Wednesday july 14 editiom

The

The Oracle SEPTEMBER 2, 2016

VOX POPULI SACRUM

racle www.oraclenews.ng

WEDNESDAY JULY 19, 2017

ISSN: 2545-5869

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Today Today

VOL.2 No. 30. N200

Biafra: ‘Aburi only solution’ From COLLINS UGHALAA, Owerri

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OLUTIONS to the various challenges that Nigeria current faces, could be found in the agreement Nigeria reached with the

Government of Eastern Nigeria in 1967 in Aburi, Ghana, Chief Mike Ahamba, SAN, a legal luminary and chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), in Imo State, has said.

In an interview with The Oracle Today in Owerri on

Friday, Chief Ahamba said that all the discussions about the future of the country centre on the Aburi Accord, which was never implemented.

It has been said that it was the failure to implement the terms of that agreement that

inexorably led to the Nigeria-Biafra Civil War. “In the discourse of what to do about this country, let us remember that the Aburi Accord of 1967 is still very relevant because in that Accord we agreed to separate to re-

main together. Like one Professor in Nsukka said, it is getting apart to get close. Let us go back to the Aburi Accord,” the Senior Advocate of Nigeria said.

Cont’d on page 2

• Nnamdi Kanu cheered by the crowd on his arrival at the Learning Field Playground, Omagba Phase II Estate, Onitsha, Anambra State, during his recent visit.

Ezeibe takes HIV/AIDS cure research to world stage Anambra 2017: Crisis hits A Andy Uba’s camp

From BONIFACE OKORO, Umuahia

S THE federal government continues to dilly dally over Prof.

Maduike Ezeibe’s reported invention of cure for HIV/ AIDS, the professor of clinical virology at the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), Abia State has been invited to share his research findings

Page 42

with the international community through a scientific forum, Pharmacognosy 2017 International Conference billed for Australia later this month.

In Febraury this year, Ezeibe stunned the medical world when he announced that the Medicinal Synthetic Aluminum Magnesium Silicate invented by his research team cures HIV/AIDS. He told journalists that the research had reached a

stage where it had become ‘money-guzzling’, noting that there was need for the federal government to partner him to commercialise the medicine and secure international patency for it.

The Nigeria authorities were miffed and accused the researcher of dumping due process. Ezeibe, then, invited the federal authorities to investigate his claims.

Last May, a panel put to-

gether by the Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole, interviewed Ezeibe and up till now, the panel has yet to make its findings public.

But organisers of the 5th International Conference and Exhibition on Pharmacognosy, Photochemistry and Natural Products (Pharmacognosy 2017) have extended an invitiation to Ezeibe to share his research experience with the Cont’d on page 2

Page 2

Flooding threatens insurance costs

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The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

NEWS

‘Biafra only solution’ Continued from Pg 1 “All these things they are talking about all over the country are in the Aburi Accord, but nobody has the courage to say so. However, one thing about the Aburi Accord was that the minority felt that it did not accommodate them. That was how the minority authorities in the civil service torpedoed Aburi, because it was the minority civil servants who wrote the memoranda that stopped Aburi from being implemented because all the soldiers had agreed.

“So, let us bring back Aburi and if there is any little thing wrong with it, we can restructure it a little and use it. But, whether we are going to have a confederation or a federation, I believe the base should be the States and not Regions.

There is no question of going back to the Regions because I am sure it cannot work,” he said.

He also said that the country should not shy away from problems currently facing it, but should rather find solutions.

“Whatever the problem is, Nigerians must discuss it. My contention is that we should revisit the Aburi Accord,” Chief Ahamba, celebrated former lawyer to President Buhari, stressed.

He warned: “If there is going to be any war, it is going to be a Nigerian war and not a Biafran war. If we allow war to happen again in Nigeria, there will be sectors everywhere because it would be the people protesting and defending themselves against each other.”

Silence in some quarters in

the face of the current challenges facing the country could lead to bad outcomes, he said.

“Let us warn ourselves very strictly that that would be the implication of not talking now. Those things that make some people feel they are not well accommodated in Nigeria, let us put them on the table. Those who are benefiting from Nigeria, let us put it on the table, so that they would tell us why they should continue to benefit while their brothers don’t benefit.

“And I want to tell you – my grandfather brought me up with a notion. He said that you should never reject food with anger but instead finish the food with anger, because if you reject food with anger, you would starve. Consequently,

I am not going to leave Nigeria with anger. If they want to leave it for me, let them leave,” he said.

While blaming the Federal Government for mishandling Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), he condemned the Arewa youths for their October 1 ultimatum to Igbos living in the North, saying that they do not have the competence to do so.

“When the Hausa man tells the Igbo man to leave the North, it is out of ignorance, because he is a Nigerian in the North. Even if there is a Biafra today, that man living in the North has options. Though he is of Igbo origin he has the right to opt for a Nigerian citizenship while others have the right to opt for a Biafran citizenship. They should recognise that. They should tell themselves that they don’t have that competence. I have told the Igbo people living in the North not to leave that

place.

“It was the Federal Government that created the current impulse for Biafra by arresting Kanu and detaining him against the law. I entered politics as a very young lawyer in 1978 and I was of the NPN, a national party. Those who were in the old Imo and Anambra States, if they could remember, NPN was a very popular party in the East. Nobody was going to NPP until Zik came and FEDECO disqualified him. If they had allowed him to continue, there would have been no problem. But they disqualified him and the court reinstated him. So, the people, knowing their emotional attachment to Zik, said he was disqualified because he was an Igbo. If they hadn’t disqualified him, that issue wouldn’t have arisen, and the effect was that all us in the NPN lost the election.

“Their handling of the Nnamdi Kanu issue was very defective and they ended up creating sympathy for him.”

Ezeibe takes HIV/AIDS cure research to world stage Continued from Page 1

world.

In the letter of invitation dated July 5, 2017, and signed by the Program Co-ordinator | Pharmacognosy 2017| Pharmaceutical Sciences Conferences, Sushma Reddy, the organisers said it was a way to accelerate Ezeibe’s scientific discoveries Part of the letter read:

“We came across your contribution “In Vivo Antiretroviral Effects of the Medicinal Synthetic Aluminum-Magnesium Silicate,” and thought it would be an excellent fit at Pharmacognosy 2017 International Conference. As such, I would like to offer you and your colleagues the opportunity to share your research based on your current research interests.

“We are happy to bring to your notice that Conference Series is hosting the “5th International Conference and Exhibition on Pharmacognosy, Phytochemistry and Natural Products” (Pharmacognosy 2017) along with external scientific association researches, academicians, and Pharmaceutical market leaders around the globe, scheduled on July 24-25, 2017

in Melbourne, Australia.”

At the conference, Ezeibe would speak alongside other Pharmacognosy experts like Dilip Ghosh of Soho Flordis International, Australia, Prue Kearney from University of Queensland, Australia and Yos Banne of Health Polytechnic Manado, Indonesia; Azza ELMedany of Alexandria University, Egypt and Sunita Shailajan, Ramnarain Ruia

Anambra 2017: Crisis hits Andy Uba’s camp • Aggrieved 5,000 supporters set to join Obiano

By THEO RAYS, Onitsha

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HEAD of the primary election of All Progressive Congress (APC) for the November 18, 2017 governorship election in Anambra State, The Oracle Today can report that serious crisis has hit the camp of Senator Andy Uba in Onitsha North and South Council Areas following alleged taking over of Uba’s structure by supporters loyal to Hon. Lynda Ikpeazu.

Senator Uba, a leading contender for the APC ticket, according to a reliable source, allegedly struck a deal with Ikpeazu whereupon it was agreed that those loyal to Ikpeazu would be in charge of Uba’s structure in Onitsha North and South. Ikpeazu who is currently the member representing Onitsha North and South Federal Constituency in the Federal House of Representatives defected to APC along with Uba. This development, according to the source, infuriated those who moved along with Uba

from People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to APC as his coordinators at ward and local council levels who are now looking forward to decamping to the camp of the incumbent Governor of Anambra Chief Willie Obiano who is bidding for re-election in November poll.

The source revealed that Obiano has already handed the former leader of Uba camp in Onitsha South Mr Chuks Onyezugbe the job of a Special Adviser. Onyezugbe, the source further said, is consequently facilitating the decamping of the rest of the coordinators and their loyalists from APC to the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in support of Obiano.

In a chat with The Oracle Today on the issue, an ex ward coordinator for Uba in Fegge, the headquarters of Onitsha South who didn’t want his name in print, said all the coordinators are set to leave Uba for Obiano along with those they registered in APC because they have been totally betrayed.

According to him: “We have no

other choice than to leave because this is not what we expect.

It is as bad as labouring in vain and nobody is ready to accept that kind of situation. We have 10 coordinators in each of the 17 wards in Onitsha South and when Uba joined APC, each of the coordinators mobilized not less than 300 people to register in APC during the APC membership revalidation exercise “I am not exaggerating; the same thing happened in Onitsha North. As coordinators, we mobilized not less than 5000 people in APC from Onitsha North and South. In fact we made Uba thick in APC, but to our surprise, Uba’s aides no longer invite us for a meeting; they have ignored us totally for people who didn’t work at all and we cannot take it, so we are leaving and not going back.”

When contacted, a senior member of Uba camp Nze Ralph Obiora told The Oracle Today that he was not authorized to speak to the press by his principal but that he would draw his • Andy Uba attention to the matter.

College, India Ezeibe, while commenting on the invitation, remarked that ‘Accelerating your discovery’ means these world scientists have subjected our invention to peer-review and found it worthy.”

He said in a recent interview that he was yet to hear from the federal government panel on his discovery.

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The Oracle Today, Wednesday July 19, 2017

NEWS ACROSS THE NATION CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known as UDEH ERIC DARLINGTON now wish to be known as UDEH MIRACLE EBUBECHI. Former documents remain valid, general public take note This is to certify that NWACHUKWU FAITH ADAEZE JIDENDU and MBAKWE ADAEZE FAITH is one and same person, now wish to be known as FAITH ADAEZE MBAKWE. Born on 09-06-1971.

Former documents remain valid, general public take note

I formerly known as GLORIA NNOYE UGEZU now wish to be known as OBELEAGU NNONYE GLORIA. Former documents remain valid, general public take note I formerly known as SIMON EZEBUILO SIMON now wish to be known as SIMON EZEBUILO CHUKWUNONSO ONUBIYI. Former documents remain valid, general public take note I formerly known as KALU OLUCHI ABBA now wish to be known as ABBA-KALU OLUCHI. former documents remain valid,Banks and general public take note I formerly known as OKORIE JOY NNEAMAKA now wish to be known as NWACHI JOY NNEAMAKA, former documents remain valid, Banks and general public take note My name was wrongly written as GLADYS NONYE OKEKE instead of GLADYS NONYELUM OKEKE, I now wish to be known as GLADYS NONYELUM OKEKE. Former documents remain valid, general public take note This is to certify that AGHANU ROSY IFEAKACHUKWU, AGHANU ROSY ENUCHUKWU, IKECHEBELU ROSY IFEAKACHUKWU and AGHANU ROSYPRISCA ENUCHUKWU are one and same person. Now wish to be known as ARINZE ROSY IFEAKACHUKWU. All former documents remain valid, Banks and general public take note

formerly known as UGODIEGWU FAVOUR UJU now wish to be known as NDIANEFO FAVOUR UJU. All documents remain valid, general public take note I formerly known as MISS IHEMJIBUANYA FAVOUR KANU now wish to be known as MRS IHEM JIBUANYA FAVOUR EMENE. All former documents remain valid, general public take note I formerly known as NWAELUME IFEANYI BARTHOLOMEW now wish to be known as NWAOGU IFEANYI BARTHOLOMEW All former documents remain valid, general public take note.

I formerly known as OKAFOR BLESSING CHIKWUO now wish to be known as OKAFOR FAVOUR CHIKWUO. All former documents remain valid, Banks and general public take note

This is to certify that KADIRI OSHIONOBOH STANLEY and KADIRI STANLEY is one and same person, now wish to be known as KADIRI STANLEY. Born on 27-04-1983, former documents remain valid,general public take note

I formerly known as MMADUABUCHI OBUMNEME NNEBEDUM now wish to be known as MARVELOUS NNEBEDUM. Former documents remain valid, general public take note

This is to certify that ONUN NSEI EBRI and ONUN ESEI EBRI is one and same person now wish to be known and addresed as ONUN ESEI EBRI. All former documents remain valid,general public take note

S/East, S/South Governors’ Forum appoints Udom interim chairman

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kwa Ibom State Governor, Emmanuel Udom, has been appointed the interim chairman of the joint South-East/South-South GoverI formerly known and addressed as MISS CHINWEMA NKEMDILIM AFOAMAH now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. CHINWEMA NKEMDILIM AGUEGBODO. All former documents remain valid. Please UBA PLC, Ogbaru Local Government, Anambra State Service Commission and General Public take note.

Ambode’s wife, others drum support for women in journalism From OJOACHELE EJIGBO

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ife of Lagos State Governor, Mrs Bolanle Ambode has challenged women in the country to embrace journalism as a way of contributing to national development and the social narratives. The Lagos First Lady, who spoke at the fourth Women in Journalism (WIJ) Africa Conference, held in Lagos on Thursday, said women must start telling their stories by themselves.

“The time has come for us women to tell our stories ourselves. The era of the sit at home women has gone. We have the right to con-

tribute to social narrative. Women should emerge from the shadows and break the prototype of petty traders,” Mrs Ambode said at the opening of the conference themed: ‘Pioneers, Innovators and the Brave New World’.

Also speaking at the conference, Hajia Lami Tumaka, seasoned communications professional and Director of Nigeria Maritime Administration & Safety Agency (NIMASA) called on women, especially, those from the Northern part of the country to delve into journalism, adding that the profession is in need of women. “It’s critical that successful journalists mentor the younger

ones or women journalists risk going extinct. Women in the north have a hard time of practicing journalism because of religious and cultural restrictions”, she observed.

On her part, CEO of WFM 91.7, Toun Sonaiya said mentorship remained key to nurturing women journalists in Nigeria and Africa at large, adding that the world is waiting for brave women entrepreneurs with innovative initiations that wouldchange the world. She urged young journalist to be good with their craft and master it well.

“Have a focus, a story and a plan.

And you are half way there,” she advised.

On her part, Managing Director of City FM in Lagos, Adedoja Allen said: “Research is one of the best ways to stay creative, dare to be different as a journalist, youths should take advantage of the opportunities that will lead them to their future goals and people in position of power should embrace the youth because the future belongs to them.

Traditional radio stations can be more innovative with technology to reach a wider audience”.

Anthea Garman, associate professor of journalism and media studies, Rhodes University, South Africa urged the youth to take ownership of their stories, adding that content promotion should be done from the perspective of the receiver rather than the sender.

“If you are really passionate about something, don’t wait for anyone to fund you, just do it.

Virtual storytelling and virtual media is a very strong form of communication in this age so youths should Leverage on this technologies to change narratives,” she said.

nors’ Forum.

Udom who was appointed after the first meeting of the forum which held late Sunday night at the Nike Lake Resort, Enugu, told newsmen that governors from the two zones had decided to pursue inter-regional cooperation for greater integration.

The governor said that the leaders of the two zones had agreed to realign as a people that share a common heritage, culture and affinity.

“Having reviewed the state of the nation, particularly as it affects us in the South-South and South-East regions, we have agreed to pursue inter-regional cooperation. This will be for integration and for the economic benefit of the two regions. We also have resolved to politically work together and realign as a people that shared common heritage, culture and affinity,” he said.

Udom said that he was unanimously chosen as the interim chairman by other governors, adding that their next meeting would hold in Port Harcourt on Aug. 27.

The governors of Abia, Bayelsa, Ebonyi, Enugu, Imo, Cross River and Rivers, attended the meeting; while the deputy governor of Anambra represented the governor.

1 dead, 2 hospitalized as Lassa Fever hits FGC, Langtang

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lateau State Commissioner for Health, Kuden Deyin, has confirmed the death of one student, while two others have been hospitalized, following an outbreak of Lassa Fever at the Federal Government College, Langtang.

“Yes, there was an outbreak of Lassa Fever at the Federal Government College, Langtang; it has claimed one life while two others are in the hospital,” said Kuden, Sunday, in Langtang, Lateau State, adding that four students were rushed from the school clinic to the Jos University Teaching Hospital.

“The students displayed symptoms of Lassa Fever and we immediately took their blood samples to the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, where three tested positive to the disease. One among those that tested positive is dead, while the other two are still on admission at JUTH,” he said.

Deyin said that the Plateau State government had met with the principal of the college and advised her to halt the resumption of the students from their mid-term break, just as he advised families with children from the school to observe them and report any noticed symptom of the fever to JUTH, Plateau Specialist Hospital or the Bingham University Teaching Hospital.

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The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

NEWS ACROSS THE NATION

Polio vaccines not anti-Islamic -- Sultan

By VICTOR NZE

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he Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, last weekend, reaffirmed that vaccines for polio and other child-killer diseases are safe and not anti-Islamic.

Abubakar who spoke in Wamakko town, headquarters of Wamakko Local Government Area of Sokoto State at the National Campaign of the Sub-National Plus Days (SIPDS), countrd long-held beliefs in the northern regions of the country that the drugs were against Islamic tenets, a position which worsened the control of spread of preventable diseases like poliomyelitis. ”The vaccines for polio and other child-killer diseases like measles, diphtheria, whooping cough and tetanus, among others are safe.

The vaccines have been internationally and medically certified by medical experts and Islamic clerics. ”We have also agreed with them as we will not accept and consent to anything that will harm our children.”

Abubakar, therefore, appealed to Nigerians to accept the vaccines, routine immunisation, while pregnant women should avail themselves of the various antenatal services available, even as he restated the commitment of the Northern Traditional Rulers Committee on Polio and Routine Immunisation toward eradicating polio and other child-killer diseases in the country.

Remarking, State Governor, Aminu Tambuwal commended the Federal Government, the sultan and development partners for the

relentless efforts to eradicate polio and other diseases, just as he vowed that he would continue to support all endeavours for Nigeria to be certified polio-free. ”The state government is committed to all agreements it had signed on all aspects, including health. That was why the state government allocated 16 per cent of its 2017 budget to the health sector.”

Tambuwal further vowed to redress all the challenges with a view to improving the disturbing health indices in the state.

Chairman of the Senate Committee on Primary Healthcare and Communicable Diseases, Sen. Mao Ohuabunwa, on his part, expressed the resolve of the Senate to see to the removal of Nigeria from the list of polio endemic countries soon.

Similarly, the Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Health Services, Mr Chike Okafor, represented by his deputy, Alhaji Mohammed Usman, also promised sustained funding to provide efficient healthcare services to Nigerians.

Meanwhile, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Saad Abubakar III, has expressed concern at a development where social media platforms are reportedly diverting attention of students in the country.

Abubakar who expressed the feeling in Sokoto on Sunday at the closing ceremony of the 6th National Edition of the Quranic Recitation Competition, said:” There is a disturbing development where the attention of students is being diverted from their studies. This is through the use of various social media like

Facebook, Twitter,Whatsapp, 2Go and Instagram, among others,’’ he said The traditional ruler urged youths, particularly girls, to stop spending too much time on social media at the expense of other engagements that would add more values to their life. ”The rate at which girls are spending time on social network is worrisome and this poses imminent danger to our society. Girls are the nerve centre of our moral and societal development and if they derail, the whole society will be in danger because they are our mothers and care givers.”

Abubakar advised parents to ensure that their daughters spend more time on meaningful things, like reciting the Holy Qur’an.

CVR: INEC registers 45,757 voters in Kogi; 18, 000 in Kwara

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•Acting President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo (m) flanked by members of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Network of Electoral Commission (ECONEC), including the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman, Mahmoud Yakubu and Chairman of the Electoral Commission of Benin Republic, Roger Addah, who paid a courtesy visit to State House in Abuja, Thursday.

Gonorrhoea spreading, becoming untreatable --WHO warns

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orld Health Organisation (WHO) has warned that Gonorrhea infections are increasing, even as it also raised the alarm that medical doctors are running out of antibiotics that can fight the increasingly resistant bacteria causing the sexual disease.

Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by bacteria called Neisseria gonorrhoeae or gonococcus. It is mainly found in discharge from the penis and in vaginal fluid and can easily pass between people through unprotected vaginal, oral or anal sex.

Two-thirds of the countries that report resistance data to the WHO have seen cases in recent years in which their antibiotics of last resort no longer worked against gonococci bacteria.

“These cases may just be the tip of the iceberg since systems to diagnose and report untreatable infections are lacking in lowerincome countries where gonorrhoea is actually more common,” WHO expert, Teodora Wi, said in Geneva.

The UN health agency estimates that 78 million people are infected annually with the disease with Britain and the U.S. reporting increases of more than 10 per cent in 2015, just as cases among gay

men in France doubled between 2013 and 2015.

According to UN agency, rates are highest in the African region, where one in 10 men is infected annually. The main reasons for the increase are decreasing condom use, increased mobility as well as poor disease monitoring and inadequate treatment, according to the WHO. Gonorrhoea can infect the genitals, rectum and throat. It can lead

to inflammation of the pelvis and to infertility.

Currently, only three new drugs are being developed, because pharmaceutical companies know that the bacteria will soon become resistant to any new antibiotic.

To control gonorrhoea, doctors not only need new medicines, but also a rapid diagnostic tool and a vaccine, which are yet to be developed, WHO Antimicrobial expert, Marc Sprenger, said.

FG selects 15 LGAs for NASSP

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ederal Government has selected 15 local government areas in Kano State for the implementation of its National Social Safety Net Programme (NASSP).

The programme is aimed at empowering poor and vulnerable households in the country.

National Coordinator, National Safety Net Coordinating Office (NASSCO), Mr Peter Papka, disclosed this at the training workshop on Community Based Targeting Team (CBTT) for identification of poor and vulnerables in Kano, Wednesday.

He said a total of 180 persons selected from the 15 local government areas would be trained on selection process that would guide them on

identification of poor and vulnerable households in the areas.

He said that under the programme, the Federal Government would work in partnership with the state Ministry of Planning and Budget to identify the poor and vulnerable households in the state.

“While government spending on poverty reduction interventions has been on the increase, there has not been a commensurate movement of people out of poverty. In recognition of this unacceptable trend and its implication to national development, the Federal Government felt it necessary to build stronger institutions and systems to sustain poverty reduction interventions,” Papka said.

he Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Kogi said it had registered 45,757 new voters in the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) in the state.

Administrative Secretary of the commission in the state, Mr Adison Mailafiya, made this known while briefing newsmen in Lokoja, last Thursday, said the figure represented 23,534 males and 22,223 female voters.

According to him, 1,566 registered voters applied for transfer of their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) in the state, adding that 284,178 Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) were yet to be collected by registered voters.

He added that six additional centres had been approved for the state to address the challenges of distance as well as congestion.

Mailafiya, who disclosed that two additional centres were created in each of the three senatorial districts in the state, said that the essence of the exercise was to enable those that turned 18 years of age after the last exercise or those who missed out in the previous exercises to do so.

Meanwhile, the commission has also registered 18, 000 voters in Kwara since the beginning of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) on April 27.

INEC Administrative Secretary in the state, Mr Paul Atser, who

made this known in Ilorin on Thursday while fielding questions by journalists during an inspection tour of registration centres, said that the commission had also created six additional registration centres in the state.

The administrative secretary said that the six new centres were spread across the three senatorial districts of the state.

According to him, the centre are Oro Ago, Ajase I, Oke Oyi, Pake, Bani and Malete.

“As at Wednesday, over 18, 000 voters have been captured. The turnout is impressive; people are eager to take part in the electoral process,” Atser said.

He also said that more than 1,000 Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) had been collected in the state by their owners since the beginning of CVR. Atser said that the registration would be closed temporarily after July 27 to allow INEC to collate data and display voters registers.

“We will display the voters register for five days to allow people to make claims and objections on the register. After the claims and objections, we will start the process of printing Permanent Voter Cards and distribute same,” he added.

The administrative secretary said that INEC might consider creating additional polling booths, although a lot of issues would be involved.

NAICOM approves financial reportsfor 39 firms

By CHRIS EBONG

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ational Insurance Commission (NAICOM) has approved 39 insurance companies 2016 accounts out of 48 that have so far submitted their results.

According to NAICOM, as at July 3, 2017, the accounts of 39 firms have been approved, those of two firms were queried, review of six accounts are in process while the response sent by one company is under review, this revealed that Insurance firms are getting used to the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).

The accounts already approved were: FBN General Insurance; Wapic Life; Ensure Insurance; Con-

tinental Reinsurance; Zenith General Insurance; FBNInsurance; Consolidated Hallmark Insurance; AIICO Insurance; Leadway Assurance; Mutual Benefit Assurance, Sovereign Trust Insurance; Anchor Insurance and more NAICOM noted that the response sent by Guinea Insurance on her account is under review, while the accounts of Nigeria Reinsurance Corporation and KBL Insurance Limited were queried.

The commission said it is still reviewing the accounts submitted by Nigerian Agricultural Insurance Corporation; Equity Assurance; Capital Express; Universal Insurance Plc; UNIC Insurance Plc and Saham Unitrust Insurance Nigeria Limited.

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The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

NEWS Drug war: Ugwuanyi is a pillar of support, says NDLEA From CHUKS EZE, Enugu

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he Enugu State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has described Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi as a pillar of support in its fight against illicit drug use and trafficking in the state.

The chairman and chief executive of the agency in the State, Barrister Anthony Ohanyere, gave the commendation in Enugu at the commemoration of this year’s International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

Ohanyere, who represented the national chairman and chief executive of the agency, Colonel Muhammad Mustapha Abdallah (rtd), said: “Since Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi assumed office as the number one citizen of this State in 2015, His Excellency has been striving to give us all that we need in this war against drug abuse, illicit drug and trafficking in the state. We immensely thank you for being our pillarof support and a great hope for us.”

Urging other well-meaning individuals to emulate the governor in the fight against the social malaise, he counseled parents that “listening to children and youths is the first step to helping them stay healthyand safe.”

Responding, Governor Ugwuanyi reaffirmed his administration’s commitment towards the war against illicit drug and trafficking in dangerous substances.

The governor who was represented by his deputy, Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo, said: “The present administration in Enugu State will continue in partnering your agency in the noble fight against this dreaded monster called drug abuse, illicit drug and trafficking in drug and other dangerous substances.”

Noting that use of illicit drugs could lead to mental illness and breed vices such as armed robbery, prostitution, among others, he urged parents to monitor their children’s peer group.

In a paper delivered at the occasion, a psychologist with the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu, Dr. U.C. Nduanya, said listening to children has become an imperative given that they “face a lot of challenges at their formative age.”

Biafra is struggle against injustice --Ebonyi ex-deputy gov.

From CHINEDU NWAFOR, Abakaliki

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ormer Deputy Governor of Ebonyi State, Prof. Chigozie Ogbu has said that the agitation for Biafra by the youths of the South Eastern region is a genuine

struggle against injustice done to Ndigbo in Nigeria.

Ogbu, the incumbent Vice President-General of Ohaneze Ndigbo, disclosed this during an interview with some Journalists at his Abakaliki residence last weekend, insisting that since after the Civil

War, the constitution of the country has been drafted in such a way as to disfavour Ndigbo who are regarded as a conquered people and territory.

He said the agitation for self-determination stemmed from frustration among young people as a

• Members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) waiting for the arrival of their leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, at Learning Field Playground, Omagba Phase II, Onitsha, Anambra State.

Photo by MODESTUS IGUDOBI

Non-indigenes in Bayelsa applaud Dickson’s pan-Nigeria posture From CHRIS EZE, Yenagoa

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on-indigenes resident in Bayelsa State under the aegis of the Supreme Council of Non-Indigenes in Bayelsa have described Gov. Seriake Dickson as a firm believer in a united Nigeria.

President of the group, Mr Ade Bakare who spoke at a stakeholders meeting in Yenagoa on Monday commended Dickson for accommodating people from different parts of the country in his cabinet.

He said that Dickson’s appointment of seven non-indigenes of the State into positions of trust in his administration, demonstrated his commitment to Nigeria’s unity.

He advised non-indigenes residing in Bayelsa to take advantage of the Dickson administration’s accommodation to participate actively in politics.

“The governor has exemplified unity as he appointed aides from all parts of the country in addition to providing a favourable climate for businesses to thrive, and recognizing that non-indigenes are partners.

“To have seven appointees from the council alone is heartwarming and shows that Bayelsa people are accommodating,” Bakare said.

According to him, of the over 600, 000 registered voters in the state, nonindigenes accounted for 197,300.

Bakare called on eligible voters yet to register, to take advantage of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) to do so.

Also speaking, Mr Alex Dombo, Special Adviser to Dickson on Non-Indigenes, said that the governor believes that the strength of Nigeria lies in its diversity.

He said the Bayelsa Government re-

gards people from other States as partners in the development process.

Mr. Douglas Koko, the governor’s Special Assistant on Non-Indigenes (South-South Zone), who spoke on behalf of his counterparts in charge of other zones, thanked the council for its support for the Dickson administration.

“We are here to interact with the council and let members of the group have an idea of what is going on in the government.

“We pledge to work for the welfare and benefit of non- indigenes in Bayelsa.

“We assure you that we the appointees from the council are working together to advance the interest of the members,” Koko said.

The meeting brought together representatives of communities, traditional rulers of communities, and founding fathers of the council.

Nigerians in diaspora laud Osinbajo over tax amnesty law • To organize Nigeria Direct Diaspora Investment Summit in London this July

By IBE NWACHUKWU

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igerians in diaspora have given the Acting President Yemi Osinbajo a pat on the back for signing into law the newly adopted federal government’s tax amnesty programme tagged ‘Voluntary Assets and Income Distribution Scheme’ (VAIDS).

The federal government had in a bid to collect all statutory taxation due to it, decided to grant an amnesty to all tax evaders in exchange for their agreeing to clear their arrears as soon as possible.

The scheme, which was sent to both the Senate and House of Representatives in 2016, also contained the “Principle of Compton Amnesty”, which is aimed at letting off looters who invested illegally acquired wealth into the nation’s economy.

The bill, after due consideration and passage by both the Senate and House of Representative, was unveiled and signed into law last week by Osinbajo on the condition that all the tax evad-

ers would declare how much they have not paid and pledge to pay it in the near future.

Giving kudos to Osinbajo for signing the law, the spokesman for the Diaspora Nigerians, Chief Christian Osuofia Ebede who proposed and submitted the bill to the government during his visit to Nigeria, last year, stated that the essence of proposing the bill was to enable the government deliver on its promises of job creation and infrastructural development.

Ebede, a London-based industrialist, added that the scheme would equally save and rigor to be encountered during protracted court litigations that were capable of weighing down the judiciary which might in the end not lead to recovery of the targeted revenue.

He noted that VAIDS would also serve as a time limited scheme, aimed at boosting the government’s low tax in-take and as well intended to bring on board about four million new tax-payers over an eight-month period with effect from this month of July.

According to Ebede: “In exchange for declaring previously undisclosed assets and income, taxpayers would now get an amnesty on penalty and overdue interests and the assurance that they will not face prosecution, is a welcome development.”

He noted that currently Nigeria has one of the lowest gross domestic products to tax ratios in the world, standing at six per cent compared to about 16 per cent in Ghana and 27 per cent in South Africa for the moment, adding, “only 214 Nigerians pay tax in excess of N20 million, thus the government is desperate to boost its revenue by increased tax receipts, hence the dire need to adopt the said Compton Amnesty Scheme.”

He added that with Nigeria’s economy heavily dependent on crude oil, falling global prices have forced the government to look inward for alternative revenue sources such as tax, agriculture, solid minerals and manufacturing, stressing that the main areas that are being focused on by the government

at this point in time would significantly increase the overall tax intake and reduce the dependency on crude oil.

Also speaking, Chairman of the British African Business Alliance, BABA, David Smith said: “Chief Ebede is one of our members, who forwarded these proposals as a way of enabling the government to kill two birds with one stone, thus the government avoids expensive and lengthy legal court cases and at the same time, manages to lay its hand on badly needed tax revenue.”

Smith further declared: “This is a classical case of the Diaspora having an input into the running of the country and at BABA, we have long argued that in Nigeria, Diasporans have a huge role to play as had been the case in many other developing countries worldwide and that is why we are organizing the Nigeria Direct Diaspora Investment Summit (NDDIS) in London this July with the aim of bringing together Diasporans, foreign investors and the Nigerian government to put heads together.”

result of injustice against Ndigbo, adding that the situation has left the country with only two options of either restructuring or be ready to face agitations, which could degenerate into uncontrollable crisis in the country.

He said Nigeria as it is right now, exists in ethnic cleavages and for it to achieve oneness, there are defects that must be corrected in the constitution of the country.

On restructuring, he said, though it has come to mean different things to different people and groups who are interpreting it to suite their interests, true restructuring simply means amending the supreme law of the land, the constitution, to correct some defects that have promoted injustice, inequality and a sense of exclusion, all of which, he said, have made it difficult for Nigeria to develop into one united, peaceful and progressive nation.

Ogbu expressed dismay that the objective of the 1999 constitution, namely to provide a supreme law of the land for the purpose of promoting good governance and welfare of all persons in the country on the principles of freedom, equality, justice and for consolidating the unity of the people, is at variance with the content of the constitution whose provisions are full of injustices and inequality that do not promote unity and good governance.

He further posited that no amount of good governance could cure the current agitation for selfdetermination resulting from marginalization, because good governance means implementing the constitution faithfully and since the constitution contains injustices and inequality, there can’t be good governance.

“What good governance can remedy the anomaly that Kano with a lesser population than Lagos has 44 local councils while has only 20 councils and Bayelsa has 8, such that in sharing local council allocations, Kano gets 44 parts, Lagos 20 and Bayelsa (the source of the revenue with terrible environmental degradation from oil) will get 8 parts?”

Ogbu, who was a delegate to 2014 National conference, said the conference cured the injustice by recommending that local councils should no longer be a third tier of the federal structure and should be delisted from the constitution and transferred to the states to be covered by the laws of House of Assemblies.

He added that the conference also cured the injustice of inequality of States against the SouthEast region by recommending that additional State be created for them, saying: ”Ndigbo cannot have a true sense of belonging in the federation until this anomaly is corrected”.

He also advocated State police, arguing that those kicking against it because of fears of abuse should know that its advantages outweigh its disadvantages and Nigeria is ripe for it especially with the rising security challenges.

He further maintained that there should be devolution of powers in federal exclusive list to delist items such as agriculture and health, etc, and put them on the concurrent list for effective governance.

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The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

NEWS Test our popularity by plebiscite or referendum, IPOB challenges FG

By THEO RAYS, Onitsha

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he Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) worldwide has challenged the Federal Government of Nigeria to test the popularly of IPOB in the southeast geopolitical zone by conducting a referendum to see whether the people support the struggle for the restoration of Biafra or not.

IPOB in a statement issued in Onitsha by the Director of Media and Publicity, Comrade Emma Powerful, a copy of which The Oracle Today obtained, also insisted that the group won’t be part of the forthcoming governorship election in Anambra State saying that “IPOB has never shifted ground on its

resolve to boycott forthcoming governorship election in Anambra State.”

According to the Statement: “Biafrans cannot be reasonably expected to agree to any electoral process that will only perpetuate their current slave status and misery in this colonial contraption named Nigeria. While we may accept being routinely killed and dispossessed outside our land, such intimidation cannot be allowed to go unchecked in Biafraland.

“We are, therefore, calling on all those who claim to be Igbo leaders especially those in the pay of Nigerian government to please retrace their steps before it is too late.

“It is unfortunate that these persons and certain others have predictably

fallen for the usual crumbs falling off the master’s table in Aso Rock in exchange for their shameful public rejection of the IPOB led Biafra restoration project. What these men hope to gain by continually selling the collective interest of the masses for peanuts only heaven knows.

“We unwaveringly maintain that come November 18, 2017, the whole world will come to the understanding that Biafrans are determined to be liberated. A few selfish individuals motivated by greed, envy and jealousy, whose whole life has been characterised by merchandising in misery and suffering (of our prople) cannot trade with our future anymore.

“These men went to Abuja with a

list that had their family members, friends, relatives and girl friends for consideration in federal government appointments in exchange for our freedom. Their families occupying ministerial and federal positions are more important to them than liberating their people from oppression and servitude.”

Powerful argued that the present generation of Biafrans can promise them that days are gone by when leaders emerge in Biafraland through a process of selection determined by Hausa Fulani oligarchy in Sokoto and Kaduna.

He continued: “The era of Sokoto Caliphate and Aso Rock dictating po-

Gov Umahi picks Uzor as CPS

Ophthalmologists converge in Onitsha for faculty lecture, endowment, awards

From CHINEDU NWAFOR, Abakaliki

By IBE NWACHUKWU

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overnor David Umahi has appointed the Correspondent of Sun Newspapers in Ebonyi State, Emmanuel Uzor, as his Chief Press Secretary.

The appointment of Uzor was announced by the State Commissioner for Information and State Orientation, Senator Emmanuel Onwe, who said his appointment takes immediate effect.

He takes over from the former Chief Press Secretary, Emma Anya who was disengaged by the governor two weeks ago.

Uzor joined the Sun in 2010 and worked in Onitsha in Anambra State until 2015 when he was transferred to Abakaliki, Ebonyi State capital in August, 2015, before his recent appointment.

He holds double degrees in Philosophy and Mass Communication from the University of Ibadan and Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka respectively.

He also holds Bachelors of Philosophy (B’PHL) from the Pontificate University, Urban, Rome and Diploma in Latin from St Joseph University, Rome Meanwhile, the National President of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) Comrade Honour Sirawoo has congratulated Mr. Emmanuel Uzor, a member of the Ebonyi chapter of the association over his appointment.

In a congratulatory message delivered through a telephone conversion with the state Chapter’s Chairman, Comrade Chukwuemeka Opara, Sirawoo described Uzor’s appointment as well deserved and a vindication of the state governor’s penchant for excellence.

According to the SWAN National President, the appointment is a blessing to the association and a vindication of his administration’s charge to members to be dedicated to service in order carve niches for themselves.

litical outcomes in Biafraland is over and will be confirmed on the 18th of Nov. 2017. All the money these men collected from Abuja to denounce Biafra project will forever be an albatross around their necks. History will never forgive them.

