges the government to intensify efforts to secure the release of all other abducted Nigerians. It calls on the government to ensure that no abductions occur again, and all communities are sufficiently protected and young Nigerians are free to acquire education without fear.

Signed · Professor Ango Abdullahi, CON Chairman ACF Political Committee Convener, Northern Elders Forum · Dr. Yima Sen Northern Elders Forum (NEF) · Amb. Ibrahim Mai Sule Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) · Engr. Bello Suleiman CODE Group · Mataimaki Tom Maiyashi Arewa Research Development Project (ARDP) · Zannah Hassan Boguma Borno Elders Forum · Nafiu Baba-Ahmed Supreme Council for Shariah in Nigeria · Dr. Ibrahim Yakubu Lame Northern Union · Yerima Shettima Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) · Pastor Aminchi Habu United Christian Leaders Eagle Eye Forum (UCLEEF) · Balarabe Rufai Coalition of Northern Groups · Isa Tijjani Labour Veterans Association · Rev. Bitrus Dangiwa CAN Northern Chapter · Umar Ahmed Zaria Jama’atu Nasiril Islam (JNI) · Alh. Buba Adamah Arewa People Unity Association · Hassan El-Adamu Arewa Initiative For Good Governance · Abdulazeez Suleiman Northern Emancipation Network

PUBLIC NOTICE AND CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known as NWABUWA FELICITY UZOMA now wish to be known as NDOCHIE FELICITY UZOMA. All former documents remain valid. Banks and General public take note

This is to confirm that the names NWOGU UGOCHUKWU and NWOGU ONENESS UGOCHUKWU refer to one and same person now wish to be known as NWOGU ONENESS UGOCHUKWU. All former documents remain valid. Banks and general public take note

I formerly known as DIDIA VICTORIA, Now wish to be known as UTAZI VICTORIA, All former documents remain valid, Banks and General public take note.

This is to confirm that IBEBUILO EBELE and OBIH EBERE is one and same person now wish to be known as OBIOKEKE EBERE DORATHY. All former documents remain valid. Banks and general public take note

I formerly known as MISS EMELIE NNEOMA, Now wish to be known as MRS OSITA NNEOMA, All former documents remain valid, Banks and General public take note.

I formerly known as Miss ESTHER AKWUGO IHEFOBI now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs ESTHER AKWUGO NDUKA. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

I formerly known as MISS ONYEARIZOR GENEVIEVE CHINENYE now wish to be known as MRS ONYEARIZOR-NZEKWE GENEVIEVE CHINENYE. All documents bearing my former names remain valid. Banks and the general public please take note.

I formerly known as MISS OBADA N. J. PARADISE and OBADA PARADISE JOSEPHINE now wish to be known as MRS ALOBA PARADISE JOSEPHINE All former documents remain valid. Banks and general public take note.

MARIA NDIDI EKE is not the same as EKE MARIA NDUBUISI. Real name is MARIA NDIDI EKE. Former documents remain valid, general public take note

This is to confirm that OBIORA NJA IFEATU and NKIRUKA IFEATU is one and same person now wish to be known as OBIORA IFEATU. All former documents remain valid. Banks and general public take note

I formerly known as OKORO EMMANUEL UKWUTA now wish to be known as OKORO EMMANUEL CHIJIOKE. All former documents remain valid .Banks and general public take note.

I formerly known as CHUKWUDUM CONSTANCE now wish to be known as JONAH CONSTANCE. All former documents remain valid .Banks and general public take note

I formerly known as ORISAJI ERIC NGAOBILI Now wish to be known as OLISAJI ERIC EBUKA. Born on 01-01-1982.

All Former documents remain valid .Banks and general public take note

For your change of Names, Public Notice & Announcements Please call: 08037741102, 08036682255, 09078310060 Or Visit our office at: 116 Awka Road, Onitsha. Lagos Office: 25 Remi Fani-Kayode Street, GRA Ikeja. Abuja Office: 1st Floor, Plateau House, Central Business District, Abuja, FCT. Email:oraclenews@oraclenews.ng.

CHANGE OF NAME COSTS N3,000 ONLY.

42

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 4, 2018

NEWS

Danjuma triggers debate on gun Cont’d from Pg 2

juma said is actually correct because if things continue this way, it means that this government has inadvertently declared war against the Nigerian people, using the Nigerian military, which is the official organ of government, to fight all other persons while seemingly supporting the herdsmen,” Onyike said.

Similarly, the Catholic Bishop of Nnewi, Most Rev Hilary Odilichukwu Okeke has declared that Nigerians have right to self-defence.

Expressing dismay at the recent order to disarm every citizen by the Inspector General of Police, Idris Abubakar even in the face of poor showing and security buck-passing by the police and other sister security agencies that have caused serious breaches, Okeke wondered why such instruction should be made at a time like this.

“I say people have a right to self defense, but I vehemently oppose reprisals. We all must defend ourselves, not just against the murderous herdsmen, but against armed robbers and such other anti-social characters who pose high security threats to the citizens,” the bishop stressed.

In their reactions in a press statement issued yesterday in Onitsha, Anambra State, a human rights group, International Society for Civil Liberties and the Rule of Law (Intersociety) insisted that Danjuma’s call for self-defence was not only belated but also incomplete without addition of urgent steps by the United Nations System to set up an international commission of inquiry under Chapter VII of the United Nations’ Charter, to unravel the remote and immediate causes, perpetrators as well as profiteers of the killings, likewise the Boko Haram insurgency and Government counter insurgency operations in the Northeast.

“We make bold to say that the indictable body language of the present Federal Government in the on-going killings as well as emerging facts and developments have clearly shown that the external demystifi-

cation and solution to the unabated and raging butcheries in Nigeria are practically rooted in the confines of int’l criminal and civil inquiries under UN System alongside other local content solutions,” Intersociety said in the press release.

“It is recalled that we have earlier identified gross lopsided security and paramilitary appointments and compositions as a major factor internally responsible for intensification and escalation of the butcheries.

In the time of the immediate past, such int’l inquiries under demand were launched by the UN System in several countries where the fears or eruption of “complex humanitarian emergencies” or grievous violations of human rights or commission and aiding (by the State) of heinous crimes against humanity or war crimes by the governing States or violent pro government or opposition groups were heightened or became beyond the capacities of governing municipal territories; especially where there were strong pointblank or circumstantial evidence of State protection, aiding, conspiracy, condoning, abetment, complicity, unwillingness and inability.”

