Wednesday 15-22 May 2019, Edition

May 30: IPOB insists on sit-at-home

By THEO RAYS, Onitsha and PAMELA EBOH, Awka

Indigenous People Tsistedheof Biafra (IPOB) has inthat its sit-at-home

This was contained in a statement issued by Emma Powerful, director of media and publicity of IPOB. According to Powerful “IPOB worldwide have resolved to prove on May 30th both in Biafraland and beyond that we remain the preeminent freedom fight-

ing outfit anywhere on this earth at this present moment.”

The full text of the statement is as follows: “The High Command of our illustrous movement has directed that every family meeting in every country around the world must in

The

order in Southeast and other places of Igbo abode worldwide on May 30, 2019 must hold.

VOX POPULI SACRUM

word and deed demonstrate our formidability and resoluteness before an observant global audience on the 30th of May in such a manner that our heroes, wherever they lie, even in unmarked graves in forgotten battlefields, will be proud of what

they achieved 52 years ago. Compliance with the sit-at-home order must be strictly and rigorously enforced across Biafraland.

“As 30th of May 2019 Remembrance Day draws ever nearer, Biafrans both home and abroad MUST honour and remember our heroes

and heroines that died to stop the total Islamisation of the sacred land of Biafra and perpetual enslavement of the children of God. The exceptionally gallant soldiers of the class of 67-70 and the fearless IPOB fam-

racle

WEDNESDAY May 15 - 21, 2019

www.oraclenews.ng

ISSN: 2545-5869

Cont’d on page 5

Today

‘How to save Nigeria from disintegration’

VOL.4 No.19 N200

•Bishop Ibezim decries incessant attacks by herdsmen across the country •Reiterates need for restructuring •Archbishop Chukwuma warns IPOB against sitat-home •Odedeji tasks Anglicans on faith •Obiano asks for tolerance •P2

Youths threaten Anambra-born Christian over refusal to convert to Islam

•Muslim father allegedly refuses to endorse his marriage unless he converts •The 33-year old Kano-based Christian goes into hiding •P39

Page 5

•Enugu State Governor, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (2nd left) with the Chairman, Mewar University, India, Dr. Ashok Kumar Gadiya (2nd right), Head of International Relations, Engr. Samer Khan (left) and the International Marketing Manager, Abukakar Sani Bello, when the delegation from the Indian University paid a visit to the Government House, Enugu.

NNPC Saves $1.6bn from Arbitration with Atlantic Energy

2

The Oracle Today Wednesday May 15 - 21, 2019

NEWS

... Nigeria from disintegrating, by Bishop Ibezim

By ODOGWU EMEKA ODOGWU

T

he Bishop Diocese of Awka, Anglican Communion, Right Reverend Alexander Chibuzor Ibezim has declared that the only way to preserve its unity and prevent Nigeria from collapsing as a country, is for President Muhammadu Buhari to work hard to preserve that unity by “bringing the country together in order to create true federalism where everyone will freely work for national growth.”

Presenting his Bishop’s Charge to the 3rd session of the 11th Synod at St Jude’s Anglican Church Adazi Ani, Anaocha council area, Anambra state, Bishop Ibezim decried the incessant attack by herdsmen to lives and property in some parts of the state.

He announced promotion of 9 priests to Archdeacons and Canons including four Archdeacons including Venerable Rex Kanu; Venerable Christian Chinwuko; Venerable Nehemiah Ugoagu and Venerable Goodness Amaechi.

The five Canons are Canon Samuel Ezunu, Canon Bonny Ogaraku, Canon Nnamdi Ajaoku, Canon Ndubuisi Ahanonu and Canon Tim Okwuchineke.

Bishop Ibezim said: “More than 100 years after the birth of Modern Nigeria, there can be no credible denial of its tottering steps to true nationhood. The gloomy signs are there for the blind to see. Despite the challenges we are facing, we strongly appeal to Nigerians to be positive and prayerful about our nation. An average American wakes up in the morning and says ‘God bless America.’ Surely God is blessing America. It is only through this way that citizens can develop the right attitude that supports national development.

“On the part of government, President Muhammadu Buhari is called upon to act very fast to save Nigeria from disintegration.

The level of bloodshed in our country is very high- insecurity of lives and property, killing, kidnapping, and assassinations here and there. Majority of the populace are very hungry due to economic difficulties. The judiciary and other arms of the government seem to be under ridicule.

“We call upon the President to bring the country together in order to create true federalism where everyone will freely participate and work towards national growth. A situation where everything revolves around the centre in Nigeria makes things not to be working.

“Immediate reorganisation of the administrative structure and machinery of governance will save Nigeria from impending collapse. The surest means to achieve this is for the President to actualize in concrete terms all his electoral promises within the shortest possible time. This, we believe, will give everyone a sense of belonging’’.

Bishop Ibezim condemned the Xenophobic attacks in South Africa, which have not only become recurring incidents but have resisted any solution, pointing out that the South African authorities have lost the capacity to contain the violence.

He further reminded the Anambra state governor, Chief Willie

Obiano that security must seriously readdressed in the state because, according to him, ‘occasional robberies and kidnapping in the state are now on the rise.’

He also decried the incessant herdsmen attacks in some parts of the state destroying people’s means of livelihood and warned that it should be arrested to avert untoward consequences of such

attacks in the future.

On the theme of the synod, “the victory that has overcome the world even our faith, 1 John 5: 4’’, Bishop Ibezim said: “Considering the near hopeless situation in today’s Nigeria, one will see the promise of the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith as essential in providing us ways to be confident of victory both in

this temporal life and most importantly, in the life to come. Such promise gives hope to already despondent people battling with the question of existentialism both as individuals and as a nation, especially with the increasing certainty that the end of cosmos life is at hand. For instance, the provision by the government of medical, educational, security and other

essentials of life that make the country to be in distress. Bribery and corruption stink to high heavens and these adversely affect our socio-political, religious and economic lives. Most worrisome is that the Church that is supposed to save this decaying world seems to have gone into the world and got lost, swallowed by greed and materialism even as it has become the temple for Mormonism. It is therefore not an overstatement to declare that both Christians and non-Christians are in dire need of this victory that overcomes the world.’’

In an interview, Dean, Church of Nigeria, and the Archbishop of Kaduna province, the Most Reverend Ali Buba Lamido lauded Bishop Ibezim for producing some new Ph.D priests and noted that attracting over 50 Bishops to his synod speaks volume of his episcopacy.

On his part, the Archbishop of Bendel Province, and Bishop of Esan Diocese, Most Reverend Friday John Imaekhai lamented that Nigerians don’t have faith in the government of the day, decrying the bloodletting in the country by herdsmen and bandits without check.

He described the synod as apt in the complex society “we found ourselves.”

Nothing like sit at home on May 30—Archbishop Chukwuma Also contributing, the Archbishop of Enugu Anglican Province, Most Reverend Emmanuel Chukwuma warned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) to stop creating confusion in the polity with their call for a sit- -at-home on May 30, 2019 as the time for that is over.

Archbishop Chukwuma insisted that the announced sit at home is irrelevant now because elections are over and governors and president elected and, therefore, everybody should give them sup-

Cont’d on page 39 •Bishop Ibezim

We have lost confidence in your handover programme, Ihedioha tells Okorocha From COLLINS UGHALAA, Owerri

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he incoming Governor of Imo, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, and his outgoing counterpart, Owelle Rochas Okorocha, have once again locked horns over the transition programme that will culminate in the handover programme on May 29, 2019.

In a press release on Thursday in Owerri by Chief Emeka Omeihe, the Secretary, Media and Publicity Sub-committee of the Ihedioha handover committee, the incoming Governor accused Okorocha of sabotaging the handover programme.

According to the press release, Ihedioha lamented that “With barely a few days to the commencement of some of the activities presaging the actual swearing-in and handover ceremonies,

we regret to say that the body language of the state government no longer imbuesconfidence that it is genuinely committed to the overall success of that exercise”.

He added that “It is increasingly getting clearer that unless we proceed on terms dictated by them, the state government will be reluctant to discharge its constitutional responsibilities regarding the swearing-in and handover ceremonies. We find this tardiness although characteric on their part, very discomforting”.

Ihedioha noted that despite the setting up of the joint transition committee by himself and the Governor, there are worrisome indicators that the Governor is derailing the handover program, saying that doing so was against the promise he made to the people of the state, that he would give them a hitch free transition program.

“Sequel to discussions with the government of Imo state on the

need for a smooth and successful swearing-in and handover ceremonies in the state on May 29, 2019, the Governor-Elect, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha raised a 31-man committee to interface with the 21-man team set up by the state government to work out details of the program for the exercise.

“The two committees met formally on three different occasions.

There were also other meetings by the leadership of the two committees. In one of the formalmeetings, a decision was taken to set up a sub-committee of 10 members comprising five members from the two sides to fast-track the process.

The sub-committee, conscious of the limited time available, immediately went into action working day and night. After a painstaking exercise, they reached agreement on a program of activities that will lead to successful and hitch-free swearing-in and handover ceremonies.

“In the course of one of these meetings, committee members paid a courtesy call on His Excellency, Governor Rochas Okorocha who promised to do all within his powers to ensure a successful and eventful swearing-in and handover ceremonies in the state come May, 29, 2019”, he disclosed.

He urged the Governor “to show good faith for once by redeeming his pledge to the good people of Imo state to ensure a successful and hitch-free swearing-in and Handover to the Governor-elect, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha without further delay”, stressing that he was “constrained to bring this unpleasant development to the public domain in the hope that the state government will do the needful”.

He assured the people of Imo State that he has “put in place all arrangements within human powers to ensure that the exercise is a resounding success”.

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The Oracle Today Wednesday May 15 - 21, 2019

NEWS ACROSS THE NATION

No going back to APC– Ortom

By VICTOR NZE

A

mid reports making the rounds of the Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom rejoining the All Progressives Congress (APC) from his Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the government has moved to dismiss the claims, describing such as ‘unfounded.’

Ortom, in a statement, signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Terver Akase, Tuesday, said he has ‘no reason and no plan to leave PDP.’ Furthermore, the Ortom said the results of the last General Elections held across the state showed that PDP remained the ‘preferred political party’ of Benue people.

It would also be recalled that Ortom’s reported defection back to the APC was further fuelled by the

state chief executive recent meeting with both President Muhammadu Buhari as well as the Vice President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo, last week.

“We have read reports insinuating that Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom plans to leave the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP and return to All Progressives Congress, APC. “Such unfounded insinuations have grown stronger since the Governor’s visit to President Muhammadu Buhari at the Presidential Villa, Abuja yesterday.

“We wish to categorically state that Governor Ortom has no reason and no plan to leave PDP. As leader of the party in the state, the Governor enjoys a robust relationship with other PDP leaders and members at the state and national levels.

“The Benue electorate has also indicated clearly from the results of the last general election that the PDP remains their preferred political party. Governor Ortom always stands with his people and this, he will continue to do,” said the statement. Ortom, therefore, advised those peddling the reports to note that his meeting with the Presidency was on national matters, which he described as ‘periodic briefings over state matters.’

“We wish to advise those spreading the rumour and misleading people to know that President Buhari is not an APC President. He is the President of the whole Nigeria across party divides. He is the Commander-in-Chief of the country’s armed forces and receives periodic briefings from State Governors and

other stakeholders.

“Governor Ortom’s visit to the Presidential Villa was therefore to discuss state matters particularly to give the President an update on the security situation in his state and the efforts the Government is making to guarantee peace in all parts of the state as well as its borders with other states such as Taraba and Ebonyi.

“Politics is over. Now is time for governance to ensure that development gets to the people. We advise those making unfounded speculations and fanning embers of discord to allow Governor Ortom and President Buhari to synergise where possible and concentrate on strategizing to ensure the security of lives and property as well as general welfare of the people,” he said.

Osinbajo frowns at bribes for licenses, others

ice President Yemi Osinbajo V says there is no reason why any Nigerian should give bribe to law

enforcement agents whether for obtaining drivers licenses, passports or to clear goods at the ports.

Osinbajo spoke on Tuesday in Abuja while declaring open the anti-corruption conference tagged “Collaborative Approach to Eradicating the Evils of Corruption in Nigeria.’’

The conference was organised by the Office of the Vice President and the Presidential Advisory Committee Against Corruption (PACAC).

Quoting PricewaterhouseCoopers, Osinbajo said Nigeria’s 2030 Gross Domestic Product (GDP) could be up to 534 billion dollars higher if it reduced corruption.

He said it did not matter how much revenue a country made or how transformative its plans were; corruption would ensure that the majority of the people did not benefit from it or simply truncate the plan.

According to him, in spite the highest oil revenues in Nigeria’s history, debt doubled and poverty figures rose as a result of corruption.

He said that the administration was not slightly deluded into thinking that it had won the battle against corruption as it was tackling grand corruption first.

“By that we mean the stealing of huge public resources directly from the treasury; usually at the highest levels of executive authority; and the stealing of budgeted funds through various schemes.’’

He said that the enforcement of Treasury Single Account(TSA), the Presidential Initiative on Continuous Audit, and even ensuring that most civil servants were on the IPPIS electronic platform had helped greatly to control official theft of public funds.

The vice president said that the judiciary also moved the needle in recent times.

“The Supreme Court in a lead judgment of Akaahs JSC, recently held that forfeiture under Section 17 of the Advanced Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act is a civil process which neither requires the criminal conviction of the property owner nor his innocence .

“This opens the door for forfei-

• President Muhammadu Buhari today received in audience former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon (Rtd) at the State House, Abuja

ture of assets that the purported owner cannot explain, whether or not an allegation of corruption is made.

“We are now poised to deal with the wider problem of systemic corruption; especially where the average person interacts with government.

“Corruption in the issuance of contracts , licenses and other government approvals; there is no reason why any Nigerian should have to give bribe to law enforcement agents for obtaining drivers licenses or passports, or to clear goods at our ports .

“All the relevant government agencies have shown a serious commitment to eradicating these forms of corruption; our next level is to create the environment for collaboration between our agencies, civil society and other stake holders.’’

The vice president said that it was in recognition of the enormity of corruption that President Muhammadu Buhari set up PACAC in 2015.

Osinbajo said that PACAC de-

served commendation not just for its sterling, innovative contributions to the fight against corruption, but for regularly setting the agenda for important conversations on the subject.

On his part, PACAC’s Chairman, Prof. Itse Sagay, said information and intelligence sharing among anti-corruption and security agencies was critical in the fight against corruption.

He said that the Sept. 11 attack in New York and the recent attack in Sri Lanka were all blamed of security agencies who failed to act on or share intelligence.

“On June 1, 2016, PACAC organised a roundtable on corruption information and intelligence sharing protocol.

He said that the justification for that roundtable was contained in the summary of the outcome of the roundtable.

Sagay said that it was observed that information at the disposal of various intelligence units in the country was not shared in a systematic and pragmatic manner to

assist the fight against corruption and other related national security threats.

He said the gaps were identified as setback in the fight against corruption.

“Against the above background, PACAC developed a protocol on information and intelligence sharing for anti-corruption and law enforcement agencies and intelligence community.

“The recommendations of that roundtable were not only apt, but were imperative for the successful collaboration and information sharing among the anti-corruption and security agencies.

“Let us use the opportunity this morning to reaffirm the determination of the ant-corruption and security agencies to work together in the interest of Nigeria in order to clear the cobweb of corruption that has almost covered the face of Nigeria,” he said.

Heads of various anti-corruption agencies whose operations are affected by corruption attended the event.

Adeleke: Court reserves judgment in PDP appeal

T

he Court of Appeal in Abuja on Tuesday reserved judgment in the nullification of Sen. Ademola Adeleke’s candidacy to contest the Osun State September 2018 governorship election on account of forged credentials.

Adeleke, who contested the election on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was returned winner by the Osun State Election Petition Tribunal after Gov. Adegboyega Oyetola of All Progressive Congress (APC) was declared winner of the election by INEC. Justice Othman Musa of the FCT High Court in Bwari, Abuja had on April 2 invalidated Adeleke’s status as PDP governorship candidate following a suit challenging the authenticity of the credentials Adeleke presented to the electoral body.

The respondents in the matter are INEC, APC and Governor Adegboyega Oyetola of Osun State.

Justice Jauro Adamu, leading two other justices reserved judgment after counsel for parties had adopted their written addresses.

Counsel for PDP, Mr Emmanuel Enoidem, submitted that the trial court erred in law in arriving at its decision.

Enoidem said the PDP had relied on Sections 285 (9) 285 (11) and 285 (12) to challenge the jurisdiction of the court to try Adeleke.

He said the Adeleke’s status as the candidate of the party in the governorship election had no nexus with the suit that challenged the validity of his certificate.

Enoidem also averred that the credentials presented to INEC by the party’s candidate were not forged documents, adding that the electoral body was right to have cleared him for the election.

He therefore, urged the court to reverse the judgment and reinstate Adeleke as the duly elected candidate of the PDP who was returned winner of the Osun state governorship election.

Wahab Raheem and Adam Habeeb, both of the Osun Chapter of All Progressives Congress (APC) instituted the suit, accusing Adeleke of not possessing the requisite educational qualification.

Counsel for Raheem and Habeeb, Mr Bankole Akomolafe, urged the court to dismiss the argument advanced by counsel for the appellant, adding that PDP’s attempt at challenging the jurisdiction of the trial court was not heard.

Akomolafe submitted that the appellant’s action was described by the trial court as an attempt to arrest its judgment.

He therefore urged the court to take judicial notice of the record of proceedings from the trial court, adding that the PDP did not at any point file motion that challenged the jurisdiction of the court.

He said Adeleke was found to have deceived the electoral body with fake certificate in order to be cleared to contest the Osun state governorship election.

Akomolafe urged the appellate court discountenance Enoidem’s depositions and uphold the judgment of the trial court.

The trial court’s findings showed that Adeleke was admitted into Ede Muslim High School, Ede, Osun State in 1976, but without a record showing that he graduated.

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The Oracle Today Wednesday May 15 - 21, 2019

NEWS ACROSS THE NATION Microsoft to invest $100m on Nigeria, Kenya tech development hub

M

icrosoft Corp will invest 100 million dollars to open an Africa technology development centre with sites in Nigeria and Kenya over the next five years, the company said on Tuesday.

Global tech giants, including Alphabet Inc and Facebook, have been increasing investment on the continent in recent years to take advantage of growing economies with rising access rates to the internet by a youthful population.

Microsoft will hire more than 100 local engineers to work in the new Africa facility in both countries to customise its applications for the African market and to develop new ones for the continent and beyond, it said in a statement.

“In addition, it is an opportunity to collaborate with partners, academia, governments and developers, driving impact and innovation in sectors important to the continent,” the company said, citing financial technology, farming technology and off grid energy.

Engineers at the new Africa development centre will build applications using artificial intelligence, mixed reality and machine learning, Microsoft said.

The company already has six other development hubs located elsewhere in the world.

The new Africa development hub will also support Microsoft’s established businesses such as Office, Azure and Windows, the company said.

Lagos to adopt one health model for tackling biological threats

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agos State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Jide Idris has disclosed that the State Government is developing a Bio-banking capacity and a Bio-security framework along the lines of the One Health model and the Global Health Security Agenda for optimal health outcomes.