“We (in the) IPOB maintain that there will be no more elections in Biafraland starting with Anambra State this year.

“IPOB has returned power back to the people and they will exercise it when called upon to do so. We challenge the Federal Government of Nigeria and her supporters to test the acceptability of One Nigeria through plebiscite or referendum not with threat, propaganda and lies.”

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• Ag. President Yemi Osinbajo arriving for the Presidential Quarterly Business Forum at the Presidential Villa, during the week. He is received (L-R) by : Power, Works and Housing Minister, Babatunde Fashola, Finance Minister, Kemi Adeosun, Trade and Industry Minister, Okechukwu Enelamah and Minister of State for Petroleum resources, Dr. Ibe Kachukwu.

Illegal coronation: Ojoto community sues Dennis Okafor, suspended President General From OGEY ONYEANUSI, Nnewi

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ngered by the recent attempt by some individuals to illegally and unconstitutionally install an Igwe-elect for Ojoto town, the Ojoto community in Idemili South Local Council of Anambra State has sued Dennis Adindu Okafor, as well as the suspended president General of Ojoto Akanasato Union, Engr Edwin I. C. Umeghalu, over the illegal declaration of a purported Igwe-elect.

The suit numbered HID/139/17 before the High court in Ogidi, taken out by Arthur Obi Okafor (SAN) & Co, one of the law firms retained by Ojoto community to prosecute the matter, has as plaintiffs the Regent of Ojoto community, Chief Gerald Mbamalu, (suing on behalf of Ojoto Community), Chiefs Jude Orakposim Mbamalu, Patrick Igboanugo, Jude Ezeoba and Gab Akanuno, (suing on behalf of Enugo Village), which has the resident right to select a candidate for the vacant Igwe Ojoto stool.

Dennis Adindu Okafor had challenged in court the process of selection of Igweship candidate in Ojoto in suit number HID/111/17 on April 27, 2017.

However, while this suit was slated to come up on 12/6/17 at Ogidi High Court, the said Dennis Okafor reportedly connived with suspended Engr Umeghalu and some others to install himself as Igwe-elect on May

13, 2017.

This act of bravado elicited condemnation from the Anambra State government, which promptly declared the installation null and void and of no effect.

In a letter addressed to suspended Engr Umeghalu by the Special Adviser to Governor Obiano on Chieftaincy and Town Union Matters, Barr Ikechukwu Onyeabo, the State government reminded Engr.

Umeghalu of the decision suspending processes aimed at selecting or presenting a traditional ruler/Igwe of Ojoto community.

As stated in the letter, “it is in this wise that the attempt by a section of the community to embark on the process on April 29, 2017, was stopped. It is in the light of the foregoing that the State government views with concern the news that some people in Ojoto led by you (Edwin Umeghalu) purported to have surreptitiously selected a traditional ruler/Igwe on Saturday May 13, 2017. “The State Government hereby states that peace in Ojoto community, as in other communities in the state, remains its top priority and will not tolerate any attempt to derail same. The purported selection of a traditional ruler/Igwe in Ojoto on May 13, 2017 is, therefore, denounced as being of no effect.

You are, therefore, directed to comply with the State government’s decision on this matter,” the letter reads.

The Ojoto community seeks the

following prayers from the court in the fresh suit: * That the Enugo Village, being the quarter whose turn it is to select an Igwe of Ojoto Town is the only body that can present a selected Igweship candidate to its sectional unit, the Ojoto South Development Union for the screening. * Declaration that the 1st Defendant, having not been presented by Enugo village, the 3rd Defendant has no right to pronounce him the Igwe-elect of Ojoto Town.”

The suit is also seeking an order setting aside the purported installation of the 1st Defendant as the Igwe-elect of Ojoto by the 3rd Defendant,while suit No HID/111/2017, supra, is still pending. It’s also seeking for an order restraining 1st Defendant from parading himself or allowing himself to be presented, holding himself out as the Igwe-elect or using the paraphernalia of Igwe elect or Igwe Ojoto.

Through the suit, the community wants the court to restrain the Defendants, either by themselves, their agents, servants or cohorts, from selecting, presenting or causing the 1st Defendant to be presented and/or in whatever manner present 1st Defendanbt as the Igwe elect or Igwe of Ojoto Town either to Idemili Local Council of Anambra State government of Nigeria respectively. A hearing date is yet to be fixed for this suit.

onsultant ophthalmologists from the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria may have concluded arrangements to converge in the commercial city of Onitsha, Anambra state to brainstorm on a topic: “In Nigeria, man should not live by bread alone.”

The meeting of the eye specialists scheduled to take place next week Friday, according to the organizers, may not be unconnected with their 18th annual faculty lecture, faculty endowment, award-giving ceremony quiz competition for younger eye specialists.

A professor of Ophthalmology at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka (UNIZIK), Dr. Sebastian Nwosu (FMCOph) who disclosed this to newsmen yesterday at Guinness Eye Hospital, Onitsha said he would be the faculty lecturer, adding that some individuals and corporate organizations who had offered material and financial contributions towards eye care services would be rewarded with awards at the lecture.

Nwosu who was a one-time chairman of faculty of Ophthalmology, National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria and President of Ophthalmological Society of Nigeria, identified Emeritus Professor Obiora Mbonu, Past President of West African College of surgeons and former Chief Medical Director (CMD) of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH), Nnewi as chairman of the lecture.

Flanked by Prof. Law Onyekwe, Dr. Cyriacus Akudinobi, Dr. Nkiru Egonu and other ophthalmologists attached to the Guinness Eye Hospital, Onitsha, a department of NAUTH, Nnewi, Nwosu also identified Dr. A. O. Onakoya, FMCOph; Dr. D. S. Ademola Popoola, FMCOph and Dr. N. E. Okpala, FMCOph as faculty chairman, faculty secretary and chairman, local organizing committee respectively.

He mentioned Guinness Nigeria Plc., Pfizer Nigeria Plc., Rotary Club of Onitsha, Chief Daniel Chukwudozie of Dozzy Group of Companies, Pharmacist Pat Uchenna Apakama of the Pax Pharmacy and Sundries, among others as those to be honoured for their generous contributions towards free treatment of eye patients at both urban and rural areas in the State, adding that Osuntokun quiz competition for the younger eye specialists (Resident Doctors) would also form part of the annual lecture series.

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The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

NEWS Niger Delta group renews demand for 100% resource control, fiscal federalism • Wants Nigeria restructured before 2019 general elections From NATH OMAME, P/Harcourt

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group, the Niger Delta Youth Leaders (NDYL) has demanded 100 per cent resource control and fiscal federalism as non-negotiable components of the restructuring of Nigeria, currently the most hotly debated political topic in the country.

The group said if the people of the region are to be fully appreciated for their economic contribution to the growth and development of the country, 100 per cent resource control/fiscal federalism is the way to go.

Founder the group and leader of the Nigeria Youth Professionals, Moses Siasia, at the end of its meeting, held in Port Harcourt, at the weekend, declared that the group wants Nigeria to be restructured along the line of true federalism.

He stated: “We have collectively agreed that this country should be restructured. And what restructuring means to us as a people in the Niger Delta is 100 per cent resource control and true federalism. We are calling on the federal government to make sure they restructure this country before the 2019 general elections.”

“We are also calling on the federal government to look at the 2014 confab report. The roundtable conference of young leaders also condemned hate speeches from different segments of the society and individuals from different parts of Nigeria.”

In the same vein, the immediate past President of Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Udense Eradiri has also expressed support for the restructuring of the country.

Eradiri who spoke at the close of the meeting of Niger Delta Youth Leaders called on Acting President Yemi Osinbajo to take steps towards restructuring Nigeria.

“The call for restructure in the country is as a result of pain, anger and dissatisfaction by different parts of the country. The Acting President has the golden opportunity to begin the process so that we can heal the country before the general elections,” Eradiri said.

He emphasized: “There are threats here and there; the only thing that can save the country is for the leadership to take responsibility and begin that process just as they are doing now by talking to ethnic nationalities. The discourse must be anchored on whether Nigerians want to continue as one country. And if we are to remain as one, the union must be founded on justice, equity and fair play.”

Obiano deserves second term, says Ezeife From CHUKS EZE, Enugu Former governor of Anambra State, Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife (Okwadike Igbo-Ukwu) has canvassed support for the second-term bid of the State governor, Chief Willy Obiano, saying the governor has done well enough to deserve another four-year term.

Ezeife, an economist and first executive governor of Anambra State, told The Oracle Today in his country home at Igbo-Ukwu, Aguata Local Council, that from what he has seen and going by people’s testimonies, he is convinced that the governor has what it takes to lead Anambra for another four years.

“I don’t hide my opinion. I told the governor that…in politics, society, economy and the likes, seek thee first security and people who feel

secure in your place would do your bidding by investing, thereby propagating agriculture, manufacturing and all other things. But if they do not fee secure, nothing would happen,” he declared.

“You are in Anambra right now,” he added, addressing the reporter, “and you can witness what is happening. Last Christmas, we came home and enjoyed. Last Easter, we came home and enjoyed as well. And long before then, after six months of his inauguration, we started to enjoy coming home.

Formally, our big men would stop at Asaba and pack their vehicles, if they had to come this way at all.

They would hire taxi, come in the day and smuggle themselves away in the night.”

Besides, the elder statesman described as commendable the fact

that the Obiano administration has done so well in agriculture that Anambra now exports agricultural produce to Europe.

“When he said his administration had started exporting Ugu (pumpkin leaf), abroad, some people started saying that it was a lie, a fabrication and all that,” Dr. Ezeife remonstrated. “When I heard about it, I came back and asked people where the so-called ugu was being; APC said it was fabrication. When I heard about it, I came home, asked around and they showed me. I was surprised; eventually, I met with the pilot who specialises in carrying the stuff. I was also told that the same pilot is also packaging other items such as yams, onugbu (beater leaf) and the rest for Shoprite, from Anambra farms. These are things that, as a well-trained governor of Anam-

• (L-R) Amb. Frank Ogbuewu, Ezeogo Charles Mkpuma, Dep Gov. Dr. Kelechi Igwe, Gov. David Umahi, Chairman of ICPC, Barr. Ekpo Nta, Prof Sola Akinrinade, Samson Okorie of PCC, Prof Bernard Odoh and Emma Abbah during Ebonyi Anti Corruption summit in Abakaliki yesterday.

bra, I never conceived such ideas.

You know in politics, some people are always prepared to say that everything is a lie, but they have not been able to show me one lie.”

And contrary to opinion in some quarters, Ezeife also described the three flyovers built in Awka, the state capital, by the Obiano Administration as stately and comparable to any such infrastructure elsewhere in the world.

“Everybody who passes through Awka can testify that those three flyovers there make the State capital look special – like London Bridge if you like. So, I have looked around and the young man is hardworking,” the Oxford University trained scholar further stated.

Ezeife said the allegation that the governor is doing much more in the northern part of Anambra than in other parts is largely misplaced, noting that it is only natural for the governor to develop the underdeveloped part of the State, which Anambra North represents.

He said: “My answer is that if we who had held power ignored that place, it is still part of Anambra, let him develop it. I went to Nsukka and I was so happy. You see, what is happening in Anambra is happening in Nsukka too, which is Enugu North, which is holding power now.

If you haven’t been to Nsukka in a long time, you would not recognise it today. So, I was the first elected governor of Anambra State but I never did anything for my area. By then, there was nobody to copy and I was doing the best I knew, not giving advantage to my place. If Willy Obiano faces his place and develops it, the next person will come from the South.”

He urged the governor not to relent in trying to give Anambra North a face-lift, arguing: “Let him also face his place and develop it and before you know it, development will go round. It is that simple, and that is the beauty of rigid rotation of power. But on the whole, I think he has worked hard enough to deserve re-election.”

Crisis rocks Anambra tricycle union • Trustees sack 3 principal officers over alleged embezzlement • Anambra monarch wades in, summons both parties

By IBE NWACHUKWU

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he protracted crisis currently rocking members of KKAWAAPU, the amalgamated tricycle union operators in Anambra State may have climaxed, following the removal of three principal officers, by members of the Incorporated Board of Trustees of the union, over alleged embezzlement of their funds to the tune of N2.45 million.

Consequently, the traditional ruler of Obosi community in Idemili North Local Government Area of the state, Igwe Chidubem Iweka has wadded into the matter with a view to bringing lasting solution to the crisis and reconciling the two factions.

KKAWAAPU is the amalgamation of operators of six tricycle unions in the state and by extension, the South East zone.

The union so amalgamated in-

cludes Keke Napep Owners/Operators Welfare Association of Anambra State (KNOOWAS); Keke Drivers Association of Anambra State (KEDAAS); Autobike Owners Welfare Association Nigeria (AOWAN); All Tricycles Owners/Operators Dealers of Anambra State, (ATOODAS); All Tricycles Transporters Association Anambra state (ATTAAS) and Public Tricycle Owners/Operators Association of South East (PUTOASE).

Chairman, BoT of KKAWAAPU, Dr. Jimmy Okonkwo and other members of the trustees had sacked the state chairman of KKAWAAPU, Anthony Ogalonye (a.k.a Montee) and replaced him with his Vice, Chief Pat Ezenwa; state secretary, Linus Ufoh and replaced him with his assistant, Innocent Obagha and the Welfare Officer, Tochukwu Anyaoku who is yet to be replaced.

But following a resistance from the sacked three principal officers,

the trustees headed to an Onitsha High Court presided over by Justice Alexander Okuma, a few months ago and ratified their sack by obtaining an order of the court restraining them from receiving any money and/or proceeds from the sale of the union tickets, toll and other levies for and /on behalf of the union, except through and/or from the financial secretary and treasurer, pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit.

However, despite the court order, the three principal officers still continued to operate as officers, a situation which led to fracas and near bloodbath each day in their field of work, until the intervention of Igwe Iweka and summoning of both parties to his palace, yesterday.

At the Igwe’s palace, both parties presented their grievances.

While the trustees chairman, Jimmy Okonkwo and newly appointed

state chairman, Ezenwa and his executive members said they sacked the three principal officers for embezzling their funds to the tune of N600,000, N850,000 and N1 million at various times, which they estimated at a total of N2.45 million, the embattled officers insisted they have state government’s approval letter to remain at work.

In his remarks, Igwe Iweka urged both parties to submit all necessary documents backing them to the palace legal adviser to enable the legal adviser study them thoroughly, interpret the legal implications and advise him accordingly.

Asking both parties to come back to his palace on Tuesday, next week for more deliberations on the matter, the monarch assured both parties that he would not take side in his decision as whatever decision to be taken at the end of the deliberations must be seen to have been done without fear or favour.

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The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

Cross River government vows to resolve boundary crisis in Yala From ANIEKAN ANIEKAN, Calabar

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he Cross River State Government has announced that modalities havebeen put in place to demarcate the boundary between Wanihem and Wanikade communities in Northern Ukalle, Yala Local Council, which has been a source of repeated crisis in recent times.

This pledge came following hostilities between both communities over a piece of farmland that has led to wanton destruction of lives andproperty.

The Deputy Governor, Professor Ivara Esu made the pledge when he visited the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) at Odum-Owo, Igede in Oju Local Council of Benue State.

He stated that measures would be put in place to rest the boundary problem between the two sister communities so they can continue to mutually co-exist.

Professor Esu further stated that his visit was a fact-finding mission aimed at ascertaining the extent of destruction and the welfare situation of the IDPs who are mainly women and children.

He described the incident as regrettable and remarked that war is the greatest impediment to development in any nation, state or community and assured the people of government’s determination to ensure their immediate return to their ancestral homes.

Professor Esu thanked the governor of Benue State, Dr. Samuel Ortom and the Chairman of Oju Local Council, Mr. Austine Okpeche for their hospitality to the displaced people from Wanihem and Wanikade.

Responding, Chief Kerien Ulakom of Wanilem and his Wanikade counterpart, His Highness, Okom Stephen Ogede commended the Deputy Governor for the visit, describing it as a source of hope for a permanent solution and peace.

They appealed to the government to constitute a peace committee made up of members from Wanikade and Wanihem communities to ensure speedy and permanent peace in the area.

Highpoints of the visit were the presentation of insecticide treated mosquito nets to the IDPs by the Deputy Governor, Professor Ivara Esu and a visit to the injured at the Luksana Medical Center Ogoja.

The visit also featured the presentation of food items and baby clothings from the Government of Benue State by the Chairman of Oju LGC, Mr. Austine Okpeche.

As part of his visit, the Prof.

Esu also paid a courtesy call on the Governor of Benue State, Dr. Samuel Ortom in Makurdi to show appreciation for the hospitality shown to the IDPs from Cross River that are presently finding refuge in Benue State.

SWOFON advocates implementation of Malabo Declaration From ANIEKAN ANIEKAN, Calabar

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he Small Scale Women Farmers Organisation in Nigeria (SWOFON) has made a strong call for the implementation of the Malabo Declaration on agriculture, which advocated a 10% budgetary provision for agriculture in national budgets.

The Malabo declaration reached in 2014 was also meant to ensure that African countries attain food security by the year 2025.

Speaking in Calabar during a seminar organised by SWOFON in partnership with TrustAfrica and ActionAid, the national vice president of SWOFON Mrs. Maria Ukpanyang decried the poor implementation of the declaration and the challenges faced by women who constitute 80% of farmers in the country.

“The national budget for agriculture in the country was 1.6% last year and out of this, a very insignificant percentage came to women,” she said, adding: “80% of what we are eating comes from smallholder farmers (who are women) in rural communities.

SWOFON is part of the SDG’s and the agricultural aspect is crucial.”

She stressed: “The heads of African countries including Nigeria agreed and committed themselves to agriculture. Nigeria has failed to abide by the tenets of this declaration.

“We cannot eradicate hunger if we keep failing to fund agriculture.

This is the reason women are fighting for this because we constitute 80% of farmers in our rural communities.”

She equally called for more research in cassava because the

country is lagging behind in this aspect.

She disclosed that in Uganda, cassava is planted with seeds and not with cuttings as is done here and it is imperative that local farmers adopt this innovation in cassava production.

Also speaking on the challenges faced by farmers, Elder Ofem Eyo Ita lamented the poor infrastructure in rural communities as well as lack of access to water.

“The roads from Calabar to Obanliku is very bad likewise the terrain within. It is difficult to harvest water and presently there are no access roads in seven communities in Obanliku,” he lamented.

She further disclosed that only the Obudu Cattle Ranch Road is in order and this constitutes a major impediment to farming activities in the area.

Responding to some issues

raised by SWOFON, the Managing Director of the Cross River Basin Authority represented by the Executive Director Engineering, Engr.

Wilson Etim disclosed that the organisation is open to partnering with rural communities in the area of harvesting water.

“We develop projects and then hand them over to farmers to use.

The country is prioritizing agriculture and we are laying emphasis on it,” he said.

He further disclosed that the body would partner with groups to improve their capacity to harvest water for multipurpose uses, which is the objective of the authority.

SWOFON, which is a coalition of smallholder farmers associations and groups across 35 States and the FCT are advocating for and supporting women farmers in rural areas to spur rural economic development.

Non-indigenes in Bayelsa applaud Dickson’s panNigeria posture From CHRIS EZE, Yenagoa

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• L-R Ebonyi State Deputy Governor, Dr. Kelechi Igwe, Comptroller of Prisons, Mrs. Adaobi Oputa, Secretary to the State Government, Prof Bernard Odoh, Gov. David Umahi and some government functionaries during inspection of construction of work on the new prison yard thestate government is building in Abakaliki yesterday with the Presidential Prisons Reform Committee.

Onitsha Central Mosque not sold – ONICCIMA, Muslim community

By IBE NWACHUKWU

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he Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, (ONICCIMA), in collaboration with Hausa Muslim Community in Onitsha, Anambra State, has described the speculations making the rounds that the Onitsha Central Mosque has been sold to a top business tycoon as fallacious and unfounded.

They also debunked the widespread speculation that the Hausa community has concluded arrangements to leave Onitsha in droves back to the north, as a result of the recent ultimatum given to Ndigbo to leave the Northern part of the country by October 1, this year.

Speculations were rife that the October 1 quit notice given by the Coalition of Arewa Youths to Ndigbo in the north to go home may have prompted the Musilm leaders in Onitsha to sell their Onitsha central mosque to a top business mogul, Chief Joseph Ukeji at the cost of N30M for the construction of a high rise business plaza, while the Muslim Northerners in Onitsha head home to avoid being caught

up in the crisis that the quit notice may generate.

But in a joint press statement issued during the week in Onitsha, leader of the Hausa community in Onitsha, Alhaji Iliyasu Yushau and President–Elect of ONICCIMA, Don Ebubeogu told newsmen that the Hausa Muslim community is at peace with their Igbo hosts in Onitsha and as such there is no cause for alarm.

Yushau and Ebubeogu contended that the Muslim community never had any relationship or discussion with Chief Ukeji, Chairman of J.I. Ejison Group of Companies Limited and sole distributor of Bullet Energy Drink, not to talk of buying or selling the Mosque or leaving Onitsha in their numbers for up North.

Flanked by other members of Hausa community and ONICCIMA members, Yushau and Ebubeogu said the allegation was not only a farce but a blatant lie conveyed by mischief makers and idle minds who are out to create needless confusion and tension in the state.

According to Ebubeogu, “The Chamber’s interest in the matter

borders on the fact that, as the voice of the Organised Private Sector (OPS) in this part of the country and as a responsible organization, which ceaselessly champions a peaceful society and conducive environment for business, and considering the sensitive nature of the false allegation, it is our responsibility to provide the public with the true fact of the matter to avoid any misguided interpretation that could jeopardize the peace and security of not only Onitsha but the entire State.”

“Chief Ukeji is not only a bonafide corporate member of ONICCIMA but also a topmost industrialist and international businessman, who has over the years built strong reputation and principles by sheer hard work and adherence to international best business practices,” ONICCIMA further stated.

The duo, therefore, advised the peddlers of such rumour to desist from character assassination campaign and pursue those causes that will uplift the society from the morass of insecurity, divisive tendencies and socio-economic problems.

on-indigenes resident in Bayelsa State under the aegis of the Supreme Council of Non-Indigenes in Bayelsa have described Gov. Seriake Dickson as a firm believer in a united Nigeria.

President of the group, Mr Ade Bakare who spoke at a stakeholders meeting in Yenagoa on Monday commended Dickson for accommodating people from different parts of the country in his cabinet.

He said that Dickson’s appointment of seven non-indigenes of the State into positions of trust in his administration, demonstrated his commitment to Nigeria’s unity.

He advised non-indigenes residing in Bayelsa to take advantage of the Dickson administration’s accommodation to participate actively in politics.

“The governor has exemplified unity as he appointed aides from all parts of the country in addition to providing a favourable climate for businesses to thrive, and recognizing that non-indigenes are partners.

“To have seven appointees from the council alone is heartwarming and shows that Bayelsa people are accommodating,” Bakare said.

According to him, of the over 600, 000 registered voters in the state, non-indigenes accounted for 197,300.

Bakare called on eligible voters yet to register, to take advantage of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) to do so.

Also speaking, Mr Alex Dombo, Special Adviser to Dickson on Non-Indigenes, said that the governor believes that the strength of Nigeria lies in its diversity.

He said the Bayelsa Government regards people from other States as partners in the development process.

Mr. Douglas Koko, the governor’s Special Assistant on Non-Indigenes (SouthSouth Zone), who spoke on behalf of his counterparts in charge of other zones, thanked the council for its support for the Dickson administration.

“We are here to interact with the council and let members of the group have an idea of what is going on in the government.

“We pledge to work for the welfare and benefit of non- indigenes in Bayelsa.

“We assure you that we the appointees from the council are working together to advance the interest of the members,” Koko said.

The meeting brought together representatives of communities, traditional rulers of communities, and founding fathers of the council.

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The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

FOCUS

To revamp the tourism sector in Anambra...

RAYMOND OZOJI, in Awka, explains how the Obiano administration, through the Ministry of Diaspora Affairs, Culture and Tourism is working assiduously to promote travel and tourism in Anambra State.

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HE GOVERNMENT of Chief Willie Obiano recently demonstrated its commitment to resuscitating as well as revamping the tourism sector in Anambra State by signing a Memorandum of Understanding with Golden Tulip, a Chinese company to build Agulu Lake Hotel and Resort and equally rehabilitate Agulu Lake such that upon completion, it would metamorphose into a tourist destination where people can visit from far and near, for expedition and the like .

The place upon completion is also expected to be a veritable source of revenue for the state as well as a means of export of the rich cultural heritage of Anambra people. This could be described as a stepping stone towards harnessing the tourism potentials in Anambra State.

Governor Obiano is no doubt setting the pace for a transformation in the diaspora, culture and tourism sectors of the State’s economy. Agulu Lake is one out of many tourist sites in Anambra State waiting to be harnessed and exploited to the advantage of the people.

The efforts of the present administration in this regard can not be over-emphasized.

Although it is true that one of the statutory obligations of government is the security of lives and property, tourism on the other hand, cannot thrive in an atmosphere of kidnapping, hostagetaking, armed-robbery, political brigandage and other vices. To this end, Governor Willie Obiano has endeavoured to rid Anambra State of criminal elements by putting in place watertight security with a view to providing an enabling environment where businesses can flourish .

Obiano’s security feat has enabled the hospitality industry in Anambra State to thrive. This is evident in the building of new hotels with modern facilities across the State. These developments are testimonies to the fact that the tourism sector in Anambra is indeed taking shape. Though it is no longer news that Brazil and a few others situate their economies on culture and tourism. This implies that the economic base of these countries is tourism because of its export potentials. It is, however, the need to revamp the tourism sector in Anambra State, that the Ministry of Diaspora Affairs, Culture and Tourism rolled out its action plan as well as steps taken to really harness the tourism sector for export promotion, revenue generation and job creation in the State.

As a result, the State Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs, Culture and Barr (Mrs.) Stella Onuora observed that after crude oil, the next veritable source of revenue is tourism. The commissioner emphasized that the Nigerian crude oil is no longer reliable but the country could rely on tourism for its socioeconomic survival. Onuora who gave a score card of her ministry to journalists recently, stated that countries like Israel, Kenya and a host of others are making headway economically because of reliance on the tourism sector for their foreign exchange revenue, adding that

• Tourists coming out of Ogbunike Cave. should the country improve her tourist sites, it would boost job creation as well as stabilise the economy.

She cited Nelson Mandela’s hut in South Africa where people travel from far and wide only to pay money to just to see the hut. The commissioner maintained that such memorabilia can be replicated in Anambra State saying that a museum can also be built in honour of the late Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu and some other Nigerian leaders of Anambra origin, where people across the globe can also visit and pay money to see such tourist sites, pointing out that tourism is an area that is not properly tapped in Anambra State .

The commissioner also advocated for community involvement and ownership of tourist sites in their respective localities such that if government develops such tourist sites, they would not be abandoned or destroyed by the host community or communities.

She said some cultural activities like the Imo-Awka masquerade festival of Awka people, if properly packaged and promoted, could serve as a veritable tourism potential and source of foreign exchange for the State government.

The only snag with the Imo-Awka masquerade festival,however, according to her, is that it is still too ‘unrefined’ to attract quality crowd, stressing that plans are underway to consult with Awka people to see how best to package the masquerade festival for it to attract people to Awka whenever the festival is being held .

Onuorah said the ministry of Diaspora Affairs, Culture and Tourism has made tremendous efforts to improve the tourism sector in Anambra State even

though it is faced with limited resources which she said hampers most diaspora travels the ministry is supposed to embark on for international linkages on tourism.

The Ministry of Diaspora Affairs, Culture and Tourism in Anambra was created in April 2016 and shortly after inception, had the issue of office accommodation to grapple with and was not incorporated into the 2016 budget due to the fact that the budget had been passed before the ministry was created. She, however, expressed confidence that in the 2017 budget, government made provisions for the development of Ogbunike Cave and Owerri-Ezukala Cave and Waterfalls .

These tourist sites , she said, would be developed to attract tourists across the globe to visit them .

Again, the commissioner pointed out that in spite of paucity of funds , the ministry was able to organise cultural festivals in the three senatorial zones of the state. And last year, Anambra State attended the 9th Africa Arts and Crafts Expo at Abuja where Anambra clinched the 1st position for best product design and ornamental wears. She equally disclosed that the ministry also made some diaspora travels to South Africa for tourism and investment summit adding that the ministry has also had bilateral talks with ASA-Canada, ASAUSA, ASA-Russia, ASA-Dublin, ASA-Japan, ASA-China as well as ASA-world on how best to improve tourism in Anambra State. The commissioner who emphasized that the essence of Diaspora Affairs is to create a structure and to encourage Ndi - Anambra in Diaspora to come home and invest, stressed that

the ministry of Diaspora Affairs, Culture and Tourism in Anambra State is determined to make the State a tourist destination and delight for holidaymakers, fun seekers and travellers around the world.

To this end, the commissioner recommended that should the state government source for investors to build modern recreation parks and gardens to beautify Anambra State, it would go a long way to attract people to Anambra to seek leisure and relaxation and in turn create jobs for people as well as generate revenue for the state. She further disclosed that the ministry is currently in talks with ASA-Spain to see if the association could develop one recreation park in the state capital Awka and thereafter extend same to other parts of Anambra State. According to her, investments in hotels is another way to boost tourism and leisure in the state. She explained that the hospitality industry is one of the things that promotes tourism development in any part of the globe stressing that cities like Jerusalem, Israel and others have good hotels, which explains why people consider before embarking on any form of adventure in a particular city or country adding that absence of good hotels implies that no one would embark on any form of expedition in such places as travellers and holidaymakers need 100% comfort and relaxation in their host countries. She, therefore, encouraged people to build good hotels in Awka and other parts of Anambra State to enhance tourism development The commissioner also made reference to Obudu cattle ranch in Calabar where people visit from all over the world to savour the serenity of nature as well as have some form of escapism from the hustle and bustle of urban life . She stressed the importance of relaxation and why the Igbo man should embrace it. She maintained that it is of paramount importance to re-orientate the Igbo man on the need for relaxation and leisure activities .

Be that as it may, Mrs. Onuora said it is during her tenure as commissioner for Diaspora Affairs, Culture and Tourism that people became aware of Owerri-Ezukala Cave and Waterfalls in Oyi Local Council of the State, which she described as the largest in Africa.

She said the government of Chief Willie Obiano is not relenting on its decision to make Anambra State a tourist destination. This is why the her ministry is embarking on bilateral and multilateral relations to ensure that Anambra State becomes a choice destination for travellers and tourists all over the world.

She disclosed that the ministry has hosted the first southeast zonal festival of arts and crafts and equally is looking forward to hosting new yam festival in September this year. All these and other strategies in the pipeline, she added, are efforts geared towards revamping tourism in Anambra State, to make it a viable alternative for employment creation, revenue generation while promoting leasure and travel among the Igbo.

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The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

Bold n Blunt

Solution to current agitations lies in LEGAL LUMINARY and Chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Imo State, Chief Mike Ahamba, SAN, has called on the Federal Government to quickly cause a discussion on the myriad of issues causing agitations in the country to avoid negative consequences for the country. In this interview with COLLINS UGHALAA in Owerri, he also said that the solution to the problems facing the country is to return to revisit the discussion at Aburi, Ghana, popularly known as the Aburi Accord, even as he said that resource control and restructuring are the best options for the country.

Excerpts:

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HERE HAVE been issues in the National Assembly, ranging from budget padding to budget re-writing and the current impasse with the Acting President over the confirmation of the appointment of the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). As a former lawmaker in Imo State versed in lawmaking, what do you think about the situation in the National Assembly?

The National Assembly is the First Estate of the Realm and they have a lot of responsibilities, but one thing they are not aware of is that they have a lot of restraints. As the First Estate of the Realm, if they have the kind of power they want then we can have a dictatorship of the Legislature. And if one reads the constitution objectively, you would find out that the National Assembly is prevented from doing one thing, and that is giving extra power to themselves. They have the power to enlarge the power of the presidency somehow.

They also have the power to enlarge the power of the Judiciary by setting up new courts. But there is no place in the constitution where they have additional power by any act made by the National Assembly to increase its own powers.

The reason is very clear: it was wisely done because if you let it be at large, the National Assembly can even give itself the power to change the name of Nigeria and change it as they like.

Unfortunately, I do not believe that the National Assembly is aware of this restraint or constraint. All they know is that they are representing the people, and they forget that the people they are representing can only be represented in accordance with the constitution of the people.

So, that you are representing the people does not enable you to do what the people would not do. And one thing they cannot do under the constitution is to enlarge the powers of the National Assembly or the state assembly.

Consequently, I had written a book as far back as 1982, which had an equivalent of the present one - that the National Assembly does not have the power to tamper with the budget of the country. They are to consider what the President had given to them and see whether they are right or wrong. And whatever changes that could be made in the budget would be made by the President. They could return the budget to the President to make the changes, but definitely we don’t have two powers in this country under our constitution to make budget for this country.

It is only the President that has such powers.

What they call constituency allowance is an illegality bothering on fraud against the nation.

In the power of the Executive to implement the budget, there is no place under section four of the constitution where the National Assembly is also allowed to implement the budget of Nigeria.

Consequently, I do not see how the National Assembly can infuse anything, or what gives them the power to decide what projects would be done where and how. If the budget brought by the Executive was not particularly particularized, they can raise that issue; but that doesn’t enable them to do their own. I will also say that I blame the presidency for signing the budget with that error in it. But having signed it anyway, they can refuse to provide the funds for it because it is an illegality.

Will it not amount to breach of the law if they refuse to provide the funding for the budget since the budget is an Act? If you sign a law and find out that a section of that law is illegal - Appropriation Act is not the constitution, it is an Act, made under the constitution. And if a section of the Act is inconsistent with the budget no Executive has the authority to implement it.

Would it not rather be the function of the judi-

ciary to declare the Act an illegality?

Well, when the presidency refuses to, then the National Assembly would take it to the court for them to decide it. I have always thought that that matter has to be decided in the court. I have had this feeling since 1982 under the first constitution and I wrote it in my book, Thinking Aloud on the 1979 Constitution. And this thing they call Oversight Functions, I cannot understand it. I mean, your duty is to sit down and make laws for the people, and if there is anything you want for the purpose of making laws you can invite the person to the House. I don’t see anywhere in the constitution where they are given power to supervise ministers. That is a way to intimidate ministers for selfish purposes. They can go and inspect projects, if they want to, and come to the House and say what they want to say about that project.

But the issue that they are doing Oversight Functions, I have not seen that in our constitution.

Following your explanations, can you further define the limits of the National Assembly in terms of the budget process?

I have told you that it is for them to consider the budget proposals brought by the President but they cannot tamper with it. This is my humble opinion, and I stand to be corrected.

In a recent radio programme you said that your father had warned that Nigeria should not rush to a Republican Constitution. Looking back, would you justify that call?

Yes. I think my father was right. He thought ahead of the nation, just as, with due deference to humility, I have been thinking ahead. He didn’t say we shouldn’t have a Republican Constitution.

He only said it should be delayed, that Nigeria had not been properly structured and that the bad structuring of the country would cause trouble in the future. There was need then for someone who could intervene, as of right, to stop what was going to happen. And if we had not taken

the Republican Constitution at that time there could have been another conference in London to determine whether we were structurally well constituted to go on our way. Because the cracks had begun to emerge as at that time, but my father was heckled when he said it in 1963 on the floor of the Eastern House of Assembly. And I think if those who heckled him were still alive today they would find out that they made a mistake.

Let us take a look at restructuring. According to Governor el-Rufai of Kaduna State, the country has been restructured under President Buhari, because the governors now have attention and they come to Abuja to decide how the resources are shared.

Is that his own definition of restructuring, that a president and the governors met? Have they not always met? Don’t we have a council of states constitutionally? Why should a president not meet with his own people? So, if they have met we have restructured? In fact, a lot of people using that word don’t understand what it means.

The question of what restructuring means has always arisen, and that shows that many people still don’t understand what it means. Number one, there is territorial restructuring. The other one can be devolution of power restructuring.

Another one is economic restructuring. Then, the most important one is resource control restructuring. As far as I am concerned, the one that has been causing problem is not the territorial restructuring or the other kinds of restructuring, but the resource control restructuring. And I think that Nigerians would agree that we are living in breach of the federation constitution.

The agreement we made to stay as one country is being breached. Like Odinakanu said the other day, Nigeria is living on distribution instead of living on production. And I completely agree with him. When we agreed to stay together,

then the military, not the people in a parliament, reversed it to distribution instead of production, which is consistent with what el-Rufai said in his own way, that since the governors come cap in hand to beg, the nation has restructured. What have they gained from that? It is true that the Buhari administration has been welfare oriented with the workers, let’s concede that to him, by giving what they called bailout fund which no other president had done, and the Paris Club largesse. Whether any state utilized it or not is no longer the problem of the federal government.

What is more important is that they did it. But that is not restructuring. It is rather what I may call administrative acumen by the presidency to arrest a situation. It is what everybody should do.

And the states should do that to the local governments. They should bailout the local governments instead of destroying them.

My contention is that we should sit down around a well-polished mahogany table and revisit the agreement we had before. Most of you of the young generation do not know that as at 1957 Nigeria could have been different countries because the Eastern and Western regions had got self-government but they waited for their brothers from the North who got self-government in 1959, and we all got national independence in 1960. Before the national independence, there was a constitutional conference in London and we agreed on how we were going to live together. How did we agree to live together? That every state should go on and produce and that 50% of what you produced would be left with you to manage, and everybody said Amen. Then the military came and reversed it and the states stopped production. That was where the economic stagnation started. If Kano didn’t require to produce groundnut to survive, why produce it anyway? That is why many of our young people do not know that there used to be groundnut pyramids in the North. They don’t need it any more. With their 40 local governments the allocation they would get makes it almost impossible to need any other thing. When Michael Okpara made the Eastern Region the fastest growing economy in the South of the Sahara before the war there was no oil. But when oil came all the states in the then Eastern Region didn’t want to continue with the Okpara programme. Consequently, if you don’t produce anything you don’t eat.