Socio-cultural organisation of the Jukun people of Taraba State, Jukun Development Association of Nigeria (JDAN), has thrown its weight

behind its elder kinsman, General Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma (rtd.), following the elder statesman’s call on the people to defend themselves in the face of the seeming compromise by the Nigerian Army personnel drafted to the area to quell the rising herdsmen killings.

National President of the association, Chief Bako Benjamin, while addressing newsmen in Lagos alongside top executive of the association, said majority of Nigerians are unaware of the calamity and atrocities that have befallen Jukun people in the last four years, adding that the nation’s press does not pay enough attention to the silent ethnic cleansing and genocide going on in southern and central Taraba.

“Rather than carpet our revered elder statesman, the Jukun people have been anxiously waiting for the time when Fulani herdsmen who have killed entire villagers in our land will be arrested and paraded. We are peace loving people, but our people are being arrested in our land and been killed by those who otherwise came for pasture for their cattle,” he said.

According to Dennis Amachree, a security consultant and former Director of SSS, what General TY Danjuma said is what many Nigerians feel and know but no one was will-

ing to talk about…until Danjuma’s outburst.

“It is a situation where many people are just disgusted because they feel that their lives are not protected anymore. Armed herdsmen are going around and killing people in numbers and destroying people’s valuables freely, and no meaningful arrests have been made. Even if arrests have been made, we want to have some prosecutions so that people will know that the government is actually arresting and dealing with the criminals. The police is asking people to surrender their arms which they are using to protect themselves; the police is also making moves to withdraw its men that are attached to prominent people across the country. So, citizens are feeling that their lives are in great danger, but nobody was ready to come out and declare so,” he said.

“My advice to government is that they should not attempt to brush aside or cover up the general’s allegations with politics and propaganda but to thoroughly carry out investigation to find out whether there are elements in the military that have been engaging in the alleged atrocities,” Amachree added.

However, he would not advocate that firearms ownership be liberalised in the country.

IPOB

Cont’d from Pg 2

I gave him a form - the statement form to reduce what he told me verbally in writing. He proved to me that he can write. He filled the statement form, and then wrote what he told me verbally and then he endorsed it.

Then I now asked him, whether it’s ok, and he said it’s ok, whereupon I endorsed the statement.

Then what?

I handed the statement to my superior officer, who asked Chimezie if he made such statement, he said he did, and then my superior officer endorsed it.

Can you recognise the statement?

Yes, because it bears logo of SSS and also it should bear my signature.

• From left: Atiku Abubakar, Gov Nyesom Wike and Otunba Gbenga Daniels during a visit by the Former Vice President who was in the state to consult with Rivers State PDP Leaders

one Benjamin Madubugwu. I also discovered that in that 2016, he was in charge of the welfare of wives of members of IPOB. And being in charge of that welfare, he severally collected money from some of group members based in abroad.

Is that all?

That’s all

*** Whereupon he identified the Statement which the Court then marked as Exhibit PW1A ***

END OF DIRECT EXAMINATION CROSS EXAMINATION BY C. IGWE, Esq. BEGINS...

Did you do make any findings in the course of your job as an investigator?

Yes. I investigated and found out that he is a member of IPOB. He joined in PH. And my investigation also revealed that he was the one that took delivery of the container imported by IPOB AS A GROUP, containing a Transmitter. I discovered that he bright took the container to

Can you remind me that your name again?

AB. Can you tell this court when Bright was arrested.

I don’t know when he arrested. I only know when I met him.

Can you tell this court at what point the first Defendant was ar-

rested.

Like I said earlier I was not part of the team that arrested him. So I don’t know when he was arrested.

Can you tell this court how long first Defendant has been in the custody of your office?

I don’t know.

Are you aware that the first Defendant when he was arrested in Uyo made a statement at your office in Uyo? I am not aware.

How many times did you visit Uyo where first Defendant was arrested to conduct investigation?

I did not visit Uyo. Did he tell you why he was arrested?

Yes. In the course of telling you why

he was arrested, as an investigating SSS officer for six years, tell this court why you did not go as far as finding out where and why he was arrested. ** HERE LABARAN (Lead Prosecutor) OBJECTED on grounds of ‘witness intimidation’.

And C. IGWE explains to the Court... that ‘My intention for this line of questioning is to find out whether he actually investigated this case’.

COURT OVERRULES THE OBJECTION, whereupon C. IGWE continues with the Cross-...

Tell this court, how many times you visited Uyo or the place of his arrest.

I did not visit Uyo.

Cont’d on page 44

“What I would prescribe is that citizens should rise and protect themselves, as advised by the general. But there are various means, other than the gun, through which citizens could protect themselves.

Before the advent of gun, there were several means that our people employed to protect themselves. I will advocate a situation where, those who already have licenses to use firearms should be allowed to keep their guns,” he said.

For retired Commissioner of Police, Lawrence Alobi former Commissioner of Police FCT Command, “General Danjuma’s (Rtd) call was an indirect statement telling the government and her security agencies to buckle up and do more and ensure that the lives and property of our citizens are protected adequately. “ “Should FG liberalise gun license to make it accessible to citizens?

No. The Nigerian law on firearm is very loose. If you go to Japan, it is very stringent. And with what is happening in America, worse scenario could befall Nigeria if gun is allowed to become a free-for-all thing in the country. So, I think that our firearms act should be amended and made more stringent, and the Police should as well ensure that before anybody is allowed to have firearms, he should be properly screened,” Alobi said.

Also, a civil society activist, Richard Okoro, who is the Chief Executive Officer of Rural Development Planners International, does not agree that everyone should be allowed to carry arms to defend him or her self.

According to him, it is a recipe for anarchy, noting that the answer to the conflicts lies in restructuring Nigeria.

“The thing is that it (carrying arms) may not be the best approach for Nigerians for now based on the fact that we are not yet mature to that point of people carrying guns. But the best thing is for us to critically look at the situation is on ground and then restructure Nigeria.

“That is why some of us are suggesting that restructuring is the best approach for Nigeria. But giving everybody the opportunity to carry arms to defend him or herself by any means necessary will be taking us years back from the Promised Land,” he said.

Meanwhile, the military has said it does not have the capacity to man a huge security presence in all Nigerian schools to avoid terrorist’s invasion or abduction of pupils.

Defence Spokesperson, Brigadier General John Agim, who was a guest on Channels Television Breakfast Programme, Sunrise Daily recently said due to the huge land mass, especially in the North East which is volatile to attacks, it is difficult to deploy troops to schools.

“The military doesn’t have the manpower to deploy (troops) to all the schools. It is not possible.