Idris, who made the disclosure today at a conference on Biosecurity and One Health at the Sheraton Hotel and Towers, Ikeja, explained that the global approach in the preparedness and response to emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases involves the implementation of One Health model as part of the Biosecurity agenda of the State.

He stated that One Health recognises the interconnection between people, animals, plants and their shared environment, adding that it also documents that six out of every 10 infectious diseases in humans are transmitted from animals.

“One Health recognises that the health of the people is connected to the health of animals and the environment. It is a collaborative, multi-sectoral, trans-disciplinary approach operating at the Local, State, National and Global levels with the goal of achieving optimal

health outcomes”, he said.

The Commissioner observed that Lagos being a fast-growing megacity, the likelihood of proliferation of biological agents that could threaten the wellbeing of the inhabitants would greatly impact on its stability economically, socially and even politically.

“It becomes mandatory for the State Government to design and implement an urgent health care agenda, policy and legal framework to establish its biosecurity and research capability, without which the State will not be able to mount an effective prevention and containment response to biosecurity threats”, he stated.

He hinted that lessons learnt from the Ebola outbreak in 2014, led to the inauguration of the State Ebola Virus Disease Research Initiative (SEVDRI) Committee with the mandate to conduct research for the development of prevention, control and management measures to mitigate against a future outbreak of the disease.

Idris revealed that one of the recommendations of the Committee was the establishment of a Biosafety Level 3 Laboratory which, according to him, led ultimately to

the collaboration with Global Partnership Programme (GPP), Canada.

The collaboration, the Commissioner explained, resulted in the establishment and commissioning of the Lagos State Biobank, a facility that would provide a safe storage of biological and environmental samples, enhance prompt diagnosis of infectious diseases, and act as a research centre for cutting edge researches for researchers within and outside Nigeria for improvement of global public health.

The Commissioner emphasised the need for collaborative efforts with Nigerian Center for Disease Control (NCDC), Nigerian Institute of Medical Research as well as other relevant stakeholders to achieve overall success.

He assured that Lagos, as a responsible government with a vision, would continue to build capacities of health workers, engage the community and do other things which are very necessary to bolster the health of the citizenry regardless of age, gender, religious, ethnic or political affiliation.

Earlier, in her remarks, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Dr. Titilayo Goncalves reiterated the commitment of the State Govern-

ment to continuously put in place proactive strategic planning to improve the health of Lagosians. She urged participants to be crusaders of preparedness for action during an epidemic emergency.

Highlights of the conference were presentations by Professor Akin Abayomi on Biothreat management; Professor Nusirat Elelu on Diagnosis, One Health and Epidemics while Professor Akin Osibogun conducted the Interactive and Panel Sessions with focus on Role of Lagos State Biobanking and Biosecurity Governance Council, One Health and Disease Prevention, Parameters for funding, research, access, innovation, commercialisation and return of results as well as implications of the 4IR on Biobanking and Biosecurity.

Present at the one-day conference were the representatives of the World Health Organisation, Dr Sam Yenyi; the United States Centre for Disease Control team led by Daniel Duvall; Clinton Health Advocacy Initiative (CHAI); MAMAYE, UNICEF, Directors from the State Public Service, Biosecurity experts, traditional rulers and Community Development Associations amongst others.

Tribunal: PDP, Ashiru seek recount of Kaduna governorship ballot

candidate of T(PDP)hetheingovernorship Peoples Democratic Party the 2019 general elections

in Kaduna State, Isah Ashiru, on Tuesday filed an application seeking for a recount of the votes cast during the March 9 poll.

Ashiru’s Counsel, Elisha Kurah (SAN) submitted the application to the Justice I. M Bako-led tribunal that commenced pre-hearing session on Tuesday in Kaduna.

Justice Bako, however, adjourned the session to May 25 to allow the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the two other respondents in the petition time to respond to the PDP’s application on votes recount.

Kurah who spoke to Journalists shortly after adjournment of the session urged the Tribunal to order the INEC for the recount of the votes cast during the governorship election.

“We filed an application requesting to recount the votes cast during the election.

“It is very crucial as we are alleging which is supported by the evidence we have that most of the results declared were phantom votes.

“They were back up by votes in the ballot boxes. So we want a complete recount of the votes cast in the governorship election.

“We are expecting that the results would show that the PDP actually won the election. But votes were just inflicted randomly just to make the APC have the semblance of winning,“ Kurah said.

Counsel to PDP, Ibrahim Bawa (SAN), told newsmen that he also filed application seeking that certain paragraphs of the respondents’ responses to our application be stroked out for lack of merit.

Participants at the Annual General Assembly of the West African Police Chiefs Committee and meeting of the Forum of Ministers in charge of Security, Live ongoing at the Nigeria Universities Commission (NUC) Abuja from May 14th - 16th

FAO unveils 5-year strategic plan for agric in Nigeria

he Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) has given a Tbreakdown of its 5-year strategic

Programming Framework for Nigeria (CPF), spanning between 2018 and 2022.

FAO Country Representative in Nigeria, Suffyan Koroma, said in a press statement in Abuja on Tuesday that the framework was to assist Federal Government develop its agriculture sector.

He listed some priority areas which included: Strengthening national food and nutrition security through enhanced nutrition sensitive and climate-smart food systems.

Others are: supporting appropriate and operationally effective agricultural policy and regulatory

frameworks, supporting Nigeria’s Economic Diversification Agenda and the promotion of decent employment for youth and women in the agriculture value chains.

It also included improving the efficient and sustainable management of natural resources and ecosystems and enhancing disaster risk reduction, resilience building and emergency management towards strengthening the Humanitarian-Development Nexus.

He also said the framework would ensure efficient management of the country’s natural resources.

He also spelt out a set of medium-term support objectives and results as approved by the FAO’s Regional Office for Africa (RAF).

He said the areas of action were defined in consultation with government ministries, agencies and departments, as well as related stakeholders from academia, Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and private sector.

He said FAO also considered the humanitarian needs of Nigeria, as contained in various development strategies the government had put in place.

He said they included the Agriculture Promotion Plan (APP) and President Mohammadu Buhari’s Plan for humanitarian relief and socioeconomic stabilisation of the Northeast.

He said during the five-year period, FAO would bring together innovative, international best

practices and global standards with national and international expertise.

Koroma said the current document built on the achievements of the previous programming cycle from 2013 to 2017, taking into account the emerging challenges of climate change, armed conflict and rising food prices.

“The CPF seeks to address the myriad of challenges involved in the rapid development of the agriculture sector.

“This document will guide FAO and its partners in ensuring the agriculture sector can address domestic needs, generate jobs and meets export standards, with the aim to grow the economy,’’ he said.

5

The Oracle Today Wednesday May 15 - 21, 2019

NEWS

Okowa commissions Obomkpa/ Idumuogo road From JONATHAN AWANYAI, Asaba

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elta State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa weekend broke the jinx by constructing the Obomkpa/Idumuogo road in Aniocha North local government area of the State.

The road which was awarded during the tenure of Chief James Ibori as Governor of Delta State has passed through different contractors who abandoned the project at different stages citing different reasons before it was constructed by Governor Okowa’s administration.

Beaming with satisfactory smile as he made his speech before cutting the tape to officially commission the road, Governor Okowa on the spot, approved the extension of the road project to Ukwunzu, also in Aniocha North local government area.

He stated that though, the request by communities for road construction kept increasing despite what his administration had done in the area of road construction, his administration will continue to open up rural communities through link roads.

“I thank God for this day; it is a dream that has come true that this road is completed to Obomkpa and we have another stretch that will take us to Ukunzu and by the grace of God, it will be completed,” he said, adding, “Chief Nkem Okwuofu has consistently put a lot of pressure for this road to be constructed; I appreciate her efforts, I appreciate the people of Obomkpa for their patience and I thank the people of Aniocha North for being so peaceful which has encouraged us to execute projects in the area.”

He continued, “we have received several requests by different communities in different parts of the state for road construction; we shall continue to open up our communities through the construction of link roads.”

The governor used the opportunity to also, restate his administration desire to the development of the schools in the state, disclosing that in the next four years, nineteen technical colleges would be established to ensure that every local government area in the state has at least, one technical college in line with his administration’s commitment to encourage skill acquisition.

Chairman of the local government council, Hon. Chuks Oseme and the President General of Obomkpa Progressive Union, Surv. Charles Ogedi in their separate addresses, thanked Governor Okowa for his development efforts.

NNPC Saves $1.6bn from Arbitration with Atlantic Energy Drilling Concept • As Forensic Institute Confers Honorary Fellowship Award on Baru for Anti-Corruption Crusade

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he Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has recorded a $1.6bn savings from the arbitration between its flagship Upstream subsidiary, the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC), and the Atlantic Energy Drilling Concept Nigeria Limited.

Group Managing Director of the NNPC, Dr. Maikanti Baru, made this disclosure during his conferment with an Honorary Fellowship Award by the Chartered Institute of Forensic and Investigative Professionals of Nigeria (CIFIPN) at the NNPC Towers in Abuja on Tuesday.

A press release by the corporation’s Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs Division, Mr. Ndu Ughamadu, quoted the GMD as saying that the corporation succeeded in making a lot of savings from some companies that had litigations with her.

The GMD also disclosed that through his management’s determination to fight corruption, NNPC paid only $37.5m out of the $400m initially demanded by International Petroleum Corporation (IPCO) in a litigation, amounting to 91.5 per cent savings, adding that it was sheer act of courage for the NNPC team to follow through with the cases without compromise considering the humongous amount involved.

He said most of the cases were brought to the fore through fraud and forensic investigation which helped the corporation to get value for money.

“So this Institute’s intention is laudable and the conferment of fellowship on me will make me more determined to support their activities and being a patron, will help me to share with them some of the knowledge and training that I have received as a certified fraud

examiner,” Dr. Baru informed.

He stated that the collaboration with the institute would create an enabling environment for many people to be trained in-country, saying this would go a long way to stem fraud, corruption and cybercrime in the society.

Dr. Baru averred that the most important thing for any economy and any business was to make sure that fraud did not occur, stressing that the prevention aspect was key to achieving the desired result of a corruption-free Nigeria.

The NNPC GMD noted with nostalgia that as the second Chairman of the NNPC Anti-Corruption Committee in 2004, he ensured that all staff of the corporation and its various stakeholders were educated about NNPC’s corporate policies and the various anti-corruption acts in the country in order to avoid fraudulent trans-

actions.

He applauded President Muhammadu Buhari for the support extended to the NNPC to ensure sanity in the system, amphasizing that the anti-corruption stance of the Federal Government had added a lot of value to the nation’s hydrocarbon operations.

Earlier, the Pro tem President of CIFIPN, Dr. Victoria Enape, said Dr. Baru was conferred with the award because he was a champion of anti-corruption in NNPC, stressing that the partnership with the corporation would ensure effective prevention of fraud, corruption and cybercrimes in Nigeria.

Highpoint of the event was the conferment and presentation of plaque and anti-corruption books to Dr. Baru as Fellow and Patron for the Institute in recognition of his contributions to the anti-fraud crusade in Nigeria.

L-R: Pro tem President of the Chartered Institute of Forensic and Investigative Professionals of Nigeria (CIFIPN), Dr. Victoria Enape; NNPC GMD, Dr. Maikanti Baru, and Chairman of NNPC Anti-Corruption Committee, Mr. Mike Balami, at the conferment of the Institute’s Honourary Fellowship Award on the GMD at the NNPC Towers, Abuja, Tuesday.

May 30: IPOB insists on sit-at-home Cont’d from Pg 1

ily members slain during numerous protests and rallies to free Biafra must be honoured in time honoured IPOB tradition by observing a solemn sit-at-home and complete lockdown of Biafraland on the 30th of May. “It is, therefore, the patriotic duty of every right-thinking Biafran (man, woman and child) to respect the sacrifice these brave men and women made for our survival as a race. Every generation of Biafrans must honour our heroes because without them, Biafraland would have become another conquered territory like Illorin, a Yoruba territory that is today 100% Fulani emirate.

“All IPOB family units outside Biafraland, in over 88 countries and territories around the world, are expected to partake in street demonstrations, rallies, lectures and prayers to ensure the remembrance of our fallen heroes and heroines on 30th of May 2019, which must go down in history as one of the greatest events of our time. IPOB will use this event to conclusively prove to the whole world that we are ready for the upcoming referendum for Biafra sovereignty.

“We commend IPOB families in the UK, Europe, Asia, Middle East, USA and many others across the world that have managed to secure marching permits from their relevant authorities because of this historic 30th of May event.

The leadership of IPOB is also aware that almost all countries where IPOB has presence, including Angola, Mozambique, Congo DRC, Namibia, Ghana and Tanzania have respectfully perfected their own arrangements to honour our heroes and heroines on that particular day.

‘IPOB family members in the UK have secured their venue at Trafalgar Square London for a rally. It is, however, interesting to note that when the Deputy National Coordinator of IPOB UK contacted the British Metropolitan Police for permission to march on Trafalgar Square on the 30th of May 2019, they were informed by the officer responsible for issuing permits that since 2014 that IPOB started its street protests in London, there had never been any breach of public peace compared to similar protests by others groups that have always degenerated into scuffles and altercations with law enforcement agencies in the London area.

“Britain having recognised the

very civil approach of IPOB, granted permission to the UK IPOB family to proceed with the rally without undergoing the tedious application process for a permit which groups are normally subjected to. No other liberation movement in the world can boast of the pedigree, presence or respect IPOB enjoys across civilised nations of the world.

“There will be a complete lockdown of Biafraland and major cities where Biafrans have a significant population concentration like Sabon Gari in Kano, Lagos, Kaduna, Zaria and Abuja. We would like to remind certain criminally-minded individuals, DSS informants, traitors and Biafra-for-hire groups hiding under the banner of Biafra agitation to serve Miyetti Allah agenda through Al Mustapha that such behaviour will only bring them shame and ridicule.

As with tradition, Biafraland will be locked down on the 30th of May. These shadowy elements that only exist on the pages of newspapers- without any significant presence on the ground in Biafraland or anywhere else around the world, should retrace their steps before they are all consumed in the upcoming inferno of rage against traitors.

“Any attempt to discourage

our people from honouring their heroes or bring ridicule to the memory of our own Biafran activists that died in the course of Biafra restoration will be calamitous for the said traitor or his group. These shadowy groups must know that collecting money from their Fulani sponsors in order to disrespect our heroes that fought and died for us is not something we will tolerate.

These charlatans without shame or honour have forgotten that some of their members died in the hands of the same people they have gone to collect money from to stop a remembrance that includes honouring those members of their own families that died in service to Biafra. This is the height of evil and betrayal of the very worst kind.

“To shamefully make such open and unguarded statements concerning the remembrance day celebration of our fallen heroes and heroines who died that we may live is indicative of the hopelessness and criminal mindset of these Nigeria-sponsored criminals masquerading as Biafrans. Only informants, traitors and saboteurs will dream stepping outside on the 30th of May and if they do, they will only have themselves to blame.

6

The Oracle Today Wednesday May 15 - 21, 2019

NEWS

Nigeria won’t make progress without constitution review, restructuring – Obiaraeri

From BONIFACE OKORO, Umuahia

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former Commissioner for Information in Imo State has said that Nigeria would not make progress with her elections unless the constitution was amended.

Prof. Nnamdi Obiaraeri who is also a Law Professor, also asserted that without mental restructuring, the country would head nowhere with physical restructuring because of what he described as “lethal ignorance” strutting the land.

Delivering a lecture entitled “The Role of the Media in “Elec-

tions and Democracy,” to mark the 2018 World Press Freedom Day organized by the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Abia State Council, at the NUJ Press Centre in Umuahia, Obiaraeri insisted that the 1999 constitution must be reworked and more powers devolved to the states and local governments.

“We can’t make progress with our elections unless the 1999 constitution is reworked,” said the Law teacher at Imo State University.

“We should devolve more powers. I don’t see what the federal government is doing with the primary school in my backyard or

the business of the state government with the local market in the village square,” he added.

According to him, the Nigerian constitution remains Nigeria’s biggest problem, partly because it made the economic and social rights of the citizens not justiceable, adding that he was even more worried because Nigerians “are not asking enough questions.”

“The convoluted nature of the Nigerian constitution has made Nigeria to become a sad story as it can be likened to a giant with a huge head, massive body and tiny legs courtesy of its discordant constitutional order,” he main-

tained.

Obiaraeri argued that “without mental restructuring, we are going nowhere with physical restructuring because of lethal ignorance strutting the land,” insisting that “restructuring is not offensive and the debate must continue.”

The firebrand activist equally argued that indiscipline was plaguing Nigeria while corruption was just a stratum of indiscipline.

He charged journalists to “wake up,” and lead the way to get Nigeria working by ensuring that the will of the people prevails in the nations democracy, adding that journalists must promote what he called political hygiene to ensure

that Nigeria’s democracy was rid of its ugly trends.

He enjoined NUJ to rebrand itself through aggressive training and retraining of its members on nuances of democracy and ICT compliance with special emphasis on specialization.

He also encouraged NUJ to stamp out quacks and unprofessional people from its midst and fight for the welfare of her members, stressing that “a journalist who is paid nothing or peanuts is vulnerable and can easily be compromised which informs why “NUJ must work out hazard allowances and life insurance packages for its members.”

BIM-MASSOB set to celebrate 19th Independence of new Biafra May 22 From BONIFACE OKORO, Umuahia

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he Biafra Independent Movement (BIM) and the Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State Of Biafra (MASSOB) has announced plans to celebrate “the 19th anniversary of new Biafra independence on Wednesday, May 22nd, 2019.”

This is contained in a statement by the BIM-MASSOB Zonal Information Director, Abia Central, Mr. Anselem Ogbonna, which was made available to newsmen in Umuahia.

According the Zonal Information Director, the celebration is expected to be peaceful as people are expected to celebrate in their homes and thank God for keeping the Biafra flag flying.

The statement implies that members of the freedom fighters would not embark on street procession which has always pitched security operatives against them, sometimes resulting in several arrests, manhandling and inflicting of bodily injuries

on BIM-MASSOB members.

Ogbonna was categorical that no one has been licensed to cause chaos or shut down his or her business during the celebration, stressing that both those at home and in the Diaspora should observe the anniversary peacefully.

“Nobody or group is allowed to use this celebration to cause mayhem or breach of peace. Nobody was asked to close his or her business center.

What we require of them is only to dine with their family and thank God for keeping the Biafra flag flying,” the statement read in part.

He also called on clergymen who identify with the struggle to “henceforth start celebrating the Biafra actualization through thanksgiving in their various churches,” arguing that “no amount of thanksgiving to God in respect of what He has done for the people of Biafra is enough.”

Ogbonna prayed for the eternal repose of the souls of those who have died in the struggle.

We’ll sustain current impressive security framework in Anambra -–Aduba

By IBE NWACHUKWU

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takeholders in Anambra state have been called upon to make concerted efforts for enhancement and sustenance of the impressive security framework of the state currently being enjoyed by all and sundry.

Chairman of the Anambra State Vigilante Supervisory Committee and Senior Special Assistant to Governor Willie Obiano on Vigilante Matters, Chief Ikechukwu Aduba who made the clarion call yesterday in a press statement he issued in Onitsha, shortly after featuring in the latest edition of Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS) Radio and Television, News and Current Affairs programme; Face the Press, stressed the need for law-abiding and well-to-do indigenes and groups in the state and in the diaspora to give logistic support to the Anambra Vigilante Groups, AVG for more effective grassroots security.