If we decided it that way and we are doing another thing now, then we have to restructure to return to base. That is what restructuring means, to return to our original agreement that made us one federation instead of three. And let us remember that a lot of federations existed in Africa at that time but they had all disintegrated except the Nigerian federation. But we decided to stay together. That was one of the questions I asked the national conference, whether Nigerians had found out why we decided to stay together while others were disintegrating. Why did our founding fathers decide to stay together while others were disintegrating? One of the reasons was that we agreed that the local issues should be left with the local people. In a federation local affairs are left to the local governments. In other words, local affairs must be left to the respective regions or states, as the case may be, and one of that too is the local government.

We did not start this country with the same local government structure because the whiteman came and did what he called Indirect Rule in the North and came to South to do Direct Rule. That means we did not start with the same structures.

And with that we grew until suddenly in 1976 one local government edict was produced in Lagos and imposed on all the states of the federation,

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The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

Bold n Blunt

return to Aburi Accord –Ahamba

and we had a constituent assembly and civilians went to the House and put a stamp on it. That is why I say that those who blame the military alone for the woes of Nigeria should also blame the civilians because it was they who changed Nigeria to a unitary government instead of a federation. It was the 1979 constitution that removed the constitutions of the respective regions. It used to be the Eastern Nigerian applying the Constitution of the Eastern Nigeria applicable to the South Eastern states. We removed it.

One thing about a federation is that the units are substantially independent. Go to America and find out. Every state in America has a constitution. Some states in America have bicameral legislature while others have unicameral legislature. Nigerians have not asked how American federation came to be; it started as a confederation. So, when you flash your hand and say ‘as in America’, go and see the American Constitution.

It started as a confederation. What is the implication of this? About 13 states formed the union and others joined. Just like Coasta Rica or another state that now wants to join as the 51 state.

So, we have a situation where the union was formed by 13 states and others signed in to join.

The component parts created America while in Nigeria the nation created the states.

In the discourse of what to do about this country let us remember that the Aburi Accord of 1967 is still very relevant, because in that accord we agreed to separate to remain together. Like one Professor in Nsukka said, it is getting apart to get close. Let us go back to the Aburi Accord.

All this things they are talking all over the country is on Aburi Accord, but nobody has the courage to admit it. But one thing about the Aburi Accord was that the minority felt that Aburi did not accommodate them. That was how the minority authorities in the civil service torpedoed Aburi, because it was the minority civil servants that wrote the memoranda that stopped Aburi from being implemented because all the soldiers had agreed. So, let us bring back Aburi and if there is any little thing wrong with we have to restructure it a little and use it. But whether we are going to have a confederation or a federation, I believe the base should be the states and not regions. There is no question on going back to the regions because I am aware it cannot work.

You talked about another conference. What of the 2014 National Conference?

That one is not the kind of conference I am talking about. If you look at the paper I presented at the conference, I said that the National Assembly should create a constituent assembly that can take decisions that would be sent for a referendum. You know that in Nigeria many of us like to use words without reading the basic things. In the South East they say they need a referendum to decide whether they shall have Biafra or not. Under what law would you make it? Can the President just order a referendum? In the present constitution there is no room for a referendum, except for boundary adjustment.

As far as this constitution is still extant the call for a referendum is a waste of time, unless the National Assembly enacts a law to enable an amendment of the constitution, as against alteration which they have powers to do, but they do not understand the difference.

The Lower Niger Congress (LNC), one of the groups calling for referendum, says they have been in court asking the court to declare the 1999 constitution an illegal document. Is that obtainable under the laws of Nigeria?

I don’t know which lawyer is doing that. You know, in this our legal profession every matter has the other side of the coin. But I wouldn’t advise anybody to do it. May be the lawyer has his grounds. How can you declare it? In fact, in that my Paper during the national conference, I asked: the 1999 constitution, whose constitution? It was the military that made that constitution with which we now set up the National Assembly, the Judiciary, the Executive, but you say it is an illegality. Now, if the court declares the constitution null and void it means Nigeria has on its own disintegrated and ceased to be an authority. You don’t do that type of thing.

What we should do is that everybody should do something. Let suggestions be made that would eventually lead us to the round table where we would discuss everybody doing something. But for now it doesn’t matter who is right or wrong.

What is important is let everybody do something. That something everybody should do we

• Barr. Mike Ahamba (SAN) would have to bring it to the table and discuss it before people do something on their own and we would begin to speak after we started fighting.

You have talked about restructuring, what process would lead to the restructuring of the country?

It depends on the kind of restructuring you want. During the National Conference we took decisions that could go into three compartments. One of the compartments is the one that requires the National Assembly doing something. The other is the one that allows the federal government doing something without going to the National Assembly because it falls within their current powers. The third one is the area you cannot touch unless you amend the constitution. Up to now the National Assembly does not understand that in law there is a difference between alteration and amendment. The constitution is a legal document and you interpret it according to law. Alteration is a type of amendment but it is not the amendment because amendment obliterates what was there and alteration does not obliterate what was there.

If you look at the constitution very well it does not say alter the constitution, but that by an act of parliament the National Assembly can alter a provision of the constitution. It does not mean one should change the basic fundamentality of the law. That does not mean we should give extra power to the National Assembly.

Some Nigerians have expressed anger the inability of the federal government to implement the report of the 2014 National Conference.

They say it holds the solution to the problems of the country.

It is the problem of Nigeria. Nigeria does not build on what was. I give you an example. In America, the Jimmy Carter regime was the one during which Iran overran the embassy of America in Iran. Every negotiation was on until his tenure ended. Then Regan took over. Immediately he took over Iran released the hostages.

In Nigeria the new president would have gone to receive the hostages with the propaganda that without him it would not have happened.

But Regan said Jimmy Carter should go and finish the job he started. It was Jimmy Carter that received the hostages and not Regan. This is one of the things we must learn as a country.

We must learn that governance is a continuum.

Since it was the PDP government that set up the National Conference the APC would think that if they implement the report of the conference they would be helping the PDP and not the nation. That is the problem. No governor wants to put a block on the building started by his predecessor because he thinks he would be helping him. Everybody wants to be the originator of their own programmes. How can Nigeria grow if at the end of every four years we start

a new programme? I don’t see anything with a governor starting from where his predecessors stopped. Even though the present government is APC I don’t see anything wrong if it looks at the programmes of the PDP that are very good to the nation and continue with them. I cannot accept that out of about 60 resolutions of the National Conference we cannot find at least 50 that could help this nation. This is what I would do if I was in charge of the present administration. If you do it, it happened in your time. Pontius Pilate did not kill Jesus Christ, but today when we go to church we say that in the days of Pontius Pilate Jesus Christ was crucified. If you look at the conference papers and see anything good and implement it, Nigerians would say that in the days of President Buhari this change took place. After elections we must forget about politics and look at governance and help the country.

With the loss of the war in 1970 many people had thought the issue of Biafra was gone. But for two years now there has being renewed agitation for Biafra to the extent that the May 30 sit-at-home order by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPONB) was almost 100% obeyed. What do you make of the renewed agitation for Biafra?

Let me tell you one thing about the sit-athome order on May 30th. The IPOB put one emotional word in it: honouring the dead. Many people sat at home that day to honour the dead whom they thought had not been honoured.

They wanted those who fought in the war to be honoured in any way possible, even though we said the war ended on no victor no vanquished note. That was what touched the people’s heart and they decided to sit at home to kind of bury them. Let us think about this for a while. I tell you also that it was the federal government that created the current impulse for Biafra by arresting Kanu and detaining him against the law.

I entered politics as a very young lawyer in 1978 and I was of the NPN, a national party.

Those who were in the old Imo and Anambra states, if they could remember, NPN was very popular party in the East. Nobody was going to NPP until Zik came and FEDECO disqualified him.

If they had allowed him to continue there would have been no problem. But they disqualified him and the court reinstated him. So, the people, knowing their emotional attachment with Zik, they said he was disqualified because he was an Igbo. If they hadn’t disqualified him that issue wouldn’t have arisen, and the effect was that all us in the NPN failed election. That is what has happened now. Their handling of the Nnamdi Kanu issue was very defective and they ended up creating sympathy for him.

But you know, Biafra is no longer a word for those who seceded in 1967. It has become a metaphor, not for those outside the country but for protests against imbalance in Nigeria.

Because you have Biafra in the Middle Belt and they have a name for it. You have a Biafra in the South South and South West and they have their names for it. You now also have a Biafra from the North East and they have their own name.

It has now become being used by those who think they are not well accommodated in the country. To that extent I agree with Biafra, but not to the extent of making me to leave Nigeria, I don’t agree. I cannot leave this country for anybody. I have invested in it. There is nobody who can force me out of this country in any circumstance because I have invested so much in it. Many people have invested in this country and we are not going to leave it for anybody. Whatever is the problem must discuss it as Nigerians around a mahogany table and if there is going to be any war it is going to be a Nigerian war and not a Biafran war. Because if we allow war to happen again in Nigeria, there will be sectors everywhere because it would be the people protesting and defending themselves against each other.

Let us warn ourselves very strictly that that would be the implication of not talking now.

Those things that make some people feel they are not well accommodated in Nigeria, let us put them on the table; and those who are benefiting from Nigeria, let us put it on the table, so that they would tell us why they should continue to benefit while their brothers don’t benefit. And I want to tell you – I was brought up with a notion by my grandfather. He said that you should never reject food with anger but instead finish the food with anger, because if you reject food with anger you would starve. Consequently, I am not going to leave Nigeria with anger. If they want to leave it for me, let them leave.

So, when the Hausa man tells the Igbo man to leave the North, it is out of ignorance, because he is a Nigerian in the North. Even if there is a Biafra today, that man living in the North has options.

Though he of Igbo origin he has the right to opt for a Nigerian citizenship while others have the right to opt for a Biafran citizenship. They should recognize that. They should tell themselves that they don’t have that competence. I have told the Igbo people living in the North not to leave that place.

But the people are afraid of a repeat of the pogrom that happened…

(Cuts in) Let me tell you, the pogrom that happened in 1967, and everybody should be warned – if there is another pogrom it is not going to be one in which one section of the country is running away from the other. It is going to be a war.

Nobody is going to run away and they are killed at the railway with loads on their back. It is not going to be same thing. Let them be warned.

Coming back home, let us talk about Imo State. In 2015 you made an attempt to be the governor of the state but your party, the PDP, did not give you their nomination. Looking at the state now would say things are going on well?

I can tell you that Imo State as of now is a failed state in the Republic of Nigeria. It is just that the people believe that it is only there is violence that you talk about a state of emergency. I believe there is a state of emergency in Imo State today. A state where you develop by destruction is a novelty. What you destroyed in 2011 you have not built till today and you are destroying more.

Do you develop a state like that? Where would you get the money to do that? Look at Rivers State. The man in Owerri is suffering. I don’t know from where they get the pictures they put as paid adverts in the newspapers and televisions. What type of state do you have where the workers are not paid, pensioners are not paid, gratuities are not paid and contractors are not paid? How does money circulate in that state?

And this is a state where there is no production.

And I indict all the people who have governors in the South East so far to take the responsibility that there is no production in the South East, except now we are building cars in Nnewi.

There should have been more than that if we had thought about production. That is why our people go out, because successive governments have not been able to keep them at home. But the unfortunate thing about Imo State is that the little one that there before the governor came has been destroyed and no new one is being built. Building fanciful halls would not amount to anything governor Fayose would call stomach infrastructure. I

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The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

POLITICS

Why I want to be Osun governor, by Eso TUNDE ESO is a political scientist, author of African Security Solution, a book published in UK 2012, President, Fix Nigeria Group and 2018 Osun State governorship aspirant on the platform of People’s Democratic Party (PDP). In this interview with THEO RAYS, he speaks on the situation in Osun State, opportunities for youths in politics and his plans to offer visionary leadership if elected as governor of the state.

You were actively involved in Osun West Bye-Election, what really propelled you to support Dr. Ademola Adeleke?

Y

ES I WAS because I knew he will deliver dividends of democracy if elected and that was why I openly campaigned for him. Besides, we all work together; we are a team ahead of the 2018 governorship election, so we can together vote in prosperity and probity in Osun State governance to the benefit mankind.

Can you tell us why and what prompted your decision to seek the post of Osun State governorship seat?

What prompted me is the passion I have to serve the good people of Osun State with a view to providing equal opportunities for all as I have been involved in various life impacting projects. If this opportunity is offered me to serve our people, there shall be multiplication of such efforts which will ensure youth empowerment, good welfare package for civil servants, bursary and scholarship award for students, skills acquisition by men and men, respect for traditional institution, industrial growth and security and general improvement of quality of life.

I am fully committed to providing an enabling environment for business growth, development and social integration, if elected. I have often considered myself a visionary, which became clearer at the age 19. Visionary leaders are compassionate and humane and my desire is to provide visionary leadership to my • Eso people in Osun State when I become the fifth governor of the State and its best Do you have trust in the electoral sysgovernor, by the grace of God. tem of the country?

I am supportive of the electoral sysWhat are the qualities you think you tem, but there could be improvement have that will endear your people to with emphasis on reducing cost of poliyou? ticking. Politicians see politics as another We started the electioneering process business venture and so will not mind since march 2016 and with my constant spending huge sums of money to get discussions and interactions with fellow there after which they hope to recoup youths here in Osun State, I have dis- eventually. covered that they do not desire to have Any politician who spends more than the following categories of individuals the stipulated amount for any political to lead the State at this time: anyone position should be disqualified henceabove 50 years of age; anyone who has forth. soiled his hands while in government; I advise Nigerians to be more supportanyone who has deprived youths of their ive of INEC, but criticise them when necfundamental human rights; they don’t essary. Perhaps, I want to encourage want money-bag politicians who will in fellow Nigerians to come and register to the bid to canvass for votes buy off our obtain their voters card, so as to vote in conscience and at the end oppress us; credible candidates in the coming elecwould-be politicians who reside abroad tions. and don’t understand the antics and aspirations of Nigerian youths. Finally, As a young aspirant, do you think you youths want a visionary candidate who stand any chance of making headway in will offer them opportunities to live qual- your aspiration considering the fact that ity life.

Nigerian politics does not offer youths I have been involved in youth leader- opportunities to contest for elective ship for over 20 years apart from my in- posts at the highest level? volvement in human development and Yes, I have the chance to win. With nation-building initiatives to ensure that God on my side, I will become the fifth good governance, unity, equality, pro- and best governor of Osun State. It is a bity, selfless service, maintenance and nurtured vision with facts and I am fully respect for rule of law is entrenched in prepared. We are in a season of change.

Osun State and Nigeria in general.

In Osun State, there is a demand for change where youths are allowed to in-

With your declaration of interest to contest for this exalted seat in your state, you have sent a strong message.

What is it that you think you want to change about Nigerian politics with this bold step?

I want to change the continuous recycling of old and tired politicians who believe that without them, we cannot achieve something better. They have deprived youths the opportunity to grow and become leaders of tomorrow especially concerning governance in Nigeria.

I am sure in Nigeria, this is the first time someone as young as I will be bold to come out and say he has a vision and yet we have been clamouring for visionary leadership.

I want to prove to the world that Nigeria is the giant of Africa by using my bid to change our mind-set positively and make a difference in our political engineering.

Do you think that things have been done well in your State? What plans do you have for the State for its all-round development?

To the best of my knowledge, every leader comes with an agenda to lead his people apart from his or her party manifesto. Those who have had the opportunity of ruling the State performed to the best of their ability. I will take it up from there for the sake of continuity, but will change those things that do not conform to our ideological aspirations.

ject new political thinking that will provide for social integration, industrial development and political stability among, many others. As I speak with you, I have had my coordinators in each local council for over a year now and meetings are being held regularly. I know I cannot do it alone; I, therefore, seek the support of like minds and I know and believe that when we come together, we can make Osun State great.

Have you vied or held any lower political posts before now? If no, will you say it is a good decision for you to start with the governorship?

I have vied for councillorship positions when I was much younger, but I was later invited to run for same position in 2007. In 2014, I was invited to run for Osun State governorship position by one of my admirers, but was advised by my people to contest as a member of House of Representatives or local council Chairman. I opted for local council chairmanship. Unfortunately, the party on which I contested lost to the opposition and we all went back home to re-strategize.

However, March 2016 some youths and elders from Osun State came and persuaded me to contest in the next governorship election for Osun State since they believe I have what it takes to rule the state. So far, God has been helping us in this direction.

Your aspiration is a good source of inspiration for the youths. What will be your advice to them?

Presently, in Nigeria, the youth have become frustrated and utterly depressed.

As we all know, “a country that neglects its youths is toying with the best part of its future”. However, in affirming a stand for Nigerian youths, it is right to say that power is not easily attained; one must struggle for it. The youths of this country will not get power on a platter of gold.

So, they must come out of their cocoons and begin to make sacrifices in the quest for power. Research has shown that most Nigerian youths do not belong to any political party and those who are there do not attend ward meetings, yet that is where major decisions that affect us directly are made.

Therefore, youths of this country must be resolute. They should be interested in how they are being governed and must be interested in policy formulation and implementation. They must be interested in their political and economic environment. That is the only way they can capture power because power is not given; power is taken. The youths of this country must show capacity and interest in every aspect of our national life and they must also make sure that they react to the environment. Power ultimately belongs to God. But when man wants it, man must labour for it because he that refuses to labour should not eat. Youths constitute about 69 per cent of our population and about 75 per cent of voting rights in this country.

They have the strength, energy, dynamism, intellectual capability and more importantly, the population to capture power. So, in this regard, I advise dynamic youths to stop criticizing without proffering solutions to problems of our dear democracy and pick up a contest in their respective locality to contribute to policy formulation and implementation.

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The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

POLITICS

Biafra or restructuring, Nigeria’s problem is corruption –Ex-Biafran soldier CHIEF FELIX MGBADA, a practicing Lawyer, was a soldier of the defunct Biafran Republic during the Nigeria/Biafra Civil War. Among numerous political positions the Septuagenarian has held is Member, Federal House of Representatives during Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida’s era as a military president. In this interview with CHINEDU NWAFOR in Abakaliki, he speaks on the agitation for Biafra, clamour for restructuring, dissolubility of Nigeria and other issues. To him, Biafra or restructuring is not the panacea to Nigeria’s problem but ability to eradicate corruption.

Excerpts: Are you aware of the growing tension in the country arising from agitations and other sundry issues?

O

NLY A DEAF PERSON would say he does not kånow that agitation is rife in the country and I want to say something very important; it may be personal to me but many people will share my view. It is the fundamental human right of anybody to agitate for something. It is not a crime provided it is done within the ambit of the law. Almost everybody is agitating in Nigeria.

The south-south people, Ndigbo, the Yoruba, Middle Belt, including (core) Northerners are agitating and there is nothing wrong with that, provided the agitation comes from your mind. When you agitate and you are given what you are agitating for, good, but if it is not given to you, you forget about it. That is the principle of agitation.

Are you in support of the renewed agitation for Biafra?

I support the agitation, because there is nothing wrong for a group of people to say they want to be independent. There is nothing wrong to say ‘I want to rule myself and don’t want to be ruled by another person.’

There is nothing wrong in saying ‘we want to look after my destiny so that people would stop lording themselves over us.’ The agitators say they want to leave Nigeria where they are being marginalized and be a sovereign entity. They are entitled to their opinion and they know it will be realistic, that’s why they are not relenting.

What is your reaction to the position of South-east governors on the issues of Biafra and restructuring?

The governors are serving people. They are loyal to a certain group. You mean as a governor, you will go and tell the federal government that you want Biafra when you are not elected under Biafra? You are under the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and under the constitution, there is no provision for secession and you want a governor to tell the world that he sympathizes with Biafra? Those supporting Biafra are in their houses. The governors are doing what they are supposed to do so they can collect their allocation when the month ends. Many people are supporting Biafra but some are supporting inside the kitchen of their wives because they are afraid to come open to say ‘Biafra’.

Some of these arm-chair politicians who sit on the fence will not talk about Biafra now, but immediately Biafra is created, they will then come out to say, ‘oh, if you saw the work I was doing to ensure Biafra was achieved!

We are the people who piloted it. Please, give me a job, ‘I want to be an Ambassador and what not.’ But if the agitation fails, they will say, ‘I told them that they were going nowhere.’ They will tell the federal government, ‘please give me contract; do you know what I did to ensure Biafra did not work?’ If you want to interview this kind of politician on the issue of Biafra, he will say, no, I don’t want to talk about it.

In the face of these threats to Nigeria’s unity, do you foresee disintegration?

In 10 years’ time, when I will be 82yrs old, I foresee one of these three scenarios happening in this country: number one, the country splits into six. And out of those six, some of them may agree to stay together. For example, Biafra and the people of oil Rivers may

form one country with Middle Belt (the Igalas and Idomas). Number two, we may go into a federation or what we call confederation of states and each state will be given at least five years to opt out of the marriage called Nigeria and that will be on constitutional table. There will be no crisis because we that have fought war know what it means. Number three, we may remain together as Nigeria and continue to suffer the way we are suffering.

When you see a home that is going to disintegrate, the husband and the wife will be fighting always. In Nigeria today, the Yoruba man does not trust the Igbo man and Igbo man does not trust the Yoruba man; the Yoruba man does not trust the Hausa man and the Hausa man does not trust the Yoruba man, just as the Igbo man does not trust the Hausa man and the Hausa man does not trust the Igbo man. So, with that mutual mistrust, Nigeria will not last.

If they don’t call a constitutional conference but continue to speak about Nigeria being indissoluble and indestructible, because of the millions of naira they carry every month, they should be ready to face what comes out of it. Who tells them that Nigeria is indissoluble? (After all) Russia divided into 15 countries, among others, and people are still saying that Nigeria is indivisible. Is it not somebody that brought it together? Since Nigeria was formed by human beings and the people brought together are equally human beings from different cultures, ethnic backgrounds and religions, Nigeria must dissolve one day.

But, for Nigeria not to dissolve, there must be equitable treatment of everybody. We cannot have second-class citizens in a country where there is no slavery.

Among these three scenarios, which do you prefer?

I don’t prefer any because none will work.

If we restructure, will it stop corruption? If

we have Biafra, will it stop corruption? If we want to run an equitable government, we must stop corruption. You mean there will be no corrupt people if Biafra is created? There will be many. If you give Rivers people independence, they will be killing one another everyday over oil. Truth is, there is no place as corrupt as Nigeria. Our leaders are corruption personified.

There is nothing wrong with the name Nigeria but until we make up our minds (we aren’t going anywhere).

What is wrong with Nigeria are those inside Nigeria, the leaders. We have good followers but we have bad leaders.

How could somebody own about 100 houses, 100 cars, aero-planes, bury billions of naira and dollars underground and so on?

Even if 20 countries are created and we don’t make up our minds, we are going nowhere. It is not the system of government that matters; it is the people who run the government that matter—whether in a democracy, military regime or whatever.

What do you make of the quit notice issued to Igbo people in the North by Coalition of Arewa Youths?

When I heard about the quit notice, I approached it from three angles, after thinking deeply about it. One, I said for those people to have had the courage to come to Kaduna, the centre of the northern region, to say this, somebody must have been behind them. For them to have said that, they must have been making meetings and talking about it and the elders pushed them to go and test the waters (public reaction). Or they may just be people displaying youthful exuberance, apparently to square up to those talking about Biafra.

But, when I combined the two, I said there must be an element of truth in every rumor.

What do you have to tell Igbo people living in the northern part of the country?

I want to say these to Ndigbo who say they have invested so much in the north or Yoruba land. Number one, who told you to go and invest there? The same Igbo people saying they have invested so much in the north, also invested in foreign countries and those properties belong to them. Who tells them that if they leave Nigeria, their properties in the north will not be theirs again? It is your constitutional right to own property anywhere in the world provided it is acquired legitimately.

Let us assume that I have property in Abuja and Biafra is achieved, does it mean that I will not get my passport and go to Abuja where I have property? The answer is no. These people are being myopic. Is that why they refused to come and develop Igbo land?

Let me take you back a bit; the crisis started in 1966. In 1970, it was people living at our backyard here, that is, Port Harcourt, who seized property of Ndigbo. When I went to up North for my National Youth service, I saw an

Hausa man, one Danjuma, who said that since Igbo people left their houses and ran away in 1965, they had been keeping the rents of a house belonging to an Igbo man and after the war, they called him and gave him their rents.

But, it was people here in Port Harcourt who seized property belonging to Ndigbo. So, Hausa man by nature will not take anybody’s property; their religion will not allow them to do it. They are not as commercial as we are.

What was your experience as a Biafran soldier during the civil war?

It was a war. War is not easy and Nigerians did not find it easy. It was not a tea party. It was a bitter experience but the worst hit were the civilians, especially children, who were befallen by hunger and starvation. Many of them were flown overseas; they don’t know their parents again and they have been there. So, it was a war. Peace is better than war and the worst peace is still better than the best war.

That is why we are telling the young ones, you cannot survive conflict. Come to the table and discuss. That is why I said those agitating for Biafra should do it peacefully.

Assuming you are still a young man and the situation presents itself again for you to fight for Biafra, would you be ready?

No, I cannot fight again and I don’t advise people to go to war to kill one another, because if you kill one another, whom will you rule over? That is why I tell people that If God says that Biafra will be, it will be, without necessarily fighting again over it. There are other countries that have divided peacefully without going to war What is your advice to Ndigbo, especially the Biafra agitators?

My advice is, those agitating for Biafra, please, agitate peacefully; don’t injure yourself or anybody. What will be will be. And those clamoring for restructuring should restructure well. What will be will be. However, whichever one that is done, my father’s compound must be in one of those areas. If it is Biafra, I become a Biafran. But whichever one, they should do it without shading blood, with using hunger and starvation as ‘instrument’ of such line of action.

How do you see President Muhammadu Buhari’s long medical vacation to London as well as the performance of his administration?

I am concerned that the president is sick because; we elected him. Anybody can be sick, so, I am concerned. Our prayer is that he recovers quickly and come back to Nigeria.

As for performance, I cannot score them because the President at whose table the buck stops, is not there. The man acting for him may be feeling shy to take some decisions.

As an ex-Lawmaker, what is your assessment of the performance of 8th National Assembly?

They are performing according to their level. They are doing wht they know, which may not be what Nigerians expect. You would agree with me that each time the two chambers are sitting, the seats are always empty because 2/3 of the lawmakers will not be there.

In United States of America, for instance, lawmakers are given allowance and if you come, you write your name and at the end of the day’s legislative business, you receive your sitting allowance. There is no free meal there.

But here, they do what they like and still smile home with our collective wealth.

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The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

POLITICS

Ahiara Mbaise Diocese: Not yet happy The crisis in Ahiara, Mbaise Diocese of the Catholic Church in Imo State has lingered for the sixth year now. But, hope of resolution of the crisis seemed to have been enkindled by the Imo State governor Rochas Okorocha when he recently intervened with a call on the aggrieved party to obey the directive of the Pope and accept Bishop Okpalaeke.

From Owerri, COLLINS UGHALAA reports

I

T IS AS if the devil himself has taken over the once peaceful diocese as the crisis in Ahiara Mbaise Diocese has assumed a dangerous proportion and the church has refused to obey the directive of the Pope who had intervened in the protracted crisis and asked the aggrieved party to accept the posting of Bishop Okplaeke to the Diocese.

Crisis started in the once peaceful diocese on December 7, 2012 following the appointment of Monsignor Peter Okpalaeke from the Awka Diocese in Anambra State by Pope Benedict XVI as the Bishop-Elect of the Episcopal See of Ahiara Mbaise Diocese. By his appointment, Monsignor Okpalaeke was to replace His Lordship, the late Most Rev Dr. Victor A. Chikwe who died on September 16, 2010. His death left the Ahiara Mbaise Diocese without a Bishop for two years.

The Oracle Today gathered in Owerri that the people of Ahiara Mbaise Diocese may have invited this crisis upon themselves. Speaking to The Oracle Today in Owerri, a devout Catholic who pleaded anonymity said that Bishop Okpalaeke was appointed the Bishop of Ahiara Mabiae Diocese by the Papacy because the people of the diocese had rejected their own people.

He said that when nominations were called for the vacant position, a lot of priests in the diocese who were qualified applied for the job, but that their problem was that they were writing petitions against one another.

He pointed out that even the priests were writing petitions against one another. According to him, in order to resolve the problem and fill the vacant position, the Papacy had to send Bishop Okpalaeke as someone they could all accord respect since he was not from among them.

Governor Okorocha intervenes In order to bring lasting peace in the troubled Church of God, Governor Rochas Okorocha had a meeting with both the laity and clergy of the Church at the Ahiara Diocese the previous weekend, where he explained to them the need to obey the directive of the Pope by accepting Bishop Peter Okpalaeke as the Bishop of the Diocese.

Okorocha told the Diocese that the decision of the Pope was binding on them and regretted that priests were in the forefront of the agitation. He added that the Church would become an object of mockery if the crisis ends the way the priests and laity in the Diocese want it to end.

“I’m here in Ahiara Mbaise Diocese to bring peace. I’ve been meeting with the priests of this Diocese for over one hour now. And the meeting is all about peace, peace, peace. Peace is very expensive and the bible says to us, pur-

• Bishop Okpalaeke sue peace and not walk towards peace because peace is a very, very expensive commodity, but there can be no peace without justice.

“I am a Catholic, and also the governor of Imo State. I’ve come here to see my people and address you on the burning issues affecting this Diocese. But, I wish you can listen to me attentively so that you can go home with something. I’ve had meeting with all the priests. I’ve listened to their anger, their grievances and I’m aware of all the historical backgrounds following this agitation. But, the moment we are now is a very bad moment. There are so many agitations, so many crises here and there and it looks like Satan has relocated his headquarters to Nigeria. But, by the grace of God, we shall fight and destroy these satanic forces”.

“But the one that touches me so much is the crisis of Ahiara Diocese because this touches the fabrics of our faith. First, we are Christians and you must understand that Christianity is a very difficult religion because Christianity doesn’t preach comfort for us, rather ability to accept persecution. Today,

we have a challenge that whatever has made Ahiara a centre of crisis, we must change it for better.”

He also noted the historical importance of Ahiara, saying that the “declaration of Biafran War, Ahiara; killing of a steward, Ahiara and now, Diocesan agitation spanning six years and attracting global focus also Ahiara. We must change the story of Ahiara. I want to state here categorically that since this crisis began, I’ve been listening patiently and watching. But I had wished that my advice was taken ab-initio and ipsofacto. If Mbaise must be in the news, it must be in the news for the right reasons. This is because Mbaise is the largest single sub-ethnic group in the SouthEast and there is no place you will go in this world, without having an Mbaise man, doing well in that region. Mbaise contributes substantially to what makes Imo thick.”

He continued: “Now listen very well my brothers, what I want to say to you now is for your benefit and betterment.

You must know that too much of right can also lead to wrong. Mbaise people have made their point. The whole world

has heard you; they have listened to you. Any further issue on this matter

by Mbaise, might not be spoken the way it has been heard before. Let me tell you the gospel truth with regard to how the world is looking at you now.

I don’t know how you will take it after my speech, but I have spoken like Pontus Pilate: I have come to restore peace in this particular place.”

Okorocha further noted: “The whole world knows that the Pope has asked all the priests from Mbaise to write a letter of apology to him minus a few of them, to beg the Pope. It might be right, it might be wrong, but that’s not the question. But, the fact is that before the world, we are no longer enjoying this peace because Mbaise has the highest number of priests in the whole of South East. But sometimes, a wise person behaves foolishly for the sake of his children. So, we must change our style before we deny ourselves of our justice “It’s unfortunate that the priests themselves are at the very front of this agitation (even when they know) the decision of the Pope is binding on them. Please, we must preserve this our priestly order by maintaining the status quo from the papacy. Mbaise must never be seen as a people that disobeyed the Pope and the church.

“Christianity never taught us to be violent rather it’s all about enduring persecution and pains. So, like the priests agreed with me earlier, there must be no room for protest. For now, you have done well but don’t overdo it; just leave the stage when the ovation is hot.

“I don’t think any Bishop would like to come to a place where the people don’t want him. You can’t force people to be with somebody they don’t want to stay with. But, be careful how you reject people because at times, the rejected always turns out to be the best.

There should be no more protests. No matter who the Pope sends to you, you must rise up to welcome him. If not, the church will become an object of mockery. Because if the Pope takes it the way you want it, the church, the Catholic Church will die.”

“I want you to see the possibility that Mbaise sons can also become Bishops elsewhere extending to other states and will be accepted like any other.”

Ahiara Mbaise Diocese protests after Okorocha’s intervention Though Rev Fr. (Dr.) Joseph Ezeji, who responded on behalf of the Diocese had pledged allegiance to the papacy, disclosing also that all Mbaise priests have written their letters of apology to the Pope, the Diocese, in apparent defiance of the Pope’s order, staged a peaceful rosary protest at the

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The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

POLITICS

ending to politics of episcopal selection Ahiara Diocesean Cathedral, reiterating their demand that the embattled Bishop Okpalaeke be replaced.

Father Ezeji had pointed out to the governor that what the Diocese was asking for was for any Bishop groomed from their soil to lead them, stressing that the canon law seems to have been bent in the case of Ahiara Diocese.

But, in a shocking move, members of the Diocese from the 163 Parishes in the embattled Ahiara Diocese stormed the Cathedral during the weekend to protest what they termed the failure of the Vatican to appoint another Bishop to replace Okpalaeke. However, the protesters who were dressed in black attires and traditional Catholic dresses were shocked when they got to the gate of the Cathedral and met it locked, with heavy presence of stern looking policemen, who were drafted to stop the protest. The gate was eventually opened after long consultations and phone calls, apparently to higher authorities.

Speaking to protesters after a peaceful rosary procession at the Cathedral, President of the Laity Council, Ahiara Diocese, Chief Gerald Anyanwu emphasized that “both the priests and laity of the Diocese are not disobeying the Pope, but what they demand is justice and fair play.”

“We are not disobeying the Pope. We observed that there was a mistake in the selection and appointment of Bishop Peter Okpalaeke, and our mission is to ensure that such mistake is corrected. Therefore, we are still appealing to the Pope to give us the bishop we deserve,” Anyanwu said.

“We are not questioning the decision of the Pope but we will not accept Okpalaeke as Bishop. The process of his appointment did not follow laid-down procedures for the appointment of bishops. Our priests have written the apology demanded by the Pope to show that we are not disregarding the Pope but nobody can impose a bishop on the people; that is not what the Christian faith is all about,” he added.

A member of the Laity, Sir Sebastian Ekeanyanwu, said: “We are not disputing the authority of the Pope as the supreme head of the Catholic Church but we want to communicate our position to him as regards the appointment of Okpalaeke. Our position is justice. We don’t see any reason why somebody from this Diocese or any other Diocese from Imo State cannot be appointed as the Bishop of Ahiara Diocese. We know that if the Pope has heard our position, he would have changed his position.

All we are saying is that we don’t want Okpalaeke and trying to force him on his on us is not justice.”

Diocese gives condition for peace Also, in what has been termed the rejection of Governor Okorocha’s intervention in the Ahiara Mbaise Diocese crisis, the laity and the clergy of the Ahiara Mbaise Diocese have reiterated their rejection of the appointment of Father Okpalaeke and refused to accord him canonical possession of the Diocese. This is a right, according to the code of canon law 382&1/382&3.

In reiterating their rejection of Bishop Okpalaeke, the Ahiara Mbaise Diocese said his appointment did not follow

• Pope Francis due process, saying that it was in violation of the canonical process as contained in canon code 377&2.

According to a document signed by 185 members of the Diocese, on behalf of the Ahiara Diocese World-Wide Laity Council, the Diocese claimed that they needed a “shepherd that would pass through the sheepfold and not one that climbs over elsewhere.” They also accused Cardinal Francis Arinze of

‘

Most of the Bishops are not natives of Dioceses where they serve. Bishop Ignatius Kaigama of Jos, for instance, is from Jalingo in Taraba. Bishop Mathew Kukah of the Sokoto Diocese is from Kaduna State.

For any Catholic faithful to insist that his or her Bishop must be a native of the area he is posted, is very odd and strange

‘

nepotism in the appointment of Father Okpalaeke, saying that it was unacceptable for the Cardinal to violate the code of the canonical law, “disqualify an entire presbyterium in order to grab an additional episcopal See, for an Onitsha Ecclesiastical Province, that already has 8 bishops and 1 cardinal.

“The Ahiara Diocese World-Wide Laity Council is a global network of Catholics with roots and or relationship traceable to the Ahiara Diocese Presbyterium, of Nigeria, constituted to promote the social and pastoral health of our members and the Diocese, using all resources available globally.

The Council noted that the Diocese does not insist that a ‘son of the soil’ becomes the Bishop of the Ahiara Diocese, but that any priest from Ahiara Diocesan Presbyterium should replace Bishop Okpalaeke as contained in the cannon law 377&2. They also noted that their fresh rejection of Bishop Okpaleke does not amount to disobedience of the Pope, saying that rather they are helping the Pope at reforming the Church and making sure that “people do not commit ecclesiastical crimes in his name.”

They also cited the “neglect of Pastoral obligations as required by the code of canon law (Can.383-400), since his appointment 5 years ago”, stressing that it was “a clear sign that Bishop Okpalaeke and his representative, Cardinal John Onaiyekan, appointed to administer the Diocese in his stead, do not care for the flock of God in Ahiara

Diocese. We have been so starved of the Sacraments of the Confirmation and Ordination, and all Pastoral obligations reserved to the Bishops. They have come to slaughter and destroy.”

The Diocese also claimed that “a lot of polluted water has passed under the bridge in the Bishop Okpalaeke crisis, which has incapacitated him to effectively administer the Diocese. He and Cardinal Onaiyekan have so intimidated the Diocese with the use of lies, military and police force to impose injustice on Ahiara.”

Also citing the canon law 401&2, the Diocese said: “A Diocesan Bishop who has become less able to fulfil his office because of ill-health or some other grave cause is earnestly requested to present his resignation from office,” even as they called on Bishop Okpalaeke to immediately resign or be reassigned. They claimed he had caused the flock to scatter and run away, and that “his name alone brings anger, fear and disaffection to the people [of the Diocese].”