People don’t know the landmass that we have in the North East and the number of troops that are deployed in that place. The landmass is very large,” he said.

Agim, who lauded efforts of the Federal government, which has authorised civil defence and the police officers to secure schools in Northeast Nigeria, emphasised that the military cannot deploy to schools like some people are demanding.

“It is very difficult. It is not possible,” he said.

The Oracle Today

43

Wednesday April 4, 2018

NEWS

Senate re-introduces contentious Electoral Act Amendment Bill T

HE Senate, Tuesday, commenced a fresh move toward reordering the sequence of elections by reintroducing the Bill to amend the Electoral Act 2010.

This follows the refusal by President Muihammadu Buhari to assent to the original document, when presented to him, penultimate week.

The bill, which was presented

by Sen. Suleiman Nazif, passed

first reading at plenary.

Following the resolve of the leadership of Senate and House of Representatives to harmonise position on the contentious amendment bill, the House of Representatives re-introduced its version last week.

President Muhammadu Buhari withheld assent to the first version of the bill, which originated from the House of Representatives and was later passed

Buhari rejects tenure extension for Oyegun, others

P

RESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari, at National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, held Tuesday, has declared as illegal and unconstitutional the tenure extension for national and state party executives of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

It would be recalled that Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello of Kogi State announced the tenure elongation by one year, starting from June, to newsmen at the end of a NEC meeting last month, saying that the decision was taken in line with

L

Constitution, particularly subsection 4, by refusing to sign the bill.

Earlier, introduction of the bill had generated controversy, with some lawmakers alleging that it was targeted at Buhari in the 2019 elections.

The matter also went to the Federal High Court, Abuja, which on March 14, asked the National Assembly not to take any further action on the

amendment bill.

Justice Ahmed Mohammed made the order while delivering ruling in an application filed by the Accord Party seeking a preservative order on the matter.

The judge said “all parties in the suit are directed to maintain status quo pending the determination of the substantive suit between now and the next adjourned date.”

the party´s Constitution.

While reacting on the development when announced, the All Progressives Congress (APC) National chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun explained that the decision was to give the party room to face the serious task ahead, especially the 2019 general elections.

The decision is expected to hit the Kogi Governor the hardest in view of the manner of his emergence as the state chief executive as he was not running mate to the late party flagbearer, Abubakar Audu, who won the gubernatorial poll.

Land Use Charge amendment: NBA, others walk out on Lagos Assembly agos State House of Assembly’s (LAHA) Public Hearing on the state new Land Use Charge (Amendment) Law, 2018 went rowdy, Tuesday, as some stakeholders staged a walk out, after the lawmakers declined to yield to calls for the postponement of the exercise by the stakeholders.

The stakeholders include the members of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Ikeja Branch, Joint Action Front (JAF) and the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR).

The aggrieved, who started chanting “No, no, we no go pay land use charges, we no go pay” walked out from the Lateef Jakande Hall of the Assembly Complex, the venue of the event.

Speaker of the House, Mr Mudashiru Obasa had hardly completed his address, where he told the stakeholders that the exercise was in response to people’s call, when Mr Adesina Ogunlana, Chairman, NBA, Ikeja Branch raised a point of order.

Ogunlana informed the House that the stakeholders got the notice of the public hearing late and could not get a copy of the law to be amended, hence, they were calling for a two-week adjournment.

“Yesterday,(Monday), we received a letter inviting us today for this programme as well as a copy of the amendment at our secretariat of the NBA, Ikeja Branch. What we did was to write a letter to the Honourable Speaker informing him of the necessity for an adjournment of this public hearing.

“It is gratifying to note that the Speaker and other honourable members of the House are interested in our views and the views of others and that we should not

by both chambers of the National Assembly.

In declining assent to the bill, Buhari said the proposed law would usurp the constitutional powers of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to decide on election matters, including fixing dates and the order they would go.

In addition, the President explained that he was complying with Section 58 of the 1999

come to a compromise. What we did was to first go back to the cabinet office to look for the law being sought to be amended, that law is not even with the government.

“Even in this House, I have made enquiries, and we cannot even get a copy of the law. The truth of the matter is that the amendment sought, and a copy of the law must be given to the stakeholders, if we are going to have meaningful contributions.

“The huge task of evaluating the legality and the general operational dynamics of this law vis-a-vis the amendment is clearly an assignment beyond the space of 24 hours or a similar period of time.

“Our humbly request is this, if we may be permitted to counsel, we request the adjournment of this public hearing in no less than two weeks,” he said.

Ogunlana said that such an adjournment would allow stakeholders have adequate time for cogitative and comparative study of the proposed amendment as well as the qualitative and comprehensive submission via memoranda.

He said that the group would return to the street on Thursday for protest against the law.

Also speaking, Mr Abiodun Aremu, Secretary of the JAF, Lagos State said that the group would mobilise residents against the law.

“We are not pleased with the processes. The will of the people prevails at all times. The JAF has a record of defending the poor in Lagos State. We are not satisfied; they should meet us on the streets because the people will not pay this. We are going to mount a campaign that people will not pay.”

• President Muhammadu Buhari receiving Martin Luther King Jnr’s family, after civil rights activist was also conferred with the 1st Black History Month National Black Excellence and Exceptional African Leadership Award 2018, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Monday.

Create Ministry of Charity – NGO urges FG

By INI BILLIE, Uyo

P

EOPLE in Need of Support Foundation (PINOF), a charity group in Akwa Ibom state urged the Federal Government to create a Ministry of Charity to enlarge the charity base of the country.

PINOF President, Mr. Emmanuel Archibong said the ministry which is necessary to enlarge the charity base of the country would not be funded by the government but by Nigerians.

Speaking, Tuesday, in Uyo during the award of financial grants to 100 petty traders across the State and the launch of a book

by the president titled, “The Vision for the 21st Century”, Archibong explained that the ministry would be responsible to the National Charity Commission and the Federal Executive Council for the purpose of dual control.

He said the ministry would provide funds to charity projects and charity friendly industries as well as serve as a unifying instrument for the country through its federal character composition.

He explained that free financial support to people in need was the unique selling point of PINOF and would be that of the proposed ministry as loans re-

Nwodo douses tension in Ohaneze, Bayelsa Chapter

By CLEM ONYEMAECHI, Yenagoa

P

resident General of Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief John Nnia Nwodo (jnr) has urged Igbo people resident in Bayelsa State to love one another and work hard to uplift their living conditions.