In the statement titled: “AVG Quarterly Update on Crime Situation in the state”, Aduba, a retired Commissioner of Police, commended statutory security agencies in the state for their joint efforts and synergy with the Obiano administration

in reducing violent crimes rate to the barest minimum, pointing out that Anambra is comparatively the safest state in Nigeria today.

The Vigilante Supervisory Committee Chairman enjoined the Nigeria Police to spare no efforts in banning collecting of Internally Generated Revenue, IGR on Federal highways, adding that strict adherence to this ban would go a long way in removing touts from circulation, particularly along the Onitsha – Asaba and Onitsha – Owerri Federal roads where he noted should be properly monitored by the relevant agencies.

According to Aduba who also spoke on the recent empowerment of the Cattle Menace Committee by the Governor in terms of logistics to help monitor the movement of nomadic Fulani herdsmen all over the state, all hands must be on deck to sustain the tempo of security in the state. He re-emphasized the need for A.V.G. to work under supervision of the Police, adding that any operative that deviates from this collaboration would have himself to blame.

He reminded that AVG operatives that escort duties, operating outside one’s jurisdiction, illegal cells and blatant use of prohibited firearms are still prohibited in the state.

•(From left): Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa and Director-General of the National Institutes of Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, near Jos, Mr Jonathan Juma when the latter led a study team, comprising members of Executive Course 41 to a courtesy visit to the Government House in Asaba, Tuesday

Digitization will enrich TV programmes – Abiakam From BONIFACE OKORO, Umuahia staff of the Federal Ministry A of Information and Orientation, Umuahia Information Centre,

Gloria Ifeyinwa Abiakam, says the federal government’s digitization policy was aimed at availing consumers with new, rich television programmes that would offer fresh perspectives in television viewing.

Abiakam stated this while delivering a lecture entitled “Understanding Digital Switch Over: A New TV Culture,” during a stakeholders’ sensitization programme in Umuahia organized by the National Orientation Agency (NOA) in Abia State.

The theme of the sensitization programme was “Communicating Government Policies, Programmes and Activities Platform,” aimed at addressing the ignorance and lack of understanding of government policies and programmes among citizens at the grassroots and urban areas of the state.

Heads of federal government agencies and parastatals in Abia made presentations during the sensitization programme, explaining their operations.

In her presentation, Abiakam highlighted that Digital Switch Over (DSO) from analogue to digi-

tal transmission would afford consumers wider variety of shows on multiple channels, better quality broadcast, reduced power/energy consumption and more efficient broadcasting.

She said Nigerians would love television viewing the more when the DSO is completed.

Similarly, the Permanent Secretary of Abia State Ministry of Information, Elder Ifeanyi Agbai, told the audience that the “state government has concluded plans to digitalize the state-owned Broadcasting Corporation of Abia (BCA) television and radio services,” adding that government has procured equipment worth over N65 million for the project.

Welcoming participants which included traditional rulers, civil society organizations, religious leaders and the business class, the state Director of NOA, Lady Ngozi Okechukwu, said the forum was to enlighten the public on process of accessing benefits provided by such policies at the Federal, State and Local Government levels.

The sensitization, she said “is a continuation of the agency’s efforts in providing timely information and generating feedback from the people” and “to consistently raise awareness to actualize the

vision of a nation governed adequately in active citizen’s participation.”

“Since currently, most policies of the governments, programmes and activities are communicated through electronic and print media, these are often not affordable and accessible to rural dwellers, thus leaving majority of Nigerians in the dark,” she said, adding that “NOA is therefore committed to providing citizens in both rural and urban areas with adequate and accurate information to enhance programme effectiveness, citizen’s responsiveness and government accountability.”

Chairman of the occasion who is also the Deputy Chief of Staff, Office of the Governor, Chief Ukpai Agwu Ukpai, commended NOA for embarking on the sensitization programmes.

Ukpai urged the agency to take the DSO technology to the grassroots through traditional rulers for better comprehension by the rural populace, adding “DSO is not just about technology, it is about better television experience for the people.”

Other resource persons included the heads of the Immigration Services, Federal Mortgage Bank and the Post Master in Abia.

7

The Oracle Today Wednesday May 15 - 21, 2019

NEWS

Change Nov. 2 Guber poll, Bayelsa stakeholders urge INEC B ayelsa State stakeholders have urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to change the November 2 date scheduled for the conduct of governorship election in the state.

State Governor Seriake Dickson made the call when he led a delegation of the stakeholders during a courtesy visit on INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu on Tuesday in Abuja.

Dickson, represented by his deputy, retired Rear Admiral Gbo­ ribiogha Jonah, said that the Nov. 2 date coincided with the state’s annual thanksgiving celebration which was created by a bill and has been marked for the past seven years.

He said that various interest groups in the state have raised concern over the date and requested for a change in the date.

Dickson said that it would not be out of place for INEC to reconsider the date considering relevant of November 2 to the state and its people.

“It is on this note that the Christian community approached the governor to plead with you to reconsider the date for the election.

“We are also concern that if the election is held on that day, it is possible that it may affect turn out of voters.

“We want everybody to be in

the mood, come out and vote as required by INEC. Any other date that is fixed that will not clash with this day (Nov. 2) will be good for us.

“The plea we are making is that the people of Bayelsa also feel that their wishes are also respected.

“As a listening commission, we are very hopeful that our plea will be taking in good light and likewise granted,” Dickson said.

Responding, Yakubu, said the commission would look into the plea by the stakeholders.

He said that the commission maintained an open door policy and all stakeholders are free to seek audience with INEC on any matter important for the improvement of electoral process.

He recalled that the commission on April 9 released the date for the Kogi and Bayelsa governorship elections.

“Shortly after the release of the timetable, we received a letter from Bayelsa State Government drawing the Commission’s attention that Nov. 2 each year has been designated as Thanksgiving Day in the state and declared work-free by an Act of the State House of Assembly.

“The state government has appealed to the Commission to reconsider the date for this reason.

The Speaker of the State Assembly, religious leaders and other

stakeholders made a similar appeal to the Commission.

“Today, all the stakeholders are here to further reiterate their appeal. We have listened to you. At the next meeting of the Commission, your appeal will be examined and the Commission’s decision will be announced by Friday this week,” he said.

Yakubu, however, appealed to all stakeholders in Bayelsa and Kogi to ensure that the forthcoming governorship elections in the states were devoid of hate speech, intimidation of voters and vote buying.

He urged them to shun violence including bombing and arson that led to the destruction of election materials and INEC facilities in the last governorship elections in two states.

“I urge you to appeal to your supporters to ensure that the creeks and waterways, the hills and forests, urban and rural areas, the polling units and collation centres are free of thugs who unleash mayhem that turn a simple democratic process into needless bloodletting,” he said.

He expressed confidence that with the stakeholders’ support the commission would conduct peaceful election in Bayelsa in November including Southern Ijaw.

Yakubu assured the stakeholders that INEC is committed to a free, fair and credible process,

promising that the commission would deploy early, adhere to its guidelines and regulations, ensure a transparent and prompt collation and declaration of results.

He also appeal to all political parties to ensure the conduct of transparent, credible and rancour-free primaries for the nomination of candidates.

“From the 2019 general elections, we have seen how acrimonious party primaries have been, resulting in numerous litigation and making our preparations for elections difficult.

“We are still grappling with issues arising from the conduct of party primaries.

“Pre-election litigation through the regular courts (the High Courts, Courts of Appeal and the Supreme Court) have resulted in a number of judgement in favour of petitioners.

“So far, primary elections conducted by political parties in 22 constituencies across the federation have been upturned by the regular Courts of Law on account of improper party primaries.

“In all cases, we have obeyed the orders of court and issued Certificates of Return to candidates declared winners by the Courts. More of such judgments have been received and are currently under consideration by the Commission,” he said.

NCF raises alarm over reckless killing of birds

From ANIEKAN ANIEKAN, Calabar

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he Nigerian Conservation Foundation has warned against the reckless killing of birds in the country order not to undermine the ecosystem.

The NCF maintains that the birds are an integral part of the ecosystem and they help the environment by mitigating the effects of diseases and illnesses.

The Conservation Foundation also warns against the rising incidences of the killing of vultures emphasizing that their extinction may lead to the outbreak of diseases.

The call was made in Calabar by Emmanuel Owan, the Principal Conservation Officer of the NCF in Cross River State during an event to mark this year’s World Migratory Bird Day with the theme: “Protect Birds: Be The Solution to Plastic Pollution”.

Owan said that birds play a pivotal role in the ecosystem, including the prevention of outbreak of diseases and sickness through their activities.

Birds, he said help in the dispersal of seeds and pollination of plants, as well as enriching the eco-system.

“Conservation is key to the protection of the ecosystem; it plays a key role. For those who are still hunting birds, they should do it with some level of caution, because the destruction of the habitat, the forest ecosystem and the environment play a huge role in the destabilization of their population and mortality.

“When the population of birds reduces, this significantly tells us that the biodiversity of the environment is depreciating. Today is to celebrate birds generally, but we are looking at the vulture.

“You find out that where we

Secretary to the Delta State Government, Hon Festus Agas, representing State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, commissioning the trailers/Tankers Park, in Ekpan, Tuesday have carcasses, vultures are always there to eat these carcasses and clean up the environment; that is why we call them the clean upagent,’’ he said.

Owan said it is unfortunate that vultures, inspite of their economic importance in the ecosystem, had become endangered species.

He warned against the extinction of vultures stressing that it may lead to the outbreak of diseases.

“Vultures play a major role in sanitising our environment and reduc-

ing disease, most especially those synonymous with airborne.

“Vulture extinction may lead to an outbreak of diseases because vultures eat remains of dead animals which could cause diseases if nothing was done to them,’’ he said.

On the migration of Birds, he said that some of the birds migrated from the Eastern and Southern flank of the world depending on the environmental condition where they found themselves.

He explained that this could not be unconnected to winter where the food source is limited; adding that the birds are bound to move to other part of the world where they are other food sources and favourable climatic condition to feed and breed.

“These birds move from place to place and that is why we call them migratory birds. Mostly, at the end of the day, you see them moving back again to their location where they come from,’’ Owan said.

He also disclosed that the commission would soon commence prosecution of offenders in the just concluded elections.

“Arising from the arrests made by the security agencies in the 2019 general elections, the Commission will soon commence the prosecution of offenders whose case files have been prepared by the Nigeria Police Force,” he said.

Present at the meeting were representatives of traditional rulers, clergymen and members of the state’s Council of Elders.

Delta Govt seeks implementation of developmental reports by states, LGAs D

elta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa has urged the Federal Government to ensure that reports from studies, especially, those from the National Institutes of Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru are made available to respective states of the country for implementation.

Governor Okowa made the call today when members of Executive Course 41 of NIPSS paid him a courtesy call in Asaba.

According to the governor, “the NIPSS over the years have changed the narrative of governance of this country including the state and local governments through its numerous research and studies; it is good to hear that a lot of studies still take place in our nation and both the states and local governments will benefit and utilize the reports if the Federal Government can make the reports available to them.”

“I know that the input of participants who are from diverse background will enrich reports from NIPSS and the reports will be very beneficial to states where the studies took place,” the governor stated.

While lauding the theme of study, ‘funding universal healthcare in Nigeria,” Governor Okowa observed that to achieve universal health coverage, there should be adequate manpower, training and proper funding for the primary healthcare sector.

He noted that medical tourism can only be curbed when the primary healthcare sector is effective which will give rise to functional tertiary health sector that will reduce medical tourism.

Governor Okowa used the occasion to call for full implementation of the National Health Insurance Scheme Act 2004 so as to increase health care coverage across the country, noting that it was sad that Nigeria has 12 per cent health insurance coverage fifteen years after the Act was signed into law.

Earlier the Director-General of NIPSS and leader of the study team, Mr Jonathan Juma had in his speech, lauded the contributions of Governor Okowa to the development of the country, disclosing that they were on study tour of Delta State.

8

The Oracle Today Wednesday May 15 - 21, 2019

NEWS

Onitsha vendors crisis: Why we pulled out of ONDDA – Factional group From THEO RAYS, Onitsha

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resh facts have emerged on why some newspapers vendors pulled out of Onitsha Newspapers Distributors Directors Association (ONDDA) a union under the Newspapers Proprietors of Nigeria (NPAN) to run another union called Onitsha Vendors Union (OVU) under the auspices of Newspapers Association of Nigeria (NDAN).

Addressing The Oracle Today in writing through Chibuike Nwabueze Esq, members admitted that though O.V.U has has been in comatose before now it has been revived, reactivated and now more functional than ever noting that the reason for the reactivation of O.V.U is to improve the sales and distribution of newspapers and other periodical publications consigned to Onitsha and its environs.

The union explained that the front liners among them will help sales representatives/executives to checkmate the alarming increase of debts in Onitsha and in totality change everything that is given Onitsha and its environs bad name in newspapers/magazine distributions noting that it is their right to have their own union as there are two or more unions in other stations across the country.

According to them “It is the constitutional right of freedom of Association and Onitsha is not the station with two newspapers Distributors union or more as O.V.U is to the beneficial interests of newspapers houses. As stakeholders and front liners in newspapers distribution business we are disheartened that a big station like Onitsha with good quality leadership hence our the desire to give Onitsha leadership it deserves.

O.V.U denied the allegation that one of its members is threading members of ONDDA saying that “nobody is threatening the life of anybody but only interested in accountability and ease of doing business with media houses nation wide including The Oracle Today Newspaper. In civilised societies freedom of Association is an inalienable rights of the citizens that ought not to be questioned”

Izzi/Ikwo boundary crisis: Echara community declares three missing

•Members of the All Progressives Grand Alliance(APGA) youth group under the auspices of APGA Youth Movement and led by their chairman, Hon. Ugochukwu Nwimo, after they endorsed the national chairman of the party, Ozomkpu Victor Ike Oye, for second tenure at a get-together at the chairman’s country home in Amawbia, Anambra state, at the weekend, the group

missing since the incident are released to us.

“We are hearing rumors that they are tied in the forest by Izzi people. Let them be released to us”, he said.

“At least, we are consoled by the fact that we saw the corpses of the other 7 and confirmed they are dead but this one, we can’t say that they are dead or alive because we didn’t see their bodies”, he said.

While thanking the state governor for his concern, Nwonu said they have refused to go to war despite repeated provocations from neighboring communities, because they have sworn not to do so.

Also speaking, Mr Andrew Nteh, corroborated the ordeals of the community adding that his son, Udoka is one of the three boys missing.

He urged Government to rescue the trio, adding that the only way there could be permanent peace was for government to fish out the killers of the 7 persons.

Nteh said the community is being provoked from all fronts by other neighboring communities but they would continue to maintain the part of peace so as not to pose any problem to the state government.

Mr. John Nweke who lost 7 members of his family commended the state government for showing concern but appealed to the governor to come to his aid.

In his speech, the governor who was represented by his Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Welfare and Religion, Rev. Fr. Abraham Nwali, urged the deceased family and the entire community to take heart over the loss.

Nwali who led other Ministers of God and CAN leadership to the condolence visit assured that government was doing everything possible to ensure lasting peace in the state.

He said that Government has set up judicial panel of inquiry to investigate the crisis and assured that anybody found culpable would soon be brought to book.

to continue to pilot the affairs of this party beyond 2019 by aspiring for second tenure as national chairman, so that you will consolidate in your past achievements.

“National chairman, sir, since you assumed office, you have transformed this party and have lifted it to a very high level. Today, APGA is the third biggest political party in Nigeria. You have rebranded the party; and we shall be happy to have you at the helm of affairs beyond June, 2019, after the coming convention of our party,” Hon. Nwuba, who is also the Transition Chairman, Awka South local government area of Anambra state, said. Also in his remarks, the national youth leader of the party, Anselm Chinedu Nebife, described the national chairman of the party, Oye, as an uncommon leader.

According to him, “You are an uncommon leader. None of the previous chairmen before you have done as much as you’ve done to place our party to a very high pedestal. Now that we have the privilege of having a person like you at the helm of affairs, we shall do everything humanly possible and legally acceptable to make

has, as well, started sensitisation and advocacy among groups that will vote during the convention, to see the dire need for Oye to go for second tenure.

Earlier in his address at the event, chairman of the group, Hon. Ugochukwu Nwimo, described Oye as a light to the party.

He said their endorsement was to encourage Oye to go for second tenure and to assure him of the support of APGA youths.

In his response, the elated national chairman, Oye, commended the group for its gesture; assuring that he would ponder on their request; adding that he would not disappoint them.

“I thank you for the trust and confidence you repose in me. Testimonies from some of you have shown that APGA appreciates my contributions and sacrifices to the party. I am proud of this group, and I promise not to disappoint you.

“I want also to urge you not to limit your support to Victor Oye alone.

I want you to extend your support to APGA generally; and to our governor, Obiano.

By CHINEDU NWAFOR, Abakaliki

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he people of Echara community in Ikwo local government area of Ebonyi State, Tuesday, said three boys from the community are still missing after the attack that led to the burning to death of 7 family members from Okpera village within the community.

The town union President of the community, Hon. Nwonu Sunday disclosed this when the state governor visited the family who lost 7 persons in the attack.

Recall that 7 family members of Ikwo origin returning from Ebonyi State University matriculation ceremony last month were burnt to

death along Enyigba/Ikwo road by suspected warlords working for Enyigba community in Abakaliki LGA following a renewed boundary dispute between the community and Enyibichiri in Ikwo LGA of the state.

The two communities have been enmeshed in intractable boundary dispute for years that have led to the death of many and destruction of properties worth millions of naira.

Nwonu explained that the three boys who were returning from the matriculation ceremony on motorcycle were abducted the same day along the same axis where the other 7 persons were

burnt to death.

Their names according to him include Udoka Nteh, Chibunna Nkwuda and Chukwuma Nwoba.

He said the information available to them is that the three boys are being held captive at a forest where they are tied to trees by the people of Enyigba.

He appealed to the governor to prevail on the people of Enyigba to free the three boys.

“If the killing of the 7 members of John Nweke’s family is what would bring permanent peace, God knows everything.

“But we want to appeal to the Governor to ensure that the three of our youths who have been

APGA convention: Youths donate N.5million for Oye

By OGE ONYEANUSI, Nnewi

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s the national convention of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), draws closer, youth group of the party under the auspices of APGA Youth Movement for Victor Oye, has endorsed the national chairman of the party, Ozomkpu Victor Ike Oye, for a second tenure.

In a get together held at the chairman’s country home in Amawbia, Anambra state, at the weekend, the group, led by its chairman, Hon. Ugochukwu Nwimo; and the national youth leader of APGA, Anselm Chinedu Nebife, also presented a cash sum of N500,000 to support the national chairman in the procurement of chairmanship form.

In his opening remark at the event, one of the leaders of the group, Hon. Leo Nwuba, noted that their action was propelled by transformational leadership style of the national chairman of the party, Chief Oye, which he said, has helped to take the party to enviable height.

“Today, these youths of our dear party, APGA, have come to beg you

sure we do not lose you through the antics of enemies of progress,” he said, adding that Oye, since assumption of office, has been on the side of youths. He added, “Before your emergence as chairman, APGA has very little in its coffers, but today, under your leadership, our party has more than enough to pay its bills.