They also claimed that the grievances in the Dioceses strong and justified and deserve fair hearing by the Pope, “especially for the potential disruptive impact on evangelization work globally.”

They recalled that the Diocese had about 750 priests, claiming also that “since the establishment of the Diocese in 1987, there have been at least 167 priestly ordinations for the Diocese. The diocese is currently served by 127 priests and 113 religious, according to Vatican source. With such wealth of priests, the Ahiara Diocese has sent more than its share of missionaries around the world, and yes, has contributed to the universality of the church and sure can differentiate it from lawlessness.”

Rejection of Bishop Okpalaeke is a disgrace –Priest However, a Catholic Priest, Fr. Philip Jamang of Church of Assumption, Chongo Pyel, Jos, Plateau State, has described the rejection of Peter Okpalaeke by some members of Ahiara Mbaise Diocese as a “disgrace” to the Catholic Church.

According to a report, the Rev Father on Monday in Jos said that it was particularly wrong for some priests to support those against a Bishop appointed by the Pope, saying that “their action is strange” and “an insult never heard of in the Catholic Church.”

He said that the actions of the priests and the laity have demeaned the Catholic Church and the sacred place of the Pontiff.

He said: “The Catholic Church is a united entity known for sanity and dignity. If today some sections of the Church, including priests in Ahiara, are rejecting a Bishop on the basis of clan, then something is really wrong.

“Most of the Bishops are not natives of Dioceses where they serve. Bishop Ignatius Kaigama of Jos, for instance, is from Jalingo in Taraba. Bishop Mathew Kukah of the Sokoto Diocese is from Kaduna State. For any Catholic faithful to insist that his or her Bishop must be a native of the area he is posted, is very odd and strange.”

The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

POLITICS – Write-in

16

Elechi’s new marriage with APC and his misconception of democracy

By EMMA UZOR

I

N what looked like the marriage of the snake to the monkey, Chief Martin Nwanchor Elechi, the immediate past governor of Ebonyi state entered into a late relationship with the All Progressives Congress, APC. It was not just bad enough that the 76 year old man after announcing his retirement from partisan politics made such suicidal political move, it became worse that of all his trajectory speeches, he chose to cast aspersion on the quality of leadership which he brazenly denied the people of Ebonyi state during his unpopular reign.

Without coming personal on Elechi who is an elder, I would want to take him one on one based on the issues he raised or was alleged to have raised during his purported visit to the residence of the national Chairman of APC alongside his co-travelers.

I don’t want to believe that Elechi actually said that there is no democracy in Ebonyi state for obvious reasons which I know for sure the old man either lacks knowledge of what democracy really is or that age is telling on him, hence such fallacious claim. In his eight-year reign as emperor of Ebonyi state, Elechi never practiced democracy. He was so autocratic that he messed up the peace move to end the Ezillo and Ezza Ezilo war through his nakedly noxious pronouncements that further escalated the war. Today, the crisis has been finally laid to rest through dialogue and commitment to tenets of democracy. Thanks to Governor David Umahi.

Elechi in various occasions had equated himself with God. One typical example of his understanding of democracy was his charge on his newlyappointed commissioners where he said and I quote “I am the god who brought you out of Egypt, only me you shall serve, for I am a jealous God, you are forbidden from holding town hall meetings in your respective communities” this statement above was made by same Elechi at the Women Development Centre, Abakaliki in 2010 yet, he claims to have practiced democracy. Haba!!!

With the above statement credited to Elechi, Nigerians should now know between Elechi’s era and His Excellency, Chief David Umahi’s regime, where democracy is domesticated, which one is better?

Apart from Elechi’s arrogance, he had lived like king Nebuchadnezzar and had in so many places described himself as god. Another typical example of Elechi’s arrogance and nagative disposition to rule of law and democracy was when he described himself as the Pontiff of Ebonyi State and each time he made any autocratic statement or pronouncement, he would say “the pontiff has spoken” in a democracy?

However, Chief Martin Elechi’s confetti of lies, malice and cheap propaganda which he served the people during his visit to the APC national chairman in Abuja and which he instructed his e-rats to circulate on social media and published in some national dailies is confirmed dead on arrival and could be simply put, statements born out of envy and jealousy especially when he found out that Governor Umahi’s achievements within two years in office has dwarfed his abysmal eight years of reign of terror as governor.

His statement about democracy not being practiced in Ebonyi state suddenly after he left office two years ago came as a tragic disappointment on so many fronts. He failed to deliver on its core mission of misleading the populace and branding a new era of political fortune and achievements we enjoy in the state bad and bending the minds of the people into believing that at his age, he cannot tell lies.

The tragedy here therefore is that while Ebonyians are yet to forgive Elechi for all his failures and tyranny while in office, he came out of his retirement to stir the hornet nest

•Martin Elechi thereby bringing the anger of the people on himself for his inability to deliver democracy dividends to the people of the state throughout his eight-year tenure.

Now that Elechi’s tirade is a colossal failure as it failed to offer a new insight into his failure to impose his brother-in-law on Ebonyi State as governor in the last governorship election, his new found love and possibly ploy to evade prosecution in the hands of the anti-graft agencies are all aimed at misleading the people and tarnishing the image of the present administration under Chief David Umahi.

I have read his statements over and over again to know if there was any concrete allegation of under-performance by Governor Umahi but I didn’t see any. Thank God Elechi knows that Umahi has performed beyond explanation within just two years. The only crime Umahi committed, according to Elechi was his anger over underdevelopment, doggedness and his disposition to change the fortune of Ebonyi state for better, which was kept in darkness for eight years by his predecessor.

The infrastructural development and the fly over bridges that adorn the landscape of Abakaliki, the beautification and construction of internal roads across the state capital, construction of roads in all the 13 local government areas and lighting of Abakaliki to meet international standard and many other projects may have elicited this envy but, one can just say, “Umahi” has done well.

It has to be said though, that it is deeply disappointing to note that the only difference between Elechi’s current hate speech and exhibition of jealousy from his earlier statement about the reason why he left Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, a platform that offered him opportunity to write his name in gold and join the league of founding fathers which he misused is that his tireless efforts to blackmail the transformational hardworking Governor Umaht by misleading the people into believing that there is no democracy in Ebonyi state failed in its entirety.

His statement on democracy in Ebonyi state is a tragic slip caused by an unbridled ill will, jealousy and desperation to rake up bitterness towards Umahi evident in the sadistic nature of his media attacks which he sponsors alongside few elements in his new political party to smear the image of the governor of Ebonyi

state.

While it is still a wonder on whether the prolonged campaigns against the developmental strides of Governor Umahi hasn’t run long enough, Elechi took up the challenge and opened a rather pitiable pathway to rancour and prejudice in his puerile statement where he allude that the people of Ebonyi state were not given chance to choose whom their leaders should be whereas Elechi at his age should have known when the masses make their choice and stood by it.

That the Ebonyi of Ebonyi state rejected his imported godlike party, LP and all attempts to foist his brother-in-law on the people as governor should have been enough lesson on the elder statesman to know that the people have their right to choose their leader through the ballot and that they have done and they are indeed happy they did.

In fact, Elechi’s epistle on how and why he left PDP which brought him out of retirement and revived his political fortune by giving him hope when it seemed in his entire political life that all was lost is so empty of meaning.

His seeming fixation with the blatant lie that his people have moved to APC as a result of lack of internal democracy could not fly because even at the moment, almost 90 percent of his former aides are back to the fold of PDP. The n one wonders which of his so called people have moved to APC” He did not say the obvious fact which is that Ndi Ebonyi and Nigerians in general know that since inception of Governor Umahi, that the state has become one of the fastest if not the fastest growing economy in the country and has attained unprecedented height in development which, were hitherto lacking in Elechi’s eight year administration.

As if that was not enough, he quickly contradicted himself while interacting with Chief John Oyegun when he said “PDP was the party that brought me to power which I had great respect for and even more so for the founding fathers”. It is now therefore very tragic to believe that Elechi with his experience and age was speaking from the both sides of his mouth.

Honestly, one does not begrudge Elechi’s new obsessions and hero-worship for APC, a political party he once called, described and

still believes is a “Boko Haram party” but it is necessary to note that his hate speech borne out of anger and envy especially having been overwhelmed by the visible development in the state under Umahi elicit profound pity from wise folks who shudder at how an elder should choose to dance naked at the market square.

At this point, it may be fatal and labourous in asking him hard questions on some of his wild allegations, which rather indicate either a knowledge gap or character deficiency as contained in his statement when he went to seek political asylum in APC. It is also not wise on the other hand to ignore his preposterous allegations and claims that democracy lived with him and died after his exit from office in the state especially when one remembers that Elechi, a man from whom you would ordinarily expect a degree of circumspection on issues of this nature gleefully levels charges after brazen charges against his successor.

However, his claim that his brother-in-law whom he emptied the state treasury to pursue his governorship ambition in Labour Party won the election as governor of Ebonyi state even after all the legal actions and blackmail against Governor Umahi failed offers us another insight into his inconsistencies and lies from an old man of his standing.

He has unfortunately continued on his trajectory of lies when he reeled out a whole barrage of it; claiming that Umahi has abandoned all the projects he left in the state and has initiated new ones which according to him do not have direct bearing on the masses but one could be tempted to ask Elechi the condition of the only road that leads to his own community in Echialike Ikwo which was constructed

by Governor Umahi even when he (Elechi) failed to build his own road after eight years in office.

Again these claims are just plain ridiculous and undeserving of serious scrutiny especially when he tried to blackmail Governor Umahi with the claim that he sponsors petitions against him (Elechi) to the EFCC whereas Governor Umahi has never thought of it but had in different occasions told the people that though the state was criminally cannibalized before he took over in May, 29, 2015, he had no intention of probing his predecessor because of his age and would not like to be part of his trouble but handed over everything to God. Indeed, since he left his political office as governor two years ago, his political relevance has continued to deteriorate and his new move into APC serves no purpose since he was already going into political oblivion. In the word of Thomas A Kemps, I quickly said that Elechi does not know that as often as you out amongst men, you come back less a man!

His case as a new bride in APC could be likened to the Igbo adage that says odikaodi kpoba, odikaodi egolu meaning, when the bad seller displays his wares, the bad buyer will buy. This illustration explains the gains and pains of APC in Ebonyi state and what they think they have gained in Elechi acquisition.

A political party that cannot put its house in order cannot be said to be practicing democracy, that is the final word Elechi should take seriously that before coming to launch campaign of calumny against Governor David Umahi, he should first of all look at the sorry state of APC in the state via the intractable factions and put it in order before he can be said to have got moral rectitude to criticize.

In conclusion, one does not need anyone to remind him that his new party is in labyrinth of crisis and cannot be taken serious by Ndi Ebonyi who presently enjoying dividends of democracy from Governor David Umahi. He needs to be reminded that Ebonyians will not be deceived by him and his group of politicians with outdated ideologies.

17

The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

BU$IN£SS •Energy •Finance

•Stock

•Insurance

•Aviation

Nigeria losing multi-billion dollars in FDI to cybercrime

•e-Platform

By SAMSON AKINTARO

A

n industry report on the effects of cyber-crimes on Foreign Direct Investment has revealed that widespread cybercrime has tarnished the image of Nigeria in the international community thereby portraying the country as “unsafe” for foreign investors, thus causing the country a huge loss in FDI year-in year-out.

The report which is the outcome of a survey commissioned by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and carried out by Newark Security Systems Limited, also discovered that the image of Nigeria as a cybercrimes country is also affecting the way Nigerians and Nigerian businesses are treated abroad with suspicion and extreme caution, as Nigerians are stereotyped to be ‘419ers’ (conmen) and hence not to be trusted.

According to the report, private companies around the world are beginning to take steps geared towards blocking e-mails originating from the country, while financial instruments are accepted with extreme caution. “Foreign investors are scared of the country, considering it as risky and unattractive business zone” it added.

While it was clearly noted in the report that cybercrime is a global phenomenon, it was observed that the difference in vulnerabilities and impact trends depend on the strength of the measures each country puts in place to combat the menace.

Sadly, Nigeria ranks high amongst the cybercrime impacted countries; however, the country’s response to mitigate cybercrime is still very low due to inadequate cybercrime legislations, limited technology and lack of cyber security experts.

In Q3 2016, Nigeria’s FDI fell by 52.54 per cent to $340.64 million from $718 million in corresponding quarter of 2015. Although several factors were attributed to the huge loss, it is believed that investors are shifting their attention away from Nigeria owing to the bad image caused by cybercrimes. Just recently, the Minis-

Buying(NGN)

US DOLLAR Pounds Sterling EURO SWISS FRANC YEN CFA WAUA Yuan/Renminbi RIYAL S/ African Rand DANISH KRONA SDR

305 393.45 348.188 316.8173 2.6811 0.5075 421.8271 44.852 81.3268 22.8019 46.8114 423.34

Energy

NCDMB to sign SLAs with oil firms P16

e-Platform Education system killing innovations in ICT –Experts P17

Aviation • Minister-Finance, Kemi-Adeosun ter of Communications, Adebayo Shittu declared that the country (internally) was losing N127bn to cybercrime annually.

The Senate, just last month expressed worry that the country had lost about $450 million to 3,500 cyber-attacks on its Information and Communication Technology, ICT, space in the last few years. According to the Senate, this represents over 70 per cent of hacking attempts on technology in the country. Another report by the Nigeria Electronic Fraud Forum (NEFF) said Nigerians lost N2.196 billion, being 50.28 per cent actual loss value, in attempted fraud value to the nefarious activities of cyber/financial fraudsters in 2016 alone.

However, the report by NCC revealed that Cybercrime has also had an implication in the foreign direct investment advancement into the country, as information flowing from the country is being characterized as questionable because of the criminal elements which

CBN EXCHANGE RATES JULY 7, 2017 Currency

•Tourism

Central (NGN) Selling(NGN)

305.5 306 394.095 394.74 348.7588 349.3296 317.3367 317.856 2.6855 2.6899 0.5175 0.5275 422.5186 423.2101 44.926 45 81.4601 81.5935 22.8392 22.8766 46.8882 46.9649 424.034 424.728

•CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele make it unreliable, inaccurate and untrustworthy. “Indeed, one cannot overemphasize the investment sabotage resulting from cybercrime in Nigeria” the report said.

In 2014, a report by the South African based Institute of Digital Communication indicates that Nigeria is losing about $80 million dollars yearly to software piracy alone. Similarly, in 2015, an estimated customer loss of about N2 trillion ($13.5) was incurred to cybercrime in Nigeria. The report noted that Cybercrime has aided other illicit activities in Nigeria such as intellectual plagiarism, disruption of public services, drug trafficking, and terrorism. “From the foregoing, the effects of cybercrimes continue to be evident with many potential negative impacts on the foreign investment and national socio-economic landscape of Nigeria” it said.

While calling for urgent measures to address this challenge, which has been predicted to become

more sophisticated and more widespread by the year 2020, not only in Nigeria but globally, the report said Nigeria would require not less than one million cyber security experts in the next two years to be able to combat cybercrimes.

“This should be supported by aggressive mass sensitization of the citizenry and foreign investors on the nature, schemes and tactics utilized by cybercriminals as a means of reducing their vulnerability. Following these submissions, efforts by the government, citizenry and both foreign and local investors geared towards curbing cybercrimes must be reinvigorated as cyber security is crucial for maintaining the continuity of foreign investment inflows, vital social services, and preservation of public trust in information systems and promotion of national socio-economic and foreign investment development in Nigeria” it said.

Multiple-taxation: FIRS pledges support for domestic airlines

P20

Insurance

Global reinsurers, World Bank collaborate on $500m catastrophe bonds

P22

Stock Market Highlights As At 7 July, 2017

Summary

ASI 32,459.17 DEALS 3,217.00 VOLUME 212,383,931.00 VALUE 2,474,319,617.67 CAP 11,187,076,707,355.74 Most Traded S/N Coy (By Volume) Volume 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Value

ZENITHBANK 73,314,897 1,500,902,649.61 TRANSCORP 18,385,727 25,562,495.54 STERLNBANK 15,263,264 15,348,166.23 FBNH 14,663,394 88,935,222.74 CHAMPION10, 10,046,201 28,631, 840.99

5 Top Gainers Company Last Close Current Change SEPLAT 465 467 2 CAP 33 34 1 DANGCEM 203.94 204.93 0.99 FLOURMILL 22 22.78 0.78 UACN 16.5 17.25 0.75 Top Losers Company Last Close Current Change CONOIL 40.23 36.31 -3.92 PZ 23.14 21 -2.14 UNILEVER 35.03 34 -1.03 NB 155 154 -1 FO 49.4 48.7 -0.7

18

The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

BUSINESS NAICOM releases draft revised guidelines for micro-insurance operations

N

ational Insurance Commission (NAICOM) said, Friday, it has released a draft revised guidelines for Micro Insurance Operations in the country.

Head, Corporate Affairs of NAICOM, Mr Rasaaq Salami, explained in a statement, in Abuja, that the draft revised guidelines had been released to the market for inputs by stakeholders.

“The guidelines have already been sent to chief executive officers of all insurance and reinsurance companies.

They include Nigerian Insurance Association, Nigerian Council Registered Insurance Brokers, Enhancing Financial Innovation and Access for their various inputs. All parties have until July 24 to forward their inputs to the commission,’’ he said.

Micro insurance is an insurance that is usually accessed by low income earners in the society.

The aim of the product is to ensure everybody is included and to increase the contribution of insurance to the country’s Gross Domestic Product. It is also aimed at ensuring that insurance is known in all the nooks and crannies of the country.

NAICOM rolled out the guidelines on micro insurance to enable intermediaries to sell micro insurance in the sector.

The guidelines will guide intermediaries such as service providers, NGOs, trade associations among others that want to sell micro insurance products.

‘S/East, S/South get only 9% of electricity generated in Nigeria’

By VICTOR NZE

E

nugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) has stated that only nine per cent of energy generated in the country is allocated to the South East zone, which it described as ‘inadequate.’

A Director in the EEDC, Dr Steven Dike, who said this in Enugu, Thursday, also noted that the volume of energy sourced by distribution companies was the only way to serve customers in a more efficient way.

He, however, said that the company was striving hard to serve its customers better even in the face of the shortcoming, adding that as the power network was not designed for optimisation, the company

tries to juggle power between industrial and residential areas within the zone.

“We are doing load-shedding to make sure that everybody is happy. We shut out some people in order to serve other areas and vice versa,” he said.

Dike said that customers needed to understand the dynamics of power distribution business, adding that the company would only give out what it got from transmission companies.

“People do not understand the issues in power generation, transmission and distribution and that the volume of light you get is the only way to succeed. Our business is to sell light and we cannot give out more than the volume allocated to us,” he said.

Dike said that in spite of the inadequate volume of energy allocated to it, the company was also battling with energy theft by customers, disclosing that the amount of energy lost in the zone was incredible, adding that it was well over 50 per cent in 2013 when they took over the company.

“We inherited a culture of corruption and because of the level of loss; we import over N4 billion worth of energy per month. When we took over in November 13, 2013, government knew that the system was broken down.

“The contract was won on our ability to fix the system not on the highest bidder,” he said.

Dike said that with the wage bill of the company at N500 million, the EEDC lost N2 billion every month due to corrupt practices.

NESG urges banks to fund SMEs

T

he Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) has urged banks and other finance institutions to grant Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs) more access to funds, to boost their production.

Consultant, Trade, Investment and Competitiveness Policy Commission of the group, Mrs Eniola Dada, who made the appeal in Lagos, noted that poor funding was the bane of development of the SMEs, adding that a wider access to credit would address the problem.

Dada spoke on the sidelines of a seminar organised by the Full Gospel Business Men Fellowship International for SME operators, which held under the theme of: “Navigating the Future of Business Environment in Nigeria.’’

The consultant added that SMEs were strategic to the growth of the economy and urged government to also develop policies that would improve the funding of the real sector.

“The SME sector is the engine room of all economies in the world, Nigeria inclusive, so there is the need for us to ensure that this critical sector has greater access to funds. Therefore, we are saying the banks, specialised finance institutions and government need to do more to ensure SMEs have wider access to loans.

“They should understand that the major challenge of the real sector is poor funding and they should be open to support the growth of the sector and the economy. You see governments over the years have initiated various programmes to support the growth of small businesses.

“But the question to ask is what has become of those great initiatives? The answer is that SMEs cannot access credit to give life to their ideas. So, there is need to address that problem,’’ she said.

The NESG consultant also urged the SMEs to rethink their business models to enable them to operate sustainably in a challenging economy.

•L-R: Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), chairman, Mr. Babatunde Fowler; Lagos Commissioner for Information & Strategy, Mr Steve Ayorinde, who represented the State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode as Special Guest of Honour, and AAAN President, Kayode Oluwasona, at the 44th Annual General Meeting/Congress of Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN).

Complaints over AIB’s 5% PSC from FAAN unfair

By VICTOR NZE Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB) Tthehehasrevenue justified the approval of 5 per cent of from Passengers Service Charge (PSC) to the agency from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), just as it also described as ‘unjustified’ the criticisms that have trailed the approval by the Minister of State for Aviation, Sen. Hadi Sirika.

Commissioner of AIB Engr. Akin Olateru, told journalists at the Murtala Muhammed Airport (MMA), Lagos complex, last weekend, that the criticism trailing the approval by the ministry from a section of the industry was uncalled for.

He noted that several AIB projects have been stalled because of paucity of funds, further pointing out that AIB only gets a meagre 3 per cent of the revenue from the 5 per

ECA backs FG’s economic policies conomic Commission for Africa (ECA) has Eimplement said it will continue to support Nigeria to policies that will engender economic development.

Principal Regional Advisor and Head, Development of Planning and Statistics Cluster, at the commission, Prof. Sylvain Boko, who said this in Abuja, weekend, on Sunday, also frowned at the neglect of the agricultural sector which he posited could contribute greatly to a country’s GDP. “One of the focus areas that Nigeria has been looking at is the diversification of the economy away from the reliance on the oil sector. The recent massive drop in oil prices in the international market has affected the availability of resources in Nigeria in terms of budget and that has even led to slight recession.

“So what Nigeria is looking at is a long time planning that will diminish and reduce the dependence on oil and put more focus

on other productive sectors. As a UN institution, we are accompanying Nigeria in that type of thinking and hopefully in the implementation of this new plan that has just been adopted,’’ he said.

He noted that most African countries did not add value to the agricultural products before exporting them to other countries.

“While they are processing these products, they are also creating wealth and creating jobs for their people. Whereas, if we put in place the necessary policies and processes that would create value for the products we are making, it will help us a great deal.

While explaining that Nigeria was in process of raising the stature of agriculture that would actually form the basis for industrialization, Boko urged the government to ensure proper industrialisation policy for the country that would be the pillar for sustained growth and help create employment for the people.

cent Ticket Sales Charge and the Cargo Sales Charge (CSC) collected on behalf of the agencies by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) while others receive more than that.

According to Olateru, the NCAA in accordance with the Civil Aviation Act 2006, gets 58 per cent, the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) earns 23 per cent, Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT) gets 7 per cent while the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) receives 9 per cent of the total sum.

“Only FAAN earned the PSC 100 per cent, the same agency still collects charges for adverts, parking and landing of aircraft, land and tolls on vehicles coming in and exiting the airports across the country.

“Anybody that says it is not fair for us to get a part of the PSC is wicked because who owns the two agencies? It’s the Federal Government. We all share the TSC and FAAN doesn’t share its PSC with anybody. I don’t think that the 5 per cent is too much. It is within the power of the minister to do that.

“But, one thing that is critical to us is that we have to work on in our budget on the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) side is the issue of accident investigation and training.

These are critical. We need to build our capacities in accident investigation; there are certain things we need to improve upon, there are processes that we need to review, there is public sentitisation that we need to do.

Olateru had initially demanded from the Ministry a 10 per cent share of the PSC collected by FAAN, citing inadequate funds in the bureau to carry out most of its projects as some of the challenges facing it.

19

The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

BUSINESS

NLNG assures on adequate supply of cooking gas

he Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) Tsupply has reiterated its commitment to sustained of cooking gas to the local market, to

(L-R): Convener, Women In Journalism Africa Conference, Yomi Owope; Director Special Duties, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Lami Tumaka; Professor Anthea Garman, Rhodes University South Africa and Adesuwa Oyenokwe, Publisher Today’s Woman at the Women In Journalism Africa Conference 2017 in Lagos, last weekend.

MDAs face sanctions over Executive Order

By VICTOR NZE

F

ederal Government warned various Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to implement the Executive Order on the Promotion of Transparency and Efficiency in the Business Environment recently signed into law by the Acting President, Yemi Osinbajo, or risk sanction.

In a circular titled “Further Directives on the Implementation of the Executive Order 001, 2017 by Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs)”, signed by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Winifred Oyo-Ita and issued

to all the MDAs of government, Federal Government directed the agencies to ‘set up an Implementation Team for Executive Order No.001 of not more than five (5) staff members to be headed by an officer in the Directorate Cadre.’

According to the circular, ‘the progress of implementation of the Executive Order No. 001 shall be tracked and the performance of MDAs ranked and reported to the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) such that star performing MDAs will be recognized and those otherwise sanctioned.’

The circular also informed the MDAs,

that a ‘Focus Workshop on the Operationalization of the EO- 001, 2017 for members of the implementation team is scheduled to hold at two sessions per day on Wednesdays and Thursday from 28th June to 27th July, 2017, at the conference room of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF).’

It further directed that ‘attendance is mandatory for nominated officials as earlier directed and that ministries will be expected to hold in-house workshop and thereafter include their other staff and agencies under their supervision.’

SEC extends deadline for issuance of dividend warrants to year end

By SAMSON AKINTARO

T

he Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has extended the deadline for stoppage of issuance of physical dividend warrants in the nation’s capital market to December 31, 2017.

SEC Head, Corporate Communications, Mr Naif Abdussalam, who disclosed this in in Lagos, Wednesday, said that the deadline was extended to give room for investors to key into the e-dividend payment platform.

Abdussalam who further explained that the extension became necessary to perfect the commission’s rules on issuance of dividend warrants that was exposed to the public a week ago, added that the process would be a thing of the past by December 31, 2017, with the amendment of the rules and keying into the e-dividend payment platform by more investors.

SEC had in 2016 announced June 30, 2017, as deadline for issuance of physical dividend warrants to shareholders by quoted companies to tackle unclaimed dividends and mitigate the risks associated with warrants.

He also said that SEC had extended the underwriting cost of investors edividend registration to December 31, 2017 from against the earlier underwriting deadline of June 30, 2017.

“E- dividend simply refers to an online system of paying dividends to investors when companies declare dividends, which are the profits meant for

investors, rather than send it by post, they will just wire it to the investor’s bank account.’’

He stated that the commission’s deci-

sion to continue to underwrite the cost till December 31, was part of its developmental role to curb the menace of unclaimed dividend.

By VICTOR NZE

the selection process in a bid to give credibility and add transparency to the process.

“They will affirm the computerised process of selecting the winners while representatives of National Lottery and Consumer Protection Council are also involved in the process.”

Also, Ope Wemi-Jones, Group Head, Inclusive Banking explained that all savings accounts in the bank namely; Premier Saving, Target Savings, Solo, Early Savers, Instant Savings Tier 1 and 2 and Evergreen are qualified for the promo.

“The minimum qualifying balance of N150,000 is not required on each Family Member account as the minimum balance at the qualifying level of N150,000.00 is required as a cumulative balance across Family Members account. However, each account must maintain a minimum balance of N20,000 to qualify for the Family Fortune Promo,” Wemi-Jones.

At the event, Joseph Olajimiti and Edomobi Kelechi were announced winners of movie ticket and GOtv decoder respectively.

More winners emerge in Access Bank ‘Family Fortune’ promo

M

ore winners have been announced in the recently-launched Access Bank Family Fortune Promo following a draw which took place at the bank’s corporate head office, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Speaking at the media unveiling of the new winners, Executive Director, Business Banking Division, Access Bank, Titi Osuntoki, said the Family Savings Scheme is designed to encourage families to save together and enjoy exclusive privileges (Interest rates and family rewards) while they continue to enjoy the confidentiality of their banking relation and manage their accounts as unique individuals.

“On this account, we pay interest that is superior to what you get on a normal savings account. On a weekly basis, we have a random selection of winners from our Family Savings Promo. Customers who signed up for the scheme will have the opportunity to win life changing prizes,” she explained.

She said Ernest & Young will review

boost domestic consumption and a cleaner environment.

Manager, Media Communications, NLNG, Mr Tony Okonedo, who disclosed this in a statement in Lagos, Friday, said that the Managing Director of Nigeria LNG, Mr Tony Attah, restated the commitment during a visit to key Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) facilities in Apapa.

Attah said that the assurance became necessary to ensure the use of cleaner energy for the health benefit of Nigerians and for a cleaner environment, in line with the mission of the company to help to build a better Nigeria.

According to him, NLNG is the biggest receptacle for gas in the country and its contribution has changed the game in the nation’s gas industry.

“We have since helped in the reduction of gas flared in the country from 65% to less than 20 per cent. And as part of our vision to help build a better Nigeria, we are focused on the sustained supply of LPG in a bid to deepen its usage in the country.

“Also, to promote a healthy environment, and reduce deaths from inhalation of smoke from the combustion of dirty fuels,’’ he said.

Attah said that the volume of LPG in the market was less than 50,000 tonnes per annum, before the NLNG intervention in 2007, and since then, deliveries had been on the increase with 262,000 tonnes delivered in 2016.

Arik Air resumes Abuja-Accra flights, July 17 rik Air has announced that it will resume A daily flight operations between Abuja and Accra, Ghana on July 17.

The airline’s Chief Executive Officer, Capt.

Roy Ilegbodu, who disclosed this in a statement, Friday, in Lagos, added that the resumption of flights between the two countries was part of efforts to satisfy the company’s customers, explaining that flights were suspended on the same route in March following the closure of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, due to runway repair works.

“The re-introduction of the Abuja-Accra operation is part of the management’s strategy to optimise flight schedule and respond to the needs of our valued customers. Arik Air has been in the forefront of providing customercentred services since our inception and we will continue to respond to the needs of our customers,” the CEO said in a statement.

Dana Air introduces new payment plan for passengers

D

ana Air has introduced another customer-centric product called “Pay with Dana Miles,’’ as part of efforts to enhance its service delivery to its customers.

Communications Manager of Dana Air, Mr Kingsley Ezenwa, who announced this in a statement issued, Friday, in Lagos, said with the “Pay with Dana Miles’’ initiative, members of the airlines’ frequent flyer programme could now use their miles as they desire, for payment of excess baggage or an upgrade from economy class to business class.

According to him, they can also use it to exchange miles for tickets and still get loads of benefits attached to the frequent flyer programme of the airline.

“We are excited to introduce the ‘Pay with Dana Miles’ initiative, which offers our guests the opportunity to use their miles as they desire.

The pay with Dana Miles initiative is just our way of providing more options for our guests and keeping our strategic mission, which is to earn the loyalty and respect of our customers by consistently demonstrating our commitment to service,” Ezenwa said.

20

The Oracle Today WednesdayJuly 19, 2017

ENERGY

Nigeria’s June oil output hits 2.225 mbd Stories by Sopuruchi Onwuka

N

igeria’s crude oil export in the month of June soared by 50,000 barrels per day to 1.78 million barrels per day (mbd) in the month of June, helping the Organization of Petroleum Countries (OPEC) to also increase cumulative market supplies by 220,000 barrels per day to 32.49 mbd.

According to figures of oil exports from OPEC members for the month of June compiled and published by Platts, Nigeria’s oil output to the market is recording rising trend from 1.65 mbd in April, 1.73 mbd in May and 1.78 mbd in June.

The Oracle Today reports that figures compiled by Platts indicate only volumes of crude oil lifted legally for export and tracked to destination. Platts does not keep track of illegal exports and the normal 445,000 barrels per day reserved for local refineries but often swapped for refined products with offshore refiners.

When all legal crude oil production volumes are added, Nigeria’s total output for the month of June sums to 2.225 mbd.

According to the figures, Nigeria’s output rose 50,000 b/d to 1.78 mbd the highest since January 2016, as key export grade Forcados returned from force majeure, more than offsetting the force majeure declared June 8 on Bonny Light exports, as well as unplanned maintenance on the Bonga field.

There are indications that the capacity recovery will continue to increase Nigeria’s production and export volumes but likely OPEC restriction might limit output as the group seeks to arrest sliding oil prices in the market by applying coordinated production squeeze with other key producers in the world.

Industrialized nations led by the United States struggle to attain energy independence through enhanced production technologies that unblock unconventional oil and gas sources eventhough cost might be higher.

Despite the output squeeze, OPEC’s crude oil production has

• As OPEC overproduces by 600,000 b/d

OPEC production (in million b/d) Member June Change May April Algeria 1.06 0.00 1.06 1.04 Angola 1.66 0.02 1.64 1.68 Ecuador 0.52 0.00 0.52 0.52 Equatorial Guinea 0.14 -0.01 0.15 Gabon 0.20 -0.01 0.21 0.21 Iran 3.80 0.02 3.78 3.77 Iraq 4.45 0.02 4.43 4.36 Kuwait 2.71 0.01 2.70 2.70 Libya 0.81 0.08 0.73 0.55 Nigeria 1.78 0.05 1.73 1.65 Qatar 0.61 0.00 0.61 0.61 Saudi Arabia 9.97 0.04 9.93 9.97 UAE 2.87 0.03 2.84 2.84 Venezuela 1.91 -0.03 1.94 1.95 Total 32.49 0.22 32.27 31.85 risen 500,000 b/d in the last two months, as the continued recoveries of Nigeria and Libya pushed the bloc’s output to 32.49 million b/d, according to the latest S&P Global Platts OPEC survey released July 6.

The June output figure, an increase of 220,000 b/d from May, is a six-month high for the organization, complicating its efforts to hasten the oil market’s rebalancing through production cuts that went into force January 1.

The production rises in Libya and Nigeria, which were exempted from the agreement as they recovered from militancy, have sent the organization’s collective output almost 600,000 b/d above its stated ceiling of around 31.9 million b/d when new member Equatorial Guinea is added in and suspended member Indonesia is subtracted.

This comes even as compliance among OPEC’s 12 countries with quotas under the agreement remains robust at 116%, according to an average of January through June production, as seven coun-

tries led by largest member Saudi Arabia have cut more than required.

Saudi Arabia saw its output rise in the month to 9.97 million b/d, according to the survey, as the kingdom’s crude exports rose significantly and the onset of summer drove domestic consumption of oil to power air conditioning.

But that is still far below its quota under the deal of 10.06 million b/d.

Second largest member Iraq grew production slightly to 4.45 million b/d, remaining the least compliant country in terms of output above its quota, which is 4.35 million b/d.

Iran, OPEC’s third largest producer, also saw a slight increase in output to 3.8 million b/d, right at its quota under the deal.

Venezuela saw the largest decrease in the month, with production falling 30,000 b/d to 1.91 million b/d, the survey found, as the country’s economic crisis continued to worsen, with various refinery units and heavy crude upgraders being

OPEC production vs. cut allocations (in million b/d) Country Jan-May avg Allocation Over/under Algeria 1.046 1.039 0.007 Angola 1.641 1.673 -0.032 Ecuador 0.520 0.522 -0.002 Gabon 0.204 0.193 0.011 Iran 3.758 3.797 -0.039 Iraq 4.415 4.351 0.064 Kuwait 2.702 2.707 -0.005 Libya 0.648 (exempt) Nigeria 1.663 (exempt) Qatar 0.614 0.618 -0.004 Saudi Arabia 9.948 10.058 -0.110 UAE 2.872 2.874 -0.002 Venezuela 1.971 1.972 -0.001 shut down and extra heavy crude production being shut in.

New member Equatorial Guinea produced 140,000 b/d in June, down from 150,000 b/d in May, according to the survey.

Diplomatically isolated Qatar, meanwhile, has yet to see any impact to production from the economic blockade imposed by Persian Gulf neighbors Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain and Oman, with output remaining steady at 610,000 b/d.

Libya’s production, boosted by the return of several fields that had been shut in by civil strife, rose 80,000 b/d on the month to average 810,000 b/d, its highest level since October 2014, when output averaged at 860,000 b/d, according to Platts survey data.

Nigeria’s output, meanwhile, rose 50,000 b/d to 1.78 million b/d, the highest since January 2016, as key export grade Forcados returned from force majeure, more than offsetting the force majeure declared June 8 on Bonny Light exports, as well as unplanned maintenance on the Bonga field.

The combined output of Libya and Nigeria is now about 380,000 b/d above their October level, the benchmark month from which OPEC based its 1.2 million b/d cut in its output agreement.

Further recoveries appear likely, as militancy has quieted in both countries for the moment.

Analysts have said that if the two countries’ gains prove sustainable, they may need to be brought into the fold if other OPEC members do not wish to see their cuts undermined.

The deal, which also includes 10 non-OPEC countries led by Russia that agreed to a collective 558,000 b/d cut, was recently extended to March 2018.

A monitoring committee composed of ministers from Kuwait, Russia, Algeria, Venezuela and Oman are scheduled to meet July 22-24 in St. Petersburg, Russia, to discuss market conditions.

The Platts estimates were obtained by surveying OPEC and oil industry officials, traders and analysts, as well as reviewing proprietary shipping data.

NCDMB to sign SLAs with oil firms O

il and gas exploration and production companies in the country will soon be required to enter into Service Level Agreements (SLAs) with Federal Government on use of in local materials and services in project delivery.

The SLAs would commit the parties to compliance with Nigerian Content Act and timely approval of documents on project proposals, work plans, budgets and award of contracts. The current long contract cycle time has been decried by private players in the industry as one of the slowest project processes in the world.

Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Mr Simbi Wabote, stated at a meeting with the Managing Director of ExxonMobil in Nigeria, Mr Paul

McGrath, that the measure was a deliberate strategy to grow Nigerian Content in the oil and gas industry.

He said government would continue to encourage operating companies to introduce and execute new projects needed to sustain patronage for industry service sector.

Mr Wabote reiterated the board’s determination to shorten the industry contracting cycle, which, according to him, informed the adoption of definite timelines for statutory approvals and pioneering the development and use of Service Level Agreements (SLAs).