Nwodo gave the charge on arrival in Bayelsa for a Mega Rally on restructuring at the weekend as he was being received by the Ohaneze Youth Wing who gathered at the popular Tombia Junction in Yenagoa to receive the number one Igbo man into Bayelsa.

The former minister of information who expressed surprise at the reception said he was not expecting such gesture since he did not inform them of his visit, more so as they were grappling with leadership crisis which he said necessitated setting up of a caretaker committee to manage

the chapter.

He said he looked forward to discussing the developments within the Ohaneze chapter with Governor Dickson after which he would in his next visit have an all-inclusive meeting with all Igbos resident in Bayelsa and thereafter formally present to the governor those who would be interfacing with him on behalf of Ohaneze in Bayelsa.

“I thank you immensely for this reception. My advice to you is to be your brother’s keeper.

Already I know that nothing will ever happen to me here because Ndigbo are here and they are strongly behind me. And I know that if I am hungry, I have where I can go and have dinner tonight”, he joked.

Nwodo urged them to always identify with any good thing happening in the state, urging them to attend the rally on restructuring in good number.

payment was becoming burdensome to the beneficiaries who are petty traders.

“There will be phenomenal increase in employment with about one million jobs created aftermath and in multiples thereafter. The ministry’s replication in states can generate multiplier effects but this must await stabilization at the federal level and proper guidance.

“In addition, charity offers an opportunity for income redistribution through their carefully planned programme and is considered superior to welfare. It offers a sustainable alternative gateway to development on all rails”.

“In giving grants we ensure that beneficiaries are not charged any sum of money, no middlemen are used and in addition to provision of training and supervision.

“PINOF recognizes that government cannot solve these problems alone hence, our modest involvement. Data is seen to be a major challenge even as we try to reach the target population.

“We hope to work with other charities and foundations and will welcome individuals and organisations who have specific charity goals to pursue but less informed on how to go about it.

Charity is now a choice option in preference to welfare because of its productive capacity and value addition, “he explained.

The President said PINOF started more than 20 years ago until it was formally registered as a charity organisation with the Corporate Affairs Commission to carry out charity work in Nigeria.

44

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 4, 2018

NEWS IPOB Cont’d from Pg 42 Tell this court how you found out those things you said you found out during your investigation.

We have our way of conducting investigation and that’s not what I should be lecturing you. ** Whereupon the court interjected angrily and directed that he should answer the question on how.

And the he continued and stated ...

My department and the investigation team went further to confirm the statement of the first Defendant and a search team made a search and they discovered a container and Bright Chimezie confirmed that he took delivery of the container and he made mention of the person who cleared the container and when he cleared it.

Tell this court the point the first Defendant was told the offence he committed.

First Defendant confessed to the offence. ** AT THIS POINT...

C. IGWE, Esq applied for exhibition of PW1A to the Witness. Whereupon the clerk gave it to the Witness.

Cross Examination continues...

Bright wrote that statement and you endorsed and your superior officer endorsed it. Read out what the first Defendant wrote.

Whereupon ... Witness began to read the statement and finished it to the end.

Can you tell this court whether the statement you just read was made voluntarily or as a response to questions you put to him?

No. How long the was the first Defendant in custody of SSS before he was arraigned before this court two days ago?

I don’t know.

You told the court that you made findings in the course of your investigation. Right?

Point of correction. I said ... in the course of the investigations, not necessarily my own investigation.

So, you did not make any findings yourself. True or false?

False.

But you said that Nnamdi Kanu and Chimezie imported the container?

I did not say that. I said that findings were made that Chimezie took delivery of container imported by IPOB on instructions of Nnamdi Kanu and took it to Madubugwu.

As the principal or major investigator, did you extend your investigation to the wharf to truly ascertain the container?

No. I did not travel to the wharf.

Did you extend your ‘findings’ to the wharf?

No. I did not.

Q. Why didn’t you think it was necessary to find out if this container was coming from a Nigerian wharf?

Or was the container cleared at the wharf or smuggled in?

• IPOB members in court

No. Am I right to say that when you were giving testimony, you stated that the container was imported by IPOB? Yes I said so.

Do you know the content of the container that Chimezie took delivery of?

No. I don’t know.

Are the contents of the container contraband?

I wouldn’t know.

How did you find out that the container was imported by IPOB? He confessed to it.

You keep saying my team my team, are you part of the team?

No. I am not part of the team.

Would I be right to say you as a person, you are not even sure that a transmitter was part of the items imported? Or at what point did you find out that the transmitter discovered was part of the products in the container imported by IPOB as you said?

As I said before, it was the first Defendant that confirmed that it is a transmitter when the picture was posted online.

So, would I be right to say that you first found out it was a transmitter only the day you interviewed the first Defendant at your office?

Yes. Was the transmitter part of the items imported in the container that first Defendant took delivery of?

Yes. END OF CROSS BY C. IGWE, Esq.

Ans. I wouldn’t know whether it was cleared or smuggled.

CROSS EXAMINATION BY IFERE, Esq begins...

Q. When you made the findings that he took delivery of the container, did you extend the findings to finding out whether his name was on the Bill of Lading?

How long have you worked in investigation department?

Four years.

What formal training did you receive as investigator?

I have undergone some training in accordance with tradition of SSS.

CROSS EXAMUNATION BY N. EJIOFOR, Esq begins...

Please be clear and specific.

Would you beat your chest and say you are a good investigator?

I am a good investigator even though still undergoing training.

I would be right to say that the only role you played in this case is to take down the statement of the first Defendant?

Yes.

You said you have nothing to say about the second Defendant Onwudiwe.

Yes. I have nothing to say about the second Defendant.

Are you aware that the first Defendant was granted bail by FHC Uyo? I am not aware.

You said you cautioned the first Defendant.

I did not say that. What I said that he should ask me what he does not understand.

Is that your usual practice?

Yes. You stated from reading the Statement of first Defendant that he was being given money by IPOB to give to widows of slain IPOB demonstrators.

Yes. Am I right to put it to you that such group that gives money to widows is not an illegal group but a philanthropic group.

LABARAN Objected; the Court directed IFERE to reframe the Question...

In your opinion, would you say a group that donates money to poor widows is a bad or illegal group?

No answer.

Let me put it this way, when First Defendant was arrested was IPOB an illegal group. Or when did IPOB become an illegal group.

No. IPOB became illegal group in 2017 but I don’t remember the exact date. It is the purpose of the group that is bad ... ** Whereupon the Court interrupted the Witness and cautioned him that he has answered the Question and that the Conclusion he’s attempting to draw is for the Court, not him **

END OF CROSS BY IFERE, Esq.