Again, before now, APGA has only 3 House of Reps members at the green chambers, but today, under you, APGA has 9 members.

“Sir, it is under your leadership that APGA won governorship election 100 percent for the first time in Anambra. It is under you that APGA won a senatorial election for the first time. We beg you, sir, for the interest of our dear party, to re-contest for the position of national chairman of this party. We believe that before you finish your second tenure, APGA shall have been transformed beyond imagination; and the party shall have made inroad into northern and western states, winning governorship elections, among other prominent positions.”

Another prominent member of the group, Ferdinand Onwuje, who is

also the Transition Chairman, Awka North local government area of Anambra state, described Oye as a leader, who places God and excellence above every other thing.

“This group decided to procure chairmanship form for Ozomkpu Victor Oye, not because he cannot get it himself. We want to persuade him to vie for second tenure. Coming for a second tenure is just for the interest of our dear party. Our national chairman can, as well, decide to face his businesses in lieu of his present position. So, we come to plead with him and tell him the need for him to continue beyond 2019,” he said.

Also speaking, other members of the group, Prince Ikechukwu Ndigwe, Eucharia Nwachukwu and Hon. Alex Osaka (Secretary General, APGA Youth Movement for Victor Oye), said that Oye has been piloting the affairs of the party with great enthusiasm, not minding distractions from some quarters.

The trio, who spoke separately with our reporter, noted that Oye has kept precedence worthy of emulation, and should be encouraged to continue. The noted that the group

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The Oracle Today Wednesday May 15 - 21, 2019

NEWS

Malaria: U.S, partners C’River to distribute over 2.3m mosquito nets

From ANIEKAN ANIEKAN, Calabar

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he United States government has concluded arrangements to partner with the Cross River State Government to spend 2.3 billion naira on a malaria eradication programme in Cross River State.

The programme is under the auspices of the US President’s Malaria Initiative as well as the United States Agency for International Development will involve the distribution of 2,376,400 nets being distributed across the 18 local government areas of the state.

This was disclosed by Godwin

Aidenagbon, the malaria logistics advisor of the Global Health Supply Chain in Calabar during a sensitization workshop on the malaria eradication programme.

He said the programme will run for 9 weeks and eleven thousand people have been deployed to see to the success of the exercise.

He added that to ensure the success of the exercise, the campaign method will be deployed to cover the entire state down to family level.

Speaking on the efficacy of the nets, he disclosed that the insecticide-treated nets which will be

imported from Pakistan has been certified for use domestically by the World Health Organisation.

He added that as part of plans to see to a hitch-free exercise and to avoid the rancour that was experienced in an earlier exercise particularly in Kano State, only women will be eligible to collect the nets on behalf of their families during distribution.

According to him, this the measure is also in line with national policy and one net will be given to every two persons and they expect to increase the net use in the state to over 80%.

Also speaking, Dr. Iwara Iwara the director of Public Health, Cross River State Ministry of Education said the programme is the second phase of an earlier one held in 2015.

He said the nets will be effective in malaria control because it is airy, fights mosquitoes and also has barrier effects against mosquitoes.

He said the government has in place a micro-plan through which it will ascertain those to benefit and after enumeration, cards with be given out to households across the state through which they will receive the nets.

A cross section of members of the Committee on Verification and Compilation of projects in Akwa Ibom State during their inauguration y State Governor Udo Emmanuel, Monday with the Commissioner For Works, Mr Ephraim Inyang, as Chairman, and the state Accountant General, the Secretary, FGPC, Permanent Secretary, Government House, and the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works, as members

Nigeria won’t last without technologists, scientists – Akpagu

From ANIEKAN ANIEKAN, Calabar

ice-Chancellor of the University V of Calabar, Professor Zana Akpagu has advocated for the con-

tinuous training and retraining of technologists and scientists for enhanced national development.

He maintained that the contribution of these professionals to a country’s development cannot be overemphasized emphasizing that the economic development of the country must begin and end with technologists.

Professor Akpagu made this known during a two-day training workshop/seminar and award of Excellence organized by the Association of Science Laboratory Technologists of Nigeria (ASLTON), Cross River State Chapter.

The training had as its theme: Retraining Technologists/Scientists for Quality Assurance in the laboratory” and held at Unical Staff Multi-Purpose Co-operative society (USMPCS) Conference Hall, University of Calabar.

According to Professor Akpagu who was represented by the Head, Department of Science Laboratory Technology, Professor Clement Ibi Mboto, laboratory technologists/ scientists remain indispensable in the life of any nation and it guarantees rapid technological and economic development in a develop-

ing nation such as Nigeria.

He said: “training and retraining is an important aspect and brings about drastic development to any nation and no country can achieve much technologically and economically without input from technologists/scientists.

“For any economy to grow in quality, procurement, maintenance and guidance on usage of laboratory equipment must begin and end with technologists”, the VC said.

In a keynote address, the Dean faculty of Oceanography, Professor Albert Ekanem emphasized that training like this enables technologists to acquire more knowledge and suffi-

cient priority must be accorded the profession in the country.

He called on laboratory technologists/scientists to engage to redouble their efforts in scientific researches and discoveries to assist the country in its developmental quest.

In a welcome address, the chairman, Association of Science Laboratory Technologists of Nigeria (ALSTON) Cross River State Chapter, Elder Sunday Okoh said that technological breakthrough in Nigeria will remain elusive until the body which he said is the engine room is properly placed in the scheme of things.

He said about 12 persons were

honoured with an Award of Excellence and over 200 certificates issued to participants as part of the maiden edition from ASLTON, expressing optimism that the training has equipped participants with the needed skills to enhance service delivery.

Also speaking, the Chief Technologist, Department of Pathology, College of Medical Sciences, University of Calabar Effiong Ekpo said the association had kept pace positively with global trends and called on the government to interface with the profession particularly those on private practice in the area of approval/issuance of licenses.

ross River Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Dr FrankC land Briyai, on Tuesday received a

Speaker of the Parliament, extolled the exemplary leadership and performance of the REC before, during and after the 2019 general elections. ‘‘We have followed with keen interest and we have been informed by our various stakeholders here in Nigeria about your sterling leadership qualities. Your simplicity, humility, sincerity and love for your staff. ‘‘This award is, therefore, in recognition of these leadership qualities and above all your excellent performance in the last general elections in Nigeria, where you stood out ahead

of others,” he said.

The speaker decried the dwindling fortunes of African students today, blaming it on social vices such as, cultism, drug abuse and addiction.

He added that the union had organised sensitisation and awareness forum for students across universities in Africa as part of its on-campus activities, urging students to shun cultism and drug abuse.

The parliament also inducted the REC into its Hall of Fame.

Responding, Briyai expressed appreciation to the union for recog-

Bayelsa guber: Commissioner seeks partnership with media From CLEM ONYEMAECHI, Yenagoa

A

head of the November 2 governorship election in Bayelsa State, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mr. Daniel Iworiso-Markson on Tuesday urged the media in the state to partner with the government to ensure peaceful election and smooth transition of power to the incoming administration.

Markson, who gave the charge in his office when the newly inaugurated members of executive committee of the Federated Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, paid him a courtesy visit, said it is the desire of the government and the people of the state to have a peaceful election and transition.

He said: “ We are going into a very crucial election and we need the support of the media in the state because your reports go national and the eyes of the world would be focused on Bayelsa State and one of the things we want to avoid is a situation where the state is thrown into chaos as a result of the election.

“Elections in Bayelsa State sometimes is described as war and rightly so not because we don’t know how to conduct ourselves but because we have certain elements amongst us who want to grab power at all costs at the expense of lives of our people’, “Therefore, it is sad that every election cycle people die as a result of violence and brigandage and one of the things that they do is to use the media to propagate falsehood to stoke the embers of discord among the people.

“As journalists, you owe it a duty to the state and yourselves that you report all sides and give all sides fair hearing and balance your reports and resist being used by disgruntled politicians to disseminate outright falsehood because it doesn’t augur well.

“We want peaceful elections and peaceful transition in Bayelsa and we are hoping that in this election there will be no casualty and as journalists we have a huge responsibility to ensure that the environment is safe by not writing to overheat the polity”.

Earlier, the new chairman of the Federated Correspondents’ Chapel, Mr. Julius Osahon, said the new executive committee of the body came to familiarize with the Commissioner of Information as the Spokesman of the state government, and solicited a robust relationship with the state government.

C’River REC receives pan African award for excellence ‘‘Pan African Prize for Excellence Award’’ by the African Students’ Union Parliament in recognition of his outstanding leadership performance.

Presenting the award to Briyai in Calabar, Mr Solomon Mensah of the University of Professional Studies, Accra, Ghana, said his leadership style was worthy of emulation by African students.

Mensah, who is also the 48th

nising him, adding that, the award would spur him to do more in the service to the country and humanity.

He described himself as a pan-Africanist who refused to stay and work in Britain after his degree and preferred to come back to Nigeria. ‘‘I have always believed that it is better to be a Nigerian; an African. I love my country and have been putting in my best and will continue to put in my best for Nigeria. I believe that, if all of us do our best, Africa will be a good place for us all,’’ he said.

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The Oracle Today Wednesday May 15 - 21, 2019

NEWS Chidoka’s second free medical outreach commences with over 1,500 benefitting patients

By IBE NWACHUKWU

o fewer than 1,500 Anambra N state residents are expected to benefit from the on-going free and

comprehensive medical care for all programmes being sponsored by the former Minister of Aviation and one-time Corps Marshall and Chief Executive Officer of Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), Chief Osita Chidoka (Ike Obosi).

The outreach, which was flaggedoff by Chidoka himself at his home town, Obosi, Idemili North Local Government Area of the state, was targeted at all the 179 communities of the state, beginning with Obosi, covering a wide range of medical conditions including malaria and typhoid tests and treatment, hepatitis/retroviral screening, full medical checks, blood pressure checks and diabetes screening, comprehensive eye checks with catarat and glasses, free drugs, amongst others.

Performing the flag-off ceremony, Chidoka explained that the programme was part of the ways he intended to give back to the society, adding that it gives him joy to put some smiles on people’s faces, especially those who cannot help themselves.

According to Chidoka who identified quality education and good healthcare as crucial factors for a productive society, “both the private sector and government must work in a collaborative manner to bring the services to the people, adding, We have figured out that two things are critical to the survival of any society. These are education and good health”.

“Making it possible for people to have good education will prepare them for the society, he further stated, adding, “But if they don’t have good health, we cannot actualize that vision. So, my attitude as an individual, is that we should contribute our own little quota, without calling on government all the time”.

“Governments have promised health for all, governments have tried to bring healthcare to the people but of course you can see it is not available. This is what I have decided and I have been doing for years now very quietly with the hope of bringing the things we can do for ourselves to the people”.

“So, starting from Obosi this time, we will take the medical mission to other parts of the state. I am in touch with some Nigerians in Diaspora who have shown interest to come for medical mission on their own with me providing local support.

We are also going to leverage on the network of doctors in Anambra state who have volunteered to work with us on this medical mission”.

“Government can do a lot, there is nothing like free education or free healthcare, somebody is paying somewhere. So, what should be done is that in budgeting, government should fund healthcare and education through the private sector and not just building public institutions,” he stated.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain disclosed that his prime motivation for rendering the services was the memory of his Grandfather, who was an amputee for 68 years but could still train his 12 children because of the medical care he got in his time.

He said most Nigerians were destitute because of their inability to access medical help for treatable ailments, even as he stressed that his commitment to make the mission a regular programme and modify it to address divergent areas of healthcare.

“Part of what is motivating me is that my grandfather was an amputee, he lost one of his legs during the second world war and for 68 years he lived with an artificial leg and the British cared about him that he was getting renewal of the artificial leg every two years.

“If not for the attention he got, he would have been a destitute but he retired as a civil servant after 35 years, rode his bicycle to work, bought motorcycle and car and trained his 12 children which I am one of them.

“That is why I have always supported people who need artificial legs right from when I was in Federal Road Safety Commission. It is going to be a continuous exercise and in our next mission; we will focus on healthcare from the preventing approach, diet, lifestyle, exercises.

It is going to be preventive, promotional and prescriptive approach”, he assured.

Anambra Police nabs Ogun kidnap suspect

By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

nambra State Command has A arrested a suspect who allegedly masterminded the kidnap of

one Obiora Okonkwo at Agbara industrial layout in Ogun State.

The suspect was arrested at about 2pm on May 13, 2019 by operatives attached to Special AntiRobbery Squad (SARS) and operation Puff Adder at Omagba phase 1, Onitsha.

A statement by Police Public Relations Officer, SP Haruna Mohammed said the 20-year-old Chinwetalu Oranu will be handed over to Ogun State Police command where the offence was committed for further investigation and prosecution.

Also arrested by Police operatives attached to the Command Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) and operation Puff Adder

tracked was one Ajumobi Chibueze aka as Ijele, aged 24 years and Bosa Chidi aged 28 years for armed robbery.

A police statement said, “On the 13/5/2019 at about 1:30pm,following intelligence report, Police operatives attached to the Command Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) and operation Puff Adder tracked down and arrested one Ajumobi Chibueze AKA Ijele ‘m’ aged 24 years and Bosa Chidi ‘m’ aged 28 years.

Suspects had on the 11/05/2019 robbed one Peter Morah ‘m’ of his motorcycle and two mobile phones at gunpoint. Suspects have confessed to the crime.

A statement by Mohammed said that all the robbed items have been recovered from the suspects and Case is under Investigation after which suspects would be charged to Court for prosecution.

• Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa being welcomed to the 1st session of the 15th Synod of the Asaba Diocese of the Anglican Communion which held at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Ubulu-Okiti, Aniocha South local government area of the State with Rt. Rev. Markus Danbinta, Bishop, Diocese of Dutse, in attendance

S’East deserves at least Dep. Senate President, SGF - Ezenwankwo

By IBE NWACHUKWU

H

ouse of Representatives member-elect for Orumba North/South Constituency, Chief Okwudili Ezenwankwo, has declared that the least positions of authority that can be acceptable by the people of South East region in the present political dispensation are Deputy Senate President (DSP) and Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF).

He therefore warned those from other geo-political zones eyeing these two positions to remove their eyes and leave them for Southeast in the absence of higher political offices like Senate President, Speaker of House of Representatives, among others.

Speaking to newsmen in Onitsha,

Anambra state, Ezenwankwo who is also the President of Amalgamated Markets Traders Association of Anambra State (AMATAS), as well as South East Markets Amalgamated Traders Association (SEAMATA), contended that the appropriate thing to do would have been to give Southeast Senate Presidency, now that the north and west have taken the Presidency and Vice-Presidency of the country.

According to Ezenwankwo, “Nigeria is standing on a tripod legs and if the north takes the number one position and west takes number two, the east should take number three in the hierarchy. Besides, Ndigbo are the most populated tribe in the country since in all states of the federation, they are usually the next in population after

origins of the state”.

“Ndigbo have 45 percent of population in Lagos, 35 percent in Kano and a substantial percentage of population in other states of the federation and as such, cannot be treated as second class citizens”, he further contended.

“DSP and SGF must be zoned to the east in the absence of all other key positions and I am appealing to President Muhammadu Buhari to apply federal character in appointing secueity chiefs because none if from the east at present”.

“Ndigbo have the penchant for developing any part of the country, as applicable in Lagos and Abuja and their impact can be felt in terms of development, nationwide”.

‘Oba will follow constitution in choosing Eze Okpoko’s successor’ From THEO RAYS, Onitsha

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egent of Oba Kingdom in Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State Chief Noel Ezenwa has revealed that the people of the community will chose and install the successor of late Eze Okpoko of Oba, Igwe PC Ezenwa according to the Constitution of Oba when the time comes, noting that he was chosen as the Regent in a peaceful process in line with the Constitution of Oba kingdom.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with The Oracle Today, Chief Ezenwa said that the vacuum left by the late Eze Okpoko has been taken care of by the Regent who was chosen by a unanimous decision of the Oba Council of Chief and Oba is moving forward adding that the duty of the Regent is to fill the vacuum and help to ensure a smooth process of selecting or electing the successor of the late Igwe without rancour or bitterness.

He informed that the people of

Oba recently set a good example of smooth process of choosing a leader by peacefully electing a new town union leadership led by Col Goddy Onyejiegbu (rtd) as the President General of Oba Patriotic Union (OPU) without rancour or bitterness noting that the umbrella body of town unions in Anambra State known as Anambra State Association of Town Unions (ASATU) described Oba town union election as a model to emulate by other towns in the State.

“I am happy that under my rein as the Regent of Oba we had a smooth transition of town union leadership from one regime to another. For me it is a good record and it has been my prayer that good things will continue to happen to Oba within the time I serve. I know my position is temporal as Regent pending when the new traditional ruler will be chosen and installed and I will ensure that everything will go according to the wish of people inline our Constitution” he added

He admitted that election or selection of traditional rulers in some communities in Anambra State has been a subject of rancour and bitterness among the people noting that the issue is not just about traditional rulers in particular but all about leadership positions at all levels including town union chairman, Local Government chairman, State Governor and President of a country.

“The issue is not about traditional ruler, it is about leadership. There is a battle among the people whenever there is need for ascendancy or replacement into a leadership position in the town, Local Government, State and National levels.

The battle escalates when the wish of the people is compromised and when people ignore what the Constitution says, so for us to address the issue of escalating leadership tussle we should respect the wish of the people and endeavour to follow what the constitution says and that is what we are doing at Oba” he maintained.

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The Oracle Today Wednesday May 15 - 21, 2019

NEWS

Delta Govt declares state of emergency on water, sanitation sectors From JONATHAN AWANYAI, Asaba

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elta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has declared a “State of Emergency” in the water and sanitation sector.

The governor who observed that a lot is required for the nation to provide public water and sanitation facilities for her growing population, stated that in Delta State, the water and sanitation sectors are receiving more funding.

Declaring the “State of Emergency” at Asaba, Governor Okowa inaugurated a high-powered steering committee which has him as the Chairman to coordinate the

Take responbility for killings in Nigeria, Rights group tells Buhari

Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene Services (WASH) and “proffer effective reforms as well as formulate policies to end open defecation.”

“In the next four years, we will increase the allocation to water and sanitation sectors and hold those within the sector accountable as we intend to have good value for any money released,” the governor said, adding, “water, as the saying goes, is life; but regrettably, we have not done enough collectively as a nation in the provision of public water and sanitation facilities for our ever growing population.”

He continued, “available statistics from the UNICEF-WHO Joint

Monitoring Programme (JMP) show that access to piped water on premises in urban areas declined from 32 per cent in 1990 to less than 10 per cent in 2015 and in the same token, access to improved sanitation dropped from 38 per cent to 29 per cent; this clearly suggests an erosion of WASH utility service coverage and it is shocking to say the least, that while population is increasing, WASH asset is depleting.”

“Nigeria currently ranks No. 2 in the world after India in terms of people defecating in the open, as about 25 per cent of our population still practice open defecation; the Sustainable Development Goals 6.1 and 6.2, seek to stop open def-

ecation by 2025 and ensure access to sustainable and safely managed WASH services by 2030,” Governor Okowa stated while thanking President Muhammadu Buhari declaring state of emergency on the revitalization of WASH services and threw his weight behind the strategies contained in the National Action Plan.