The first SLA was signed between the NCDMB and the Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas Company (NLNG) and it commits

the parties to compliance with Nigerian Content Act and timely approvals of documents respectively.

The model, according to Mr Wabote, would soon be replicated with other operating companies.

Wabote advised ExxonMobil to begin early to engage the Board on the development of its Owowo field to enhance utilization of incountry capacities.

He cautioned operating companies against engaging in single sourcing and selective tendering, stressing that reasons for such must be justifiable and discussed with the Board ahead of execution. He also warned companies against irregular spot hiring and utilization of vessels under the guise of emergency.

On the status of the Nigerian

Content Intervention Fund (NCIF) Wabote explained that disbursement to deserving companies was yet to start because the Board is working to perfect the governance process.

He added that the Funds would only be disbursed through a banking process, after proper risk assessments so as to create the needed confidence and trust.

Mr. Paul McGrath who hosted the delegation from NCDMB admitted that the provisions of the Nigerian Content Act are not only legal and moral obligation on all players in the industry but also a good strategy for improving profitability and sustainability of operations.

Admitting that the company had defaulted in complying with some provisions of the Act in the

past, McGrath who was appointed in March 2017 assured that the oil giant would henceforth comply with all provisions of the Act alongside associated regulations.

He added that ExxonMobil would also seek the guidance of NCDMB when faced with difficulties and exigencies of business.

“The new leadership has zero tolerance for Nigerian Content violations and non-compliance issues. If we must do, we have to first discuss with NCDMB for guidance,” he said.

He pledged the company’s total support for the government’s initiatives, stating that it is open to staff exchange between the two organisations and is working to open a liaison office in the Board’s new headquarters, when completed in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

21

The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

B

When its Director of Administration and founder, New World Int’l Schools and soon-to-take off New World University, Dr. Alpha Justice spoke with us at our corporate office at 116 Awka Road, Onitsha, it was with such candour that one couldn’t but see the system through his own eyes and voice

ADOO cultists wreak havoc in Ikorodu. CULT war leaves two dead in Enugu. RESURGENCE of cult clashes claims 7 lives in Rivers.

PARENTS warned as fraternities target primary, secondary school pupils in recruitment drive. ACTION AIDS decries increasing rate of teenage pregnancy among primary, secondary school pupils! HIGH FAILURE RATES worry WAEC, NECO. JAMB withholds 85,000 results over exam malpractice…

The foregoing are typical headlines in contemporary Nigerian daily newspapers, all pointers to the almost inexorable moral decadence into which the society has regressed. Much of this evidently ugly situation is owed to the steady decline, over the years, in the capacity of the system to provide sound foundation education to the younger generation.

Yet, we use the phrase ‘almost inexorable moral decadence’ advisedly here because, as bad as the situation may be, there are also many voices of reason out there who insist that society must never be allowed to go to the hades but must be saved from itself, weaned from disintegrative tendencies that tear at the very foundation of its existence or its capacity to self-regenerate. In this day and age, these tendencies may well be promoted by the ravenous Devil himself. But, good men and or groups, inspired by the spirit of the Good Shepherd Himself, would always arise to counteract the Devil and save the human family from self-destruction.

Enter Christian Association of Proprietors of Private Schools in Nigeria (CAPPS-Nigeria). An umbrella body of all Christian mission/private schools in Nigeria, CAPPS-Nigeria is described as the “first and foremost association of concerned Christian leaders, educational stakeholders, administrators and proprietors, driven by passion for academic and moral excellence among all pupils/ students to organize themselves into a self-regulating body whose principal aim is to propagate the kingdom of God on earth through quality and functional education.”

When its Director of Administration and founder, New World Int’l Schools and soon-to-take off New World University, Dr. Alpha Justice spoke with us at our corporate office at 116 Awka Road, Onitsha, it was with such candour that one couldn’t but see the system through his own eyes and voice. “The system is seemingly hopeless,” he noted. “But, CAPPS-NIGERIA seeks to innovate cutting edge programmes and services to meet the diverse educational challenges and needs of these times.”

Indeed, at a time of moral turpitude in schools and society generally, CAPPS, a body corporate, comes as an interventionist, correctional group, a faith-based, not-for-profit, non-governmental organization to foster educational advancement among the youth through ecumenism. Its founders promote it as an effective answer to the careering nature of the nation’s foundation education at the moment, a voluntary attempt by concerned individuals and groups, locally and internationally, to make education at the foundation level wholesome again, so that prod-

The

CEO Report

“

“

With Oguejiofor Phone: 08076290498 (SMS only)

To save education, we must secure the foundation –Dr. Alpha Justice

ucts of the school system—public and or private—will, in future, become the leading lights of the society that they truly should be.

Mending the broken school system is as necessary as it is a Herculean task, even more so for a non-governmental authority, to be sure. How does Justice hope to surmount the hurdle, the limitations that not being a governmental authority imposes on CAPPS as it seeks to change the “ugly narrative” of exam malpractice, drug abuse, moral depravity, cultism, robbery and several other forms of criminalities that has become the lot of the nation’s foundation school system?

“We will create a synergic relationship with the government,” he declared matter-of-factly. “This is necessary because every school system obtains within an environment emplaced and supervised by the government. So, we will partner with governments towards achieving the desired paradigm shift we seek to achieve in, and for the greater good of, the nation’s foundation education.”

CAPPS works through four strategic pillars in its effort to effectively address the challenges facing education in Nigeria at the foundation level. According to Justice, an ICT expert and a multi-lingual teacher of the Word, these include: 1) Improvement in the infrastructure of teaching and learning; 2) Improvement in teachers’ quality and welfare; 3) Intel-

lectual and moral development of the pupil/students and, 4) invigoration and enhancement of the proprietors’ unity, welfare and protection.

All of the foregoing cohere with CAPPS’ vision of promoting in-depth research and intellectual development that would place education in its rightful pedestal as the desired path to acquiring life-enhancing skills, knowledge and information.

A rallying point for concerned Christian leaders and educators, CAPPS, Justice added, also has a mission to “advocate for and promote qualitative and functional education by encouraging and inculcating good reading culture and entrepreneurial skills in the present generation of pupils/students in Nigeria’s education system.”

He pointed out that a very pragmatic way of accomplishing this mission is through what he called CAPPS Championship, which he described as “an annual academic competition for uplifting the…low quality of education and eradicating vices in all schools, such as anti-intellectual dispositions, examination malpractices, cultism, curriculum inconsistencies, fraudulence, tribal bigotry in admission procedures and moral decadence, among others.”

In a certain sense, it is like the old National Schools’ Debate on NTA, whereby secondary school pupils from two schools at a time were often brought together in the studio to face one an-

other in a live TV debate on any topic considered important by the organizers. Alpha Justice stressed: “CAPPS CHAMPIONSHIP is also an annual contest for schools where pupils and or students compete against one another in answering questions on formal school subjects in order to win prizes for themselves and their schools, wards, local councils, constituencies/ districts, states and regions.”

Justice said the line-up from each group for the debate would be like a team’s First Eleven. He explained that the overall objective of this method of selection is to get pupils/students to aspire to be among the first eleven at any one point in time, thereby promoting learning and healthy competition in an academic environment.

“Here, the 11 pupils/students of same school team up to compete in terms of their ability to use the positive knowledge of what they have studied in and learned from their schools to answer questions from a panel of judges, thereby scoring points in order to advance to higher levels of the competition,” Dr. Justice stressed, adding. “(The idea) is to inspire a new spirit of academic research and excellence through healthy educational competitions.”

Justice decried the “misuses of the social media (Facebook, Whatsapp, Instagram, Twitter etc) by the youth, agonizing that “these have affected our young students negatively.”

“The uncontrolled passion for sports and other trends in TV entertainment such as ‘MTN Project Fame’, ‘Gulder Ultimate Search’ and ‘Big Brother Nigeria’, among others, adds little or no educational value to our pupils/students,” he lamented. “It is to help redirect this trend that CAPPS CHAMPIONSHIP was created.”

Justice, a puritanical preacher who hails from Enugu-Agidi in Anambra State and who does not believe in divorce or that a man should remarry even if his wife divorces him, further explained that the championship is designed to involve pupils from the 36 States of the federation and Abuja— CAPPS CHAMPIONSHIP makes Nigerian functional education one, promotes the interest and catches the champions young, he said.

“The contest covers all the 36 States of Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja; the six geopolitical zones; the 109 senatorial districts; the 774 local councils and the 9572 wards across Nigeria,” Justice, a renowned author of several books, including 7 Reasons a Christian Must Not Divorce, said. “Every pupil/students shall have equal opportunity to contest through the selection processes in accordance with their academic performance.”

22

The Oracle Today, Wednesday July 19, 2017

e-Platform Stories by SAMSON AKINTARO

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igeria may remain a backward nation in technology except the government and the people bring its education system in tune with modern day realities, experts have said. This came as they berated lack of innovations among youths and professionals in the country.

Speaking at fourth Women in Journalism Africa Conference with the theme: ‘Pioneers, Innovators and the brave new world’, panelists noted that lack of innovation was not only affecting businesses in Nigeria but also affecting the economy. According to Dr. Ikechukwu Obiaya, a media professional and dean of the School of Media and Communication of the Pan-Atlantic University, Lagos, the Nigerian education system teaches students to stick to what they are being thought without giving any room for students to think on their own and come up with their own ideas. “It is a matter of take in and give out, students are not allowed to think critically. This kills innovative spirit and until we move away from this system, we will still remain backwards in technology innovations” he said.

However, Mrs Teju Ajani, a business development executive, urged Nigerian youths to take up the challenge of being innovative without considering their immediate environment or wait for encouragement from anybody. “Don’t wait for anybody, be the innovator. This is a world of free innovation because for whatever you want to do, there is always free information on the internet, go and search for it” she said.

Also speaking, Mr Anderson Uvie-Emeagbo, Executive Vice President at Chicago Institute of Business, USA, said the lack of innovation is affecting several businesses in the country as founders of such businesses also believe in the old system of doing business and would not embrace innovations even when suggested to them by younger employees. Relating this to media organisations in the country, he said the media in Nigeria are not taking advantage of the digital platforms brought by technology; hence, their businesses could not grow. Citing an example of a radio station in Ghana, which has gone digital and making money from its digital platforms, Uvie-Emeagbo said media outfit that want to succeed in this 21st century must lever-

L: R: Mr Anderson Uvie-Emeagbo, Executive Vice President at Chicago Institute of Business, USA; Colete Otuesho, Marketing Communications professional; and Dr. Ikechukwu Obianya, a media professional, discussing as panelists at the 2017 Women in Journalism Africa Conference in Lagos.

Education system killing innovations in ICT –Experts age on digital platforms. According to him, Joy FM, a radio station in Ghana, has a website that is the most visited in the country.

This, he said, was because their entire programmes extend to their website and the audiences follow it.

Meanwhile, speakers at the conference also noted that technology has changed the media landscape, urging practitioners to embrace the new trend. Mrs Judith Okonkwo, the Founder of Imisi 3D, while re-

acting to a question on the nexus between technology and media, said technology has become an enabler for media. “The digital platforms have changed the way the media works and at the same time changed the way people consume information. With your mobile phone, you can report live from anywhere and people can watch you from anywhere and this means that the media has been democratized” she said, adding, “we all need to explore new technolo-

NCC takes broadband campaign to ITU Telecom World 2017

T

he Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced that the participation of Nigeria at the yearly International Telecommunications Union (ITU) conference would focus on deepening the growing broadband segment of the market in the country.

The event, which is scheduled to hold in Busan, South Korea, from September 25 – 28, 2017, would receive a high level delegation from Nigeria to be led by the Honourable Minister of Communications, Barrister Abdulraheem Adebayo Shittu, Nigeria’s Chief Telecoms Regulator and Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta, industry stakeholders and operators.

The ITU Telecom World 2017 is a global platform for major industry players, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), Countries and Organisations to network and share ideas about new developments and technologies that

would lead to better connected societies.

It is an event for International visibility of innovative Information and Communications Technology (ICT), Products/Services and solutions from around the World.

In general terms, it involves high level debates on the core issues affecting ICT industry, sharing knowledge and working for sustainable development.

Although Nigeria has had a very robust telecommunications sector with active connected subscribers in the region of 150million and about 110percent teledensity, the NCC believes that more efforts should be deployed to deepen broadband penetration.

By the National Broadband Plan, NBP (2013 – 2018) the country is expected to attain 30 per cent broadband penetration by 2018, which currently stands at 21 per cent. Nigeria is billedto host an investment forum at ITU Telecom World 2017 and Broadband Nigeria would be at the focus of discussions, according to NCC.

gies and we all have the opportunitiy to get involved now.

However, Rich Tanksley, a start-up specialist, said the democratization of media through technology has also brought the issue of trust in the media as anybody can produce content and disseminate them via the digital platforms which are free to use.

“The challenge is the ability for the people to know which news content to trust and which not to trust” he said.

Etisalat, Comptel launch time-based data solution E

•NCC EVC, Prof Umar Dambatta

tisalat Nigeria has launched a time-based mobile data solution, called BlazeOn, powered by Comptel’s FWD solution. According to the company, the launch of BlazeOn, an Android App available to Etisalat marked the beginning of a new experience in mobile data usage for subscribers on its network.

Speaking at the launch,the Director, Consumer Segment, Etisalat Nigeria, Adeolu Dairo, said, “most internet users in Nigeria don’t know how much mobile data they consume while browsing or streaming. BlazeOn, our timebased data plan addresses this situation as it redefines the purchase experience for our customers and empowers them to buy Etisalat Easyblaze data plans in minutes and hours.”

“BlazeOn demonstrates Etisalat Nigeria’s commitment to deliver superior customer experience to its subscribers. Our goal is to create more value for our customers by improving quality, reducing cost and introducing innovation. By getting more people online, we hope to empower Nigerians to reach their potential and thereby stimulate the economy,” he said.

FWD is a cloud-based solution that enables time-based data packages to be purchased directly from end user devices. It makes the data purchasing process more personal for consumers, allowing them to purchase mobile data in bite-sized chunks that are easier to understand and manage. To enjoy the service, customers on the Etisalat network must download the BlazeOn App from the Etisalat website etisalat.com.ng/blazeon/ free of charge or install the app from Google PlayStore or Galaxy App Store.

23

The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

e-Platform

Interswitch partners Visa on accelerated mobile payments

By SAMSON AKINTARO

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isa Inc., the global leader in payments, and Interswitch, Africa’s leading integrated payments and transaction Solutions Company, have announced a new partnership to accelerate mobile payments adoption across Africa. The partnership will see Visa and Interswitch upgrade the digital banking applications of leading banks to include mVisa, as well as enable more merchants to accept mVisa payments.

mVisa is an innovative mobile payments solution that allows consumers to pay for goods from any type of phone by either scanning a QR code , or entering a merchant number. According to Visa, with mVisa, payment goes straight from the consumer’s account into the merchant’s account and provides real-time notification to both parties. “mVisa is completely interoperable, meaning that the consumer and the merchant do not need to be customers of the same bank. It can also be used to enable consumers who use different mobile

phones and services to interact.

This brings a versatile and secure mobile money solution, powered

by Visa, to consumers everywhere” it said. “Consumers will experience the same look, feel and familiarity of their banking app but now they will have the option of making an mVisa payment in an easy-to-understand way. The solution is expected to be rolled out to Nigerian consumers before the end of 2017”.

The companies noted that the partnership would also enable more merchants to accept mVisa, which would benefit the

millions of local merchants and SMEs who represent up to 60 percent of Nigeria’s economy.

With the partnership, Interswitch will work very closely with Visa in selected African markets across West and East Africa to develop a Merchant Management Platform to receive Original Credit Transactions (OCT) from Visa as well as app-based merchant enrolment solutions, which enable minimum Static QR code functionality.

“We are excited by the prospects of mVisa for Nigeria as a mobile payment solution which

brings real benefits to drive digital transformation”, said Emezino Afiegbe, Country Manager for Visa West Africa. Akeem Lawal, Divisional CEO for the Switching and Processing Business at Interswitch Group said that “this partnership with Visa was a result of a shared passion for promoting digital payments as a way for all merchants to be able to accept payments without expensive infrastructure. There was an alignment of objectives from the start that made this an easy relationship, like having an interoperable platform”

Infinix unveils Note 4 with ‘Xpen’

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•ICT Engineers laying out fibre cable at a site in the country

MainOne completes repair of submarine cable M

ainOne has announced the completion of repair works on its submarine cable with a final splice in the morning of Sunday, July 2, 2017. The company has also conducted subsequent tests to ensure the cable is in good operating condition.

In a statement issued by the company, the Chief Executive Officer, Funke Opeke expressed the company’s appreciation to its customers and partners for the patience and support during the recent outage incident on the MainOne submarine cable which occurred on Sunday June 18, 2017.

Describing the outage as a Force Majeure, due to movement in the seabed, the Chief Executive Officer highlighted the company’s efforts to resolve the outage to its customers.

“The submarine cable fault was in a known area of ridges in the seabed, at a location 3400 meters

water depth in the international waters outside Senegal. After we discovered the outage and isolated the fault to a location 3000km South of Portugal, our operational processes and disaster recovery plans worked as expected and we deployed a repair vessel from our membership in the Atlantic Cable and Maintenance Agreement which left France by 8am on Monday June 19th 2017.

The vessel travelled to Portland, United Kingdom, where it picked up critical spares and then journeyed to the repair location which was further isolated to within a 2 kilometer range while the vessel was in transit. We have concluded a full repair of the submarine cable with a final splice yesterday, Sunday July 2, 2017.

The cable has been tested to be in good operating condition and we have since restored all our customer’s services to normal operat-

ing conditions”, she said.

She continued “During this period, we had some restoration capacity and rerouted internet traffic on our network via alternative routes to minimize the impact of the outage to our customers.

However, we were unable to provide enough capacity and interconnection to fully restore our entire network.

We realize many of our customers have become solely reliant on MainOne for Internet services and we will continue to secure more restoration capacity in case of any such eventualities in the future”.

While thanking its customers and partners for their cooperation and support during this outage, the company reiterated its commitment to transforming West Africa from a resource-based economy to a fully digitized, knowledgebased economy.

hinese mobile manufacturer, Infinix Mobility, has launched into the Nigerian market tow models of its Note Series known as Note 4 and Note 4 pro. For the first time, the Ifinix Note 4 comes with pen named ‘Xpen’ for taking quick notes to exemplify the ‘Note’ in the series.

With a unique value proposition of fast charging, the Note 4 pro has the theme ‘5 minutes charge 250 minutes talk time’ and a battery life of 4500MAH, which charges five times faster and is equipped with Xcharge 4.0., according to the company. Both the Note 4 and Note 4 Pro’ runs on 7.0 Android. It also comes with other remarkable features such as 5.7FHD screen, 13MP AF back camera, 8MP-mega pixels front camera, Xpen, Octa-core 1.3GHz 64bits, 32GB ROM, with expandable storage space to 128gb and 3GB RAM, 4G enabled and XOS 2.3.

•Infinix Note 4

Speaking at the launch in Lagos, Mr Bruno Li, Regional Manager Infinix Africa, said, “the Note 3 was a huge success last year which tells us we have passed the threshold of being new brand to being a strong household name in this market. With the Note 4, we want to empower customers to take charge and make the needful change with their lifestyle”.

With a promise to customers to retain its DNA of stylish design, big screen, big battery and ‘super- fast’ charge, Infinix Mobility launched Note 3 in 2016 and claimed it success pushed it to become ‘Nigeria’s most searched Android smartphone on Google’, saying it was the first time a mid-range smartphone would take search lead. The Note 4 and Note 4 Pro, which became available in the Nigerian market from July 7, come in three unique colours: champagne Gold, Ice Blue and Milan Black.

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The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

ISSN: 2545-5869

www.oraclenews.ng

VOX POPULI SACRUM

EDITORIAL

National Assembly for these times

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not be regular times when they attend to geria today. They are unaware of the depths VERYBODY thinks something is wrong the complaints and needs of their constituinto which the hopes of their constituents with Nigeria – and that something ents? Is there any punishment for those who have fallen. needs to be done about it – except the collect resources for the running of these What have Nigerians not done to attract the National Assembly, which appears to offices without operating them? attention of their representatives?

How be legislating, when it does, for another In those fleeting moments of wakefulness have they not been patient, with the false country. The din that agitations for all when the National assembly invites governhope that one day, legislators would relate things, depending on the parts of the ment officials to account for some matters, closely enough with their representatives, country, generate, do not affect the Nait is obvious that the issues at stake have so that the views that they proffer at the tional Assembly. It is deaf to the yearning everything for the benefit of the members National Assembly would reflect the people of the people. of the National Assembly, not the ordinary and their trials?

The attitude of the legislators would not Nigerian, who is at a loss about who thinks Does the National Assembly behave as if it surprise many. In 18 years of civilian rule, about him in Nigeria. Members of the Nais aware that the country has been at the the National Assembly has been mostly tional Assembly are too privileged to rememprecipice for months? Has the National aloof. The voices of its members are heard ber that there has to be a people, a country, Assembly made any moves that reflect the when matters that affect them are raised. for them to keep their positions. mood of Nigerians? Does the National AsIt would be at such moments that they sembly know that Nigerians are afraid to explain the importance of their work. They We need a National Assembly that will attend move freely around their country, though sound impressive, but the people do not to the needs of Nigerians now. We are not they are mindful of the liberties that the understand what they do. asking for dissolution of the National AssemConstitution grants them?

From sheer violations of their oaths of office bly. Our simple request is that the National to the unwillingness to relate to their variAssembly learns to act for the people with ous constituents, members of the National What do we expect the National Assembly to whose mandate its members are living their do? It can through motions and consultaAssembly have failed to feel what Nigeprivileged lives. tions with the Executive erect assurances rians feel. They have placed themselves There is hunger in the land. The dangers of beabout the possibilities of Nigerians living above the circumstances of the people ing Nigerian, living in Nigeria and which face wherever pleases them in peace. Being a they serve, through layers of comfort they the future of Nigeria, are increasing. Our collection of Nigerians from different parts have created for themselves. representatives have to step up to the agiof the country, and representing the varitations, the contestations, and the speculaous peoples of those parts, members of the They live above the challenges of Nigerians. tions about the future of Nigeria.

They have National Assembly could bring the pains They have enough resources from the systo take a stand; they have to be counted on and plans of their peoples to the floors of tem to maintain lifestyles that shield them the sides that count for Nigerians.

They canthe National Assembly as immediate ways from the crushing realities of living in Ninot wish these away. They cannot maintain of harnessing the opportunities of imperious stances on their importance over dialogue in resolving the emergthe needs of Nigerians. ing confusion.

It is time the leadership of the National AssemInstead of doing this, they are bly realised that the most important issue in consumed by the privileges they Nigeria today is how we live with one anhave created for their offices. other, or without one another. The issue is so They have also foisted a certain imminent that no pretence can mitigate its importance on the things they do, importance. making laws, some of which are making no meaningful contributions to the lives of Nigerians.

Our Vision Rarely do the oppressions that Nigerians face attract the attenTO BE among the top five newspapers in Nigeria and, in due course, the Numero Uno; to be a newspaper of tion of the National Assembly. records that effectively caters to the information needs When protesters bring their of all segments and sections of the Nigerian society as issues to the National Assembly, well as all social classes and cultures. Essentially, we they are denied entry to the fore want to be a responsible corporate citizen, a commercourt of the Assembly, where cially viable, properly organised media business, which those who thought our democmeets its obligations to society, government and the racy would be about the people, workforce. constructed huge spaces for the Mission purpose.

Gates of the National assembly WE INTEND to contribute to the development of an are locked to keep the people inclusive Nigerian society, with a view to getting rid of away. Most legislators do not the dark sides of our national life (slothfulness, greed, have constituency offices, so the corruption, nepotism, totalitarianism, etc); to continupeople do not have access to ally engender and sustain national debates that would their representatives. Until the ultimately lead to the enthronement of healthy national values--hard-work, justice, equity and fairplay, transparelections are near, the people are ency, good governance, resulting, in themselves, the seen as a burden that should be egalitarian Nigerian society of our dream. We will give kept at bay. Should this setting be voice to the voiceless and at all times, strive to be balallowed to continue? anced, objective, honest, truthful and fair to all sides; so What do our national legislators that through The Oracle Today, our people, the Nigerian do with the resources that are people can see a bright light at the end of what has been allocated for the running of their a very dark tunnel. And we shall do all this in absolute trust in God who blesses good intentions. constituency offices? Should there

25

The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

OPINION

Nasir el-Rufai lied, showed lack of grasp of issues (2)

By IKEDI OHAKIM

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HEN we came out of the billowing smoke and rubbles, I said to the people that a security alert duly implemented would have saved us the trauma. So, how could I, with these experiences, have succumbed to the same type of lapses in order to please anybody?

May be el-Rufai would have preferred that I acted against the counsel of the security agencies so that the conference would go ahead because to him, Dr. Jonathan’s Presidential ambition would have been truncated. If any calamity had happened, Mallam would have been the first person to rush to file necessary papers at both Local and International Courts of Justice to prosecute me for a crime against humanity and for exposing Igbo leaders to mass murder as he is currently doing in America in respect of the state of emergency as a result of terrorists attack in North-East Nigeria.

Was it not James Callahan, a former British Prime Minister who said, “a leader must have the courage to act for the overall interest of the society.” A leader must not pander to sentiments or special interests in executing a decision. Even when the result does not turn out as planned (because as Tolstoy puts it, no battle is ever won as scripted), a courageous leader admits his mistakes but asserts his good intentions and foresight. el-Rufai should have known that the “privately owned hotel” he was referring to was MODOTEL which, at the time of that incident, was owned 100 per cent by Dr. Alex Ekwueme.

So, could anybody have prevented Ekwueme, a former Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and easily one of the most respected Ni-

gerians, from holding a meeting in his private premises? It was A.E. Housman who said: “A minutes thought would have shown him that it could not be true but a minute is a long time and thought is difficult”. A moment’s thought would have told el-Rufai that it would not have been possible to prevent Ekwueme from having any meeting in his private premises.

Thankfully, when the Concorde security concern was flagged by the security agencies, I considered it in the public interest to intervene. I quickly invited the conference organizers to my office and explained to them why it was necessary to reschedule the event or change venue. I even offered to finance the use of an alternative venue. Although they refused the offer, the South-East leaders in reference saw with me. It is on record that none of them said anything in public to suggest that they were treated disrespectfully, although some persons saw the incident as an opportunity to play politics and did just that. In any case, who is el-Rufai to speak on behalf of South-East (Igbo leaders) to the extent of telling lies about them?

By far more repugnant is el-Rufai’s claim that the South-East leaders were to hold a meeting “that would have resulted in a statement inimical to Jonathan’s emerging presidential ambition”. Personally, I take particular exception to that because, apart from portraying those (in fact all) South-East leaders in bad light, what el-Rufai’s claim shows is that there was, indeed, a plot against President Jonathan in his bid to get elected as President in 2011. If not, how did el-Rufai know that the meeting in Owerri was to lead to a statement “inimical” to Dr. Jonathan’s presidential bid?

More disgusting is the linkage of the planned

statement with South-East leaders.

Since he was privy to that intended “inimical” statement, was el-Rufai’s revelation not a betrayal of trust of those South-East leaders, assuming, without conceding, that there was a plan to issue such a statement? There must be a reason why Mallam el-Rufai decided to blackmail the South-East, an area from which President Jonathan got his biggest support for that election.

I put it as bluntly as I possibly can that el-Rufai picked up the Imo issue because, as he admitted in the book, the meeting was expected to nail Dr. Jonathan. Apparently, the realization that the opportunity to nail Jonathan was aborted, still gives him nightmares almost two years later. Even so, he translates his nightmares to the material world as Nigerians could attest to the fact that no day passes without el-Rufai conjuring one issue or the other as basis for attacking President Jonathan. I am not holding brief for the President but I think that el-Rufai’s pre-occupation with, and penchant for, running the presidency down should begin to elicit the concern and reproof of every well-meaning Nigerian.

If I may ask, why does el-Rufai have such an acidic resentment for President Jonathan, the type the late Chinua Achebe described in his book, The Trouble With Nigeria, as “a flood of deadly hate”? Let me further ask, is opposition politics war? As H.J. Blackman asked, “if the prodigal son has destroyed his father’s house, can he still return?”. We must moderate our language and stop

Has Governor Okorocha blasphemed God?

By COLLINS UGHALAA

“

YOU must not blaspheme God or curse the ruler of your people” Exodus 22:8. “I am the LORD: that is my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images” Isaiah 42:8. “However, the helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything. He will remind you of everything that I have ever told you.” John14: 26.

Governor Rochas Okorocha of Imo State last Tuesday, July 4, 2017, came short of expressly calling himself Jesus Christ or making express comparison between himself and Jesus, when he addressed the socalled 3 million man rally that was held in Owerri to show solidarity for God-knows what. Anyway, when election year draws very close, you can never imagine what politicians are capable of. A lot of things happen, because they want to reposition themselves for the next dispensation. Why they do it is just for their daily bread, not for any personal convictions. That is why you would see them move from camp to camp like herdsmen whenever they lose election. They have been to several parties and left, and they are still moving.

To reposition themselves for recognition, politicians employ all kinds of intrigues to curry favour from the incumbent, because as far as the incumbent continues in office, directly or indirectly, their sustenance is guaranteed, and the more power they would continue to exercise. They can say anything to the man in power, including asking him to play God, or to curse God and die, like Job’s friends and wife did.

It was not for nothing, not for the interest of the governor really, that Comrade Jeff Nwaoha, the MD of ENTRACO, an agency of the state government, organized the so-called 3- million-man solidarity rally for the governor and the President.

The purpose was not lost on Jeff, as it was a pure strategic political move, much like the one-million-man march for the late General Sani Abacha. Those who organized the protest for Abacha were never stupid. They had their plans and strategy well mapped out, except that God, the Omnipotent, the Omniscient, the Omnipresent saw it all, that the heart of man is full of hurtful things and He intervened on behalf of millions of hapless Nigerians.

Therefore, Jeff is sure that if the governor succeeds in installing his successor (God forbid!), his place in the new dispensation is very much guaranteed. So, the Tuesday rally in Owerri was just a meal ticket for Jeff and others who spearheaded the rally.

Does the governor know? Yes. He needs it. He is in need of rescuing himself, having burnt the bridge that crossed him over the Red Rea in 2015. He needs to breed a new set of soldiers, and the new set of soldiers needs to demonstrate their capacity. The new soldiers on their own understand that they can do anything to demonstrate their capacity, including forcing market unions to join in the rally for whatever bargain, not excluding the promise that their shops would not be demolished if they took part in the rally. Therefore, the hapless traders and artisans were armtwisted to join the rally. And they did, just to save their businesses.

Like the proverbial bird called ‘nza’ that had his fill and challenged his god to a duel, the governor, excitedly, took over the role of God. Sorry, they governor mocked God when he said he would send the Holy Spirit to the people of Imo State in 2019. By the Holy Spirit, the governor meant his successor. And if that too refers to his Chief of Staff, it means that Uche Nwosu has become the Holy Spirit!

In response to the request of the protesters that the governor name his suc-

cessor, the governor had this to say, and I quote: “I have heard your request for a proactive successor. Before I leave, I will send you the Holy Spirit. I will never leave you alone.”

When you read the claim or promise of the governor to the Tuesday rally, that he would send them the Holy Spirit, you would have no doubt that speedily Governor Okorocha has lifted himself to the position of God. You would also applaud Lord Acton who told us decades ago that “Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely”. Governor Okorocha’s usurpation of the functions of God as represented in his statement is a clear indication of what power does to mortals. Having survived the 2015 onslaught against his government, the governor believes he now sleeps comfortably and that he has transformed to a god, so much that he can now send the Holy Spirit after him.

When I read the vexatious claim by the governor that he would give the Holy Spirit, my spirit became restless, and the spirit of the Lord took me to the book of Daniel 4:17, where I read about God’s dealings with King Nebuchadnezzar. According to Prophet Daniel, there is God that rules in the affairs of men.

“The decision is announced by messengers, the holy ones declare the verdict, so that the living may know that the Most High is sovereign over all kingdoms on earth and gives them to anyone he wishes and sets over them the lowliest of people” Daniel 4:17. The Prophet continued: “Seven times shall pass over you (Nebuchadnezzar), till you know that the Most High rules in the kingdom of men, and gives it to whomever He chooses” Daniel 4:25.

To be concluded next week •Ughalaa is Owerri Bureau Chief of The Oracle Today

the blame game to avoid setting Nigeria on fire, because we are in the most delicate and terrifying period in our history. If we must blame, the only person to blame is the man in the mirror.

It is unfortunate, malicious, and extremely ridiculous for Mallam Nasir el-Rufai to describe my conduct as “culturally disrespectful and democratically intolerant” and my lecture “boring and unapologetic”. I leave the readers to judge whose conduct is disrespectful. There is no doubt that el-Rufai exhibited dangerous braggadocio, vulgarity, and a clear violation of decorum because to him, I aborted an event that would have nailed President Jonathan. Mark Twain advises us that “it is better to keep your mouth closed and let people think you are a fool than to open it and remove all doubt.”

Again could George C. Lichtenberg have had the likes of el-Rufai in mind when he wrote: “Some people come by the name genius in the same way as an insect comes by the name centipede, not because it has hundred feet but because most people can’t count above fourteen.” Today in Nigeria, elRufai is among those some people would refer to as “genius”. Can Nigerians now see the calibre of “genius” we have in the likes of Nasir el-Rufai?

In my considered opinion, Nasir el-Rufai’s book ‘The Accidental Public Servant’ is nothing but a piece of random jottings from hearsay, thereafter bound together for consumption by an unsuspecting and hapless reading public.

Finally and most importantly, I think the author may have meant well, ab initio, to give Nigerians a no-holds-barred account of his experience while in government. Ordinarily, that should be welcome. But it is a different thing, altogether, when the author, (a former minister), proceeds to write as if he was the only witness to the events of that period.

Agreed that no book is perfect, my worry is that el-Rufai wrote what he just felt about issues and people he chose to write on without appropriate introspection and research. As the Boaz Augusto’s Pirelli Tyre Commercial of 2006 was to claim, ‘ourage like power is nothing without control.’

Perhaps you will forgive me if I say that Cicero, circa 43 BC, may have had the likes of ElRufai in mind when he wrote: “Times are bad.

Children no longer obey their parents and everyone is writing a book”. A lesson? Yes, of course. Ended.

•Ikedi Ohakim is former governor of Imo State.

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 Production Editor Henry Duru Advert Manager Andrew Udeh Head, Graphics & Designs Nnamdi Alex Chukwu Circulation Manager Felix Oti

26

The Oracle Today, July 19, 2017

Travel & Hospitality Saleh elected new FTAN president

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alam Rabo Saleh has emerged the new President of the Federation of Tourism Association of Nigeria (FTAN) and would pilot the affairs for the association for the next two years.

Saleh who replaces Chief Tomi Akingbogun, after the latter’s two terms ended, emerged unopposed through a voice vote in an election conducted by Dr Chike Ezeudeh during the 20th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the association which held in Abuja, Friday.

Others elected include Mr Nkereuwem Onung, First Deputy President; Chief Abiodun Odunsanwo, Second Deputy President; Mr Badaki Aliyu, Vice President, FCT; Otunba Ayo Olumoko, Vice President, South West and Mrs Ngozi Ngoka, Vice President, South East.

Others are: Mr John Adzer, Vice President, North Central; Alhaji Nura Kangiwa, Vice President, North West and Mr Eugene Nwauzi, Vice President, South South, as well as Mrs Suzanne Akporiaye, Treasurer and Mr Stephen AdebayoAjayi , Internal Auditor.

While Mrs Ime Udo, John-Likita Best and Emeka Anokwuru emerged as Membership Secretaries, Okorie Uguru and Joesef Karim were elected Publicity Secretary I and II respectively.

Saleh, a former Deputy President of FTAN, is also President National Association of Nigerian Travels Agency (NANTA), Abuja Chapter.

Budget Office advocates financing of tourism destinations

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udget Office of the Federation has stated that the tourism sector is capable of driving shortterm growth and longer-term structural change in the country. This is just as the agency called for the financing of the various tourist destinations spread across the country.

Director-General of the agency, Mr Ben Akabueze, who said this while making a presentation; “Financing as a Catalyst to Sustainable Tourism Development,’’ at the 20th Annual General Meeting and Election of the Federation of Tourism Association of Nigeria (FTAN), Thursday, in Abuja, further noted that the tourism sector was recognised in the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP) of the Federal Government as one of the ingredients needed to achieve economic growth.

“The sector offers the opportunity for job creation, especially among youths in Nigeria. Also, the ERGP recognises that the rich bio-diversity in Nigeria’s ecosystem, our cultural diversity, historical cities and arts and craft are yet to be fully exploited.

“By addressing under-developed infrastructure, security challenges, lack of attractive options for vacationing at home, and insufficient investment, the sector is expected to contribute to government revenues and foreign exchange earnings,’’ Akabueze , who was represented at the event by his Technical Assistant, Miss Olayinka Babalola, said.

Akabueze explained that the objectives of the policy was to enhance contribution to Gross Domestic Product (GDP), increase numbers of visitors to Nigeria by 10 per cent annually from 2017 and increase volume of domestic tourism.

According to him, it is also to promote and encourage patronage of local agricultural, creative industry and manufactured products by operators in the industry and strengthen backward and forward linkages and conserve foreign exchange.

“Promote national calendar of festivals and events in short term and develop value proposition around major clusters, launch awareness campaign to promote tourism and ease visa requirement to increase tourist arrivals.

“Improve security to encourage domestic and international mobility and review tourism legislation and eliminate overlapping functions among regulating agencies,’’ he said.

Newly-elected Executive Council members of the Federation of Tourism Association of Nigeria (FTAN) taking their Oath of Office at a ceremony at the Nanet Hotel & Suites, Abuja, venue of the association’ 20th Annual General Meeting (AGM), last Friday.