What is your grade level in the civil service structure?

I am a level 12 officer.

What is the model of the transmitter?

I don’t know.

After taking statement of first Defendant, what did you do with him?

I took him back to our Head of Department.

And what happened?

I went back to my office.

Would I be right also to say that you don’t know any single thing about Madubugwu?

Yes.

What grade level makes a Head of Department?

I don’t know.

Now, you asked the first Defendant what the purpose of IPOB is.

Am I correct?

No.

CROSS EXAMINATION BY M. OPARA, Esq BEGINS...

Let’s go over what you did in your office. You told this court that first of all the first Defendant was brought to the head of your Department, and the head of your department handed the first Defendant over to you to go and take down his statement.

Yes.

To investigate what or who or just Bright Chimezie?

Yes. To investigate his case.

CROSS BY N. EJIOFOR, Esq. ENDS.

You told the court that you have a team of investigators.

Yes.

How many investigators?

I don’t know.

So, you didn’t tell the first Defendant the reason why he was arrested?

Yes. Because I was not the one that arrested him.

As a human being, would you be happy to see these people sent to prison just to please your boss or your director or the AGF? No. I believe in justice.

In the course of your interaction, you didn’t tell him why he was arrested, rather the first Defendant was the one telling you why he was arrested?

I did not tell him why he was arrested.

Did you read the amended charges and the proof of evidence attached?

No.

Did you have any petition against the first Defendant or anything to show him that was the allegation against him?

No. Can you tell this court your rank?

I am a Senior Detective.

Did you read the statement of Mr. David the fourth Defendant?

No. Are you aware that the FHC Uyo declared first Defendant detention illegal?

I am not aware.

END OF TESTIMONY March 22, 2018.

45

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 4, 2018

SPORTS Nigeria/Poland Friendly: I’ve been vindicated – Etoroma • Lauds NFF for being pro-active

By MADUABUCHI KALU

E

jiro Etoroma, a member of the past Delta State Sports Commission, has declared that he has been vindicated as he has always advocated for hungry and determined players for the national team, the Super Eagles.

According to the Engineer turned sports administrator, the Eagles’ friendly match against Poland is a testament to his position that young talented and hungry players should be made to people the national team instead of ageing players.

He explained that despite the slim 1-0 victory against the FIFA ranked No6 team in the world last Friday, the team showed zeal, hunger and determination in the game hence they ran away with victory in Poland.

“You have already summed it up in your brief analysis of the match. That is the reason I have always maintained that we should invite young, talented and hungry for success to the national team and that showed in the match against Poland,” Etoroma began.

“We need players who are hungry for success. Players who are yet to make their marks, players who want to be known, that is the type of players that give you hundred 101 per cent when they are fielded as they want to prove themselves and that is what played out against Poland.

“It is true that we not there yet but

•

Super Eagles against Poland

the signs are there that if we continue like this, with time we will get where we want to be.

“My advice is that we need to encourage the team. The game is a good beginning and let just continue supporting them and I believe with time, we will get there.

“If you watch the game, you will realize that the boys showed determination and fought for each other.

I must say that despite the slim 1-0 victory, Eagles showed hunger and determination in that encounter and

they deserved to be encouraged.

“As for me, I have already congratulated the NFF led President, Amaju Melvin Pinnick immediately after the game on the team’s victory against Poland,” Etoroma said.

Speaking further the Delta state born sport administrator said: “We must give this present board of the NFF led by Pinnick kudos for being pro-active.

“The number of friendly matches lined up for the team going to the World Cup is a welcome develop-

ment. Before now, we don’t normally see nor have this number of friendly matches.

“I believe that with the determination and seriousness shown by the team, we will get there. “And I have to commend the coach, Gernot Rohr for instilling determination, discipline and zeal which has been lacking in Eagles before now.

“It is not yet Uhuru but if we remain focused and continue in this manner, we will get good result in Russia,” Etoroma enthused.

My Al Khartoum exit, nothing to do with performance – Amuneke

• Says “I left on mutual consent, not sacked”

By MADUABUCHI KALU

F

ormer Super Eagles daring winger, Emmanuel Amuneke has denied reports that he was sacked by his Sudanese club, Al Khartoum Al Watani as a result of his poor performance as the club’s coach. According to him his exit from the club after being in the saddle for four months has nothing to do with his performance rather it was because the club lost its major sponsor, and as a result it has financial problems.

It is recalled that the former Zamaleke and Barcelona forward, who led the Nigerian Under-17 team to her fifth FIFA Under-17 World Cup title, was engaged in November last year to replace their former coach, Kwesi Appiah who resigned his appointment after he was appointed the coach of the Black Stars of Ghana.

“I wasn’t sacked. The director of the club called me to a meeting to explain why we have not been paid and he suggested that we take a pay cut as their major sponsors have

•

Amuneke

not been supportive,” Amuneke explained.

“He was very sincere which I appreciate so well.

“But they (Al Khartoum Watani) agreed to pay what is being owed and of course what’s binding in the contract which was signed between both parties.

“The director was sincere and plain in his meeting with me on the

dire financial conditions of the club.

So, there was no point staying on. I wasn’t sacked like they’re claiming here in Sudan,” Amuneke said.

However, Amuneke used the opportunity of putting the record straight to commend and thank the management of Al Khartoum Al Watani for their sincerity in telling him the true position of things saying some other clubs would have kept

quiet and he will keep working without knowing that the club have run into financial difficulty.

To buttress his position that his departure from the club has nothing to do with performance rather he left on mutual consent of both parties as a result financial difficulties, Amuneke explained the club were sixth on the log when he took over and they were placed fourth by the time he left on mutual consent.

He explained that the clarification has become necessary as reports emerged last week that he has been sacked by the club for performance-related matters. Amuneke made the clarification on a sports radio programme Mega Sports.

“The club’s major sponsor, an electrical company in Sudan, had a change at the helm of their affairs and the new head of the organisation has not been coming forth with their obligations to the club. This has thrown the club into a financial crisis at the moment,” he said.

“They are currently having challenges paying workers and I discovered that they would not be able to honour the contract we both agreed to, so I decided to leave before it becomes something I will not be able to cope with,” Amuneke explained.

Education key to success, Amokachi tells Oasis Academy players

F

ormer Super Eagles and Everton striker, Daniel Amokachi, has reiterated the importance of education in the life of would be football players.

Amokachi, who was one of the personalities that spoke to OASIS Academy Players at the main-bowl of the National Stadium Surulere Lagos Saturday during the 2nd edition of Oasis Football Club Clinic said they players should make education their number one priority because according to him, out of 100 would be players, only one or two will end up becoming a superstar as has been shown by experience.