Governor Okowa also, thanked the European Union, UNICEF and USAID for their support and various interventions on the improvement of the state’s WASH services since the beginning of his administration.

The Minister of Water Resources, Engr. Suleiman Adamu had in an address read by Mr. Osikela

Nnewi traders berate market leader for high-handedness

By OGE ONYEANUSI Nnewi

By IBE NWACHUKWU

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P

resident Mohammed Buhari has been charged to assume responsibility for numerous killings across Nigeria.

A human rights and pro-democracy group, Human Right, Liberty Access and Peace Defenders Foundation (HURIJE), which made the call after their investigative tour of Zamfara and Kaduna States where major killings took place, gave the statistics of killings as 10 deaths per day.

The chairman of HURIJE, Dede Uzor A Uzor, who spoke to the media after the tour disclosed that this figure gives an indication of a country in a State of war.

According to Dede Uzor, “the war was being waged against the people of Nigeria by Boko Haram sect, Fulani Herdsmen, bandits and other criminal elements in the country, perpetuating and perpetrating heinous crimes in the country. This continuous trend of Killings without any serious response from the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria was a clear indication that he was either incapacitated, lacked the political will to address the Killings or he is allegedly and out-rightly behind it”.

They continued “the President should assume responsibility for the continuous massacre in Zamfara, Yobe, Bauchi, Kaduna, Adamawa, Katsina, Benue, Enugu, Abia, Plateau, Taraba. Infact all over Nigeria. About 15 states are in a state of war in the country.

“The President, the group said, took one billion dollars from the Federation Account to fight insecurity in the country during the last budgetary allocation but the menace has continued unabated.Again, few days ago, it was said that the presidency provided a whopping sum of N100 billion to Fulani herdsmen to join hands with FG to fight banditry among other criminal activities in the northern part of the country”.

“Is it that the President did not deploy the money? He should give account of how he spent all the monies to Nigerians” said HURIJE. They condemned as hypocritical, Buhari’s condemnation of the killing in Sri Lanka of over 200 in churches, but blatantly failed to visit the scenes of brutal killing of soldiers and innocent citizens in Nigeria.

Omo-Ikirodah commended Governor Okowa’s administration for declaring the state of emergency, assuring that such has opened the state for financial and technical assistance from the federal government which is determined to end open defecation in Nigeria by 2025.

Goodwill messages were received at the event from the representatives of UNICEF, EU/NDSP, USAID, among others.

The steering committee has Commissioner of Water Resources as Secretary, Commissioners for Health, Environment, Agriculture, Finance, Basic and Secondary Education, Women Affairs, Works, Economic Planning, among others as members.

•Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike inspecting progress of work at the Real Madrid Football Academy after having visited the Judges Quarters and the Fruit Garden Market Market, Monday

Late Mgbada: Prosecute killer VIO officers – Umahi demands

By CHINEDU NWAFOR Abakaliki overnor of Ebonyi State, David G Umahi, has condemned the killing of the Peoples Democratic

Party (PDP) stalwart, Chief Joeffery Mgbada allegedly by the state Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIOs).

The deceased who is the Secretary of the State Elders Council and former member of the Abakaliki Capital Territory Development Board was allegedly killed Tuesday morning by men of VIOs on duty along Ezza road Abakaliki.

They were said to be on illegal duty along that road.

The deceased who was said to be driving alongside his wife was intercepted by the men of VIO and in the process, argument ensued which led to one of them to push him and he fell and hit his head on the road concrete pavement leading to his death.

But governor Umahi has called for thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.

Umahi in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Emmanuel Uzor described the circumstances leading to the death of the elder statesman as callous and ordered full in-

vestigation.

“The Governor on hearing about the death of Chief Mgbada expressed great sadness and ordered the Commissioner of Police to arrest and prosecute the suspects who paraded themselves as VIO Officers. Let it be known that the Governor in a town-hall meeting with Ebonyians proscribed all taskforce agents working under any guise using the state government as cover.

“In the proscription order, the Governor also dissolved all revenue and tax agents in the state at all levels with a promise to convoke another town hall meeting where a new tax and other revenue will be deliberated and agreed upon and the Governor is yet to convene this meeting before this ugly incident “ “The Governor is saddened by this careless death and wishes to dissociate the state government from the illegal activities of the VIO and other task force agents in the state and directs for immediate arrest and prosecution of such illegal tax or revenue agents”, the governor said in the statement.

Umahi further condoled with the family of the deceased and vowed to ensure that justice is done.

•Gov. Dave Umahi

He urged the public to resist illegal revenue agents as the only body legally permitted to collect revenue on behalf of the government is the newly inaugurated Board of Internal Revenue.

The body of the deceased has been deposited at the mortuary at the Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki.

ggrieved executive members of Agbaedo United Traders Association, Nnewi, have pointed accusing fingers at the leadership of the market led by Christopher Osuojukwu, who they claimed, has continued to take laws into his hands, and has not taken recourse to the constitution of the association in running the affairs of the market.

According to the angry traders, Osuojukwu unilaterally dissolved executive members of the market elected and inaugurated with him, and went ahead to disband board of trustees of the market; paving way for him to run the affairs of the market as a sole proprietorship for the past 2 years without checks from either the executive or the board of trustees.

The group, led by Mr. Christian Ubazuonu, while calling on the Anambra state governor, Chief Willie Obiano, to intervene in the matter and call Osuojukwu to order, lamented that Christopher Osuojukwu has become a keg in the wheel of progress in the market; adding that he has been using his touts to harass and intimidate traders in the market, who try to question his excesses and mismanagement of the market.

He said: “We have endured so much of his intimidation, that is why we are calling on the governor to come to our rescue to stop the impasse from escalating as we cannot take the excesses of Christopher Osuojukwu anymore.”

The traders called for immediate suspension of Osuojukwu to enable committee set up by the Commissioner for Trade, Commerce, Industry and Wealth Creation, Hon. Madubuko; to do its work without any undue influence.

Ubaezuonu further said that the insinuations by the Osuojukwu group that the executive embezzled N1 Million from the market’s purse which necessitated their disbandment was false and unfounded; a ploy, he said, was to put his executive beside and run the affairs of the market alone.

Lending her voice, the treasurer of Agbaedo United Traders Association, Lady Uche Onweluzo, lamented how the chairman had continued to run the affairs of the market with recklessness.

She, however, thanked the Commissioner of Trade, Commerce, Industry, Market and Wealth Creation, Hon. Madubuko, for setting up a committee to look into the matter.

She urged the committee to come out with a report based on the documentary evidence before them.

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The Oracle Today Wednesday May 15 - 21, 2019

NEWS

Apologize to Ngige, or….

-- South East group to NLC, ASUU From BONIFACE OKORO, Umuahia

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South East-based youth group has issued a 48hour ultimatum to Nigeria Labour leader, Ayuba Wabba, and President of Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Prof. Biodun Ogunyemi, to apologise to the Minister of Employment, Labour and Productivity, Dr Chris Ngige, for allegedly insulting and causing the Minister national embarrassment or face the wrath of the group.

PG death: Breaking!

Obiano pays N6M to police operatives, informants From PMELA EBOH, Awka

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he Anambra State Governor, Willie Obiano has paid a total of N5M to police operatives and informants who assisted in the arrest of wanted suspects involved in the alleged murder of the President General of Nimo, Njikoka Local Government Area of Anambra State, Chief Frank Anthony Igboka.

Another N1m was also given away for the arrest of the notorious murder suspect Ikechukwu Udensi alias IKANDA who was equally arrested by the Police, over alleged murder of Mr. Ndubuisi Nwokolo in Onitsha.

It would be recalled that following the shooting incident at Nimo on April 16, 2019 which lresulted in the death of Chief Frank Anthony Igboka, the Governor pledged to give N5m each to any informant that leads police to the arrest of the four runaway suspects.

Presenting the cash reward to the beneficiaries, the state Commissioner of Police, CP Mustapha Dandaura thanked the Governor for fulfilling his promise.

He gave assurance that the Command is ready to sustain it’s onslaught against crimes and criminalities in the state.

The Coalition of South East Youth Leaders (COSEYL) is also imploring the Police and other security agencies to arrest Wabba immediately in order to ensure public peace in the country.

In the recent weeks, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has been up in arms with Ngige over the appointment and inauguration of the Chairman of the National Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) board.

While NLC, led by Ayuba rooted Chief Frank Kokori to head the NSITF board, Ngige, with Presidential backing, opted for Austin Enajemo-Isire, a seasoned Chartered Accountant, professional Insurance Executive and banker.

When it was clear to Labour that Ngige would not heed its demand to inaugurate Kokori as NSITF chairman, Ayuba rallied workers to protest at Ngige’s private residence in Abuja last week.

Claiming that Ngige attacked the protesters with thugs, Ayuba issued directives to workers to attack the minister wherever they see him. Ayuba also ordered airport workers to withdraw their services when the sight Ngige and equally attack him.

Having received the nod from President Muhammadu Buhari, Ngige went ahead last Monday to inaugurate Enejamo-Isire and Mrs. Ijeoma Okonkwo as Board Chairman and Secretary of NSITF respectively.

Since Ayuba issued the directive and order, the federal government has kept mum, prompting COSEYL to warn that no harm should come to the Minister.

In a strongly-worded statement endorsed by COSEYL’s President-General, Chief Goodluck Egwu Ibem, and Secretary-General, Comrade Kanice Igwe, and made available to newsmen in Umuahia yesterday, the group berated Ayubba for accusing Ngige of hiring thugs to attack Nigerian workers.

“If Wabba feels that he is right about his false claims, he is free to go to court. It is only the court that adjudicates in disputes. The labour’s continuous protests constitute lawlessness and a breach of peace. “By his unwarranted actions, Wabba has infringed on the fundamental human rights of Dr. Ngige,” COSEYL fired.

The group described the con-

tinuous workers protest as “a gross personal vendetta” against Ngige “who is being attacked simply because he voided the plan” by some top labour leaders to use Kokori to allegedly “loot and liquidate NSIFT,” adding that Ayuba’s claim that he was fighting for workers was false as he was pursuing a personal interest.

The group also condemned the ASUU chief for calling on President Buhari to conduct psychiatric test on his cabinet members to ascertain their mental stability, saying “it is unfortunate that such opprobrious statement will be made by an ASUU President.”

“We call on Prof. Biodun Ogunyemi and Ayuba Wabba to, within 48 hours, apologize to the Honourable Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Chris Ngige, or face the wrath of COSEYL” the group said.

COSEYL advised Nigerian workers to stop “the senseless protests” and support Ngige and applauded President Buhari for the choice of Enajemo-Isire and Mrs. Okoronkwo, saying that the duo has the requisite knowledge and experience to revitalize NSITF.

v President Muhammadu Buhari congratulating Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Godwin Emefiele on his reappointment as head of the apex bank, for a second tenure

Anambra 2022: Why zoning should be entrenched - Anigbata From THEO RAYS, Onitsha ormer governorship candiFParty date of National Democratic (NDP) in Anambra State

Chief Victor Anigbata has lent his voice on the debate about zoning of the governorship seat to Anambra South Senatorial District currently going on in the State pointing out some reasons why zoning should be entrenched in the State.

Speaking in a chat with The Oracle Today, Anigbata who described him as a champion of zoning said that zoning has to be entrenched to pave the way for smooth rotation of power among the three Senatorial zones in the State and also reduce the cost of campaign to the barest minimum during governorship election in the State.

He said that zoning the 2022 governorship seat to Anambra South will shape the politics of the State, give it a clear direction and make the governorship race a smooth and more cheaper process devoid of excessive spending at Abuja by money bag politicians in Anambra who believe that Abuja can make them Governor noting that governorship election in Anambra is like a rainy season for political God fathers and their political parties in Abuja.

He added, “I am a champion of zoning and arguably the pioneer advocate of zoning in Anambra State. I started campaigning for zoning way back in 2007 before the likes of Obi of Onitsha Igwe Alfred Achebe, Dr Alex Obiogbolu, Dr Chike Obidigbo and other stakeholders joined to lent their voice. I was of the opinion that Anambra North deserve to produce the Governor after Central because the South had earlier taken their turn “Luckily for North, we got it in 2013, so it is a proper decision for the seat to go back to the South after the Central occupied it for 11 years and the North occupied it for 8 years. So as a champion of zoning, I wish to use this opportunity to call on the relevant stakeholders as well as the political parties to concede the governorship seat to Anambra South in 2022 to allow a smooth rotation of power in the State and to save cost of running campaign.

Group advocates integrity, good governance in public sector From OZO RAY, Awka Idol-Nigeria, a Itionntegrity Non-Governmental Organisa(NGO) has called for collab-

oration of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in the bid to entrench integrity and promote good governance in public sector.

Mr Samuel Emenogu, Project Leader of the organisation made the call yesterday when his team met with top management of NYSC and the corps members in Awka.

Emenogu and his team also congratulated Mr Kehinde Aremu,

Coordinator of NYSC in Anambra who emerged one of the winners of 2018 Integrity Idol contest.

He said there was need to identify and celebrate people who have shown character and promoted good governance in the public sector in Nigeria.

He identified bribery, lateness, exam malpractice and corruption as some of the moral challenges in the public work place adding that only people with integrity could help correct the anomalies .

Emenogu said the NYSC with its reach could help in the task for behavioural change of the

people towards greater productivity in the public sector through promoting good governance.

“We are trying to change the narrative from naming and shaming bad people to ‘name and fame’ people with Integrity.

“We have to resist pressure, do the right thing, ensure that there is proper documentation of public sector administration process.

“Having conducted an integrity test of some corps members we now have four mini Integrity Idols here in Anambra, who will help the state coordinator who

has been voted as 2018 Integrity Idol in Nigeria, “ he said.

On his part, Aremu said he was honoured with the award and was more emboldened to carry out his official duties with greater sense of integrity.

The coordinator said for Nigeria to attain its desired height in development and progress, citizens must be righteous and the right persons appointed into the right places.

He welcomed the call by Integrity Idol-Nigeria for collaboration with the NYSC, saying it was proper at this time of Nigeria’s national development.

Aremu proposed that NYSC should set up a curriculum for anti corruption and integrity so that issued of integrity could be taught in all the 37 orientation camps in the country.

“There has been so much attention to performance in the private sector but it is good now that an NGO is saying attention to performance in public sector, let us continue to identify people with Integrity and celebrate tym.

“For me, I am happy with the award and I promise that I will even do more in providing leadership for those that are working with me,” he said.

POLITICS

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Tales out of Biafra: 50 Awka Town Union years of the ‘Republic’ moves to eliminate of Acha (March 26-April cultism, drug abuse 28, 1969) Pg 14

Pg 16

T

he above popular quote is one of the evergreen Shakespearean statements. It is contained in his Play, Twelfth Night. The story is about two twins who are caught in a storm that caused their ship to wreck. As a result of the shipwreck the twins were separated. One of the characters in the play, Malvolio, uttered the time tested statement: “some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them.” This saying is applicable to the political journey of Rt. Hon Gerald Irona, the Deputy Governor-Elect of Imo State, and the leadership he has brought to his people over the years.

Never in the history of Imo State had two lawmakers, colleagues of the House of Representatives, emerged as the Governor and Deputy Governor respectively of Imo State. But that is what we now have in the state. Though we made the choice in the March 9 governorship election, it was providence that thrust them on us. Many people think that in the making of the stars of Governor-Elect Rt. Hon Emeka Ihedioha and Deputy Governor-Elect Rt Hon Gerald Irona, the Maker of their stars, God Almighty, knew that their paths would cross and he pre-matched them for the task that lay before them, the task of rebuilding a shattered Imo State. Those who know the political trajectory of the duo would have no difficulty agreeing that both the Governor-Elect and his Deputy have several things in common.

Though the similarity in their character traits is not the subject of this piece, it is common knowledge that both leaders share legislative experiences that have spanned over the years. This has not only helped to sharpen and widen their worldview, it has exposed them to the workings of government, especially a democratic one. Both also have executive experience. For the Deputy Governor-Elect, he is also bringing his executive experiences to bear in the running of the government, having served as Executive Chairman of Oguta LGA, and the Governor-Elect also who had served in the office of the Vice President.

Born on August 1, 1966, Irona cut his political teeth under the shadows of the revered Senator Francis Arthur Nzeribe when he was elected a councilor for Oguta Ward A in 1996 and 1997. When General Abdulsami Abubakar, Nigeria’s former Head of State, announced that he would return Nigeria to democratic rule, Irona also played prominent roles in the politics of Imo State when in 1998 he became the pioneer State Secretary of the All Peoples Party (APP), which later became All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP). Interestingly, he was also the National Deputy Financial Secretary of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

Having done well as a Councilor and having played party politics at the rank of state secretary, Irona’s stars led him upward. In 1999 he contested election for the Imo State House of Assembly to represent Oguta State Constituency.

He won his election. While in the House he became the Chairman of the House Committee on Petroleum, Environment and Energy. This position enabled him to birth the Memorandum of Understanding between oil companies exploring oil in the state. It was the first of its kind since the creation of the state.

The Nigeria Agip Oil Company (NAOC) operating at Oguta/Etekwuru communities; Chevron Oil Company, operating at Izombe/Rumuekuneke communities; Addax Petroleum, also operating at

Irona as a child of destiny “But be not afraid of greatness: some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them,” wrote the famous English playwright, William Shakespeare, in his Play, Twelfth Night,written around 1602. It best describes the political Odyssey of Rt. Hon. Gerald Irona, deputy governorelect of Imo State, writes COLLINS UGHALAA from Owerri.

Izombe/Ezi-Orsu communities, were the oil companies operating in the state at the time. Today, when people talk about a memorandum of understanding with the oil companies in the state, especially in the rural oil producing communities, most people do not reckon with the fact that the idea was first conceptualized and birthed by no less a person than our incoming Deputy Governor.

A grassroots politician, Irona’s representation of Oguta State Constituency from 1999 to 2003 remains one of the golden eons of the representation in Oguta LGA. As a go-getter, he gave his people robust representation evidenced in the robust contributions he made in the House. As a reward he

was a member of the Presidential Committee on Verification of Oil Wells in the Niger Delta. His contributions to the identification, demarcation and return of hitherto ceded oil wells to other states from Imo State back to Egbema and Oguta oil fields in Imo State remains astronomical. As a lawmaker and good representative of his people who suffer from their Godgiven wealth instead of benefitting from it, Irona, our Deputy Governor-Elect, contributed immensely to the establishment of the 13% Oil Derivation. This later metamorphosed into the Imo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (ISOPADEC).

He also led the struggle for the inclusion of Imo State as a member state of the

Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

An Engineer by training, Hon Irona finished his successful one term in the Imo State House of Assembly in June 2003, and in the same year he was the Chairman Transition Committee of Oguta LGA. His performance in the State Assembly and TC Chairman of Oguta paved the way for his emergence as the first Executive Chairman of Oguta Local Government to be elected unopposed, between 2004 and 2007. As the Executive Chairman of Oguta LGA, he systematically changed the administrative architecture of the LGA from Cont’d on page 15

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POLITICS

Tales out of Biafra: 50 years of the ‘Republic’ of Acha (March 26-April 28, 1969) In this report, HRH Eze Dr. UWADIEGWU C. OGBONNAYA, Biafran veteran, journalist, historian, Mass Comm teacher and the Traditional Ruler of Umuanyi Uturu, Abia State, writes on his Biafran War experience in the Okigwe sector of the war.