UN urges Nigeria, others to recognise value of tourism T

By VICTOR NZE

he newly-released United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) Economic Development in Africa Report 2017, titled: ‘Tourism for Transformative and Inclusive Growth,’ has called on Nigeria and rest of the African continent to recognize the value of tourism and move to harness the dynamism of the sector.

According to the report, four out of 10 international tourists in Africa come from the continent itself, just as it also observed that in sub-Saharan Africa alone, ‘this number increases to two out of every three tourists whose travels originate on the continent.’

The report posits that data backing this key finding further shows that, contrary to perception, Africans themselves are increasingly driving tourism demand in Africa.

“Tourism in Africa is a flourishing industry that supports more than 21 million jobs, or 1 in 14 jobs, on the continent. Over

the last two decades, Africa has recorded robust growth, with international tourist arrivals and tourism revenues growing at 6 per cent and 9 per cent, respectively, each year between 1995 and 2014.

“Tourism is a dynamic sector with phenomenal potential in Africa. Properly managed, it can contribute immensely to diversification and inclusion for vulnerable communities,” said Mukhisa Kituyi, the Secretary-General of UNCTAD. According to the UN, to realize the potential of intraregional tourism for the continent’s economic growth, African Governments should take steps to liberalize air transport, promote the free movement of persons, ensure currency convertibility and, crucially, recognize the value of African tourism and plan for it. These strategic measures can have relatively fast and tangible impacts.

The report which highlighted the mutually beneficial relationship between peace and tourism, which it said was fundamental for tourism.

“The mere appearance of instability

AfDB joins clamour for common passport, visa regime T he African Development Bank (AfDB) has joined the growing cast of opinions advocating a single passport regime for the continent, following its call for visa openness to spur intraAfrican trade and tourism, according to a new report recently released by the bank.

The report titled; ‘Africa Tourism Monitor 2016,’ says the creation of an African passport and an end to visa requirements for all African citizens, specifically visa openness will improve interconnectivity, boost economic growth and intra-Africa trade, and spur investment, bringing massive benefits for the travel and tourism industry.

The report also stresses why it is now more important than ever for African countries to craft economic and trade policies that will foster inclusive and green tourism growth, intra-Africa trade, and contribute to visa openness for a borderless and interconnected continent.

Visa openness also harmonizes with AfDB’s High 5s ‘Integrate Africa’ agenda, which seeks to make Africa more open, prosperous and interconnected. The African Union Commission (AUC) also champions for an African passport.

Director of the Statistics Department at the AfDB, Dr Charles Leyeka Lufumpa, in the report said the AUC’s Agenda 2063 proposes the creation of an African passport and an end to visa requirements for all African citizens.

“Specifically, Visa openness is seen as having great potential to improve interconnectivity, boost economic growth and intra- Africa trade, and spur investment, bringing massive benefits for the travel and tourism industry in Africa,” he said.

It would be recalled that earlier in the year, President and CEO of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, had decried the multiplicity of visa requirements by African countries which he said slowed down business and development on the

in a region can deter tourists, leading to devastating, long-lasting economic consequences. However, the perception of danger does not always correspond with reality.

“The 2014 Ebola outbreak in Western Africa had a very high cost in terms of tourism numbers and revenue lost across the entire continent. Despite being limited to relatively few countries in the western part of the continent, tourist arrivals and bookings fell in countries as far from the outbreak as South Africa and the United Republic of Tanzania,” it said.

The report further noted that the economic impacts of political instability can be quite significant and long-lasting.

“Addressing safety and security concerns and swift responses to crises by African Governments and regional institutions are paramount to the growth of tourism in Africa. Promoting strategies aimed at improving Africa’s image in the global media are also critical in ensuring the sector’s recovery after conflict or political unrest,” the UN said.

The report forecast a positive outlook for the continent’s tourism sector, which it said is expected to generate an additional 11.7 million jobs.

“During the next decade, tourism’s continued growth is expected to generate an additional 11.7 million jobs in Africa. Furthermore, where tourism thrives, women thrive. In Africa, more than 30 per cent of tourism businesses are run by women; and 36 per cent of its tourism ministers are women, which is the highest share in the world.

“Creating firm links between tourism, the agriculture and infrastructure sectors, ecotourism and the medical and cultural tourism market segments can foster diversification into higher value activities and distribute incomes more broadly. To unlock this potential, African Governments should adopt measures that support local sourcing, encourage local entities’ participation in the tourism value chain and boost infrastructure development. This continued investment into the tourism sector in Africa could lift millions out of poverty, while also contributing to peace and security in the region,” the report concluded.

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The Oracle Today, Wednesday July 19, 2017

AVIATION

Multiple-taxation: FIRS pledges support for domestic airlines Stories by VICTOR NZE

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he Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has pledged to support domestic airlines in the country so as to ensure they remain in operation and are able to meet their Value Added Tax (VAT) remittance obligations.

Assistant Secretary of the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), Mr Ewos Iroro, who made this known in a statement, last weekend, in Lagos, stated that the pledge was made by the FIRS Chairman, Mr Babatunde Fowler, during a recent meeting with a delegation from AON and the International

Air Transport Association (IATA) in Abuja.

“The Federal Government recognised the challenges being faced by domestic airlines and was willing to meet them half way with regards to tax laws,” Iroro quoted Fowler.

According to Iroro, Fowler advised the AON to engage the Presidency through the Department on The Ease of Doing Business, the Senate and the Minister of Finance to dialogue on how the laws could be amended, which he said would enable the airlines to be at par with their competitors and also address the challenges by coming up with a

lasting solution.

The FIRS boss proposed that airlines should be given concession of two months after the billing period (M+2) to make their VAT remittances, adding that the move gave room for reconciliation and for airlines to recoup their credit sales.

Responding, Chairman of AON, Capt. Nogie Meggison, noted that there was need to clarify the automation payment process and a 30day period to allow for invoicing, reconciliation and billing before payment.

Meggisson appealed to Fowler to take a closer look into the issue

of VAT for domestic air transportation in Nigeria.

According to him, if VAT is to be removed, it will make fares affordable for passengers with fewer funds to fly, thereby increasing turnover generated by airlines.

Meggisson added that it would also lead to increased revenue for FIRS from more passenger traffic, more landings and a boost of other direct and indirect businesses linked to aviation.

“Accra has become the hub for doing business in West Africa today due to the fact that Ghana has adopted a deliberate economic policy to make Accra a hub

for West Africa. And as a way of achieving this, it has adopted zero VAT for air transportation and lowered taxes on Jet A1 by 25 per cent which attracts more airlines to fly into the country for technical stops and for connections to cities around the world.

“This has had multiplier effect on the economy and greatly increased activities in the sector and the country at large. Nigeria therefore needs to take a bold economic step to jump-start aviation in order to make aviation the fourth contributor to the Gross Domestic Product, create jobs and make Nigeria the hub for Africa.”

ICAO elects Nigerian 2nd Vice President

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•L-R: Deputy, Special Investigation Bureau, Airport Police Command, Mr. Olatunji Olayinka; Director of Engineering, Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB), Engr. Hashim Wali; Director/CEO Aeroavsec, Capt. Bello Ocheja; Commissioner/CEO AIB, Engr. Akin Olateru; Head Aviation Security, AIB, Mr. Olumide Osineye, during the Aviation Security Training for Airport Command Policemen at AIB Safety House, Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Ikeja Lagos, weekend.

Nigeria set to host ICAO on RPAS

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he Federal Ministry of Transportation (Aviation) has announced its readiness to host the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) symposium on Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) in Abuja from July 17 to July 18.

Under the theme of: “Remotely Piloted Aviation in Africa: sharing experiences and challenges,” the event would provide a unique opportunity for states, international organisations and stakeholders to share experiences in addressing RPAS operations across Africa and Indian Ocean.

The event would also focus on challenges to be overcome and benefits to be obtained, identifying how existing rules needed to evolve to facilitate the entrance of RPAS community into the civil aviation system.

The symposium, according to the brochure, will also examine alignment between ongoing RPAS development and support regulatory provisions.

“The symposium will also showcase the opportunities that will be created by the integration of RPAS into the global civil aviation system. It will increase awareness of states, regulators and airspace users of the importance of adapt-

ing the existing regulatory framework to the needs of a fast growing new member of the aviation community.

“It will also increase awareness on the capabilities of RPAS technologies and the impact of those new capabilities on civil aviation activities showcased through panel discussions and exhibitions.

“International aviation as a whole will be incentivised to make the best possible use of the new tools created to support the integration of RPAS.” Deputy Director, Press and Public Affairs, Ministry of Transportation, Mr

James Odaudu, said the event was a measure of confidence in the current administration in the management of the nation’s aviation industry.

“This is a very important aviation event that ICAO is holding in Nigeria in recent years and it is a measure of confidence in the current administration in aviation sector,” said Odaudu.

ICAO is a UN specialised agency established by states in 1944 to manage the administration and governance of the Convention on International Civil Aviation and Nigeria is one of the 191 member states.

Med-View Airline commences flight operation to Ilorin M edview Airline has announced the commencement of flight operations to to Ilorin, the Kwara State capital.

In a statement by the airline, Monday, the flights which commenced on July 10 will operate three times week and are scheduled to link Ilorin with Abuja and Lagos.

The schedule, according to the airline is designed to give passengers the opportunity to fly to and from Ilorin with Medview Airline from other destinations nationwide via Abuja and Lagos.

Medview Airline also operates six flights daily to Abuja with connecting flights to Yola, Maiduguri, Kaduna and Kano.

he International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Council has elected Nigeria’s Representative, Mr Musa Nuhu as the Second VicePresident of the Council at its 211th Session in Montreal, Canada.

A statement by Mr James Odaudu, Deputy Director, Press and Public Affairs, Ministry of Transportation, Monday, in Abuja, said that the first and third Vice-Presidents were from Singapore and Panama respectively.

Musa Nuhu who would function as ICAO Council’s Second Vice- President on one-year tenure, was elected in compliance with Rules of Procedure for the Council (ICAO Doc 7559/10).

According to Odaudu, the Rules of Procedure states that: “In the absence of the President, the First Vice-President, the Second Vice-President or the Third Vice-President in that order shall exercise the functions vested in the President by these Rules of Procedure.”

Odaudu said that Nuhu started his career as an Airline Pilot with defunct Nigeria Airways before serving for over 15 years as a captain and safety officer with Presidential Air Fleet.

Odaudu said the Council also elected Mr Tee Chiou Ng, the Representative of Singapore as the First Vice-President and Mr Germinal Sarasqueta Oller of Panama as the Third Vice-President.

Ethiopian Airlines returns to Kaduna airport

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thiopian Airlines has announced it will be returning to the Kaduna International Airport, which it utilized for six weeks during the rehabilitation of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport’s runway, in March, this year.

The airline, in a signed by its Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr Tewolde GebreMariam, in Lagos, Thursday, said it will now officially commence scheduled flight operations three times a week to the Kaduna airport, from August 1.

“We are pleased to commence scheduled operations to Kaduna, our fifth city in the Federal Republic of Nigeria. As a Pan-African airline, serving our beloved continent, Africa has always been a source of pride for Ethiopian Airlines.

“With this commitment, Ethiopian has been able to create a missing link, availing easy movement of Africans from one corner to the other.

During the temporary closure of Abuja Airport for reconstruction four months ago, we were the first foreign carrier to land at Kaduna Airport, allowing our passengers to experience ultimate comfort on-board our B-787 Dreamliner,” the statement said.

According to him, the move is in line with the airline’s long-term strategic roadmap, Vision 2025, expanding and availing a more efficient intra-African network.

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The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

INSURANCE & PENSION

Global reinsurers, World Bank collaborate on $500m catastrophe bonds Stories by CHRIS EBONG

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he global reinsurance industry is in collaboration with the World Bank to launch specialist bonds to support the $500 million outbreak of infectious diseases across borders.

Known as the Pandemic Emergency Financing Facility (PEF), the facility is designed to rapidly disburse funds to eligible countries facing a major disease outbreak.

In response to the high financial, social and economic loss driven by outbreaks of infectious disease, such as the 2014 Ebola outbreak in West Africa, the PEF was announced in 2016 by the World Bank as a facility designed to channel funding to member countries of the International Development Association (IDA) facing a major disease outbreak.

The World Bank said in a release that with the help of the global reinsurance industry and the broader risk transfer markets it has launched specialist bonds, also known as catastrophe bonds, designed to provide financial support to the PEF. The facility will provide over $500 million of cover to IDA countries against the risk of pandemic outbreaks over a period of five years, and is the first time World Bank bonds are being utilised to finance efforts against infectious disease outbreaks.

World Bank Group President, Jim Yong Kim, commented; “With this new facility, we have taken a momentous step that has the potential to save millions of lives and entire economies from one of the greatest systemic threats we face.

“We are moving away from the cycle of panic and neglect that has characterized so much of our approach to pandemics. We are leveraging our capital market expertise, our deep understanding of the health sector, our experience overcoming development challenges, and our strong relationships with donors and the insurance industry to serve the world’s poorest people.

“This creates an entirely new market for pandemic risk insurance. Drawing on lessons from the Ebola Outbreak in West Africa, the Facility will help improve health security for everyone. I es-

pecially want to thank the World Health Organization and the governments of Japan and Germany for their support in launching this new mechanism.”

Launched in May 2016 at the G7 Finance Ministers and Central Governors meeting in Sendai, Japan, the financing structure works through a combination of bonds and derivatives, a cash window, and “future commitments from donor countries for additional coverage,” explains the World Bank.

The transaction was actually oversubscribed by 200per cent, underlining the positive response from the investor community, and enabled the World Bank to price the deal below initial guidance from the marketplace, with the total volume of risk transferred to the market via derivatives and bonds standing at $425 million.

Of the $425 million transferred to the global risk transfer market, $320 million is in the form of pandemic catastrophe bonds, with an additional $105 million of pandemic

risk linked swaps, or derivatives.

So it’s apparent the core of the financial support for the PEF is from the capital markets, so catastrophe bond investors, the insurancelinked securities (ILS) market, and other institutional investors such as pension funds. This in turn suggests that global reinsurers such as Swiss Re, Munich Re and GC Securities, which have announced their support of the facility, didn’t actually put up the bulk of the capacity, with their roles being more focused on facilitation and acting as service providers.

Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of international reinsurer Swiss Re, Christian Mumenthaler, said; “We are very proud to have supported the World Bank over the past two and a half years in the endeavor to build an innovative insurance vehicle to better respond to epidemic outbreaks.

Swiss Re was co-mandated by the World Bank to develop and design the “insurance window” of PEF and lead the marketing efforts of the transaction in its role as sole

book-runner for the capital market placement.

“The combined derivative capital markets structure is just one of many pioneering elements of this transaction. Addressing one of the world’s most systemic risks, it underpins Swiss Re’s commitment to making the world more resilient and its continued leadership in the insurance linked securities market.”

Swiss Re and global reinsurance giant Munich Re developed the PEF’s insurance window in cooperation with the World Bank Treasury, with GC Securities also acting as a service provider for the transactions. The facility consists of two windows, with the first, an insurance window, having premiums funded by Japan and Germany, which includes bonds and swaps.

The second window is a cash window, and will come into action from 2018 “for the containment of diseases that may not be eligible for funding under the insurance window,” explains the

World Bank.

Chairman of the Board of Management of Munich Re, Joachim Wenning, said; “The PEF shows how close collaboration between the public sector and insurers can help limit the negative effects of catastrophes in developing countries. Munich Re is proud to have played a major part in this proactive and reliable financing mechanism from the very beginning.

The PEF is designed to cover six viruses that are the most likely to result in a pandemic. The World Bank explains that this includes new Orthomyxoviruses (new influenza pandemic virus A), Coronaviridae (SARS, MERS), Filoviridae (Ebola, Marburg) and other zoonotic diseases (Crimean Congo, Rift Valley, Lassa fever).

When an outbreak reaches predefined levels of contagion, which is linked to the number of deaths, the speed the disease spreads, and if the disease crosses international borders, PEF financing for eligible countries is triggered, and funds are disbursed rapidly.

L-R: Mr. Benard Duru, Group Head, Brokers’ Unit, Anchor Insurance; Mr. Mayowa Adeduro, MD/CE, Anchor Insurance; Mr.Dotun Olabanjo-Ojo, Insurance Manager, RSM Insurance Brokers Limited and Broker to Bedmate Furniture Nigeria Limited,; and Mr. Nsimah Jeremiah, ED, Technical, Anchor Insurance at the cheque presentation held in Lagos recently.

30 states default in pension compliance - Report he Nigerian Union of PensionTstates ers (NUP) has said that only six out of 36 states in the coun-

try are up-to-date with their pension liabilities and this has worsened the plight of pensioners and retirees.

At the excellence awards organized by the group recently, the union spokesman, Bunmi Ogunkolade reportedly issued a statement that “only 6 of the 36 governors and the Federal Capital Territory do not owe pensioners in their states”.

Under Contributory Pension Scheme, employees contribute a minimum of 7.5per cent of their

basic salary, housing and transport allowances towards pension while their employers (government or private) contributes between 7.5per cent and 12.5per cent. The scheme is compulsory for all fulltime workers.

According to report, 80per cent of the states in Nigeria are yet to honour their pension obligation thereby putting into jeopardy, the plight of over 80per cent pensioners against the current spirit in the country.

Ogunkolade confirmed making the claim to Africa Check. He added that the union does not have a database of states which are up to date with payouts or which owe

pensioners money, saying that the union relies on feedback from executives of its state chapters across the country.

The general secretary of the pensioners’ union corroborated Ogunkolade’s claim, saying; “The six governors have all paid up to April; they do not owe. That was why we gave them the award. We were able to ascertain this in consultation with the various chairmen and secretaries in the states,” Actor Zal said.

Although it’s not still clear how many retirees are in Nigeria, the union claims it has over a million members in its books.

Independent reports compiled on state of payments by a Right

group, BudgIT, which aims to improve budget transparency and access to public data, has compiled two reports in the last year assessing the frequency of pension payments.

The first looked at pension payouts over the first three months of 2016. At the end of March 2016, 28 states were between one and 15 months behind in pension payments, data compiled by BudgIT field agents showed.

For the second report, the organisation instead surveyed 912 respondents who filled in questionnaires, Atiku Samuel; a research manager was quoted in

the report as saying that the list includes teachers, local government workers, pensioners, secretariat workers and employees of state agencies, confirming results with state authorities and local chapters of different labour groups and their affiliates.

Taraba and Niger states topped the pension debtors’ list with a backlog of 36 months each. Other defaulters were the states of Rivers (28 months), Imo (24 months), Abia (19 months) and Kogi (17 months). States like Enugu, Kwara, Nasarawa, Ondo, Osun, Oyo, Delta and Zamfara owed between one and 8 months.

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The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

INSURANCE & PENSION Niger Insurance 2016 GPI drops by 53%

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iger Insurance Plc, one of the old generation underwriting firms on Monday announced a drop of 53 percent in its Gross Premium Income for the period ended December 31, 2016.

The insurer in a notice to the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) to The Oracle Today stated that its gross premium income depreciated from N10.6 billion in 2015 to N5.1 billion in the review period of 2016.

The insurer pretax profit also declined to N99 million in the year under review when compared to N736 million reported in 2015; representing 86.5 percent drop.

Post-tax profit was not left out as it came down by 93 percent from N600million in 2015 to N42million in the period of 2016.

• Group Managing Director, Royal Exchange Plc, Alhaji Auwalu Muktari

•Managing-Director-Universal-Insurance-Plc-Mr.-Ben-Ujoatuonu

NAICOM approves Anchor Insurance financials for 2016 Stories by CHRIS EBONG

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he National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) has approved the 2016 Financial Statements of Anchor Insurance Company Limited.

A statement released by the company’s Head of Brand and Corporate Communications, Mr. Jamiu Osoba revealed that the company recorded an 11per cent growth in profit after tax margin from N205million in 2015 to N228million in the year ended December 2016. The company said the growth was mainly attributable to improved efficiency in operations of the firm powered by introduction of unique and acceptable insurance products which was backed with cutting-edge innovative technology.

Anchor Insurance also reported investment and other incomes which it said grew by 16per cent from N182million in 2015 to N212million in 2016, maintaining a result of shrew investment operations and decisions.

While it incurred claims of over N371million within the period, the underwriting result amounted to N1.013billion compared to approximated N965million earned during the year ended December 2015 which amounted to 5.04per cent in 2016.

The Company total asset increased in 2016 by 6.5per cent with an approximated total of N5.8billion compared to N5.4billion recorded in 2015 while its shareholders fund grew from N4.5billion in 2015 to N4.7 billion in the year 2016 thus showing a 5.03per cent growth in Shareholders Fund.

The Managing Director/CEO, Mr. Adeduro Mayowa stated that in the last five 5 years, the company has grown above the industry’s average, paid claims promptly in excess of N1billion, meet regulatory requirement as at when due, grew its branch network from five to 21 with spread in the major geopolitical zones of Nigeria and has consistently declared profit and paid dividends to its shareholders in the last

four years.

He added that the company is repositioning itself to play big in the insurance market with introduction of tailor-made insurance products that seek to meet the yearnings of the insuring public with a view to making Anchor Insurance the most innovative and preferred general business insurance company in Nigeria.

In view of this, the company recently launched its unique and innovative insurance product; Anchor loss of employment insurance scheme (AnchorLoEIS) to the admiration of the Nigerian populace who have warmly received the product through their enrolments into the scheme.

He further said that the company is poised to develop and introduce more innovative insurance products into the insurance market with the aim of making the company the trailblazer while setting standard for others to follow in respect to non-generic insurance products.

STI announces 78% GPW growth in Q1 2017 I n spite shaky beginning of the year 2017 which was shrouded in uncertainty and a very bleak business outlook for some insurance companies, Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc has announced an impressive first quarter result.

The firm, in 2017, recorded a total gross premium written from N2.3billion in the first quarter of 2016 to N4.1billion representing a 78per cent growth rate. In the same vein, the net premium income grew from N1.1billion in 2016 to N1.6billion in 2017 amounting to a growth rate of 48per cent.

The underwriting profit rose from N571million to N746million in 2017 representing a 30per cent growth rate while Investment income also grew by 12per cent from N121million in 2016 to N135million in 2017 Q1. The profit before tax, according to the company, grew considerably from N241million to N488million representing a growth rate of 102per cent in the same period.

The management expenses also reduced from N402million in Q1 2017 to N369million in the same period. This was attributed to the management team’s

commitment to reducing cost of operation as much as possible with the ultimate aim of delighting its shareholders.

Notwithstanding the harsh operating environment that has beclouded the operations of so many insurance companies and other corporate organizations in the period of review the underwriting firm stated in a statement that Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc has been able to record meaningful appreciation in all its financial indices going by its first quarter 2017 unaudited financial statements. The future indeed, looks very promising.

IBN deploys over N10bn into insurance market

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nsurance Brokers of Nigeria Limited, deploys in excess of N10 billion into the Nigerian insurance market, its Executive Vice Chairman, Prosper Okpue, has said.

Mr. Okpue disclosed this at a media parley in Lagos recently, adding that the deployment has enabled the firm to have access to key decision makers of all insurance companies to negotiate the best deal for its clients whether on programme pricing, robust cover or claims settlement.

He continued that the firm will be unveiling a new brand identity this month, stressing that the new brand identity is a resurgence of the firm’s commitment to its clients that it will be around for another 62 years as a truly independent company focused on helping her clients venture boldly with confidence and maximize opportunities created from their enterprises.

“Our new IBN brand identity is a demonstration of our resolve to continue to serve our clients, with knowledge of the past, present and our ability to bring the future today,” he said.

He noted that the 62 years old firm is repositioning to meet current trends and remain afloat for many years to come, adding that the firm is Nigeria’s premier insurance broking and risk advisory firm established in 1955 as C.T. Bowring & Company (Incorporated Insurance Brokers).

According to him, IBN pioneered insurance broking in Nigeria in 1955 and has remained in the forefront of providing innovating collaborative solutions to various strategy sectors of the country.

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The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

Export Platform

By CHINYEMIKE TORTI

Step-by-step introductory export E

VER since the Nigerian economy hit the doldrums in the mid-eighties, stimulation of non-oil exports have been the dormant theme of economic recovery. The present administration of President Muhammadu Buhari, has reinforced it with the economic diversification program, which among others objective, seeks to alter the structure of the Nigerian economy from the import to an export led, El Dorado. Consequently the Federal Government of Nigeria over years have come up with very bold policy measures to boost non oil-exports by the organized private sector. One would have thought that with 300 exportable Nigerian oilproducts from grass to cassava waste; the nation’s cash register would have been ringing with an endless inflow of foreign currency.

Unfortunately, the reverse is the case.

Many exporters have been unable to respond to the litany of incentives nor exploits opportunities that abound. Many (exporters) grope in the dark, and the very few who barged into export market burnt their fingers. They had inadequate preparation, export information, export infrastructure and export management skills. Export unlike importation is a much specialized field which needs very careful studies and planning, without which failure results, given the great numbers of competitors in every open market.

Getting started with the basics of exports It is often said, and axiomatic that if you like the idea of running your own business from nothing and having fun doing it, the export venture may be your answer.

Not only does it guarantees you financial/ career independence but offers the prestige of working with clients from all over the world. You could be a rookie but to be successful you must, repeat, must have a good head for planning, organizing and constant stickler for details because there is a whole gamut of activities in from making contact, registration with Nigerian Export Promotion Council, documentation, statutory, obligations, analyzing the markets, getting the goods, agreement, letter of credit, freight forwarder, shipment, export financing, repatriation of proceeds, bill of lading, SWOT Test, phytosanitary test, EURO Form.

Having made a decision to embark on exportation, it is very important to conduct a SWOT analysis to determine if it is going to be a worthwhile venture to dabble into. SWOT - is an acronym for Strengths weakness, opportunities and threats. This would be located in further details elsewhere in this book. Having done this, the company should identify a product it wants to export. Such a product should be such as it can easily sourced and should not fall under the export prohibition list, stated hereunder .timber –rough or sawn, wild life of endangered species, crocodile, lizards, eagle, monkey etc scrap metals, unprocessed rubber latex and lumps, maize, raw hides and skins, artifacts and antiquities.

Export procedures and documentation Export trade unlike domestic trade, takes place between two or more partners operating under different political,

economic and situation, following religiously, all necessary export procedures and documentation becomes a sine-quanon, a for successful export bid. Failure on the part of the exporter to observe the above may not only vitiate the contract but also erode the confidence the importer has; not only in the exporter but the entire country. It is important to note that though the procedures and hence documentation may appear daunting, not all aspect applies to any one shipment or product. Moreover export procedures in Nigeria are constantly been simplified and streamlined by the Nigerian Committee on Trade procedures NITPRO, (operating under the auspice of the NEPC) to align them with the United Nations Organisation, UNO, system.

Exporters of animal and animal product and pet are to obtain letter of clearance from Department of Veterinary health service before exportation can take place.

Registration with Nigerian export promotion council (NEPC) It is mandatory that every intending exporter must be duly registered with NEPC. To be qualified, the intending exporter must be a limited liability company, or a cooperative society, government and non governmental organizational duly registered by Corporate Affairs Commission. After registration with the NEPC the exporter proceeds to sources foreign buyer(s) through the use of Internet or seek assistance from export management consultants, NEPC, his/her chamber of commerce and participation at foreign trade fairs and missions. In addition to registration with the Nigerian Exports Promotion council, exporters are to obtain additional letters of clearance listed below.

Identification of a buyer/negotiation of sale contract Having identified an interested buyer, the exporter proceeds to negotiate a sale contract, by making an offer, whose details should include product description and quality, price, packing and packaging, payment terms, delivery terms. Once negotiation is concluded and contract signed, the exporter should forward a pro forma invoice, which enables the importer to apply for foreign exchange. In making offers, exporters are to acquaint themselves with the 2002 edition of INCOTERMS issued by International Chamber Commerce; (ICC).

I) Letter of Clearance From Ministry of Solid Minerals Products All exporters of solid minerals products are expected to obtain a letter of clearance or mining lease from the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals or Nigerian Mining Corporation.

2) Letter Of Clearance from Veterinary Health Service

3 Letter of clearance from national museum and monument Exporters of Handicraft; are expected to obtain a letter of clearance from the above department prior to exportation. This is to ensure that the goods are not antiquities.

4 Letter of clearance from department of forestry Exporters of wood and wood products classified under the “ Endangered Wild Life Species” should obtain clearance from the above department before exportation of the products.

Bank transactions.

Exporters are required to obtain, complete and register form NXP (Nigerian exports proceeds) with their dealer bank in six copies. This form is designed by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)-to ensure the following: Repatriation of exports proceeds by the exporter in his/her nonoil export proceeds domiciliary account within 90 days from date of shipment.

Failure by the exporter to observe this rule results into its being embargoed by the (CBN) for foreign exchange import export transaction .It is also important to note

that companies that fail to use Form NXP cannot attract Export Expansion Grant.

It can also be used to check under-invoicing, and ensure that goods shipped meet the buyer’s expectation qualitatively and quantitatively.

Quality Certificate/ Letter Of Clearance All goods being exported from Nigeria must be inspected and a certificate of quality issued by the relevant government inspection agency before they are taken to port for shipment.Federal Produce Inspection Service is supposed to inspect all primary agricultural commodities. Sometimes the buyer may demand inspection to be done by any private inspection agent, e.g. SGS. In addition; all plant and plant product must be inspected by the Plant Quarantine Service Organization with headquarters at Moor Plantation, Ibadan and offices at all sea and airports. It is also significant to note that all processed food, drugs and cosmetic must be certified by National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).

Other manufactured goods must be certified by Standards Organization of Nigeria; (S0N).

Shipment On completion of this process, and with carrier identified, the goods are moved to the port of shipment for Custom and Excise inspection. (The inspection is carried out at the customs processing centers at the major ports in Nigeria). The loading and eventual shipment of the goods would then commence. Beginner exporters are advised to engage the service of clearing and forwarding agents.

Repatriation of export proceeds: The export proceeds in respect of every shipment must be repatriated to the exporter’s designated export proceeds domiciliary account within’ 90 days from the date of shipment. Failure to do so may results into the exporter being blacklisted by the CBN, Before they are taken to port for shipment! The Federal Produce Inspection

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The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

Export Platform

procedures for beginners Service is supposed to inspect all primary agricultural commodities. Sometimes the buyers may demand inspection to be done by any private inspection agent, e.g.

SGS. In addition all plant and plant product must be inspected by the Plant Quarantine Service Organization with headquarters at Moor Plantation Ibadan at all sea and airports. It is also significant to note that all processed food, drugs and cosmetics must be certified by National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). Other manufactured goods must be certified by Standards Organization of Nigeria!(SON).

Shipment On completion of these processes, and with carrier identified, the goods are moved to the point of shipment for Custom and Excise inspection. (The inspection is carried out at the Custom Processing Centre at the major port in Nigeria).

The loading and eventual shipment of the goods would then commence. Beginners’ exporters are advised to engage the services of clearing and forwarding agents.

Certification and documentation: Form EUR: This form is completed for all the exports to the EU. It enables the exporters take advantage of import duty concession granted exports from ACP countries by EU-ACP pack; (Cotonou Convention).The form can be obtained `from Nigerian Customs Service. (NCS) and endorsed by NACCIMA. Generalized System of Preferences GSP:Since 1972, a number of countries have fashioned individual schemes tariff preference for the developing countries including Nigeria. The import of specified products attract low rate of import duties.

This made the product benefiting from the scheme be competitive with similar products, from non beneficiary industrialized countries.The form is obtainable from the Nigeria Customs service.

Phytosanitary Certificate: This certificate may be required when fruits, vegetable, flower plants and plants products are being exported. The certificate confirms that the goods are pest free and disease free. The certificate is issued by the Plant Quarantine Service Organization with the head office at Moor Plantation; Ibadan with branches at all Sea and Airport.

Certificate of Quality and Fumigation: Federal Produce Inspection Service issues this certificate for all Primary agricultural commodities for exports as evidence of quality.

Packing List: The document supplements the Commercial Invoice’ when quantities, Weight or contents of individual units in a shipment vary.

ECOWAS Certificate of Origin: This certificate covers goods being exported within ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ECOWAS-TLS). This to allow for duty free importation by member state.

Form NXP (Nigerian Export Proceeds): The Nigerian Export proceeds form is to be used by all exporters In declaring export quantity and value to facilitate the

repatriation of export proceeds. The form is issued by the CBN and obtainable from the Commercial or Merchant Banks. The form is to be completed in six copies with clear instructions at the back on how it should be distributed.

Single Goods Declaration:This form gives particular of a consignment such as name of exporter,consignee type and quality of goods, destination, HS Code, value, form NXP number,Country of origin,etc. This form is endorsed and stamped by the NCS on passing ,export copies.

Bill of Lading:This is evidence of receipt for goods in a contract between the shippers (Exporter) and shipping company for the carriage and delivery of the goods to, the order of the shipment and to the consignee at a named port of destination.

A Bill of (Lading issued “to order” of the shipper needs his endorsements to enable the consignees take delivery goods).

Airway Bill or Air Consignment Note: When goods are dispatched by air, this document is necessary.

The Commonwealth Stand-Still Preference Certificate of Origin and Consignment.

This form is used for export to U.K from any commonwealth Member State. This affords the goods from a Stand-Still Area preferential treatment at U.K. ports e.g. speedy clearance of cargo during port congestion.

National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control NAFDAC Certificate: The National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and control; (NAFDAC) of the Federal Ministry of Health issues certificate of health and sanitary condition of Food/ Drug and cosmetic meant for exports.

Certificate of Insurance:This is an insurance certificate covering the value of the goods exported. It has to be procured by the exporter when the contract is c.i.f.

Free Sale Certificate:A certificate of free sale must accompany certain export product like Pharmaceuticals, alcohols, etc.

Non commercial exports:

The following categories of do not involve foreign exchange ((1).Gifts& personal effects (2) Trade Samples(3) Machinery and equipment for repairs(4). Machinery and equipment being returned after execution of a specific contract (5) Machinery and equipment for replacement(6) Empty containers(7) Items being re-exported.

EXPORT FINANCING Export financing is the totality of funds available to an exporter, which includes equity, debts, grants, and subsidies. Adequacy of funds to the exporter at reasonable cost not only facilitates the task of the exporters but also greatly augments his exports efforts. Commercial banks play an important role in the provision of export finance. However, NEXIM was created as a specialized bank to assist in the provision of financial services to exporters. We now look at some of the services offered by NEXIM. Overview Of Services Offered

by Nigeria Export Import Bank NEXIM was established by Act 38 of 1991 to provide finance, risk mitigating facilities and trade information as well as advisory services in support of export to the Nigerian export community. The main statutory functions of the Banks are:Provision of export credit guarantee and export credit insurance facilities to its clients; provision of credit in local and foreign currencies to its clients in support of exports; establishment and management of funds connected with exports; provision of trade information and export advisory service in support of export business; provision of investment guarantees investment in insurance facilities.The bank specifically provides the following products and services Export Credit-Rediscounting And Refinancing Facility (RRF) The RRF is a facility designed to assist exporters and banks to provide.

Shipment finance in local currency. To qualify for the RRF, there must be an un-

dertaking in the form of loan, overdraft, discount of inland bill drawn on export letter(s) of credit, or negotiation of foreign bills or promissory notes. The RRF is made available in two ways, namely: Rediscounting Facility and Refinancing Facility.

Foreign Input Facility (FIF) The FIF provides the manufacturing exporter with foreign exchange for the importation of raw materials, packaging materials and capital equipment needed for production of goods specially designed for export. It is a facility made available to exporters in foreign currency and is therefore repayable in foreign currency.

Stocking Facilities This, facility, given in local currency, is to enable manufacturers of exportable goods procure adequate quantities of local raw materials (which may be seasonal in nature) needed to keep production of optional level during periods of scarcity. The duration of this facility is months.

Export Credit Guarantee Facility (ECGF): This facility is operated as a guarantee provided by NEXIM to banks in respect of credit given to exporters in support of goods and services from Nigeria. The facility is the usual guarantee, which a lender receives from a suitable party as security to protect it against a borrower’s default. It is hoped that this facility will encourage banks to provide credits to exporters.

Export Credit Insurance Facilities: This facility insures exporters against risk of non-payment by buyers where such default is ascribable to commercial causes.

• CHINYEMIKE TORTI, is the Chief Executive Officer, Federation of Nigerian Exporters, Alumnus, World Bank Institute, Washington DC. Resource Person ITC/WTO, Geneva, Switzerland. Moderator, EXPORT ADVOCACY GROUP, exportgazette@gmail.com

32

racleToday

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220,000.00

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206,000.00

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14” x 2

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7 x 4 195,000.00 Quarter Page

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7 x 3 151,250.00

Earpiece Window (2 x 2) Front 205,000 Earpiece Window (2 x 2) back 179,000

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Centre Spread

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6 x 2 50,000.00

Double Spread

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Wrap Around

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Half Wrap Around

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Classified

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Loose Inserts Rate Per 1000 Copies 43,000.00 Handling Charge 45.000.00

33

The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

Love and Living

... With Ireto Temofeh

Oracle Girl of the Week

LOVE NEWS

Ciara and Russell Wilson celebrate romantic 1-year anniversary

E

verything’s coming up roses...

One year after Ciara and Russell Wilson’s fairytale wedding in England, the two are still all about the passion as they celebrate their anniversary with some seriously romantic gestures during their vacation to Mexico. Of course, it was definitely still a family affair as the couple brought along their daughter Sienna and Ciara’s son Future from a previous relationship.

On Sunday, Ciara took to Instagram to post a sumptuous photo of a

dreamy white bed covered with red rose petals, even spelling out “R + C.” Along with the enviable image, the singer wrote, “I tried to plan things for the day, but he wouldn’t let me.’Twas A Perfect Day. The simple things are the sweetest...@DangeRussWilson #1yearAnniversary.”

The couple’s anniversary was July 6, but there appears to be a multitude of lavish celebrations.

Courtesy: eonline.com

Romantic Joke 100 CAMELS

Name: Oge Tel: 0809 347 3190

• Do you want to be our next Oracle Girl? Send your photos to ireto007@yahoo. com and call 07031028714.

ODD NEWS

118-year-old painting found in Antarctica A

lost 118-year-old painting by one of Britain’s most famous explorers has been discovered in Antarctica.