He told the youngsters that most footballers come from poor background and only education will keep them going after they must have retired from active football.

“I always feel privileged whenever I am invited to speak to youngsters like you because it is an opportunity for me to give back to the society,” Amokachi began.

“I would like to start by telling you that no matter how interested you are in playing football, you must accord education your number one priority. You should make acquisition of Education your number target and any other thing can follow.

“I am telling you this because education is key to success in life. Experience has shown that out of 100 players, only one or two will end up being a superstar. So, if at the end of the day, you are not able to make it in football, what do you do? You fall back on education to make a living.

“As you are aware, most footballers come from poor background, a background where they find it difficult to feed even once a day.

That is the truth all over the world.

We are talking about between 9597 per cent of footballers the world over coming from very boor background.

“Therefore, it is only through education that your future is assured.

It is only through the grace of God that enables one to have means of survival. Therefore, it is only through good education that can ensure that you do not suffer if at the end of the day you are not able to make it to the top of your football career.

“Education will equally help you organize and plan your life after football even when you are successful in the round leather game.

“So, no matter how you wish to be a football player, do not toy with your education because football is not a long lasting career,” Amokachi advised.

Other notable personalities that spoke to the youngster at the clinic include former Eagles’ striker, Julius Aghahowa, Ambassador Fanny Amun, Frankie Howard amongst others.

46

The Oracle Today Wednesday April 4, 2018

SPORTS

Why I ignored Aiyenugba, Ejide – Rohr

By MADUABUCHI KALU

S

uper Eagles’ Technical Adviser, Gernot Rohr has opened up on why he ignored former Eagles’ goalkeeper, Dele Aiyenugba and Austin Ejide during national team’s 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers and friendly ties against Poland and Serbia.

According to the Franco-German Football tactician, he is building a team for the future and the two goalkeepers do not feature in his plan for the team because they are old men. He said they actually monitored the two goalkeepers but due his resolve to build a team made up young players, he has to ignore them.

Speaking further Rohr explained that there is no way he could have included the two goalkeeper in his plan because they belong to the past and needed to know that they have had their time and the younger ones should be given opportunities to prove themselves and contribute to the development and growth of the game in the country.

“I told you, the two Nigerian goalkeepers in Israel, Dele Aiyenugba and Austin Ejide are already 36 or 37 of football age. I am working for the future and not for the past.

“So, if I am working for the fu-

F

•

Coach Rohr

ture and the two goalkeepers are above 30 already, there is no way I would have included them in Eagles’ squad.

“We actually monitored them before, during the 2018 FIFA World Cup but due to the fact that I am working for the future, it does not make sense to include them.

“They should know that they have

had their time and should give the younger players opportunity to contribute to the national team growth and development,” Rohr explained.

So as far as Rohr is concerned, the future is youthfulness and not about old men who will soon retire from the round leather game.

Meanwhile the former Bayern defender has hailed Francis Odina-

ka Uzoho for keeping a clean sheet against Poland in the Super Eagles’ first World Cup preparation friendly in Wroclaw, Poland.

It is recalled that the Super Eagles against the predictions of bookmakers stun their FIFA better ranked opponents by 1-0 which has boasted the team’s confidence.

We will do our best to prepare for World Cup – Iwobi

S

uper Eagles and Arsenal of England Football Club striker, Alex Iwobi has assured Nigerians that he and his national teammate would do their best to prepare for the World Cup. He explained that it does not matter what it takes, Eagles will face any team as far as it is about preparing for the Mundial in Russia.

“Any how it is, it does not matter we are going to prepare very well for the World Cup. It does not matter whether we are going to face African or European teams, what is important for us is to prepare well for the World Cup. “Of course we have started our preparations with the game against Poland. It is true that we won that game we still have a long way to go because it is a friendly tie. We are all focused in making sure that we prove ourselves at the World Cup

that is why everybody is working very hard in training.

“Of course, we are aware of the huge expectations of millions of our country men and women. We will do our best to ensure that we do not let ourselves down and the best way to begin is to prepare well and the boys are responding very well and the technical crew are not resting on their oars,” Iwobi explained.

Speaking further, the Arsenal of England forward said: “It is a lot of responsibility when you are called up to represent either your country or club. I will always give my best whenever I am called up to represent either my club or country.

“The same way I will put in my best for my country is the same way I will put my best for my country,” Iwobi assured.

Iceland joins forces with England against Russia

N

igeria’s second group opponents at the 2018 FIFA World Cup, Iceland have joined forces with England by announcing a diplomatic boycott of the 2018 FIFA World Cup. It is recalled that British Prime Minster, Theresa May, announced earlier this month that no minister or members of the Royal family will attend the tournament in the wake of the poison of former Russian spy, Sergei Skripal.

It appeared that Iceland who are competing in their first ever FIFA World Cup are the second nation to have followed in the footstep of England.

Meanwhile, the Flying Eagles

Oyedeji faults Kida’s insistence of mandate after FIBA decision

played a barren draw against the Junior Pharaohs of Egypt on Monday in a friendly at the Al BAik Stadium in Alexandra Egypt.

The game is a part of the team’s build up for the 2019 Under-20 African Cup of Nations qualifiers. In related development, the France Football Association has paid the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) the sum of 40,000 Euros which is about N18million.

The deal was seal as a part of long list agreement ahead of the April the 6th international friendly in Le Moor out there in France between the Super Falcons and the French female national team of France.

• Alex Iwobi in action

ormer Captain of the Nigeria Senior Men Basketball team, D’Tigers, Olumide Oyedeji, has faulted Ahmed Musa Kida’s insistence of his mandate after the game’s world governing body, International Basketball Federation (FIFA) that new elections should be conducted into the Nigerian body.

Oyedeji said it was wrong for Kida to have insisted of his mandate after the world basket body has called for a new election to board of the NBBF and dared Kida’s group to test their popularity in the all-inclusive election.

So the question is, who is afraid of new election as the world body has already ruled that there should be new elections into the board of the NBBF as they do not recognized any of the faction.

It is recalled that FIFA recently sent some person to Nigeria for a fact finding mission to the country and the delegation visited the two groups including the Hon. Minister of Sports and Youth Development, Solomon Dalung and the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) led by Abu Gumel.