I

t still looks like yesterday, but it is already 50 years on this date (March 26 – April 27, 1969) when Biafran Army Officers and men, finding themselves completely cut off from the remaining part of Biafra in the Okigwe sector had to declare the area still under their control as the ‘Republic’ of Acha.

What happened in the Acha axis of the Okigwe sector on this date? On this day, the then British Prime Minister (Labour Party) Mr. Harold Wilson came on a state visit to war time Nigeria. His government, right from the crisis of 1966, had supported the Lagos junta of General Yakubu Gowon.

To impress on his host that Biafra was already at her knees, Yakubu Gowon ordered the 1st Division of the Nigerian Army, Enugu under Colonel Mohammed Shuwa to go and capture Umuahia, the last Biafran Capital. While Harold Wilson was landing at the Ikeja Airport, Radio Nigeria, Lagos was already agog with news of the Federal Nigerian troops over-running Isuikwuato and already at Akara, just 16 miles to Umuahia.

Earlier in February, 1969, the Biafran High Command had known of a major military build-up along the Okigwe-Uturu-Afikpo Road by Mohammed Shuva’s men. Biafra’s 15th Division under Col. Lambert Ohanehi launched a pre-emptive attack on 25th February, 1969. With Captain C.C. Njeze’s 70B Battalion of 64th Brigade under Major Goddy Onyefuru, the Biafrans captured the Uturu Airport, Onuaku earlier captured by the Captain Ibrahim Babangida in September 1968. While Radio Biafra was on air celebrating Ojukwu’s message of congratulation for our gallantry, the Nigerian 1st Division launched a counter-attack and within 72 hours retook and destroyed completely what was the Uturu Airport. Thus, what was supposed to be the beginning of Biafra’s version of the Vietnamese 1968 “Tet Offensive” by Biafra came to nothing. Col. Sam Mbakwe, Biafra’s Okigwe Provincial Administrator (with protective rank of colonel by Ojukwu) was in high spirit before the operation.

Another pre-emptive attack launched by the 64th Brigade Mobile Strike Force under Captain Osaro (From Eleme, Rivers State) on March 15, 1969 from the present Abia State University, Uturu was also a disaster, as Osaro and the best of his officers, Duru and Udoh got missing in action.

Then, the much anticipated happened in the early hours of March 26, when the 1st Division launched the offensive to capture Umuahia. In a four-pronged attack from Ugba Uturu, Ukwunwangwu Uturu, Ndiokoroukwu Ishiagu and Mile II Afikpo Road through Ezeukwu–Alayi–Akara, the invaders succeeded in breaking through in all these areas, except at Ndiokoroukwu.

Here, the combined soldiers of Captain Njeze’s 70B battalion, the 5th Rangers squadron (guerilla fighters) of Lt. Egwu, a.k.a, “Animal in Jungle”, beat back the Nigerian ‘Vandals’.

Yours sincerely, was among the last 36 Rangers with Lt. Nsofor sent to Ndiokoroukwu from Acha to reinforce the 70B Battalion Company that had already lost its first line of defence. Our arrival made the difference, as the Federal troops were beaten back to the Ndiokoroukwu junction with Njeze, Egwu and Nsofor commanding and fighting like spirit possessed men from the outer space. It was the longest day that never found the night as Njeze was with us up till 5pm in the trenches when the Federal side stopped firing with the evacuation of their dead and wounded. When the Rangers led by Nsofor and Corporal Alaigbo charged forward, lots of abandoned weapons and stores were

•Ojukwu taken by the Rangers.

As we marched back to Acha with Njeze that evening, he became an instant hero with songs composed in his honour. Old men and women, teenage boys and girls, young damsels lined both sides of the road hailing our gallantry, and thanking God of Abraham (Chukwu Abiama) for saving Acha.

With free food, hot drinks, cigarettes, palm wine, the Infantry Soldiers and Rangers were entertained to no end that night by an appreciative civilian population of Acha. With Nigerian troops just 16 miles to Umuahia and finding ourselves cut off from the remaining part of Biafra, our officers jokingly proclaimed the Acha enclave as the ‘Republic’ of Acha with Captain Njeze as the ‘Head’ of State.

Being a form III student before the war, I was drafted to the Directorate of Military Intelligence of 70B battalion when we arrived from the Rangers Training Camp, Isiekeresi, Orlu to the 5th Squadron Acha on 15th February, 1969. Lt. Ezeako-Nze was the Intelligence Officer. But when the jungle got matured on March 26, all the rangers had to go into infantry duties in defence of the “Republic”. Like the Jewish Massada defenders of the Holy Temple in 70 AD Jerusalem against General Titus of the Roman Army, we swore never to surrender but fight till the last pint of our blood.

With the artillery, mortar and aerial bombardment going on between Nigerian soldiers and Biafran defenders at Uzuakoli, Radio Biafra was the only link we had with the rest of Biafra. The battle of Uzuakoli in April, 1969 was a re-enactment of the tragedy that befell the 2nd Division of the Nigerian Army under Colonel Murtala Rufai Mohammed at Abagana (after Awka) on February 20, 1968, where Murtala himself narrowly escaped being killed with thousands of his men decimated.

At Uzuakoli, Biafra’s itinerant Commander and Super-Patriot, Col. Joseph Hannibal Achuzia, Col. Emeka Ananaba’s 4th Commando Brigade and the Ginger Brigade encircled the 1st Division advance troops.

The Biafran High command gave Mohammed Shuwa’s division soldiers “48 hours to surrender or face total annihilation” according to Radio Biafra. Captain Ibrahim Babangida reportedly had a bullet wound at the Uzuakoli war front. He, as Military President while on a state visit to Imo state

in December 1987, commissioned a P&T mast at the site where he reportedly had this wound in April, 1969 at Uzuakoli. Biafra’s “CORPORAL NWAFOR” armoured car driven by Sasa Kalu from Ohafia (a pre-war form III student) was the “Rock of Gibraltar” at Uzuakoli for almost one month before Umuahia finally fell on Sunday, May 1st, 1969.

To boost the morale of those of us marooned at Acha, message had once come from Col. Achuzia that he would come and liberate us, as soon as he halted the advance of the Nigerian troops (now at Ubani Ibeku) movement to Umuahia.

Till date, nobody has talked of the fate that befell hundreds of inmates of the famous Uzuakoli leper colony who could not run away and were caught in the crossfire between Nigerians and Biafran troops.

Pioneer Methodist gospel singer and chorister, Harcourt Whyte, was a product of the Uzuakoli leper colony.

The order for Biafran pullout of Acha came on April 28, 1969, after a month’s heroic resistance. The pullout, was perhaps, to avoid a repeat of the Akpanwudele Abakaliki tragedy of 1968 where a whole community was bombarded from every direction by Federal troops to avenge the missing of a Nigerian soldier that strayed into the area.

News of the pullout hit Acha, Ozara, Otamkpa, Ezere, Umunnekwu Agbo, Amaibo and the rest areas still under Biafra coverage like a thunderbolt. The native civilian population wept uncontrollably and saw it as a sign of the ARMAGEDON. Nobody could predict what life would be like in the hands of Nigerian ‘vandals’ according to Radio Biafra. Many volunteered to pullout with us, rather than surrender.

One of them was Mr. Owanta, a former hotel proprietor in Jos from Ozara who was supplying food to the Biafran S&T in Umuahia. Unfortunately, Mr. Owanta could not make it as he got missing in action during the “operation open corridor” in the early hours of April 30, 1999.

From every track and route to Acha, Njeze and his men pulled out and converged at the Agunta/Ogbor Udele forest farms Uturu. At dawn on 30/4/1969, Njeze gave the command for “operation open corridor” from behind the enemy lines opposite the Christian Council of Nigeria Farm Settlement on the then untarred ABSU-Ovim-

Akara road. With soldiers moving in a single file mixed with civilians, the crossing was tragic for many, especially nursing mothers, many other civilians and soldiers. Many women threw away the babies on their backs just to save their heads first during the crossing.

Yours sincerely could not make it that right. While wondering in the bush, I came across other soldiers and civilians marooned. They include; Dr. Pleen Egbe, a famous educationist from Ovim, and WO II Josephat Osunkwo from Acha and his newly married beautiful young wife. At dusk on 30/4/1969, I ferried across about 15 soldiers and civilians (as a God-sent drizzle sent the Nigerian soldiers to their bunkers and trenches) to the other side of the road controlled by 70A infantry battalion.

On May 1, 1969 from the farm settlement, a Biafran sergeant directed us to move to Umuobiala Isuikwuato where the rest of 70B battalion and 5th Squadron Rangers were directed by Major Goddy Onyefuru to assemble. News of the eventual fall of Umuahia to the 1st Division elicited sorrow among the military and civilian population in Umuobiala. Some officers shaved their heads as a sign of mourning for the fall of Umuahia.

The fall of Umuahia saw the pioneer Head of the Biafran Directorate of Propaganda, Mr. Nelson Otta (from Item and publisher/ editor-in-chief of Drum Magazine in Lagos) cross-over to the Federal Nigerian side through the assistance of Chief Jeremiah Obafemi Awolowo. His second-in-command, Comrade Uche Chukwumerijie, rose to the challenge and did the job better to the consternation of Anthony Enahoro, Magnus Bara-Hart, Increase Coker and others on the other-side of the propaganda warfare.

After a week in Umuobiala, the 5th Squadron Rangers were directed to move to Ezinnachi and join the 4th Squadron under Lt. Onyekwere (OC Rangers). In Ezinnachi, we were informed that the Biafran High Command has dissolved the Rangers Movement, one of the guerilla groups of the Biafran Army under Major Nwadiegwu from Obibi Ochasi, Orlu, Imo State.

With the merger of the 4th and 5th Squadrons, we were driven to Amiyi Obilohia Isuikwuato to form the “D” company of 70A Infantry Battalion with Captain Onyekwere as our company commander.

For being alive today to recall the events of March/April, 1969, (50 years ago) one has to continue to give thanks to the Almighty God for his mercies. It is regrettable that Nigerian politicians like the Bourbon dynasty of France after the Napoleonic wars 1789-1815 came back to power having not learnt and forgotten nothing during the revolution. This is the danger and tragedy of Nigerian politics as the politicians have continued to make the same mistakes that led to the Nigeria-Biafra war, 1967-1970.

Major Goddy Onyefuru was Sandhurst commissioned 2nd Lieutenant in the pre 1966 Nigerian Army and married to a white lady while in Britain. He was detained after the war (1970-1974) for being in the company of Major Chukwuma Nzeogwu in “Operation Damisa” of January 15, 1966 at the premier’s lodge, Kaduna.

Calistus Chukwuemeka Njeze, PhD 1978, became the 1st African to have a PhD in Estate Management from a British University.

He retired as a 2-term Rector of Institute of Management and Technology, Enugu, and now the Traditional Ruler of Aboh Community after the 9th Mile Corner of Enugu State.

•Phone: 09035047566, 08073770915

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POLITICS

Irona as a child of destiny Cont’d from page 13 a bureaucratic redtapism to a vivacious commercial oriented administration. This courageous and innovative approach to public service empowered and developed the entire landscape in Oguta LGA and set the records for his successors.

If you had for minute thought that Irona was done with his political career having achieved these laudable feet, you are wrong! In 2011 Irona moved up and ran for a seat in the House of Representatives to represent Oguta/Ohaji Egbema/ Oru West Federal Constituency. He won his election and became a member of the 7th National Assembly on June 6, 2011. Combining charisma, experience, humility, exposure, courage and contact, he warmed himself into the heart of the leadership of the House and he became the sole representative of the entire Southeast in the crucial Selection Committee. This committee was saddled with the responsibility of dividing the entire House membership into different committees to oversight the different ministries, departments, agencies (MDAs) and activities of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. As an intelligent and charismatic leader, Irona was also made the Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Gas Resources. He was a member of several strategic committees, spanning from Power, NDDC, Petroleum Upstream, Local Content, Sport, Privatization and Commercialization and Housing and Habitat. He was also a member of the House Committee that investigated the controversial fuel subsidy regime in the country. He served in this committee and came out with his integrity intact, unlike some that soiled their integrity and shamed their constituents.

A devout Catholic, humble, vibrant and prudent manager of resources with vast experience in governance and intergovernmental engagements, Hon Irona was not a seat warmer in the House.

His tenure is remarkable for moving the motion for urgent national importance on the need for federal government’s intervention on the devastation of Ohaji/ Egbema/Oguta and Oru West communities by the flood disaster of 2012. He also moved the motion for the Minimum Wage. This was aimed at ensuring that the various state governments do not renege on the pament of the Minimum Wage agreed between Labour and the federal government. Hon Irona also intervened in the arbitrary selling of assets of the federal government when he moved a motion on the need to halt incessant selling of Federal Government assets by multinational oil companies.

On the incessant killings and wanton destruction of properties by rival cults in Obiakpu Egbema in Ohaji/EgbemaOguta Oru West Federal Constituency, he moved a motion on the floor of the House to stop it.

Hon Irona was not detached from his constituents. He was close to them. He felt their pains and he took actions to ameliorate them. He was not only in the House moving motions and supporting motions. He was also supporting lives and putting smiles on the faces of the people. It is to his credit that he secured jobs for graduates in his constituency.

During his tenure, he facilitated the employment of more than 20 graduates into federal government agencies, such: NAFDAC., the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), National Lottery Commission, Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Alvan Ikoku College

•Irona

Irona understands power play a lot. Having attended the Nzeribe School of Politics and having served in various capacities, he has well equipped himself with what power and authority are and how to show respect to power and authority.

”

of Education, Nigeria Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Nigerian Immigration Service, Nigerian Prisons Service, Nigeria Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), etc.

Beyond this, Irona brought as constituency projects the construction and reticulation of water schemes, notably at: Mgbidi in Oru West LGA, Egwe and Abiaziem in Oguta LGA. He provided

solar water projects at Umuoso in Ohaji/ Egbema LGA, Amorie Ubuiu in Oru West LGA, Assaa in Ohaji/Egbema LGA, Obile in Ohaji/Egbema, Ndionyemobi in Oguta LGA. He also provided hand pumps at Nwari in Ohaji/Egbema LGA, Obudi, Enuigbo and K/Beach in Oguta LGA. In rural electrification, Irona provided solar street light for his constituents in OrsuObodo/Nnebukwu, F.A Nzeribe Road and Awucha Crescent, Egwe in Oguta

LGA. He installed 500KVA transformer each at Awucha Crescent, Egwe New Layout, Ezi-Orsu, Ndiuloukwu & Egwe - all in Oguta LGA; Mgbidi and Nempi/ Eleh in Oru West LGA. He was not found wanting in road construction. It is to his credit that Omoka-Egbema-Oguta Motel-Izombe Road was constructed.

He also constructed the 4Km Road at Umuagwo-Umuoso in Ohaji/Egbema; the construction of road/erosion control at Awucha Rd Egwe in Oguta, the Eneka/Enugu/Philp Udoma Road in Oguta.

Hon. Irona is not an accidental political leader. He was prepared for the tasks ahead of him well enough. He was educated and well mentored by the revered maverick politician, Senator Francis Arthur Nzeribe. Irona attended Priscilla Memorial Secondary School, Oguta, between 1980 and 1985. He was the Senior Prefect of his school.

He has Higher National Diploma and Ordinary National Diploma in Chemical Engineering obtained from the Institute of Management and Technology, Enugu, and College of Technology - now Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Owerri, respectively. He obtained his Postgraduate Diploma in Management from Imo State University (IMSU). He also holds an Oxford University Postgraduate Certificate in Leadership; Raleigh University, North Carolina, United States Postgraduate Certificate in Budgeting and Budget Control, et cetera.

Apart from the leadership Irona has provided to his people, he is known for his loyalty. Loyalty, many say, is one the character traits that has sustained Irona both as a leader and politician. He is loyal to the people and to his leaders. He is not known for biting the fingers that fed him. Unlike some politicians that cut off the rope when they think they have achieved a fraction of what Irona has achieved, Irona remains loyal. He always has the burning desire to serve the people. From his time as councilor for Oguta Ward A, he has always sought for opportunities to serve his people.

Whenever he got the opportunity, he had always remained the servant. No wonder he cannot be associated with any of the crises that have ravaged the oil producing LGAs of Oguta and Ohaji/ Egbema. As a leader, he does not keep malice. He forgives his offenders freely from his heart, even without them rendering an apology. Sometimes he reaches out to his offenders for a closure. He does not keep count of offences.

Irona understands power play a lot.

Having attended the Nzeribe School of Politics and having served in various capacities, he has well equipped himself with what power and authority are and how to show respect to power and authority. He believes in due process and never does it occur to him to usurp the powers of the other person. He is a fantastic follower. He is not betrayer. Irona believes in consultations as veritable means of building consensus and forging unity among the people. As a member of the House of Representatives, he would always consul with his constituents on what was best for them.

Coming with enviable character, education, exposure and cognate experience, Deputy Governor-Elect Rt. Hon. Gerald Irona will no doubt complement the qualities of our Governor-Elect Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha. The outcome is that Imo State will enjoy a rancor free government propelled only by the desire and commitment to rebuild a batter Imo State.

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FOCUS

•ADU PG Chief Amobi Nwaokafor flanked by others in a group photograph shortly after the event at St.John of God Awka .

Awka Town Union moves to eliminate cultism, drug abuse

From OZO RAY

M

oral decadence and all forms of anti-social behaviors have become synonymous with the present day youth such that vices like cultism, drug abuse, teenage pregnancy, abortion, armed-banditry, examination misconduct, truancy, improper dress code, prostitution as well as a great many others have become the stock-in-trade of some youngsters in contemporary society. These negative vices to a large extent are remote causes of the rise in criminal tendencies.

But despite of the ugly trend, governments, security agencies, town unions, non-governmental institutions, corporate organisations, individuals and a host of others, are making frantic efforts to stem the tide of criminality resulting from anti-social tendencies .

It is for this reason that the Awka Development Union Nigeria (ADU) led by the President-General Chief (Sir) Amobi Nwaokafor decided to disabuse the minds of youths in Awka town as well as dissuade them from activities detrimental to their dreams and aspirations. This prompted the town union to galvanise youngsters from all the secondary schools in Awka, Amawbia, Nibo and other neighbouring towns to a symposium at St.John of God Awka where the youths were treated to mindblowing lectures on cultism, drug abuse and career choices. The youth programme was equally an opportunity for some indigent but intelligent students and some others to obtain scholarships to further their education while some students too were rewarded with various prices for outstanding performances. Be that as it may, Awka Development Union Nigeria has indeed taken the bull by the horn to ensure proper mentorship and role-modelling for youths whom the organization believes would take over the mantle of leadership in no distant future. This, according to Chief Amobi Nwaokafor, is the overall objective of catching the youths now that they

are virile, vibrant and in a good stead for expeditions.