Scientists stumbled on the delicate watercolour of a bird in a hut on Cape Adare, a peninsula on the continent’s far east side.

The almost perfectly-preserved artwork was painted by Dr Edward Wilson, a British polar explorer who died in Antarctica with his expedition leader Captain Robert Falcon Scott.

It was hidden among penguin excrement, dust and mouldy papers in the hut he sheltered in on a 1911 expedition from which he never returned.

The delicate painting is labelled ‘1899 Tree Creeper’, and depicts a white-breasted tree creeper bird.

But how it ended up in the Cape Adare hut 12 years after Dr Wilson painted it is a

mystery.

Paper conservator Josefin Bergmark-Jimenez found the old artwork while clearing out the hut to ready it for restoration.

It was left in a portfolio sitting on the bed, but she was so surprised to find it that she jumped back in shock.

“I opened it and there was this gorgeous painting,” she said. “I got such a fright that I jumped and shut the portfolio again.

“I then took the painting out and couldn’t stop looking at it - the colours, the vibrancy, it is such a beautiful piece of work. I couldn’t believe it was there.”

“The Cape Adare huts were built by Norwegian Carsten Borchgrevink’s expedition in 1899 and later used by Captain Scott’s party in 1911,” Antarctic Heritage Trust programme manager Lizzie Meek said.

“We knew the artist was likely to be

among the men on those expeditions.”

By complete coincidence, her colleague Ms Bergmark-Jimenez went to a lecture on Dr Wilson while the team were working to discover the painter.

“The presenter showed some of Dr Wilson’s artwork,” she said.

“As soon as I saw his distinctive handwriting, I knew he had painted the Tree Creeper. This made sense as there was also a 1911 newspaper article from the Lyttelton Times in the papers and Scott’s party went to Antarctica via New Zealand.”

The watercolour was discovered in 2016 but kept a secret to let the Antarctic Heritage Trust focus on restoring the 1,500 artefacts they recovered from the Cape Adare huts.

It will be returned when the structures have been secured to ensure their continued protection.

As US tourists in Israel, a man and his wife were sitting outside a Bethlehem souvenir shop, waiting for fellow tourists. An Arab salesman approached them carrying belts. After an impassioned sales talk yielded no results, he asked where they were from.

“America,” the husband replied. Looking at her dark hair and olive skin, the Arab responded. “She’s not from the States.” “Yes I am.” said the wife. He looked at her and asked, “Is he your husband?”

“Yes.” she replied. Turning to the husband, he offered.... “I’ll give you 100 camels for her.” The husband looked stunned, and there was a long silence. Finally he replied, “She’s not for sale.” After the salesman left, the somewhat indignant wife asked her husband what took him so long to answer, to which the husband replied, “I was trying to figure out how to get 100 camels back home.”

34

The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

True Confession

‘My wife gave me love portion’ M

y story is short but it is quite unique and interesting if you understand. My name is Kola and I live and work in Lagos. I am in my early 40s and I and my wife have four lovely children. I love my wife so much and she normally shares her secrets with me.

From the day that we got married, I understood clearly that communication is all that a couple needs to make their marriage work. Henceforth, I resolved to always maintain a good line of communication with my wife. And I think that is the secret of the success of our marriage.

You see, I always confide in my wife and she too confides in me. I tell her everything I do in my family and even at the office. And she does likewise.

But a few years ago, when our first daughter turned 15, my wife decided that it was time for her to share her most prized secret with me.

That morning on my way to the office, she told me that she would like me to return home as early as 6pm so that we could have a romantic and quiet time together. She said that would be a perfect time for her to tell me something she had wanted to tell me all these years.

I dutifully obeyed my wife and returned home by 6pm that day to find that she had prepared my favourite food beside a bottle of wine on the table.

Our kids were away on holiday in the homes of our relatives, so we were as free as birds to do whatever we liked in the living room that evening. We sat down to eat and drink the wine and my wife opened up as we ate, drank, and kissed. Guess what my wife told me?

My wife told me that the first day I asked for her friendship while she was still in secondary school (SS2), she fell head over heels in love with me. And she wished that I would never leave her and marry someone else. So she went to a herbalist living in her area and the man gave her a love potion to put in my food.

My wife said she put the love portion in my food, but that when I returned to school at the UNN three weeks later, I forgot all about her and we lost contact after her family moved out of Lagos, until we met again by accident in Ibadan five years later.

She said she thought the love portion had failed, but that she believed that what will be, will be. So she kept hoping and praying that if God had destined us to marry, I would eventually return to her.

My wife said she was afraid of telling me this in the first year of our marriage, because she thought that I would take her for a witch and divorce her.

After her revelation, I thanked her for sharing it with me and told her that we are married today because God has destined us together, and not because of any love potion. However, I sternly warned her to stay away from native doctors. Tell me, if it were you, what would you do? What is a man supposed to do if his wife gives him love potion? Isn’t it funny?

“Our kids were away on holiday in the homes of our relatives, so we were as free as birds to do whatever we liked in the living room that evening. We sat down to eat and drink the wine and my wife opened up as we ate, drank, and kissed. Guess what my wife told me?”

35

The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19 , 2017

Relationships and Love Advice

‘I doubt if I can ever love again’

Love Search Women seeking relationship/ marriage Ngozi, 25, fair, chubby, lives in Onitsha, needs a responsible, buoyant man from 40 years and above who can take good care of her. 08147538320.

Lilian, dark and sexy, in Lagos, needs a hot and sexy sugar daddy. 07064482338.

Nkechi, 38, graduate, seeks a matured man and also a devoted christian from 40 years and above for marriage. 08112063224.

Loveth, 27, residing in Kaduna, wants a sugar daddy from Abuja. 09062373928.

Princess, 29, from Anambra, in Lagos, HIV Positive, needs a decent, working, healthy, HIV Positive guy from 30 years and above from Anambra for marriage.

09090675833.

Rosemary, 29, from Anambra based in Abuja, self employed, good looking & homely needs an educated God fearing, comfortable man from the East between 32-45 years strictly for marriage. 09092942483.

Rosemary, 31, from Anambra based in Abuja, self employed, good looking & homely, needs an educated, godly, comfortable man from the East between 32-45 years strictly for marriage. 08161186244.

Lora, graduate, works, HIV Positive, based in Jos, wants a HIV positive man of 35-40 years for marriage.

08090925014.

Dear Love Doctor, My name is Gina. I’m from Delta state. I lost my fiancé three years ago. Ever since then, I just can’t fall in love again. It is now very difficult for me to date any guy, because I see all other guys as nothing compared to my late fiancé whom I loved so much. Doctor, can I ever fall in love again? Please advise me on what to do, because my parents are putting pressure on me to get married.

Thanks, From Gina

E-Mail: ireto007@yahoo.com. Call Love Doctor: 07031028714, 08131161840 for Counseling, fertility problems & Direct Hookup.

Men seeking relationship/ marriage

Love Doctor’s Advice:

Donald, 37, tall, dark, handsome, politician, Igbo, living in Port Harcourt, needs a female lawyer or law graduate lady or a working class lady for a relationship leading to marriage. 08180868844.

Dear Gina,

Bayo needs a mature lady or young woman who is godfearing, pretty and financially okay for true love.

09037361906.

I feel your grief. But thank God it is not so bad because you were not married and you’re not a widow now. Do you know how widows feel when they lose their husbands?

However, it is normal to feel resentful of having a new man in your life, especially if you were intimate with your late fiancé. However, if the problem is getting a faithful guy, take your time & keep searching until you find one you’re compatible with. Also take time to understand him and give him a chance.

Understand that personalities are different and individuals express love in their own diverse & unique ways. So you shouldn’t expect all guys to be like your late guy.

When you eventually meet a new man in your life, focus on his personality, and learn to adapt to life with a new man, because in life change is constant. Open your heart to love & don’t judge a man till you know him.

Also, don’t rush things. Do it slow and steady. Don’t despair or think that you will never marry because your lover died. Be patient, because it might take time before you find someone else to marry. Keep yourself happy & keep searching.

Call Love Dr. 07031028714, 08131161840. E-mail: ireto007@yahoo.com 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 or 08131161840. Love Doctor can help you succeed in your marriage/relationship.

Edozie needs a responsible woman for marriage.

08033337285.

Rexos, from Enugu, needs a loving and caring sugar mummy of 35 years and below. 08096374374.

Desmond, HIV Positive, from Anambra, living in Lagos, needs a pretty, HIV Positive woman for marriage.

09092935581, 08127618536.

Goodheart wants a tall, fair, beautiful, working class Yoruba, Akwa-Ibom, Kogi or Port-Harcourt lady for marriage. 08030725296.

Love needs a mature, sexy, working woman in Lagos for friendship. 08077821830.

Daniel, 25, student, needs a sugar mummy or a single mum in Minna, Abuja or Kaduna who can take care of his educational finance. 08167627446.

36

The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

It happened to me:

‘I slept with my best friend’s son’ M

y best friend Kerry fell pregnant when she was 15. She and I had been inseparable since childhood but on the night of her child’s conception she had gone alone to a town dance while I was at home sick. There she danced with the town heartbreaker (who I had been in love with).

One thing led to another and a month after the dance she confided to me that she thought she could be pregnant. Together we bought a pregnancy test so that no-one in the chemist could say for sure which one of us might be pregnant. We did the test at my house during the day when my parents were at work.

As the test showed positive, Kerry began to cry. We lived in a small country town and she knew that the town gossip would be unbearable.

Over the next few months, Kerry told her parents and the father of her baby and his family. His family said they didn’t believe her and didn’t want their son to have anything to do with a girl they described as “promiscuous”. I stood by Kerry as best I could but being pregnant, she had to drop out of school and spent most of her time hiding away from town gossip. In February, just as I started year 11, Kerry gave birth to a boy she named Joseph.

She was living with her parents and although we both tried to stay in touch, we drifted further and further apart. In the next couple of years while I was celebrating the end of school and picking a university, she was fretting about getting Joseph to eat enough and trying desperately to move into her own place on government subsidies.

Eventually our contact became limited to a call on birthdays and a card at Christmas. Although I had been around Joseph when he was a baby, I didn’t see him as a child. After four years of very occasional contact, I finished my degree and moved to London. I ended up staying 12 years, getting a great job in international banking and marrying a man called Michael.

But everything changed when I found out through a friend that Michael had been unfaithful to me ever since we’d married seven years earlier. I was shattered. I had trusted him totally and to find out that my whole marriage had been a sham shook me to the core. I lost all faith in myself and performed terribly at work. Needless to say I left Michael, but I also decided to leave my dream job and move back to my parents’ house.

Being back in town after a decade and a half was strange, but Kerry and I managed to pick up our friendship

and soon we were closer than ever.

She had never married and lived with Joseph, who was now 16 and extremely handsome. I had noticed how clumsy he was around me and Kerry even teased me sometimes, saying that her teenage son had a crush on me — she never suspected I might feel the same.

One afternoon I popped over to their house unannounced to borrow a book from Kerry. She wasn’t home but Joseph let me in and made me a cup of tea. I had received my divorce

papers that morning and was feeling pretty low. All of a sudden Joseph began to stare at me with a look I had never seen before. He looked exactly like his father and I was taken back to my teenage years. I felt butterflies in my stomach as Joseph leaned in to kiss me. We spent the whole afternoon together and it was passionate and magnificent. The next day I came round at the same time and we spent the afternoon together again.

But I knew I couldn’t do it again.

The thought of Kerry finding out

was more than I could take. Joseph had told me I was his first lover and I couldn’t have Kerry know that I had taken her son’s virginity.

I left town the next day. Joseph tried to contact me for a while but I knew it was just teenage passion and would pass. I’m back to birthday and Christmas contact only with Kerry, which is sad, but in a way I’m glad it happened. Joseph gave me back my ability to love.

37

The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

Love & Living

Why would a man brutalise his wife few weeks after child birth?

S HE was my classmate back in the university. Just recently the news was all over the Internet, how she was brutalised by her barrister husband of several years; her once pretty and happy face now puffed and in different shades of blue and black.

Six weeks ago, the same lady was delivered of her third child, a girl, after the initial two boys. To think that her man could beat her up right in the middle of “omugwo” leaves so much to be desired.

Now that the matter is out on the streets, we know that beating her up was in fact his hobby. As it stands, she’s asking out of the marriage saying she can’t take it anymore. Note that this came on the heels of the recent death of the wife of a former president of the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, as a result of domestic violence. Quite coincidental that the two men in question are learned gentlemen who should know better, so where does that leave the average Nigerian man?

The reality though is that more husbands are beating their wives and more guys are beating their babes these days. A female caller during last week’s edition of my radio programme, Love Zone, narrated that her boyfriend seizes every opportunity to beat her up. She said he would sometimes even

Ify

ARONU ifyaronu@gmail.com

beat her up right in her own home yet they continued dating! But how anyone can spend an extra day with a brute?

Some would even go on believing that he would change after marriage but we know too well that it can only get worse then. A man who brutalises his girl friend is only building up his muscles so he can unleash unthinkable violence on the woman that he finally marries.

Then on to my Facebook timeline where a lady narrated how her promiscuous and constantly violent husband sent her packing and has since taken another lady home. Problem is that she has just confirmed she’s pregnant and now at a loss on what to do. Over 90 per cent of comments advised her to

and Life inform the man and his people on the basis that the news would make him take her back. And what if he probably takes her back because of the baby and resumes beating her all over again?

Ain’t we tired of hearing touching stories of men who beat their pregnant wives into a state of coma?

Words can’t explain brutality and violence, only the one that feels it knows it. I may not have experienced physical violence first hand but in some way, when I hear the account of women who are in it, I feel it. The world turns bleak when love turns violent. I will let you into the world of women who are themselves victims of violent love next time you read, it’s a date.

Ignorance: Major setback in the fight against rape and sexual abuse Maureen Alikor maureenalikor@gmail.com

Me & More

O

N the day of my second demystify abuse campaign outing, after the main event, I and my team were in front of the school taking pictures for documentation when a young adult man, not older than 35 years old asked what we were doing.

We told him and he stood somewhat puzzled and perplexed. We were to be more perplexed when he asked his next question.

“Does rape still happen?” He asked, and I can vouch he said it in all his sincerity.

We were shocked too that at his age he was unaware and ignorant of the epidemic that is causing a massive decline in the mental balance and general output of many individuals in the country – adults and children inclusive. After we heard him we realised again that a lot of work had to be done if people would know that rape had not ebbed.

How do you begin to convince an adult there rape was on the increase? How does it feel knowing that those who are expected

to protect the prospective victims of rape were unaware of the challenges and dangers that rape posed?

We took our time to lecture him and also told him about rape. I told him I was a rape victim too. That the lecture was taking place months after I was attacked could have helped him understand the recency and urgency rape cases. I can say he became aware after we had our moment.

Social media still suffers from massive shock from the news of rape and sexual abuse that hits us daily. There are still people who do not know what you are talking about when you mention rape. There are some parents who are naïve and in their naivety, how are they expected to know what steps to take when their children complain that they have been raped or sexually abused?

Or how do we expect them to understand when we tell them that a victim suffers from traumas from the painful ordeal? How do we explain to them that their child who

used to be so bright in school has become academically impaired?

How do we carry out all these explanations, if we do not invest in sensitisations and awareness campaign? The knowledge will not just fall on them; we who know should do something, no matter how little we may think it is.

The awareness campaign is a collective responsibility and with collective effort, we will go a long way. The enormity of the work calls for more programmes that would drum attention to rape and other sexual abuses.

In every position we find ourselves, we should try as much as possible to speak up, teach some or pass across information, we never know whose life we would be saving.

It is important that we not only save lives, but that we have children and adults who grow up without fears of being molested.

Since I started the campaign months back, I have learnt so much about the silence that envelops rapes and sexual molestations. I have also learnt more than I imagined, the need for people to discuss these issues and find solutions to them.

38

The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

The Law and You

With Barr. Ken Akpom 08162016410

Stealing and Robbery (part 1) what these family members did, I simply told them that it is stealing. However, at Common Law, a corpse cannot be stolen since a corpse cannot be the subject of ownership. Stealing is also rampart, come to think of it, why is it that the crime rate is very high now in the country. Is it hardship or what?

In order to make up the offence known as stealing, elements of fraud must be in place and there as six of them as set out in section 383 of the code.

STEALING

S

ection 390 of the criminal code deals with the offence known as “stealing”. This section states that any person who steals anything capable of being stolen is guilty of a felony, and is liable, if no other punishment is provided, to imprisonment for three years.

Also, if the thing stolen is a testamentary instrument, whether the testator is living or dead; or if it is a postal matter or any chattel money or valuable security, contained in any postal matter, the offender is liable to imprisonment for life. There are other categories of punishments provided by these sections for some other stealing commitments. There are a lot more which I cannot take here. However, consult any lawyer around you or still call on me for more details. To explain much further the meaning of stealing is section 383(1) of the code which states that a person, who fraudulently takes anything capable of being stolen or fraudulently converts to his own use or to the use of any other person any-

thing capable of being stolen, is said to steal that thing.

In Law, the composition of “taking” here is not important for the thief to take the thing completely to himself but mere moving of the thing before he is noticed and dropping it back constitutes stealing, and not just mere attempt to steal. In the aspect of fraudulent conversion as in section 383 (1), there is no statement on what constitutes a conversion. However, according to Atkin J. (as he then was) in one of the cases he decided states, a dealing with goods in a manner inconsistent with the right of the true owner amounts to a conversion, provided that it is also established that there is also an intention on the part of the defendant in so doing to deny the owner’s right.

To further explain this, it means that a servant, who receives money for his master and converts it, is guilty of stealing. So many people today seem to be guilty of this type as offence.

A government worker who inflates a contract award in order to benefit from what doesn’t belong to him, even

after he has sworn an oath to be honest and truthful can be said to be guilty of converting government funds to his, and thereby is guilty of stealing government funds.

Likewise, in domestic or family affairs stealing is also committed. A child who, without the knowledge and consent of his mother, enters his mother’s kitchen and opens her soup pot and removes a piece of meat from the pot and eats it is guilty of stealing. Recently, I was privileged to see some intrigues in a deceased, very rich man’s, family. The man married statutorily but appears to have confided more in his own relatives at the expense of his own immediate family.

When the man died in a hospital, the extended family member rushed into the hospital, settled his hospital bills, took away his corpse to his home town, collected his death certificate from the hospital, broke into his wardrobes and safe in his bedroom and collected all his property documents and converted some to their own children’s use and denied the rightful family of their rights. When they met me to classify

These elements are; 1.

An intent permanently to deprive the owner of the thing of it.

An intent to part with it on a 2. condition as to its return which the person taking or converting it may be unable to perform.

3.

An intent permanently to deprive any person who has any special property in the thing of such property.

4.

An intent to use the thing as a pledge or security.

5.

An intent to deal with it in such a manner that it cannot be returned in the condition in which it was at the time of the taking or conversion.

6. For money matter, an intent to use it at the will of the person who takes or converts it, although he may intend afterwards to repay the amount to the owner.

Is it everything that is being stolen?

No. Section 382 of the code lists things that are capable of being stolen. Every inanimate thing whatever which is the property of any person and which is moveable is capable of being stolen.

Likewise, an intimate thing of some person which is capable of being made moveable is capable of being stolen as soon as it becomes moveable.

PUNISHMENT The punishment for stealing varies from terms of imprisonment to imprisonment for life. It is my candid advice to every good citizen of this country to be hardworking, honest, God-fearing and hopeful in life so as not to bring shame, disgrace and ridicule to their respective families because of stealing. Note, that ignorance of the Law is never an excuse in Law. •

To be continued next week.

• 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

Sent from my iPhone with love. You can reach me via +2348131161840 or +2347031028714. Email: ireto007@yahoo.com. Thank you very much. May God bless you.

39

The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

Entertainment

REVEALED: Nollywood’s teenage mums Today they are celebrities in their own rights inspiring millions of youths but once upon a time they went through the storms of life as they got pregnant and became mothers in their teens. Some got married while others remained single. Today, Oracle Today brings you the hottest Nollywood actresses who became mothers in their teens.

Clarion Chukwurah Veteran actress and mother of one of Nigeria’s video directors, Clarion Chukwura was still in her teens when she was impregnated by veteran musician and afro-juju singer, Sir Shina Peters. Consequently, at age 18 she had Clarence Peters. And even at 50, Clarion is still hot! She got married for the third time to her America -based lover in April, 2016.

Genevieve Nnaji At age 17, the actress known as Genevieve Nnaji had a daughter christened Chimebuka when she was in secondary school, as a teenager. At that tender age Genevieve must have been under intense pressure to abort the baby.

No thanks to the social stigma. But she stuck to her guns and today, her daughter is a successful international model and Genevieve is a proud and happy mother.

Shan George Separated from her Scottish dad at a tender age, the actress known as Shan George grew up without experiencing the love of a father and got married at tender age of 16 to her ex-husband, Mr. Nwosisi and together they had her two boys. However, Shan later walked out of the marriage with the excuse that at age 16 when she got married, she was just a child

“It was more like an obligation. I don’t really want to talk about it because of my children,” Shan George recalled in an interview a while ago. Meanwhile, the talented actress welcomed her first grandchild on September 7, 2014 as her first son; Delnoi had a beautiful baby girl.

Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde Time 100 gal, Omotola Jalade-Ekehinde is not left out.

Omosexy as she is popularly called met her pilot husband at age 16, got married to him at age 18 and had her first child, Princess Ekehinde, at age 19 and later had other three kids.

Speaking on what her reaction would be if her 18 yearold daughter were to get married today, Omotola said, “I don’t care much about it. I don’t even want to think about that because I got married early. What I always tell people is that all fingers are not equal. The fact that I got married early does not mean that my own child will get married early. My mother didn’t marry early. So it is not hereditary.

But if my daughter wants to get married early and I like the guy and if I see that he is responsible enough, why not?”

Ada Ameh Popular actress, Ada Ameh is also not left out of the league of celebs that had babies as teenagers. The actress

had her first child at age 14. Recalling the experience in a chat, she had attributed the development to peer pressure.

Today, the hot 40 years old plus-sized TV star is still single and searching. Hear her: “I am still very single. I believe I will get married some day. I am beautiful. I am fearfully and wonderfully made. When the time for marriage comes, it will happen. Some people are late starters while some others are early starters. “Maybe, you will qualify me as a late starter in marriage. The most important thing is that I will get married some day.”

Waje Glo Ambassador and singer, Waje, is also another celebrity who has a daughter while in her teens. Named Emerald, she is a 17 years old beauty. Recounting life as a young single mum, the sultry singer said: “I was young. He was young. Our relationship now is very cordial. We respect each other. He has not always been a part of my daughter‘s life until recently. He met her last year. When she was quite young he showed interest but my fear was that he won‘t be consistent. I didn‘t want a situation where he would come in this year and leave the next. So I had to wait till I was sure that he would be there.”

Real reason Kcee sued Harrysong for N20m

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My success giving you running stomach –-Harrysong

t has emerged that the real reason Kcee sued former label mate, Harrysong for a whopping N20m was because he is scared of the effect the exit of Harrysong could have on his label, Five Star Music.

“Ever since Harrysong dropped his runaway hit track, Reggae Blues and the subsequent success that came with it, the Limpopo crooner has not been himself. It is obvious that Harrysong is headed for the top of his game and Kcee is uncomfortable.”

Kcee had sued Harrysong for alleged human rights abuse. The cold war between the pair took a new dimension after Harrysong dumped Five Star Music.

Soso Soberekon, a former manager at Five Star, was also sued along-

side In the suit which was recently filed before a Lagos state high court, Kcee claims that Harrysong and Soso, the former manager of the record label are colluding to malign his

public image.

Reacting to the suit, Harrysong took to Instagram to lament that despite apologising to Kcee, the singer can’t seem to get over his exit from Five Star.

He noted that his success is making the ‘Limpopo’ singer uncomfortable.

“I have never seen where a lady is gang raped and beaten up mercilessly and at same time asked not

to cry. Even though you and I know you offended me, I listened to the voice of elders and appologized to you despite all the oppression, yet my success causes you running stomach.”

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The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

Entertainment

E-Jay Boy’s style F

ast rising act, E-Jay Boy (Ejike Onoja ) is poised to heat up the Nigerian music space with his style of music christened folk hip hop, which he describes as a unique fusion of sound and dance.

“The genre is a fusion of highlife, ragga and folk music. The

dance itself constitutes intricate waist and foot works as well as tricky neck swings which energy is distinctly African,” E-Jay Boy told TS Weekend adding, “I am out to make a difference with my kind of music which I call folk hip hop.”

So far he has come out with

Ijekiride, a single and the video is currently trending online and enjoying massive downloads ahead of its official release. Produced by Legacy, the video was directed by Uchenna Agbo, aka the African Priest.

On why he chose the Federal Capital ahead of Lagos, a city generally accepted as Nigeria’s entertainment capital, the performer who started playing music at age 17 and who is a multi-instrumentalist said that the aim was to prove to the world that FCT is also becoming a top dog, musically speaking.”

An indigene of Enugu State, the act said he first put out the single on the internet to test the online market. He however said he is satisfied with the level of acceptance so far judging from numerous positive feedback and comments on his various social media accounts.

On why he chose to do music, E-Jay Boy says: “Music is the only thing that gives me joy. Way back when I was a teenager my mum was always angry with me because I did nothing but music.

I was always singing and dancing. Right now everybody in the family has accepted me and my life because they have all realized that music is my destiny.”

Nigeria’s indigenious afro hip-hop act Blixxy spotted in the studio with rap legend Fat Joe in America

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hese are definitely happy times for Afro hip-hop act, Blixxy. Barely a couple of weeks after he inked a mouthwatering deal with American based label, Fully Focused, a platform that has managed the likes Lil Caesar, late Notorious B.I.G, Junior Mafia of Bad Boy records and recently, Uncle Murder, a G-Unit signee, he was recently sighted in the US with rap legend, Fat Joe and tongues are wagging.

Said a source close to the act: “Blixxy’s career is on the rise no doubt. He is one of the faces we should watch out for in the industry. Some weeks back the news of Blixxy’s signing an international management deal with America’s frontline management outfit, Fully Focused Management broke the internet causing a stir.

“Now the rapper has taken to his Instagram page and posted a picture of him and rap legend, Fat Joe aka Joey Crack of the famous Terror Squad rap group, working in the studio and consequently, fans are asking ‘is there a collaboration brewing between them?

Only time will tel.

Meanwhile, the act recently released a collaborative video with the self styled musical Taliban Oritse Femi entitled Tomorrow Carry Belle which is currently enjoying massive rotation on both television and radio stations nationwide.

Omosexy, Rita Dominic others shine at Alter Ego Premiere

• Omotola

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he premiere of Omotola Jalade Ekehinde’s Alter Ego, which held last Friday at the Intercontinental Hotel, Lagos, was a night of glitz and glamour.

Guests included Omosexy, Rita Dominic, Tboss, Stephanie Linus, Wale Ojo, Swanky Jerry, BBNaija Bassey, Nkiru Anumudu, Biola Alabi, Gifty and Moses Ewang and wife, Kemen among a host of others.

The movie which addresses Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and the effect of sexual abuse on children will make its cinema debut on July 21.

Alter Ego is the story of a successful attorney, Ada Igwe, who is determined to throw all pedophiles behind bars. Her penchant for punishment against sex offenders goes beyond the four walls of the courtroom. Whenever she cannot get the Judges to imprison an offender, she finds other ways to punish them. However, there is a dark and sexual side to her which she seeks to express no matter the odds.

Directed by Moses Inwang, the movie features Omotola Jalade- Ekeinde, Wale Ojo, Kunle Remi, Bobby Obodo, Jide Kosoko, Sexy Steel and Gregory Ojefua.

Sequel to Planet of the Apes Returns To Cinemas

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O’jez Lounge Debuts With ‘Wednesday Live’

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T is not longer news that celebrity restaurant chain, O’jez, located inside the National Stadium, Surulere-Lagos has started running a lounge and to give added value to the high profile clientele, it holds the weekly O’jez Wednesday Live event.

According to veteran highlife musician and event coordinator, Peterson Agu, the O’jez Wednesday Live “is a weekly entertainment package designed to bridge the gap between work and leisure for various class of people.”

The four hour event (7-11pm) focuses on creating an enabling environment for corporate firms/ personalities, captains of indus-

tries, the diplomatic corps, political office holders, business community and entertainment personalities to enjoy the best of live music in a conducive environment on the mainland..

The weekly event also features live music from Nigeria Peace Band led by guitar legend, Oscar Elimbi and the Excel Crew.

To create a distinction, Agu said the O’jez Wednesday Live also offers mature comedy and special birthday celebrations. “We offer our high profile clientele an avenue to celebrate their birthdays in a cozy environment with a restricted number of guests, that is what makes the O’jez Wednesday Live different.”

ollywood Blockbuster, ‘War for the Planet of the Apes’ is set to hit the Nigerian cinemas. The Planet of the Apes will make its cinema debut on Friday, July 14.

The movie which had its special private screening on July 7 at the IMAX cinema, Lekki is being distributed in Nigeria by the FilmOne Distribution Limited.

The movie tells the tale of Caesar and his apes, two years after the events of Dawn of the Planet of the Apes.

They are forced into a deadly conflict with an army of humans led by a ruthless Colonel. After the apes suffer unimaginable losses, Caesar wrestles with his darker instincts and begins his own mythic quest to avenge his kind. As the journey finally brings them face to face, Caesar and the Colonel are pitted against each other in an epic battle that will determine the fate of both their species and the future of the planet.

According to Mr Moses Babatope, Executive Director of Filmone Distribution Limited, “The special effects and action sequences in this film will blow you away. It’s action on a whole different level” BBB Media CEO, Samuel Olatunji also speaking at the exclusive screening of the movie said ‘This movie is being screened exclusively to a selected audience for the first time in Nigeria by our client, Filmone Distributions Limited. The movie like its prequel is awesome; from the story to the production and we are confident it will do well at box office. It is a movie for everyone and it will be in cinemas from 14th July.’

Written and directed by Matt Reeves, the action/ adventure movie produced by 20th Century Fox stars Andy Serkis, Woody Harrelson, Steve Zahn, Amiah Miller, Karin Konoval, Judy Greer and Terry Notary.

The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

Two-man robbery gang strikes at Onitsha, kills filling station manager

By OLIVER UDEOGU

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t was a bad day for Mr. Edwin (surname withheld), manager of Total petrol and gas station located at Upper New Market Road, Onitsha, Anambra State, when dare-devil armed robbers struck at the station and, in the process, snuffed the life of the young man.

The deceased hailed from Nsukka Local Council in Enugu State.

The incident occurred at about 2.30 pm on Monday, when the two robbers drove into the petrol station on a motorcycle, on the pretext that they had come to buy PMS (fuel). It was gathered that within a short while, one of the armed robbers alighted from the motorcycle and pulled out an AK 47 riffle that was inside a brown large sack, and went straight into the Manager’s office and demanded money.

It was learnt that the manager promptly handed them the money they had so far collected for day without hesitation, but for inexplicable reason, the robber still pointed his riffle at the manager’s head and blew off his brains out.

Pandemonium ensued thereafter with motorists abandoning their vehicles while fleeing to safety, along the busy Upper New Market road and other adjoining streets of the city metropolis.

At the scene of the incident, The Oracle Today reporter met a large number of officers and men of the Nigeria Police force who were miffed by the robbers’ affront, having been quite long such daredevil robbery had been recorded in Onitsha metropolis.

After some preliminary investigation at the scene, the officers, it further learnt, took Edwin’s remains away for deposition at an undisclosed mortuary while other injured persons were taken to hospital for treatment.

House help denies master before police

By OLIVER UDEOGU

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bizarre drama occurred at the Ugwuoba junction along Enugu Onitsha Expressway during the week, when a house girl simply identified as Chidinma bluntly denied her master Mr Anthony, when policemen along the busy express road stopped their vehicle for a routine check.

Chidinma,10, was inside the car with her master and his 10 monthold child when the incident occurred.

Anthony (surname withheld), at the checkpoint, was asked by the officers where he was taking the chil-

dren to, and he told them that the occupants of his vehicle were his child and house help.

However, after they alighted from the vehicle at the order of the police, Chidinma, when asked by the police, denied knowing Mr. Anthony.

A totally nonplussed Anthony, who could not hide his embarrassment, shouted Chidinma’s name several times but the young girl would not budge, insisting that she did not know her master any longer.

Still dazed by the development, Mr. Anthony, it was gathered, then asked the policemen to take them to their station, a request the policemen promptly obliged and took

them to the nearby Oji River Police Station.

While at the police station, Anthony, The Oracle Today further gathered, called his wife on phone and told her what had transpired between him and their housemaid.

The wife, our correspondent further learnt, then informed some of their neighbors about the bizarre development, causing all of them to troop to the police station to testify that Anthony was not a child abductor on the prowl but a genuine family man who was, indeed, a foster father to Chidinma while the 10-month old baby was actually his.

In a telephone interview, an

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evidently shaken Anthony told The Oracle Today that he did not know what came over the house girl who blatantly denied knowing him before the policemen, saying he doesn’t even maltreat the girl.

“I think she needs deliverance as I am going to take her home to her parents right away because I cannot live with her any longer. What if I was lynched to death by an irate mob when she denied knowing me before the policemen,’’ he queried.

However, it was gathered that the little girl Chidinma told her madam she was frightened at the sight of the police and that that was why she denied knowing Anthony.

• Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State (middle) flanked by the 18th President, Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria (CIPM), Mr Udom Uko Inoyo (l) and Immediate Past President, CIPM, Mr Anthony Arabome during the investiture of Mr Inoyo as the 18th President of Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria in Lagos, on Thursday, 6/7/2017.

Oriental reception as Kanu visits Onitsha amid pomp

By OLIVER UDEOGU

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eader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) Mazi Nnamdi Kanu was given a hero’s welcome by pro-Biafra activists and supporters when the Biafran leader visited Onitsha at the weekend for sundry consultations on Biafran issues.

A large crowd of pro-Biafra groups had begun to gather at the Learning Field Omagba Estate Phase 11 as early as 9.00 am, to welcome Mazi Kanu who is now the overall leader of all pro-Biafra groups in the country.

The crowd sang both traditional Igbo songs as well as Christian songs, as they waited until late in the evening, when the IPOB leader surfaced at the scene.

At the entrance into the field, an army of pro-Biafra groups formed a barrier as they conducted body searches on everyone who approached the arena. The Oracle Today reporters were equally searched by the Pro Biafra security men, before they were allowed entry into the main arena.

Then the waiting game began as the multitude of Biafra faithful waited for the arrival of their Supreme leader Nnamdi Kanu to the event.

At a drinking bar close to the arena, discussions were numerous with the one concerning the November

18 governorship polls in Anambra State, topping the agenda, with most members of the pro-Biafra family saying elections will not hold in Anambra, as a test run for what will likely happen in the South east by 2019 during the general elections. Obviously, that seemed to be the main reason of Kanu’s visit to Onitsha a source revealed.

Food vendors and business proprietors within the vicinity of the Learning Field Omagba Estate, made brisk sales as they were patronized heavily, by the people that thronged the area. A shop owner known as Madam Bridget confirmed to our reporter that she sold over 100 car-

toons of beer, including food and other items that day.

According to her “we pray for everyday to be like today. Even when politicians hold rallies here, we don’t usually witness this kind of crowd. It is simply magnificent,” Madam Bridget intoned.

Being in the midst of the pro-Biafra group was indeed a memorable one with all manner of statements and conjectures being rife.

One of the pro-Biafra ‘die hard’ supporters was overheard saying about Kanu’s high anointment, saying when one gets near the IPOB leader, he receives healing from his ailments.

At about 5.30 pm, more people began to gather, as all markets in the commercial city had closed at that time, with traders and artisans, thronging the arena in their numbers.

Kanu finally arrived at about 5.45 in a Sienna vehicle with the native cannon fodder known as Nkponana, erupting in several folds amid pomp and pageantry by the overzealous crowd leading to a near stampede on Kanu’s car in a bid to touch the IPOB leader.

Kanu had gone round exchanging pleasantries with people when he alighted from his car and finally said to the people there will be no

elections come November 18th in Anambra State. ‘’We shall set example in the South east and the South south geographical zones of this country beginning with Anambra election,’’ Kanu said before the enthusiastic crowd.

The IPOB leader had to cut down his speech when the crowd became daring as they moved into the field and he hurriedly aborted his speech and was paved into his vehicle and driven away from the arena, leaving behind a mammoth crowd of ecstatic people who had gathered in their large numbers to welcome the IPOB leader.

Couple vanishes as son is declared wanted by police

By OLIVER UDEOGU

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couple residing at Ogui Urban area in Enugu, the Enugu State capital, has disappeared for fear of being arrested by the police, who had declared their son wanted for armed robbery.

The Oracle Today gathered that the said boy whose name was given as Kenechukwu, was a notorious cultist of the Aye Confraternity family.

Before he was declared wanted

by the Police, it was learnt that Kenechukwu had allegedly terrorized residents of the neighborhood and led his family gang in the murder of a resident of their neighborhood, who was a member of a rival confraternity in the Cal City.

It was gathered that members of the Special Anti-robbery Squad had gone to arrest Kenechukwu who still lives with his parents only to discover that he had fled their home.

Due to the gravity of Kenechukwu’s offence, the policemen told

his father on their arrival to their place to produce his son or be ready for the wrath of the police when the time comes.

Frightened by the police threat, Kenechukwu’s parents, it was alleged, hurriedly relocated to ‘God knows where’, sensing that the police would become unfriendly with them over the matter.

Some people resident in the area told The Oracle Today on conditions of anonymity, that Kenechukwu had been a notorious criminal who terrorized the entire

neighborhood. “On several occasions, the land lady of their house had increased their house rent to see if they would pack out from her house but they would always pay the rent and stay put,’’ a resident of the area said.

“Some people saw the couple when they were packing their properties inside a vehicle and asked them what the matter was as they never told them where they were relocating to. They simply vanished into thin air,’’ he concluded.

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The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

NEWS JAAC declares N2.18bn allocation for LGs in Edo for June

We will resolve our differences with NASS --Fashola

he Edo Joint Account and Allocation Committee (JAAC) says the total actual funding from the Federation Account to the 18 Local Governments Councils in the state in June was N2.18billion.