It is recalled that while receiving the FIBA fact finding delegation, the Hon Minister of Sports, Solomon Dalung told the FIBA team that there was no crisis in NBBF as far as the Ministry was concerned because election was conducted for the board of the NBBF. He told them that the election was held in Abuja and was supervised by the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) in accordance with FIBA rule. He explained further, the Umar faction of the NBBF held their purported election in Kaduna even before the Ministry’s announced date of the elections.

Dalung equally revealed that Umar did not even purchase the form for the elections hence, he is not even qualified for the elections since he didn’t purchase any form for the election.

Now, based on the FIBA fact finding delegation’s report, the world basketball governing body FIBA issued a directive that there should be new elections into the board of the Nigeria Basketball Federation.

While, former President of NBBF, Umar is disposed to comply with the directive of FIBA, the factional leader of NBBF, Musa Kida is insisting that he will not subject himself to a new election as directed by FIBA.

The Oracle Today

47

Wednesday April 4, 2018

NEWS

Archbishop Obinna to Uche Nwosu: ‘Okorocha is leading you into temptation’

By COLLINS UGHALAA

T

HE battle between the Catholic Community in Imo State might be far from ending as the Archbishop of the Owerri Catholic Archdiocese, AJV Obinna, last Friday, took a swipe at State Governor, Rochas Okorocha and Uche Nwosu, saying that the former is leading him into temptation

by anointing him to succeed him in 2019.

Archbishop Obinna made this known during the Cathedraltecum Mass held at the Assumpta Cathedral in Owerri, Friday.

He wondered why Governor Okorocha would want to bestow such a monumental assignment on a young man who knows little to nothing.

The Archbishop promised he would “continue to pray for the

young man”, Uche Nwosu, “not to fall into the temptation”.

The Archbishop had earlier this month at a commendation Mass at Mgwoma Obube Community in Owerri North LGA said that Uche Nwosu would not be Governor of the state in 2019, noting that Imo State needs a mature and experienced administrator as Governor.

He added that Uche Nwosu

was still small to become the Governor of Imo State, even as he said that the people of the state were suffering under the Okorocha administration.

He called on the people to obtain their PVCs and get ready for the election.

Reports said that the wife of the Governor and Uche Nwosu who were present at the commendation mass were uncomfortable with the Archbishop’s remarks, leading to the attack on the priest by members of the Ugwumba Movement, a political group championing the governorship ambition of Uche Nwosu in 2019, without them uttering a word while the fracas lasted.

Commenting on the development, the Catholic Church said they accepted the assault and humiliation of the Archbishop

as “Christ’s humiliation on the cross of Calvary”.

Also, following the comments credited to the Special Assistant to the Governor on Electoral Matters, Barr Steve Asinobi, that the state government would not handle the Archbishop with kid-gloves, the Church has cried out saying that the Governor should be held responsible should anything happen to the Archbishop.

In a publication by The Leader newspaper, the voice of the Church, the Catholic Church raised alarm over what it said was serious threat to the life of the Archbishop.

According to The Leader, the Church said that it would not hide its head like the ostrich in the face of the bad governance going on in the state under Okorocha.

A

“For the first time in history, instead of dropping them in an undisclosed point, the abductors brought back their captives amid cheers and jubilation from observers and even security operatives who were said to have been on their trail for three weeks now.

“Which paradise on earth were the girls kept so neat for three unfriendly weeks? So the Government know the abductors and negotiated with them even as they are still killing Nigerians in tens and hundreds? Nigerians were also informed that no ransom was paid against Lai Mohammed’s assertion that they did it ‘the other way’. A complete antithetic statement from the same government. All these are begging the question.

Also, a political analyst and social critics, Chief Abia Onyike alleged that the whole ploy was designed to applaud the President Buhari-led administration’s effort in the area of security without the actors realising that Nigerians had lost faith and confidence in the operations of the present federal government.

“I don’t believe in the Dapchi episode. It was a well-rehearsed drama to toy with the lives of school girls. The essence of the whole drama is to eulogise President Muhammadu Buhari for his dexterity in security matters.

FG behind Dapchi girls’ abduction — Ohanaeze

• Wife of the Governor of Edo State, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki (m) receiving the Face of Oba Ewuare II Foundation, and the Secretaries to the Oba of Benin and the Benin Traditional Council at the Government House, in Benin City, Tuesday.

Anambra executive council retreat ends

T

he two-day Retreat organized by Governor Willie Obiano to tune up his incoming cabinet for a high performance concluded with a lecture delivered by the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr Ibrahim Magu.

The Anambra excutive council retreat was a two-day exercise organised by the newly inaugurated Obiano administration to tune up his cabinet for an excellent performance that would help the governor in leaving an enduring legacy of visionary governance in Anambra State.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary, Mr. James Eze, said the EFCC Chairman spoke on the topic; “A New Dawn: Expectations from the Public Sector,” weekend.

Magu addressed the incoming commissioners and special advisers as well as the governor’s principal officers on the imperatives of avoiding the banana peels in the Nigerian public service.

According to the EFCC boss, the service component of every public office holder is enshrined in the SERVICOM charter which tasks every public officer with ensuring quick, efficient and effective service to the citizenry in line with the principles of public accountability.

Pointing out that the man on the street sees government es-

sentially as the public officers who owes him transparency and accountability, Magu maintained that the “betrayal of public trust is the worst crime a public officer can commit against the people.”

The economic and financial crimes boss reminded the members of the soon to be inaugurated EXCO that ‘vicarious liability’ is a clear and present threat to top public officers who may be called out of their retirement to account for the criminal actions of their subordinates. “Have at the back of your mind that time does not run out on criminal investigation,” he warned.

Offering a comprehensive rundown of the ‘don’ts’ of the Nigerian public life, Magu observed that a pre-condition for life as a public officer is to purge oneself of all vices that may negatively influence one’s conduct, pointing out that eliminating all likely sources of a conflict of interest was a good beginning for a peaceful public life.

“The Constitution and Public Service Rules have made it mandatory for public officers to declare beforehand, all personal interests. And where such interests may negatively affect the discharge of your official functions, divest yourself of such interests or simply excuse yourself from the discharge of that function,” he warned.

Speaking further, Magu re-

minded the audience of the need to raise the red flag whenever there is a clear indication of a breach of due process in the system, pointing out that ‘it is a crime not to report a crime.’

He also warned that ‘a public officer is prohibited from asking and accepting property or benefits of any kind for himself or any other person on account of anything done or omitted to be done by him in the discharge of his duties and further.’

Remarking, Governor of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano observed that Anambra was ahead in many of the campaigns mounted by the EFCC and that whistle-blowing had been in practice in the state for quite some time.