At the 2019 edition of ADU education empowerment programme held at St.John of God Awka, youths were exposed to the aftermaths of cultism, drug and substance abuse as well as in the importance of developing the right attitudes towards determining career choices in the near future. One of the guest speakers who spoke on Substance Abuse, Mrs.Zelinjor Igwueze, a pharmacist and toxicologist told the students who listened with rapt attention that some of the drugs usually abused include alcohol, cocaine, codeine, tramadol, panadol, to mention a few. She said that drug abuse has its attendant grave consequences such as stroke, hypertitis, poor appetites, improper behavior, solitude, stigmatization, paralysis and eventual death.

The guest speaker maintained that drug addiction is a special kind of hell because it takes over the soul of the addict and subjects the individual to eternal servitude until death. She, therefore, made a pictorial reference to a famous ragae icon popularly called Majek Fashek, who took to drug addiction and lost everything including his talent, as he could no longer sing.

She was equally of the opinion that people who abuse drugs are usually very dirty and unkempt and they normally have blood-shot eyes. She admonished the students not to be friends with children who disobey their parents as they would constitute bad influence on them. She also advocated for constant communication between parents and children to direct and regulate their actions to avoid undue peer group influence while stressing the need for teachers not to stigmatize children with deviant behaviours as it could worsen their state of mental health.

According to her, drug abuse issues have become an epidemic at all levels of the society and that public schools were more susceptible to the epidemic than private schools. She, therefore, stressed the need for guidance and counseling to be

strengthened in all secondary schools while insisting that the society should evolve to the point where drug problems should be a public concern. She said Nigeria is a peculiar country as it concerns drug abuse because people buy drugs indiscriminately and practise self-medication. The medical expert observed that there seems to be too much quest for money such that parents no longer spend quality time with their children. She also pointed out that most parents indulge in smoking weed, cigarettes and other hard substances and children, according to her, learn from what they see rather than what they are told.

She, therefore, stressed the dire need for close observation of the child especially when the child is 6 years and above to enable the parents commence guidance and counseling early enough to stimulate children against bad companies capable of luring them into smoking habits and other dangerous vices .

The youth empowerment programme also provided a veritable platform for the students to take home words of admonition from the lecture that was delivered by an environmentalist in the person of Ayiba Nneka who stressed the importance of being in the right temperament to determine career choices . Ayiba said it is pertinent to allow children discover their innate potentials when choosing careers for themselves, adding that children should be allowed the liberty to determine their respective careers devoid of parental and societal pressure.

She said every child has an identity and should be allowed the freedom to discover and nurture his true identity.

For the President-General, Awka Union USA / Canada Mr.Henry Okwuchukwu Onwubiko, the programme was timely because building up the youths is a very commendable task. He said Awka Union USA and Canada was equally concerned with youth development and it is in close collaboration with the parent body led by Chief Sir Amobi Nwaokafor to rid youths in Awka town off terminal vices but place

them on the road to stardom through mentorship and role modelling .

However, Sir Nwaokafor said the youth education empowerment scheme was the brainchild of his administration. He said there were lots of issues, especially in Awka town where youths are dropping out of school involoving themselves in cult activities and drug abuse. He maintained that given the aforementioned scenario, the town union took a decision to correct the anomaly from the primary school level down to the tertiary level respectively.

This, however, led to the various education programmes championed by Awka Development Union Nigeria to redirect the minds of youths to more noble causes.

He said the education empowerment programme started last year and about 50 persons were given scholarships on various grounds. He said the scholarships have been increased to 100 students for the 2019 session due to the kind support the town union received from the people of Awka.

According to him, it is equally intended that upon the exit of his administration, the body known as Preservers of Awka Heritage Foundation would take over the education empowerment scheme because they consider it very pivotal and fundamental in the developmental plan for Awka town. The President-General of Awka Development Union Nigeria also disclosed that a committee has been set up to forestall all security breaches including cult activities in the area even as he said that the town union has other programmes of development, including Every Youth A Skill, a youth development project that would be unveiled in no distant time . The youth sensitisation programme against cultism, drug abuse and need for proper temperament to determine career choices which was organised by Awka Development Union Nigeria featured price-giving sessions to outstanding students as well as award of scholarships to 100 students from different schools within Awka and its environs .

17

The Oracle Today Wednesday May 15 - 21, 2019

FOCUS

Hope rises for ex-convicts, drug addicts as rehab home springs up in Umuahia It was a solemn gathering on May 9, 2019 when brethren gathered to give hope to Living Hope Rehabilitation Home in Umuahia which is designed to offer total rehabilitation to ex-convicts, alcohol and drug addicts and society dropouts. BONIFACE OKORO who witnessed the event, reports:

H

ope for people in need of rehabilitation is rising in Abia State as Living Hope Rehabilitation Home springs up in Umuahia. It is a human recovery centre and for rebuilding of hopes. It is a place for rehabilitation and caring of ex-convicts, alcohol and drug addicts and society dropouts.

The comprehensive rehabilitation packages include building of the spiritual life of the residents (as the inmates would called) through prayers, counseling and bible study as it is believed that prayer changes and transforms lives and destinies; healthcare and health care training, entrepreneurship training and motivational talks.

The home will also serve as temporary succor for battered wives experiencing violence until peace is restored in their homes.

The sprawling rehabilitation centre is located in the sleepy Obuoji Umuana Ndume Ibeku community in Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State. A resident who passes through the centre is likely to become a Minister of God, aside from being completely rehabilitated, equipped with a skill(s) and a starter pack.

“Our holistic approach is to encourage and impact hope into them and with the proper assistance, they can return to the community as transformed lives,” says Chief Magistrate Victoria Chinonye Analaba, the initiator (Visioner) of the project.

Testimonies abound that the dark-skinned jurist combines her work with ministering the Gospel. This enables her to apply the word of God to help people in need of rehabilitation brought before her rather than sending them to jail. Thereafter she would take to counseling them and help to rehabilitate such persons.

“I have had testimonies about the Chief Magistrate that sometimes she will be on her seat, judging over a case and then God begins to speak to her. So, instead of convicting somebody, she turns a counselor and says meet me in the Chamber and she begins to counsel and pray.

“Sometimes, when we are called into a vocation, God has a different mission for the person. And from being a Magistrate, she has turned to a Minister and through her platform as a Magistrate, God has been reaching souls,” said Enyi Harbour, a leader in Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship in Umahia.

Mrs Analaba who is also an Elder in her church, corroborated what Harour said. She told a story of how she was able to rehabilitate two girls: one of the girls became a victim of Police Mass arrest when she visited her boyfriend and she was dumped her in the cell for two months before she was brought to her court. The other was a girl who became a commercial sex worker at the tender age of 11. She was said to have lost her mother, also a commercial worker who gave birth to her in the business and brought her up in the same environment. When her mother died, she knew no one as her relation and had nowhere to go to and resorted to commercial sex work.

The above stories paint the Chief Magistrate as an apostle of decriminalization and declassification of petty offences in Nigeria.

Living Hope Rehabilitation Home is expected to house a two-storey building as the main building with adjoining offices and halls for various activities.

She said that more work still needed to be done to realize the home which would have six staff, including two security men, two health workers, a matron/an administrator and office secretary as well as 12 residents, for a start.

“We will need a bus for mobility with which

•Chief Magistrate Victoria Analaba

•Dignitaries cutting the inauguration cake

to convey the residents to places of skill acquisition for their training,” she added.

At present, it has a bungalow while the auditorium and other structures are under construction. It already has beds, a security post and high perimeter fencing to secure the home she conceived in 2017 through God’s inspiration.

And in order to get the home ready to admit the first set of 12 residents by the last quarter of this year, Chief Magistrate Analaba invited friends and well-wishers to come and assist her to raise funds to complete the centre.

“We embarked on the building project of a multi-purpose hall with offices attached which is just at the lintel level due to insufficiency of funds, hence our invitation to come over to Macedonia and help,” she told the crowd which had gathered for the inaugura-

tion of the home last Thursday.

For Mrs. Analaba, rehabilitation should be everybody’s concern. “We must do this work of rehabilitation with the vision and mindset of seeing every child out there as everybody’s child and responsibility.”

According to her, a rehabilitated child remains a great gift to his or her parents.

“I do not see a drug addict, a commercial sex worker or ex-convict but I see a transformed potential leader, the next senator, governor, lawyer or philanthropist that will establish so many rehabilitation homes in the future just to help people as he was helped.

“The greatest gift you can give to a father or mother is the gift of a restored/transformed son or daughter.”

“They are our collective responsibility, let’s bring them home and by the mercies of God

and power of God give them hope of living.

This is what Living Hope Rehabilitation Home is all about,” she further explained.

Chairman of the Occasion, Enyi Harbour, lamented that drug addiction among Nigerians youth has reached emergency level. “When the visioner shared her vision with me, I was excited. I am not sure we have anything like this in this town. If there is, may be it is not up to this scope.

“The important thing is life that will be touched, life that will be changed and life that will be reintegrated into the society, life that society has rejected. And today, God is sending a helper to be a channel to redirect them back, not just to the society but to heaven and that is the most important thing,” Harbour observed, adding “this is what every society needs, where people would be rehabilitated.”

A former Lecturer with Abia State University, Uturu, Apostle David Onuoha, urged support for the building of the rehab, noting that many people were sowing seed and tithing only to enrich pastors who do not embark on any project that would benefit society.

According to him, the project was a practical demonstration of assisting the needy, as it is instructed in the bible that we should give food to the hungry, visit those in prison and clothe the naked.

He reasoned that the new home could absorb some of the commercial sex workers shut out by government from brothels in Umuahia.

In their goodwill messages, the 2019 governorship candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Dr Alex Otti, represented by Dr Onyebuchi Onyegbule, lamented the helplessness that pervades the society due to hardship occasioned by mismanagement of the economy.

He expressed hope that the rehab would give meaning to the life of people who have been written off by society and promised to assist the visioner in completing the home.

Also, an Assistant Superintendent of Narcotics, Omidire Bukola, of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, noted that illicit drugs have dealt a fatal blow on the country, stressing “Nigeria will be a better place if we have more people like you (the Chief Magistrate.”

The Commissioner for Women Affairs, Adaeze Kate Onyemachi described the home as the first of its kind in the state.

“It is one thing to identify a problem, it is another to solve it,” said the Commissioner who was represented by the Senior Social Welfare Officer in her Ministry, Pastor (Mrs.) Mercy Wilson Alamba.

She assured that government was ready to partner with the home as it works to make society better and would provide the enabling environment for it to operate.

Pastor James Msonter (a.ka Egbeligwe) of the Dunamis Church dedicated the home, while another major highlight was the cutting of the inauguration cake by the dignitaries present.

A former Secretary to Abia State Government, Pastor Ralph Egbu, who is also a member of the Board of Trustee of the home, expressed gratitude to all who came to support the project. Other members of the board include two retired Permanent Secretaries, Sir Hope Onyekwere and Engr. Rich Onyeaso who also witnessed the event.

It is expected that before the end of this year and with the support public-spirited individuals, government and corporate organizations, Abia State would begin to enjoy standard and professional rehabilitation services.

18

The Oracle Today Wednesday May 15 - 21, 2019

HEALTH

Prostate, breast and cervical cancers: Effective management and fertility outcome

A

s part of our conscious efforts to save life and procreate it, in people with cancer, to help professionals give their patients the best possible care, the clinical oncologists asked its medical experts to develop recommendations for specific areas of cancer care. In 2006, developed recommendations for fertility preservations for people with cancer were first tendered. These recommendations were updated in 2013 to reflect new researches and highlights of the importance of fertility preservations.

Points to note: Because specific types of cancer treatments can decrease a person’s fertility, it is important to talk with your doctor about how each type of treatment will affect your fertility before treatment begins. There are options to help preserve fertility in men and women, as well as children living with cancer.

Ask for referral to a reproductive specialist to discuss preserving fertility, even if the persons are unsure whether they want to have children, at present or in the future.

Sometimes, cancer treatment can decrease fertility or cause infertility for women who have not yet been through natural menopause.

These effects may be temporarily or permanently so. The risk of fertility from cancer treatment depends on several factors: (1) The type and dose of drugs used. (2) The dose of radiation given and where on the body it is being directed.

(3) The type of cancer. (4) The patient age and sex. (5) And whether a patient had fertility problems before cancer treatment or not. For women who have not been through menopause, menstrual periods may become irregular or stop during cancer treatments.

Fertility may decrease even if regular menstrual periods continue during treatment or return after treatment. In addition, cancer treatment can cause premature menopause, which can shorten the length of time a woman is able to have children. For men, decreased fertility may continue for years because the body is making sperm more slowly or has stopped making sperm altogether.

For children who have been diagnosed with cancer, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery all can have lasting effects on a child’s reproductive health and cause temporary or permanent infertility. The risk depends on your child’s treatment plan based on the diagnosis. It is

important to talk with the doctor about your concerns as a patient about fertility before treatment begins. Not all cancer treatments harm fertility but, if the treatment does include a risk of infertility, there are always to decrease or prevent the risk. The chances for maintaining fertility are the greatest if you discuss and think about the options with your doctor as early as possible. That is why it is important to ask for referral to a reproductive specialist immediately after being diagnosed with cancer.

The guide focuses on the fertility preservation options that are available before cancer treatment begins. These choices depends on the type of cancer one has and personal preferences for treatment, many of these methods are

HEALTH

With Dr. JOHN

NWABUEZE •Calls only: +234-8127227226, Email: ogudoben@gmail.com

still being studied by doctors and researchers. Often, the options include the cryopreservation (freezing) of sperm or tissue from the testes for men and cryopreservation of oocytes (egg) embryos (fertil-

ized eggs), or tissue from the ovaries for women. Methods such as In Vitro Fertilization (IVF;) a process that involves collecting a women’s egg and fertilizing them with sperm outside her body for the purpose of inter transferring the

embryo back into her body for it to develop are also used.

For women, the standard fertility preservation methods include: (1) Embryo cryopreservation: The process of collecting a women’s eggs followed by In Vitro Fertilization and freezing of the embryos.

(2) Oocytes cryopreservation: The collection and freezing of unfertilized eggs. (3) Oophoropexy or ovarian transposition: This procedure involves surgically moving the ovaries to another place in the woman body, away from where radiation therapy will be directed. Specific methods of performing surgery and giving radiation therapy can help protect a woman’s fertility.

However, methods of fertility preservation still being researched includes: (1) Ovarian tissue cryopreservation: The freezing of the Ovarian tissue that can be placed back in the body after cancer treatment.

(2) Ovarian suppression: The use of specific hormones to stop the ovaries from working. Current research suggests that this does not work well for protecting fertility during cancer treatment, but clinical trials are ongoing.

For men, sperm cryopreservation (also called sperm banking) is an effective method for fertility preservation.

It involves the freezing and storing of sperm. This is best done before treatment begins, as there is a higher risk of genetic damages in the sperm collected once treatment has started. Other methods such as testicular tissue cryopreservation and reimplantation are still being studied. This is the removal, freezing and storage of testicular tissue that can be placed back in the body after cancer treatment. Hormonal therapy is not effective for preserving fertility in men.

For parents or guardians of children and teens living with cancer, the standard ways to preserve fertility for teens who have gone through puberty include semen cryopreservation for boys and oocytes cryopreservation for girls.

Method of fertility preservation for children who have not been through puberty are still being studied and include testicular cryopreservation for boys and ovarian cryopreservation for girls. In all these, life is still promising for people living with prostate, breast and cervical cancers and others.

•Dr. John Nwabueze Calls only: +234-8127227226, Email: ogudoben@gmail.com

19

BU$IN£SS The Oracle Today Wednesday May 15-21, 2019

•Energy •Finance

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•Insurance

•Aviation

Emefiele’s re-appointment tears financial pundits apart

By JEROME USHANG

R

eappointment of Mr. Godwin Emefiele for second tenure of five years as Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), has ended speculations by economic pundits who had placed the performance of the nation’s treasurer on scale without consensus on the appraisal result.

With the appointment, Mr. Emefiele clinches another tenure expected to end in 2024 after the even President Muhamadu Buhari would have left office; thus ending speculations and jostling among people close to power corridors over possible replacement of the CBN Governor whose first tenure coincided with troubling monetary policy brinkmanship.

Specifically, news of his reappointment was broken on the floor of the senate on May 8, 2019, when Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki read a letter from the President informing the senators that he has nominated Emefiele to serve as CBN Governor for the second term. The CBN Governor renomination came exactly 26 days ahead of the expiration of his first five-year tenure coming up on June 2, 2019.

President Buhari stated in the letter that Emefiele’s reappointment followed the expiration of his first tenure. He therefore requested that the upper chamber of the National Assembly to confirm the CBN boss for a fresh tenure. This is in pursuant to the provisions of Section 8 (1) and (2) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act 2007.

It seems the odds are in favour of Emefiele, all things being equal, if his nomination is approved by the senate. He would be the first CBN governor to get a tenure renewal since the country returned to democracy two decades ago. In addition, would have kept date with history as he is also going to serve the incoming president that shall be voted into power for a year before taking his exit in 2024. The CBN Governor was appointed by former President Goodluck Jonathan following the sack of Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, the current Emir of Kano.

Given the rough economic waves that have rocked the country in the first tenure of his sway at the CBN, analysts are polarized over his competence in piloting the nation’s financial and economic fortunes through effective monetary control policies, especially his rigid measures that pegged ratios in the face of galloping inflation.

Speaking in a television programme at the weekend on Emefiele’s tenure elongation, Professor Uche Uwaleke commended President Buhari for re-appointing Mr. Emefiele saying stability is necessary. He argued that the CBN Governor was able to weather the storm of recession in 2016.

Uwaleke, a professor of capital market at Nasarawa State University encouraged the investing public to invest now. He pointed out that the market would likely rebound in the third quarter of the year and added that foreign investors would surely return to the Nigerian market soon.

Former Attorney -General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Mike Aondoakaa, commended the President for re-appointing Emiefele. He said, Emefiele’s reappointment would boast the agriculture sector, particularly rice farmers, who he said expect the government and the bank to do more for the agriculture sector .

Also speaking, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Polaris Bank limited, Tokunbo Abiru

CBN Exchange Rates May 13th, 2019 Currency Buying(NGN) Central (NGN) Selling(NGN) US DOLLAR 305.95 306.45 306.95 POUNDS STERLING 398.1633 398.814 399.4647 EURO 343.6736 344.2353 344.7969 SWISS FRANC 303.6122 304.1084 304.6045 YEN 2.7908 2.7953 2.7999 CFA 0.5047 0.5147 0.5247 WAUA 423.808 424.5006 425.1932 YUAN/RENMINBI 44.4692 44.5423 44.6155 RIYAL 81.578 81.7113 81.8446 S/ AFRICAN RAND 21.4239 21.4589 21.4939 DANISH KRONA 46.0234 46.0987 46.1739 SDR 423.6796 424.372 425.0644

described Emefiele’s reappointment as a positive development for the economy.

Abiru said that the economic outlook remains positive, with the continuity of current macro – economic policies initiated by Emefiele.

Other positive contributions of the CBN Governor, he said, include: stability in the banking system through policy continuity, continuation of the CBN developmental programmes that favour farmers and small and medium scale enterprises (SMEs), exchange rate stability in consideration of flat oil price.

He said Emefiele would not likely float the Naira fully, adding that policy implementation for FinTech would also continue.

He also stated that the next four years might be the beginning of the end of brick and mortar banking, noting that Emefiele would likely continue with the policy on the ban of forex allocation for 41 banned items.