Mr Anthony Eboigbodin, Head of Administration in the Uhunmwode Local Government Council, disclosed this at the end of the JAAC meeting presided over by Gov. Godwin Obaseki, at Government House in Benin City, Friday.

He said that the N1.41 billion collected in June was used for mandatory expenditure, while the distributable sum left for the 18 LG councils was put at 758million.

Eboigbodin said the state government would set up a committee to harmonise the assessment, as well as the collection of rateable properties geared towards increasing Internally Generated Revenue in the state.

“We appeal to the people to cooperate with government officials who will be going round to collect these rates and levies, as approved by the newly- harmonised Local Government Laws,’’ Eboigbodin added.

He said the collection rollout, which involves the collection of taxes and levies and fixed rates in the entire LGAs in the state, would start on Monday, July 10, 2017

inister of Power, Works and Housing , Babatunde Fashola has expressed his confidence that the recent disagreement with the National Assembly over budget alterations will be resolved peacefully and soonest.

The Minister who stated that he has no personal grudges with the lawmakers, said the legislators are equally as concerned with the nation’s development as the Executive arm, adding that as people’s representatives, their interests will not make both arms be at loggerheads.

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‘Taraba conflict has no religious, tribal links’

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ational Patron, Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Alhaji Wali Jibril, has said that the recent violence in Mambilla Plateau area of Taraba had no religious or tribal links.

“From the information we have gathered, the crisis had no religious or tribal links; inadequate land for farmers and grazers led to the conflict because the wealthy people have bought majority of the land on the Plateau.

“The remaining land is not enough for both farmers and grazers; but instead of venting their anger on the wealthy individuals that have bought over the lands, they resorted to fighting among themselves which resulted in the loss of lives and property, including animals,” he said.

Jibril, who is also the Chairman, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Board of Trustee, spoke with newsmen on Saturday in Jalingo, shortly after at a meeting with Gov. Darius Ishaku and other stakeholders.

The MACBAN patron, who led a delegation of the body to Taraba, sued for peace and understanding between farmers and grazers, saying that he was in the state for a fact-finding mission on the fracas, even as further appealed to those fueling the crisis to turn a new leaf so as to avoid the wrath of the law.

Jibril commended the state government for the efforts that contained the situation, saying that negative reports published in the social media were false and “mischievously intended to further escalate the crisis”.

• Says Power generation has stabilised at 4,000MW From TONY AILEMEN, Abuja

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Recall that the Ministry had recently lamented reductions in the budgetary allocations to the LagosIbadan Expressway, the Bodo- Bonny road, the Kano-Maiduguri road, the Second Niger Bridge and the long drawn Mambilla Hydropower Project.

The Ministry said: “The National Assembly materially altered the allocations in favour of scores of boreholes and primary health care centres, which were never discussed during the Ministerial Budget Defence before Parliament.”

But the lawmakers in their reaction had slammed him for the observation, asking him to resign.

But the Minister while speaking with State House Correspondents shortly after attending the quarterly business meeting presided over

by Acting President Yemi Osinbajo at the Presidential Villa, Tuesday, said efforts were on to provide amicable resolution to the dispute.

“There is no problem between me as an individual and the National Assembly. And let me make that very clear, many of the senators and honourable members are my personal friends, and so you don’t fight your friends,” he said.

There is also disagreement which I don’t think should make us disagreeable about the best way

to implement that plan and I think that is all there is to it. It is perhaps possible that in the heat of the moment while trying to canvass different positions we are misconstrued as fighting but I am not fighting anybody. We have a disagreement; it shouldn’t make us disagreeable.”

“So, my responsibility is to continue to engage. Also even if I wasn’t a minister, I am a citizen also so the parliamentarians are also representing me. So, these are the issues and if I have been misunderstood my intention was not to quarrel with anybody but to see a better Nigerian which I believe they also want to see.”

• From left, Operations Director, FrieslandCampina WAMCO, Doyin Ashiru; Oyo State Commissioner for Agriculture, Oyewole Oyewumi; Managing Director, FrieslandCampina WAMCO, Ben Langat; Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Chief Audu Ogbeh; and Corporate Affairs Director, FrieslandCampina WAMCO, Ore Famurewa, during the Minister’s inspection of WAMCO’s Milk Collection Centres in Oyo State, Monday July 10, 2017

My new safety application receiving favourable response – Igbokwe, South Africa-based Nigerian M

r Fidelis Igbokwe, a Nigerian Information and Communication Technology expert, says a safety and security application he developed, TRRPN, is receiving favourable response in South Africa.

Igbokwe, the Chief Executive Officer of TRRPN, told the News

Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Johannesburg, South Africa, on Tuesday that more than 1000 download of the application had been recorded. “ TRRPN is a travel and tourism platform that enables countries, cities and governments to boost their foreign direct investment through

CHRIS EBONG with agency report

change will impact specific types of weather systems such as tropical cyclones, extratropical storms, and severe thunderstorms, the thermodynamics connecting a warming atmosphere to changes in precipitation are fairly straightforward,” the AIR report explained, “the warmer the air, the more moisture it can hold.”

“Heavy precipitation and concomitant pluvial (rain‐induced) inland flooding show robust 20th century trends in many regions.

“The clear physical basis between increasing saturation vapor pressure and increasing temperature gives confidence that the increasing trend in precipitation observed in many locations is influenced by climate change,” AIR explained.

Areas with significant increases in average annual precipitation trends, and thus with increasing risk of inland flooding, include: the United States, eastern South America, much of Europe, much of India, northwestern Asia and southeastern China.

Severe flooding threatens insurance costs R

einsurers and their insurance counterparts may experience high claims payout this season due to increased flooding both in major cities and hinterlands globally, according to report A recent report shows flooding costs are set to skyrocket; it’s the risk with the most evidence from climate science supporting forecasts of an increase in frequency and intensity of both coastal and inland flood events.

After extensive review of the latest from the climate science community the report noted that the impact of climate change “is most evident for inland and coastal floods” due to rising sea levels and changes to precipitation patterns.

“There is relatively strong evidence in the historical record that precipitation‐related quantities including heavy precipitation events, have been increasing.”

“Unlike the analyses of how climate

travel and tourism. “ Through TRPPN, we keep presence and visibility to places of interest in any city in any part of the world. “ It gets travellers and tourists to know the city before they arrive,” he said.

Igbokwe said the safety and security features of the application had also been successfully implemented. “ At the moment, we have over 1000 download of the application by people testing it.

“We will have our formal launch soon, but even before that, we are in the process of going into a platform that has more than two million subscribers,” he said.

According to him, an Americanbased group, New Africa Project,

used the platform to reach more than 200 million members in the Diaspora. “ The plan and objective of the group include to enhance development in Africa and encourage blacks who are descendants of slaves and resident in other countries to contribute stipends for development of the continent. “ They used TRPPN for this project and it worked, ” he said.

Igbokwe also said his firm would like to partner with the Federal Government to use the platform to enhance safety, security, travel and tourism. “ Travel and tourism sector alone is the biggest employer and we can use TRRPN platform to boost it. “ We are willing to partner government in this regard,” he said.

PUBLIC NOTICE

IGBO BIRI FRIENDS CLUB The general public is hereby notified that the above named club has applied to corporate affairs commission Abuja for registration under part ‘’C’’ of the companies and allied matters act, No 1 of 1990 THE TRUSTEES ARE 1. MBONU CHIGOZIE HILLARY 2. MBAMALU EBUKA 3. OTIOCHA IKECHUKWU MOSES 4. EZEDINIRU ONYEDIKA JINKA 5. UZOMA DARLINGTON CHIMA

6. OKORONKWO UCHENNA JOHN 7. EZEMBA OKWUDIRI EMMANUEL 8. OBIESIE STEPHEN CHIDIEBERE 9. NDUKA CHINEDU QUEENTUS 10. CHUKWUAGOZIE EMEKA

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1 To promote growth, peace and harmony amongst members 2 To conduct symposium for members Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the registrar general corporate affairs commission Abuja of plot 420 Tigris crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi street, Maitama Abuja within 28 days of this application Signed Nnazimuzo A. Ugorji, ESQ

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The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

Carol Standard Convent Valedictory/Award Giving ceremony in pix

Bishop Godwin Okpala, clergymen and principal of Carol Covent in a group photograph with the school choristers.

The principal, Mrs. Ikwueme, with Rt. Rev. Prof. Godwin Okpala.

The Anglican Bishop of Nnewi Diocese, Rt. Rev. Prof. Godwin Okpala, inaugurating the holders of various offices in the school.

Venerable Dan Azodo delivering a sermon during the service.

Lady Joy Ulasi presenting a prize to a graduating student, Miss Molokwu Chinemelu.

The second reviewer, Mrs. Blessing Achebe, reviewing the school magazine, Carol Standard Convent.

The outgoing senior prefect, Ojukwu Chisom (3rd right); incoming senior prefect, Miss Promise Okeke (3rd left), in a group photograph with the Principal, Mrs. Elizabeth Ikwueme (2nd right), after the handover of office at the event.

A cross section of the graduating students.

The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

EDUCATION

When Carol Convent held a Valedictory Service RAPULUCHUKWU UDECHUKWU reports that if the learning infrastructure, the discipline of the students and the daintiness of the environment are anything to go by, the Carol Standard Convent, Ichi in Ekwusigo Local Council of Anambra State is, indeed, worth all the accolades it receives as the place to be for students who wish to lay a solid foundation for their educational career

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EDUCATION is the bedrock of any meaningful development, and so the graduating students of Carol Standard Convent Ichi are now well equipped to face academic challenges in any tertiary Institution in Nigeria.”

Rev. Prof. Godwin Okpala, Anglican Bishop of Nnewi Diocese made this declaration shortly after the Valedictory cum prize-giving ceremony of the College last Saturday at Ichi Ekwusigo Council, Anambra State.

“A chronicle of the school, 15 years ago, academic performance, moral evolution and exemplary characters of students,” he explained, “wouldn’t have been made possible if not for the philanthropic gesture of Chief (Dr) Emma Bishop Okonkwo, the Chairman of Ekulo Group of Companies.”

According to Bishop Okpala: “Chief Okonkwo is the pillar behind Carol Standard Convent, not just a benefactor on paper but in the true sense of it. He provided equipment and infrastructure for the school.

The Ultra modern kitchen, chapel building, laboratory buildings, principal house, sporting facilities etc are the latest provisions. God will not abandon him because he has invested so much in God’s vineyard.”

Earlier in her welcome address, the school Principal Mrs. Elizabeth Ikwueme after acknowledging the presence of dignitaries expressed satisfaction at the successful celebration of 10th Valedictory cum prize giving ceremony of the school.

She recalled the history of the school 15 years ago, academic performance and challenges and stated that it has been positive.

“The record so far is impressive, commendable, and almost 90 percent of our students excelled, and have gained admission to various Universities across the nation,” she said.

The principal, however, advised the graduands to, “be focused and hold on to the noble ideals already inculcated in them.” She also urged them to remember that being on top depends on hardwork and determination, stressing that as school ambassadors, they should conduct their lifestyle to reflect the vision of the school which is building women of Integrity.

The Valedictory guest preacher, Ven. Daniel Azodo called on the outgoing students to go into the world and prove their mettle.

He started with a question, “what does future hold for these girls especially in today’s Nigeria where corruption has become a culture?”

He also reminded them that society is not a bed of roses, instead a place of social vices, fashion parades, matrimonial immoralities, and broken homes, warning further that the whole system is suf-

fering, and everything, everybody is weeping and groaning.

The Anglican Priest urged the graduands not to be deterred by the prevailing rot in the society; rather they should strive to be instruments of positive change both for their parents and society at large.

“As carol graduands, the wisdom, knowledge and new character would make a difference in your career. You have been empowered and packaged by good instructors and teachers, it is now up to you to replicate and soar above your peers. The expectations on you are quite high, what has been bestowed on you over the years is • Rt. Rev. (Prof.) Godwin Okpala, OON, Bishop Nnewi Anglican Diocese priceless, you are now carrying the people’s hope and aspirations,” she said.

He urged them to be good convent girls, and always exhibit the attributes of Jesus Christ who is the way, truth and life.

Lady Joy Ulasi, Chairman of Post Primary School Service Commission, Anambra State congratulated the graduands for their focused and disciplined life throughout the 6 years in school, and advised them to extend it to the university.

“You have achieved the main objective of coming to Ichi, there is no short way to success, once you remain focused and determined, you will surely excel,” she said.

She also commended the school’s management for ensuring that the girls perform well in their external examinations. She promised to always honour their invitations.

The ceremony witnessed the unveiling of the school year book, which was reviewed by two eminent scholars, Comrade Jerry Nnubia and Mrs Ogochukwu Achebe.

The event also showcased the induction of new students functionaries, the exchange of speeches by the outgoing and incoming Senior Prefects, as well as special awards • Chief Dr. Emma Bishop Okonkwo, OFR, the school benefactor. to great achievers.

In all, Carol Standard Convent registered 82 students for this year’s WASSCE and NECO, and the results are being awaited. The school participated in some academic competitions such as National Mathematics and Science Olympiad, Cowbell Mathematics, NNPC Science Competitions, Stan Competitions, Spak Science Competition etc, of which Chinecherem Anyalebechi, Chinemelum Nwabueze and Precious Nwigwe won various Laurels.

The school will also compete with other schools in Nigeria in NISSMUN Conference essay and debate coming up in October this year at Abuja.

The annual ceremony attracted top government officials especially from education ministry, Anglican Priests from far and wide, as well as students, parents, friends and well-wishers.

•Mrs. Elizabeth Ikwueme, the school Principal.

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The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

SPORTS

•Gianni Infantino

Nwankpa bombs Dalung •Says ‘ministry killing sports in Nigeria’ Stories by MADUABUCHI KALU

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MMEDIATE past national boxing coach and former Commonwealth gold medalist, Obisia Nwankpa, has come hard on the Minister of Sports and Youth Development, Hon. Solomon Dalung even as he accused the Sports Ministry of sports in the country.

According to the Abia Stated-born former African and Commonwealth champion, the Ministry is doing nothing to ensure that sports thrive in the country. He accused the administrators in the industry of only interested in diverting funds meant for the smooth running of sports into their private pocket to the detriment of the industry.

He accused the country of not contributing anything to the emergence of Anthony Joshua as world champion just as he declared that the country never contributed anything in the emergence of former Nigerian world champions like the late Dick Tiger, Hogan Bassey and Samuel Okon Peters.

“You see my brother; let me tell you the bitter truth. The Sports Ministry is killing sports in this country,” Nwankpa began.

“The Sports Ministry is not doing anything for the development of sports in Nigeria. The officials are only interested in finding a way of lining their pockets with illegal funds.

“How do you expect a champion to emerge when you refuse to give such an athlete adequate training and exposure? He queried. There is no support from the government to our athletes but they want them to emerge the best in the world, it is not possible. We have good talents no doubt, but you have to work on the raw talents that we have before they can give you what you want,” Nwamkpa declared.

“Let me you tell you, sports is like computer. It is cabbage in, cabbage out. It is as simple as that. It is what you fed the computer that it will give you back. They say gold must pass through the furnace before you can get its beauty and the same applies to sports. It is what you give that you get, there is no magic about it. It is not rocket science,” Nwankpa explained “They Ministry is not making any effort whatsoever to develop sports in this country. There is no support to our athletes and no assistance to those who used their useful energy

to serve this country in their chosen careers.

“Now, take the issue of the late Paul Ebiye Hamilton, the “Wonder Boy” as a case study. It is unbelievable that there is no single Sports Ministry official that has gone to the •Solomon Dalung family of Hamilton to offer any form “It was a good and wise decision of assistance to them despite all that Hamilton did for this country as a by him to represent Britain than to come over here in the name of trying player and as a coach.

“I know Paul Hamilton and his foot- to represent the Nigeria. The country ball exploits for the country. This one through sports administrators would is not a matter of somebody telling have messed him up big time. I can me a story of what he did for the tell you that we have boxers who are national team. He was so good that better than Joshua but the question during matches even if it was remain- is; who is interested in their affairs? ing just 10 or five minutes to the end Nobody!

“The Ministry officials are only inof the game and Nigeria is down, you will hear the then commentator, Fol- terested in what goes into their pockorunsho shouting, it is not over yet ets. They don’t care about the develfor Nigeria since the “Wonder Boy” opment of sports in the country. Let me tell you, I am saying this because is there.

“And true to Folorunsho’s predic- I have records of what they do there tions, Hamilton would equalize for when I was the national coach.

“Nigeria has the resources to make the country. I don’t know how he does it but he always does it for Ni- this country the Mecca of sports in Afgeria and look at it, nobody remem- rica because we have raw talents that bers him or his family. Is it how things need to be discovered and nurtured, but those officials sitting in their cozy should be done?

“And coming to the emergence of offices are not interested in how to Joshua as the current International develop sports in this country rather Boxing Federation (IBF) heavyweight their pockets are their gods.

“The normal thing is if the coaches champion, I can tell you that Britain gave him all the support that enabled submit programmes for athletes, the him to be what he is today and if he Ministry also bring their own prowere to be in Nigeria, I can tell you grammes and make it correspond with the coaches’ programmes but that it will be a different story.

•Obisia Nwankpa instead of doing that, what they do is cut down the training programmes mapped out for the athletes by the coaches and pocket the remaining funds.

“There is no help or assistance to Nigerian athletes but in other climes, government assist athletes just like Britain has done in the case of Anthony Joshua. And if you allow the Nigerian officials, they would have travelled to Britain to watch the bout in Wimbley despite neglecting our boxers here just because of the estacode that will follow such trips and not to learn one thing or the other that would help Nigerian sports.

“I want to place it on record that we have the best boxers in Nigeria, you can quote me anywhere. Our boxers are strong, they have stamina. The problem is that they lack support. They also lack exposure and training. If our athletes are given the necessary training, exposure and support I can assure you that we will be among the best in the world,” Nwankpa assured.

“All the achievements we have recorded so far in different fields of

Iheanacho nears City exit D

espite being in Manchester City preseason training tour in the United States of America, Nigerian striker, Kelechi Iheanacho is very close in realizing his desire of quitting Manchester City to another club where he would have regular playing time.

According to reporting reaching The Oracle Today Sports from the Queen’s country (England), the 2013 FIFA Under-17 World Cup Most Valuable Players (MVP) is very near Manchester City exit as Leicester City have stepped up their negotiation with Manchester City management to add the Nigerian striker to their squad.

The Oracles Today Sports has it on good authority that Leicester City returned to Manchester on Thursday to continue negotiation with some officials of Manchester City for the trans-

fer of the 20 year Nigerian, who has seen less playing time at City following the arrival of Pep Guardiola from Bayern Munich and arrival of Brazilian striker, Gabriel Jesus. The arrival of the Brazilian further pushed the Nigerian further down the pecking order in City’s striker force.

If negotiations are completed and end in a good note, Iheanacho may likely return to join his compatriots, Ahmed Musa and Wilfred Ndidi for Leicester City pre-season training in readiness for the commencement of the 2017/18 English Premier League (EPL) next month.

It is expected that the negotiation will end in a positive note to enable the Nigerian switch over from one city to another which will invariable be a big plus for the national team.

sports are through God’s intervention. It is by miracle and a typical example is the Chioma Ajunwa’s gold in Atlanta in 1996. At the time she won that gold; she was going about crying that there was no support from the Ministry or from anywhere for her.

That was why she was in a state of confusion when she won that gold in Atlanta because she was surprised,” Nwankpa explained.

Speaking further he said: “I want to tell you one thing. I was totally embarrassed by a question a parent put to me when I went to ask his child to come for boxing training. He asked me and said Obisia, now tell me what Nigeria has done for you as former champion? And for you as somebody who knew me, tell me what you know that the country has done for me? Just tell me. I am not talking of when I will be passing on the road and people will start making comments like, is this man not Obisia Nwamkpa? This country is bad.

So, with what this man did for this country they didn’t take care of him?

God forbid! What do you expect me to do in such a circumstance? Obisia Nwankpa queried.

“And those who are taking our wealth, the politicians whether big or small tell me what they have done for this country?

“Some of us have conquered the world like Chioma Ajunwa did in Atlanta. I conquered Africa and Commonwealth, I was a Nigerian champion. Some people like the late Hogan Bassey, late Dick Tiger Ihetu and Samuel Okon Peters etc. conquered the world in one time or the other.

“I was once rated No1 contender in my weight category in the world. Now, tell me any Nigerian politician that can be rated No1 in Africa let alone the world. No Nigerian politician can be rated within the first 200 in the world yet they are the people who are taking our Commonwealth. The labours of our heroes past are now made to be in vain against the position of national our anthem, it is so sad,” Nwankpa lamented.

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The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

SPORTS

Etoroma backs Rohr’s European tour Stories by MADUABUCHI KALU

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ormer member of Delta State Sports Commission, Hon. Ejiro Etoroma has thrown his weight behind Super Eagles’ Technical Adviser who jetted out of the country to Europe where he planned to have discussions with some Eagles players and their club coaches in respect of their early release for the team’s crucial World Cup and Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

According to Hon. Etoroma it is a normal practice for a serious national team coach to plan ahead so that there will be no regret at the end of the day.

Speaking further, the Engineer turned sports administrator ex-

plained that early preparations and the need for the country to have her best leg for the crucial encounter necessitated the swift move by the Franco-German football tactician to embark on the European tour.

“Well, as far as I am concerned, I think it is normal for any serious national team coach to plan ahead instead of waiting till it is too late to get things done,” Hon. Etoroma began.

“It is a welcome development that the Eagles’ Technical Adviser, Gernot Rohr has taken the bull by the horn by embarking on European tour to have discussions with the national team players and their club managers.

“What his European tour means is that Gernot Rohr knows what his

work is all about and he is ready to perform his job to best of his ability.

“I think that at this time we need our best to prosecute the remaining matches in our World Cup Qualifiers and AFCON. There should not be any form of laxity from every quarter.

“Apart from having our best legs, there is need to equally start preparation on time so that the players will get to know themselves better and at the same time play as a team,” hon. Etoroma explained.

Meanwhile, Super Eagles Media Officer, Toyin Ibotoye has explained that Gernot Rohr’s European tour was a personal trip by the Franco German tactician which

does not cost the Nigeria Football Federation a kobo. He explained that the Eagles’ gaffer will return after completing his European tour and be with the team’s chief coach Salisu Yusuf, who is currently preparing the home based players for the African Nations Championship.

Speaking further, the national team image maker explained that good players from the home based team have the chance of making the main team. He recalled that about four home based players made the 2014 World Cup in Brazil saying the same opportunity is still available to the current players but that any player who wants to be a part of the main team should prove that he is worthy of it via his performance and nothing more.

•Ejiro Etoroma

Agali explains why Nigerian players don’t attract big clubs

Terry gives reason for rejecting EPL clubs

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•Says ‘I couldn’t face Chelsea’

x-international striker, Victor Agali, has attributed poor representation of the country’s national team as the reason the country is experiencing decreasing level of footballer in transfers to prominent European clubs.

Since the Super Eagles’ triumph at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations, the country has missed out subsequent editions of the competition.

Also, the Nigeria U17 and Nigeria U20 teams missed out of major championship. These factors are what the 38-year-old sees as reasons for the decline in massive transfers involving Nigerians.

“This is something we’ve enjoyed in the past we have had Nigerians hit big transfers, make big moves.

But we lost it along the line and it all came when our national teams start dropping and we are now back to start coming up again,” Agali said.

“The last time we had a transfer of Ndidi; it’s reasonably big for a defensive midfielder. So that’s okay but I hope it follows on. We have more.”

On the contrary, Agali also believes that the more attractive Chinese Super League does not help matters as footballers seek to earn more while

F

•Victor Agali settling for playing in Asia.

“But now with the Chinese people coming in, and with everyone now going to China I’m afraid the foot-

ball countries like Nigeria and other countries where their indigenous football is not so high will definitely suffer.”

Gov. Emmanuel builds 10,000 capacity stadium in Eket

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kwa Ibom State Governor, Udom Emmanuel has approved the construction of a 10,000 capacity stadium for Eket town.

The Commissioner for Youths and Sports, Monday Uko, made the disclosure while inspecting the old Eket Stadium on Wednesday.

Uko said that the action of the governor was a renewed move to develop and expand sports infrastructure in the state.

He said that the construction of the new facility would be completed before May 2018.

He said the stadium would have tartan tracks for athletics, practicing pitch and a main bowl.

The commissioner said that the facility when completed would decongest state-sponsored football

competitions from Uyo and offer the residents of the city opportunity to watch top flight football.

“We are not going to inherit anything from the old stadium.

“Everything here will give way for a brand new stadium which by the grace of God will be completed before the end of May 2018.

“We are going to construct a stadium that will take at least 10,000 spectators and going by the enthusiasm and quality that the governor attaches to projects, the stadium should attract international matches.’’

On the National Youth Games, the commissioner said that athletes who excelled at the last state games would represent the Akwa Ibom in the forthcoming competition in Ilorin.

•Udom Emmanuel He said the decision was to assist them develop their talents.

The Eket Stadium was constructed by the Eket Local Government Area in 1994 and had hosted top flight club, Mobil Pegasus FC. The facility is currently in a dilapidated state.

ormer England and Chelsea captain, John Terry, has explained the reason he snubbed Premier League offers but prefer to join Aston Villa. According to the Uefa Champions League winner, the reality of facing his former club Chelsea during the season is reason he prefer to join a championship side. He explained that the psychological burden of facing Chelsea would have been “too much” for him to bear.

The former England captain signed for Villa on a one-year contract which could see him earn £4million if he can achieve his ambition of taking the club back to the Premier League, according to Sky sources.

Terry it was reported had offers from West Bromwich Albion, Swansea and Bournemouth, but admitted he turned them down out of loyalty to his former club, Chelsea.

“For me it was just the mental side of playing against Chelsea, it was just too much to get over for me,” said Terry.

“I was 22 years at the football club, 22 unbelievable years, I’m very proud of that but this is a new chapter in my life, my career.

I wish Chelsea well next season and will be watching out but my thoughts are 100 per cent here.”

Terry confirmed there is no coaching role involved in his contract with Villa, but was reluctant to indicate whether he would continue his playing career at Villa Park should they get back to the top flight - where he would meet Chelsea.

“If that’s the ideal situation and in one year’s time, we’re sitting here with Aston Villa back in the Premier League then I’ve done my job and everyone else has done theirs,” he added. “We can cross that bridge hopefully when we come to it.”

Terry’s deal will make him one of the highest earners ever to play in the Sky Bet Championship,

according to Sky sources, and although Steve Bruce admitted discussions had started two months ago, he insisted money was not the deciding factor.

“Money wasn’t the issue, I have to be fair to John,” said Bruce.

“We talked about coaching and how we can help him do his badges. It was all to do with football, money was never really mentioned.”

Terry, who was pictured playing golf with Bruce earlier this summer, added: “A few conversations with Steve have helped me get here as well. I’m very hungry to still play at the top at a club that has got the same ambition as me to win and get promoted.

That is why I’m at Aston Villa.

“With things going to an end at Chelsea I put a lot of things to the side. A lot of managers were respectful of that, but it was bubbling after that, phone calls, text messages, and then obviously I bumped into Steve in Portugal as well.”

Terry’s career has now come full circle after making his debut for the Blues against Aston Villa in the 1997/98 season, aged just 17.

Despite Terry’s advancing years, Bruce admitted the signing was potentially the biggest of his career, and defended the club’s investment.

•John Terry

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The Oracle Today Wednesday July 19, 2017

SPORTS

Okagbare runs 1st sub-11secs in almost 2 years

McGregor pledges to ‘break’ Mayweather’s face

•Picks bronze in IAAF Diamond League in London

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lessing Okagbare-Ighoteguonor, the reigning Nigeria sprint queen, on Sunday at the IAAF Diamond League meeting in London ran 10.99 seconds, her first sub-11 seconds performance of the season to place third behind Jamaica’s Elaine Thompson (10.94) and Dutch girl, Dafne Schippers (10.97). She has thus raced back to reckoning ahead of next month’s 16th IAAF World Championships also in London.

It was the Nigerian’s first sub-11 seconds performance in the 100m in over 21 months and 17th of a very storied career since she raced into the limelight in Abuja on July 25, when she won her first national title in the blue ribband event.

Many local athletics watchers had been doubting Okagbare’s ability to bounce back after a rather disappointing 2016 season, when she not only failed to race inside 11 seconds in the 100m but also could not make the final of the event at the Rio Olympics.

The last time she ran a sub-11 seconds in the 100m was way back in September 2015 at the IAAF Dia-

mond League meeting in Zurich where she closed her season with a 10.98 seconds performance.

Interestingly, the Nigerian ran an incredible six sub-11 seconds in the 100m t h a t s e a s o n , t o p ping it with t h e 10.80 seconds she ran at the IAAF Diamond League meeting at the Stade De France in Paris on July 4. It was her and Nigeria’s second fastest 100m time ever.

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s the world is waiting anxiously to the potential fight between UFC star, Conor Mcgregor and Floyd Mayweather, the UFC star has taken their verbal treat to another level by promising to break Mayweather face.

McGregor has warned that he will “break” Mayweather’s face when the two fighters contest a boxing rules showdown next month.

The Las Vegas mega fight brings together two of the biggest names in combat sports.

McGregor — a two-time twoweight champion in mixed martial arts (MMA) — challenges Mayweather, an unbeaten boxer who has ruled his sport for a 20 year period.

“I’m going to be ruthless in there,” McGregor says in a new promotional video. “My fist is just going to break his whole face and that’s it.”

The video coincides with the launch of a world press tour. This week, McGregor and Mayweather

Conte joins Chelsea pre-season training

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helsea returned to their Cobham training base for the first full day of pre-season on Monday - even as Manager Antonio Conte joined in as they began preparations for the defence of their Premier League title.

The 47-year-old took part in a gruelling opening session alongside members of his squad as they again look to set the pace during the upcoming season.

Gary Cahill, David Luiz, Pedro and Willian were among those put through their paces on Monday, while young players including Lucas Piazon, Andreas Christensen, Jake Clarke-Salter and Kenneth Ommeruo also joined in the session.

But there were a number of players who were absent from the pre-season session, including controversial striker, Diego Costa.

The Spain international forward was given additional time off as he looks to seal away from Stamford Bridge back to his former club, Atletico Madrid.

New signing Antonio Rudiger was another player who did not take part in the session. The defender has also been given an extended lay-off as he looks to recover from Germany’s Confederations Cup win in time for the new season.

Injured forward Eden Hazard, meanwhile, was back at Cobham but he trained separately from his team-mates as he continues to recover from a broken ankle that is set to keep him out until September.

will meet face-to-face for the first time since they announced their half a billion dollar bout in June.

Both fighters are renowned for their mastery of self-promotion, so the tour, which begins in Los Angeles on Tuesday, is bound to generate headlines.

Even the official trailer, produced

by American broadcaster, Showtime Sports, has some immortal lines.

“Let’s not kid ourselves here who the big star is of this show,” McGregor says. “(I’m) a slick, Irish, handsome kid who has climbed to the top of the game quicker than anybody else has ever done it.”

“I’m always looking to make history… and here we are again, more history.”

Mayweather counters McGregor’s “big star” claim. “When you speak boxing, you’re speaking Mayweather.”

He added: “This is not like a normal fight. It’s big, big business.”

Bolt reveals plan for retirement

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Serena Williams to drop out of top 10 after Wimbledon

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erena Williams will certainly drop out of the Top 10 of the world rankings for the first time since April 1, 2012. The 35-year-old American, who is currently on a break from the game as she is due to give birth to her first child later this year, has been in the Top 10 of the world rankings for 276 consecutive weeks.

Currently the longest active streak among the players. Serena won Wimbledon last year and with her no-show this year, she will drop the ranking points from 12 months ago. With Serena moving out of

the Top 10, Romania’s Simona Halep will now own the longest active streak in the Top 10 at 182 consecutive weeks - a streak dating back to January 2014.

The Romanian player is currently ranked a career-high No.2 in the rankings and has a good chance to end the tournament as World No. 1. In other ranking news, the French Open champion, Jelena Ostapenko has a chance to make her debut in the Top 10 of the world rankings but needs to do better than Serena’s sister, Venus at Wimbledon.

orld fastest man, Jamaican Usain Bolt has revealed that he is rapidly approaching retirement,but that the fun won’t stop when he hangs up his spikes.

Speaking to the Daily Star, Bolt revealed that he’s planning on hanging up with his mate, Paul Pogba following his final race at the World Championships in London next month.

“I’ve not decided exactly how I will celebrate the end of my career, but as I am in the UK I hope to see my good friend Paul.

“We can go and have dinner at Nando’s. And maybe afterwards we can party a little and I might buy him a Guinness . . . but not too many because I expect him to lead Manchester United to be champions next season!”

Bolt is famously a huge fan of Manchester United and has pushed for a trial at the club once he finishes his athletics career. And while that appears unlikely, he’s training hard to make sure his glittering career on the track ends on a high in London.

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Our momentary country

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T is a blessing – some insist it is a curse – to be born and live in Nigeria. Ours is a momentary country with all the consequences of being one. We neither introspect nor retrospect. People who live for the moment have only momentary inclinations.

Complaints about Nigeria are not about how the present rudderless movements of Nigeria affect the future. We are complaining about things that cannot be done because of the President’s absence. Once budgets are passed, contracts awarded, appointments made, foreign exchange is within affordable rates, we can go on holidays, buy our choice apartments at home and abroad, amass enough for medical attention abroad, and send our children to foreign schools, we are good to go, we are a country.

The drains these are on our abilities to be a people that would make contributions to improving the lives of their people do not count. The only other thing that could have been of interest would be the next president, the next government, and all the next positions that elections would fill soon.

A momentary country is also a seasonal country with its affairs treated like episodes of a badly scripted movie. We tolerate the nothingness if it creates the possibilities that we would be part of the emptiness called greatness in Nigeria.

Amazingly, there is a rivalry among Nigerians to be the leaders of the empty promises on which Nigeria is erected.

Others are more entailing in the things they do for their countries because theirs are countries that consider profundities of better value than the profanities that line our landscapes. We are a people in passage, in transit, unfortunately it seems that it is from bad to worse.

Nothing to learn from Lagos flood MY tears flowed for our people whose homes and businesses were swept away by water in the Lekki-Ajah corridor. The woes of that part of Lagos are avoidable.

We are all discussing the development with an element of surprise about the flood. Were there not enough warnings?

Were the environmental and urban planning practices in that place sustainable?

For how many years had experts and expatriates warned about the dangers that those areas posed? Did anyone listen?

Were the destructions that the ocean posed at the Bar Beach not enough evidence? Did anyone think it mattered?

When the waters broke the entrance to Lekki Phase I more than 10 years ago, in their search for the sea, nobody thought something was wrong.

Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu was at the site of the incident with a host of his officials. Why then all the surprise, affected really, about Lekki and the flood? Why the pretence about emergency services?

Why are we not thinking that if this could happen in Lagos with its megacity ambitions, anchored on reclaiming parts of the Atlantic Ocean, that there would be dan-

Where’s Osborne money?

On Wednesday 12 April this year, news began to filter in that some money was found in Osborne Towers, Ikoyi. In a country doused with rumours of all qualities, many thought it was one of them.

Later, figures in foreign currencies started emerging. Some said the dollar haul was $41.6 million, others said it was $50 million. I have few challenges with what the final figure was. We are a country with a celebrated inability to count, at least accurately. Even when people die in accidents, we approximate, it is usually “about”. When we cannot count human beings correctly, it would surprise a few that we cannot count money, leading to the other suspicion that money is meant to be wrongly counted, so that we are unsure of what it was, and finally what it would be if it was ever in public domain again.

The celebration of the haul by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), stalled when various versions of the story dented the possibility of the find. More was loading, as our younger folks would say. Three months after, the ownership of the money is not known, at least officially. The most anti-corruption government in the 21st century, apparently on paper, cannot tell Nigerians who kept such amount of money, which some commentators say is more than the annual budgets of some countries, in a residential apartment.

• Dollar haul at Osborne Towers, Ikoyi Lagos. gers ahead?

As noted elsewhere, the dangers are not in what has happened. The dangers lie in the absence of data and statistics on what causes these situations, what needs to be done, and when they would be done.

Each time I asked when the Nigerian Institute for Oceanography and Marine Research was often submerged with the slightest rain, I am told that the location of the institute permits it to study the ocean. Where are the results of the studies? The institute, like many others, has failed us.

How do the flooding in Lekki relate to floods in Suleja, 726km away, not on the coast, without abusive environmental practices in the volumes of the Lekki corridor?

Seven years after Yar’Adua Have we forgotten that we had President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, also from Katsina State, who fell ill during the electoral campaigns, and was ill for most of the two years he was on the saddle? Our present situation should not befuddle us, except if we complicate the issue by stating, obviously, that while the present situation is domiciled in London, seven years ago, Saudi Arabia (city not certain) was where Yar’Adua spent his last days.

Government and governance was tasked. The uncertainties heightened each day with some of today’s patriots at the forefront of the demands that Yar’Adua should handover government.

The opposition made a song of how inchoate government was when the state of the President was unknown.

After Yar’Adua, we did nothing to prevent situations where the President becomes the Presidency. Under President Muhammadu Buhari, the Constitution, the peoples of Nigeria, and power mongers have contested authority in variegated formats. None of the positions has built up the country. Tensions that contestations for being Nigerian generate have flooded like the waves of the sea, which may ebb, but never go away.

There are fundamental issues with our environment that we overlook. Lekki is only a metaphor of our abuse of the environment. We know that more than 75 per cent of the estates and developments, on that belt that stretches to Epe, have not been developed. How can the belt be rescued? Should there be a limit to the number of constructions on the fragile peninsula?

Lekki is an opportunity to query the attention we pay to our environment with regard to flooding and or erosion. The moment should not be lost in speeches or wished away in platitudes. Those who celebrate the disaster on the Lekki corriFinally dor do not know that in similar manners, As we wade through the cascading governments have ruined other sides of episodes of Nigerian life, there are no our lives. linkages. The movie only leaves you confused.

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