He assured the EFCC boss that he had great confidence in his team but that he believed that Magu’s “presence at the retreat would help the team to do better.”

Thanking the EFCC boss for making out time to participate in the retreat, Governor Obiano reiterated the warning that as leaders, team members should be mindful of the fact that they were vicariously liable for the crimes committed by their subordinates under their watch.

“So, keep an eye on the people under you. Don’t say, I was not part of it. Always be careful.

If you see a crime, report it,” he advised.

pex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, yesterday described the alleged staging of the abduction and release of the over 100 Dapchi girls by agents of the Federal Government as the height of serial, inglorious pathological deceit and hoax the country has ever witnessed in a short period of time.

In a statement issued in Abakaliki, the National Publicity Secretary of the organisation, Prince Uche Achi-Okpaga, noted that the incident was a “good plan” marred by poor execution asked to know “which paradise on earth were the girls kept so neat for three unfriendly weeks?”

The statement reads “The latest drama of the Dapchi school girls release is the height of serial and inglorious pathological deceit and hoax. In their bid to make unfounded and unthinkable comparisons (with the regime of Gooduck Jonathan) President Buhari and his hegemonic Fulani cabal become antithetic as they are contradictory.

“Apparently, in a hurried orchestra to display their high dexterity of quick response to the manipulated abduction (as against the snail speed approach of the then Jonathan’s regime) the ‘good plan’ was marred by poor execution. Over one hundred girls appearing in new and neat dresses with their big bags of different makes.

“The thought-provoking question is, ‘Did all the girls dress for a religious or social outing shortly before their abduction? Were they allowed to bring their new clothes on abduction or were they taken to a boutique for their fine ‘uniforms’ before they were brought back.

WEDNESDAY April 4, 2018

The

www.oraclenews.ng

48

racle Today

VOX POPULI SACRUM

ISSN: 2545-5869

Dapchi – Deadly dance

N

OBODY can ignore the drama – with its dramatics – that surrounds the Dapchi girls… the story of their abduction follows the same script as their return. From what we have been told, on 19 February, a convoy of Boko Haram members, arrived Dapchi, in Yobe State, with the rumbustiousness peculiar to them, seized 110 girls, of Government Girls Technical School, and left, a blaze of sorrow trailing them.

We have an Air Force. We an Army. We have a Police. They are all in active operations in the North East. There are many other security agencies in this operation.

They have a Theatre Commander for the security affair. He controls the operations.

Did he control the theatre this time?

It was while pondering what could have happened in Dapchi that I realised the importance of names. Shakespeare could have been wrong when he stated that a rose by any other name would not be odoriferous. How dare he?

We are Africans. Was he speaking for us or about us? In our space, names have meanings. When we operate with foreign concepts, we also Africanise the concepts, and meanings, and their appurtenances.

My wonder then: was it possible that the Theatre Commander took his title literarily?

Dapchi was the theatre. Were the occurrences were all part of a drama, crafted, rehearsed, directed, managed, and executed to the final points of the scripts?

Would anyone be doubted for seeing what happened in those lights?

All we see from Dapchi is theatre; we can

throw in theatrics to capture more of it.

From the eclectic and the peripatetic natures of the narratives there is not much that could be made of what took place.

We would understand, we are Nigerians.

Someone recently noted that our level of reasoning is such that we no longer understand; we overstand.

Nigerians are not new to theatre, movies. Nollywood is world famous. Its achievements are reckoned in billions of dollars. Nollywood is more. Its variegated scripts have though Nigerians more about dramatics and theatrics, that they can awe the best professors in those spheres.

• How did Boko Haram pass all the security checks points to return them?

• Have the security checks disappeared?

• How was it possible for Boko Haram, attired, and in their known manners able

to enter and leave Dapchi?

• Are people playing with the lives of Nigerians?

• What are the untold stories?

• Does anyone benefit from this incident?

• Where were the military?

• Where were the police?

• Where is the base of Boko Haram in Yobe State?

• Will anyone be punished for this security breach?

• Will anyone be rewarded for the successful return of the Dapchi girls?

• Will this happen again?

• Who decided on returning the girls to their parents without security debriefing?

• Suppose the girls have been wired so their kidnappers could listen in?

• President Muhammadu Buhari on Friday met with the girls who were abducted from their school in Dapchi, Yobe State. They were released on Wednesday.

• Why was there no chase after the kidnappers?

• Was there a deal with the kidnappers?

• Who permits Boko Haram to move in and out of Dapchi freely?

• Are schools safe after this event?

• Can the security agencies say what they know about this?

• What made the return of the girls possible?

• Are we still dealing with a technically defeated Boko Haram?

• Who shopped for the girls?

• Where was the shopping done?

• Is Boko Haram based in Nigeria or Niger?

• Is someone creating a benevolent image for Boko Haram?

• How many have nattered about how Boko Haram thought the girls should return better than they came?

• Shouldn’t Dapchi girls be waiting for another opportunity to be abducted, 42 days only, and returned, unharmed, by their accounts, untouched, and dressed in garbs better than they had?

• Does anyone believe Boko Haram did not know the Dapchi girls were mostly Muslims?

• Is anyone impressed with the puerile explanation of the abduction, so called?

• Who understands what has happened or could everything be mere conjecture?

How dare Nigerians hold an opinion on a monumental event that holds a place in the heart of the President? To make matters worse, they are asking questions about the decisions the President made on Dapchi, President Muhammadu Buhari instead of asking his security chiefs to explain Dapchi to Nigerians, has warned that he would unleash security agencies on anyone who politicises Dapchi. The way he sounded, it meant that anyone who did not believe the government’s version of the incident in Dapchi, anyone who interrogates the role of the security agencies, anyone, just anyone, maybe the parents of the girls included, who asks, why did Dapchi happen, should be made to realise that the security agencies are more useful than dealing with Boko Haram.

The sanctification of Boko Haram, the President’s moves to grant it amnesty, and the threat to deal with Nigerians, who as much as ask, ‘what is our transparent government doing?’, are all signs of a government that considers itself divine.

Dapchi, Nigerians warn cannot sell. It is like the blinded-folded man tasting drinks for a winery. He detected all the wines correctly, stating their provenance, until he was served water. Said he, “I don’t know what this is, but whatever it is, it would not sell.” That is the verdict of Nigerians. It is a verdict that has outraged the President.

Any questions about Dapchi delays the forgiveness the President eagerly wants to hand Boko Haram. He is the President, and in his electiveness, he has elevated Boko Haram’s well being to a priority.

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.