“This will be good news for local industries benefitting from the bank and in real sector and foreign exchange stability, thus giving confidence that the economy will continue to grow,” he said.

Some analysts who are not impressed with the reappointment of Emefiele point strongly at the multiple exchange rates regime.

The Oracle Today reports that there are no fewer than four dollar rates in Nigeria;, while a favoured

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few get the dollar at the official N305 rate, those going for pilgrimage even gets it lower than N300 while the majority source theirs at N360.

Also, following the introduction of the Treasury Single Account (TSA), Nigeria’s deposit money banks have been doing business with much difficulty due to acute illiquidity.

Most of the banks have continued to downsize, forcing them to sack workers.

The situation has induced high cost of funds as loan seekers suffer high interest rates.

Emefiele’s critics also allege that the CBN Governor has not been spectacular when it comes to managing monetary policy, accusing him of bending to the demands of political power holders and alleged cabals suspected to be pulling the strings in the corridors of power.

They accused Emefiele of using billions of dollars to defend the Naira even after the Nigerian currency has been devalued. The practice, they say, run against all known economic principles.

In addition, just as some benefit from the banning of the 41 banned items, most Nigerians would certainly suffer the painful end of it.

Industries that require raw material inputs included in the ban list have no option than to grapple with the full impact of business failure. Also, importers of goods and services listed on as banned items would also continue to face the impact of lost revenues.

Analysts at the Nigerian Stock Exchange also point out that the Nigerian stock market has yet to recover from the foreign investor apathy towards listed stocks mainly due to loss of confidence in the management of the exchange rate.

Most analysts are of the view that independence of the CBN might be further eroded during Mr. Emefiele’s next tenure, citing frequent interferences from political leaders in the activities of the CBN. However, once his nomination is confirmed, Mr. Emefiele will resume his second term starting in July 2019 and serve till 2024. By then, he would have also served at least three Presidents: Goodluck Jonathan, Muhammadu Buhari and the winner of 2022 elections.

Nigeria overshoots OPEC quota, pumps 1.95 mbd P22 in April AVIATION

March passenger demand grows by 2.1% for African airlines P24 –IATA Insurance

Insurtech investments break new records in Q1 2019 P25 e-Platform

DSO: N2.5bn payment to Pinnacle not violation of FG White Paper –ICPC Investigator

P26 Equity & Capital Market

April: Investors’ capital market losses reach above N700b

P28

Stock Market Highlights As At 14th May, 2019

Summary

4 Top Gainers

ASI 28,422.76 DEALS 3,600.00 VOLUME 200,075,304.00 VALUE N2,690,845,064.29 EQUITY CAP N10,678,149,314,697.81 BOND CAP N10,823,005,815,686.90 ETF CAP N5,965,891,147.89

Symbols Last Close Current Change %Change MOBIL N165 N174 9 5.45% GUARANTY N31 N31.6 0.6 1.94% UACN N7 N7.3 0.3 4.29% ZENITHBANK N19.7 N20 0.3 1.52%

Top 5 Trade

5 Top Losers

S/N Coy 1. GUARANTY 2.

ZENITHBANK 3.

ACCESS 4.

UBA 5.

FBNH

(By Volume) Value(N) 33,111,322 N1,029,306,368.15 NESTLE 27,019,941 N537,774,993.85 SEPLAT 23,026,360 N155,972,468.50 WAPCO 19,382,882 N120,298,694.75 FBNH 8,893,844 N64,646,852.80 DANGSUGAR

N1481.5 N522 N11 N7.5 N13.8

N1430 N520 N10.7 N7.25 N13.6

-51.5 -2 -0.3 -0.25 -0.2

-3.48% -0.38% -2.73% -3.33% -1.45%

The Oracle Today Wednesday May 15 - 21, 2019

ISSN: 2545-5869

The

EDITORIAL

racle www.oraclenews.ng

Today

20

VOX POPULI SACRUM

JAMB’s giant strides and proposed reform

B

arely a month after conducting the 2019 who was a vice-chancellor of the University of system. If the university system is corrupt, it Unified Tertiary Matriculations ExaminaIlorin. He should continue the good work, in likely will produce graduates who are not wortion (UTME), the Joint Admissions and spite of the reported sabotage and blackmail thy both in character and in learning. Educated Matriculation Board (JAMB) released the within JAMB itself, as those who were benefitparents and teachers are partly to blame also. results last weekend. The exam candidates ting from corruption struggled to continue As reported by Prof. Oloyede, “In Nigeria too, had been anxious, for the results of this year’s doing business as usual. Security agents must examination malpractice is exacerbated by the UTME were delayed compared to recent ensure that no harm comes to Prof. Oloyede. It insatiable greed and desperate antics of parents years’. Although many candidates have yet to is satisfying to hear him commending the police who are hell-bent on inducting their innocent access their results simply by text-messaging and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and not-so-innocent children into the world of “RESULT” to 55019 from their registered (NSCDC) for helping to track and arrest exam sharp practices and corruption.” What lessons phone lines, JAMB has explained that it is due offenders this year. are these adults teaching their children? A post to poor network service from some GSM opAn interesting revelation that JAMB makes each widely circulated on social media during the generators. The network providers are currently year concerns the number of candidates who eral election in February this year reads: “This working to remove the technical hitches. passed the UTME. From Oloyede’s breakdown is a country where professors rig elections but JAMB registrar Professor Ishaq Oloyede, who of the candidates’ scores this year, it is clear that expel students for exam malpractice.” announced the release of results, said out of only about 430, 000 scored 200 and above, a All in all, we commend the UTME candidates, their about 1,792,719 candidates who sat for the number that is even less than the total capacity parents and their teachers who conducted themexams, 34,120 candidates had their results of 171 universities existing in Nigeria today. The selves well. The issue of 15-year-old Ekele Frankwithheld for examination malpractice and numbers to be admitted by polytechnics, colleglin, who emerged the overall best candidate this 15,145 withheld for further clarification. Other es of education and several private universities year with 347 score but may be denied admission infractions he identified were multiple regishave not been included. And 361, 718 candidates on account of his age should be looked into. One trations, manipulation of biometrics and delibscored between 180 and 199 this year. What should not be punished for being honest or beerate destruction of power sources during the then prevents universities from admitting all ing brilliant. If he had lied about his age, would examination. “We were able to identify a large those who passed the UTME and have obtained anyone have discovered? And since at a young number of impersonators who have been the required qualifications? age he could score so high, what will prevent writing UTME for candidates,” Oloyede said.

The reason is not far-fetched: there is multi-faceted him from excelling in the university also? In the “We have also tracked the registration centres corruption in Nigerian universities. It is about 1970s and ‘80s, the minimum age requirement and the computers used. In cases where we time anti-graft agencies directed their searchfor admission into a Nigerian university used to were able to ascertain the culpability of the lights to them. Many of them are known to be 18 years. Now it has been lowered to 16. We [CBT] centres, we delisted them.” have received bribes in hundreds of thousands demand a reform: Age restriction in admission Since his appointment as JAMB registrar in 2016, of naira for prized courses in the Medical Scishould be abolished. In Europe and America, Professor Oloyede has left no one in doubt ences, Law and others. As a result, many candithere have been reported cases of geniuses who about his determination to fight exam maldates that did not score up to 180 are likely to were admitted into university at age 6 and 8. practice as well as corruption in the exam be admitted while many who scored above 250 body. As opposed to what was obtainable in will be rejected. We are not even referring to JAMB before, he has returned billions of naira the post-UTME conducted by the institutions Our Vision to the coffers of the federal government each themselves – it is not corruption-free.

TO BE among the top five newspapers in Niyear. This year, he has returned N5billion.

Cleansing of UTME and university admissions is geria and, in due course, the Numero Uno; We have nothing but praises for the registrar a step towards cleansing the entire education to be a newspaper of records that effective-

ly caters to the information needs of all segments and sections of the Nigerian society as well as all social classes and cultures. Essentially, we want to be a responsible corporate citizen, a commercially viable, properly organised media business, which meets its obligations to society, government and the workforce.

Culled from Asukwo blogshot.com

Mission WE INTEND to contribute to the development of an inclusive Nigerian society, with a view to getting rid of the dark sides of our national life (slothfulness, greed, corruption, nepotism, totalitarianism, etc); to continually engender and sustain national debates that would ultimately lead to the enthronement of healthy national values--hard-work, justice, equity and fairplay, transparency, good governance, resulting, in themselves, the egalitarian Nigerian society of our dream. We will give voice to the voiceless and at all times, strive to be balanced, objective, honest, truthful and fair to all sides; so that through The Oracle Today, our people, the Nigerian people can see a bright light at the end of what has been a very dark tunnel. And we shall do all this in absolute trust in God who blesses good intentions.

21

The Oracle Today Wednesday May 15 - 21, 2019

OPINION Reducing cost of governance in Nigeria

By EJEVIOME ELOHO OTOBO and OSELOKA H. OBAZE

N

igeria suffers from democratic overload.

Governance expenses are hugely disproportional to its developmental strides and democracy dividends. This is reflected in the high recurrent expenditure relative to the capital expenditure at the federal, state and local government levels. Since the return to civil rule in 1999, the share of recurrent expenditure in federal budget have hovered slightly above 70 percent and accounted for 78 percentage of 2018 federal revenue. It was not always thus.

Nigeria had relatively lean governance structures under first civilian administration in the post-independence era as well as under the military regimes, which were marked by conspicuous absence of bloated parliamentary structures. Whilst military regimes are aberrations and cannot serve as a useful model for assessing governance costs, tackling the problem of high cost of governance requires a deep understanding of its genesis.

The prevailing high cost of governance in Nigeria is attributable to both structural and operational factors. The structural factors include a pervasive mentality of “national cake” sharing; the federalization of several standards, in particular as it relates to payment of wages, salaries and pension entitlements; constitutional principles mandating the application of federal character or ethnic balance; the high level of pensions for some elected officers codified into law; the huge number of institutions provided in the constitution and several national legislations; the inability of most states to meet their recurrent expenditures from internally generated revenue despite federal government bailout; and the

By Fr. Amobi Chukwuma

I

couldn’t believe it. I thought it was a film trick.

But it dawned to be a reality. It is a terrible curse when an Igbo man or woman tells you, “Rie nsi.” Rie means Eat. Nsi is excreta. The last letter ‘i’ has a dot under it. Therefore ‘Rie nsi’ means ‘Go and eat human excreta.’ Only a local dog eats human excreta. Therefore any person that eats human excreta is equally a local dog.

Where am I going?

Some Africans, especially young Nigerians, eat human fresh excreta direct from white man’s anus into their opened mouths in order to survive in some foreign countries. The Africans or Nigerians concerned swallow the fresh human excreta as it drops bit by bit into his or her opened mouth as the white man defecates.

Afterwards he or she drinks the white man’s urine to wash the excreta (nsi) down the intestine into the belly. When I saw the ‘rie nsi’ live video, I spited out a volume of my precious saliva and shouted, “Tufiakwa!” The Igbo word ‘Tufiakwa!’ is the English equivalent of “God forbid!” or “Abomination!” One shouts “Tufiakwa!” when an abominable thing happens.

For example, when a man becomes pregnant; when a man marries a fellow man or a woman marrying a fellow woman. Before proceeding, please spit out your saliva and shout ‘Tufiakwa!” thrice. If a dog bites someone, it is not an anxious story to tell because a dog by nature bites.

But if a man or woman bites a dog, the whole story will be interested to hear about. Tufiakwa!

How can an African or a Nigerian who was fed with his or her mother’s breast milk be acting like a brute, just to make it outside the shores of his or her country? It is never debatable. It is hundred percent better to stay at home (Nigeria) to suffer than to eat white man’s excreta abroad. The parents of one of those guys that eat the excreta were informed about what their only son who traveled abroad does in order to survive there. The parents wept from night till morning over their son’s shameful attitude of eating nsi. As the father was weeping, he lamented, “How can my only son be eating human excreta abroad when we have surplus food here at home? Even it is better to eat excreta at home than to do so abroad. Is the black man’s excreta not more nutritious than the white man’s excreta? What a shame!” Incidentally, the phone of the father in question rang. It was his ‘rie nsi’ son calling from Dubai. The dad

bourgeoning cost of campaign financing – a sectoral expense poised to outpace public administrative costs.

There is a myriad of operational factors in the high cost of governance. One such operational factor, especially at the federal level, is the large number of MDAs – ministries, departments, agencies, many with overlapping mandates. Another important operational factor is the huge expenditure arising from the opaque high salaries and benefits for members of the national assembly. Comparatively, Nigeria’s federal legislators earned more than their U.S., U.K., German, South African and Brazilian counterparts, as evidenced in The Economist in July, 2013 review of lawmakers’ pay in 29 countries. Yet another major operational factor is the large size of the federal cabinet coupled with an equally large number of advisers and special assistants at the federal and state levels. In an effort to address this issue at the federal level, the Transitional Committee led by Ahmed Joda, which was appointed by then President-elect Buhari in March 2015, recommended the reduction in the number of federal ministries from twentyeight to nineteen. But this proposal was not adopted.

Still another operational factor is the significant duplication in the establishment of institutions at the federal and state levels with overlapping functions and with no unique added value at either level. This can be attributed partly to the constitutional design of concurrent list of items shared by the federal and state levels. Then, there is the factor of inflating and splitting of contracts as well as padding budgets as a means to siphon off public resources for private gain. This practice represents huge opportunity cost to the

socio-economic development of Nigeria.

It’s no surprise that Nigeria’s “democracy has been described as the most expensive in the world with minimal evidence in terms of infrastructure development, poverty level and pace of general economic growth.” The disconcerting paradox, is that despite the high cost being expended on Nigeria’s governance, she has earned the dubious distinction of being the poverty capital of the world.

Indeed, fewer Nigerians are rising above the consumption poverty line, and it’s most unlikely that the newly introduced thirty thousand-naira minimum wage will help in cracking that ceiling. Whereas GDP growth and rising consumption are considered validating corollaries of high cost of governance, experts warn that “making GDP growth and rising consumption the central objective of public policy” amounts to “self-undermining concept of prosperity”.

While the number of members of the national Assembly and States’ Houses of Assembly may not be easily reduced, their salaries and perks can. This requires statesmanship and placing national interest above vested interest personal privilege. Whereas section 147 (3) of the 1999 Constitution provides for appointing a minister from each state of the 36 states, it does not stipulate the number of ministries. The constitution made no distinction between a Minister and Minister of State: an 18-member cabinet can satisfy the constitutional requirement by having a minister and minister of state appointed to each ministry.

Significant cost savings can also come from abolishing the non-constitutional post of Chief of Staff in the presidency and the Governors’ office, with consolidation of the functions around the Secretary to the Government of

The humiliation of a race shouted, “My son, what am I hearing about you? So, you are eating white man’s excreta over there? Before I count ten, let me see you back home.” The father broke into tears. Then the son spoke from the other end, “Please my dear father, it is condition that made crayfish to bend. I am in a tight corner here. As I am speaking with you, I have no penny in my pocket. Life is very difficult for me over here. I am trapped.

I regret selling all the possessions I had in Nigeria to come over here. The concept I had about oversea is just the opposite. To make it here is not easy at all. For now I eat white man’s excreta every day and drink his urine in order to be alive. Please do not be annoyed. Kindly pray for me. I have learnt my lesson. If miracle happens and I come back to Nigeria alive, I shall be the happiest man on earth.” He started sobbing.

Both father and son cried over the phone for nearly half an hour.

The father continued in tears, “My son, what will the people here at home say? My only son ‘na-eri nsi n’obodo oyibo’ (My only son is eating human excreta oversea). Tufiakwa! Tufiakwa!!

Tufiakwa!!! I am dead. You have killed me. I have disowned you as my son in this world and in the world to come. You are responsible for my death. You will continue to eat nsi forever.” Immediately, the distressed father slumped and died. His wife tried all she could to wake him up, but it was too late. She wept and wept. She shouted, “I am finished! My husband is dead.

My only son is gravely sick overseas by eating white man’s excreta. Ewo-o!!!” She fainted. The sympathizers who came as she was screaming rushed her to the nearest hospital. The doctor placed her under oxygen. Later she became conscious but was gazing beyond this world.

The son in Dubai did not live long. He contaminated a terminal disease as a result of the white man’s excreta he had consumed in quantum. At some point he became a moribund.

The white men tried to deport him alive, but his wretched condition was not deportable. At last he died a miserable death over there. His corpse was burnt and cast into a river. The poor mother at home became a widow and childless woman. What a triple tragedy! Tufiakwa!

Few years ago, I wrote on the funny things some Africans do overseas in order to survive.

Personally, before I traveled to Europe in 2001, I thought that the oversea countries are paradise on earth. I was very eager to be there. The night before I traveled by air, I was intoxicated with happiness. Immediately I landed in Germany, my concept began to change. Yes it is a fine country. Their transport systems are superb. All roads are tarred exceptionally. There is nothing like power failure over there. Unemployed persons receive monthly allowances. The environment is neat and attractive. However, just after one week of my stay, I began to nurse going back home. I developed a sickness the Germans call “Heimweh” (home sickness). I began to count the number of days. I came to realize the actual meaning of home. No wonder Malala Yousafzai rightly says, “If you go anywhere, even paradise, you will miss your home.” How can a sane person leave home to eat excreta or languish in a foreign land? Tufiakwa!

Within my study period in Germany, I traveled to Rome, Assisi, Switzerland, Austria and France.

I saw good things and bad things Africans do.

Some of them are studying while others are doing business successfully. Those who have complete travelling documents are going about their normal businesses. But those who sneaked into Europe through dubious ways are living lives of hide and seek. Some have no place to lay their heads. Some have no money to pay for their transport fares. Hence they travel illegally by train and hide in the train’s toilet. When they reach their destinations, they sneak out from the toilet and rush out with legal passengers. Some came into Europe as self acclaimed refugees.

Such dubious persons stay in refugee camps planning what next to do. Some who tried to escape were arrested, tortured, deported or eliminated as the case may be.

Some of the Africans travel through Libya and walk into Europe through the desert. Many of them do not make it. The hotness of the desert chokes them and they dry up like stock fish.

Others collapse and die due to extreme hunger.

Out of great thirst, some resort to drinking their own urine and the urine of others. Many skeletons of our people are scattered in the desert waiting for the day of Resurrection. I wonder if the hotness of the desert will allow their dilapidated carcass to resurrect. Some who travel

the Federation and Secretary to the State Government. This was the situation that prevailed during the first and second civil administrations as well as in a brief period of the Umaru Yar’Adua administration. The current number of advisers and senior special assistants can also be reduced significantly both at the federal and state levels, with much of their tasks consolidated into relevant line ministries.

A thorough review of the current structure and functions of ministries, departments, commissions and parastatals at the federal and state level is required. At the federal level, such an effort has been made. This is reflected in the findings of The Presidential Committee on Restructuring and Rationalising of Federal Governmental Parastatals, Commissions and Agencies. The failure to act on the recommendations of this panel explains the persisting high cost of governance at the federal level.

Cognizant that constitutionally-created institutions will be difficult to fold up or merge, the same cannot be said of governance bodies created by decrees or executive fiat. What is needed is the political will and commitment to implement the recommendations in that report and initiate actions on other measures herein proposed. The growing resort to borrowing to cover the cost of recurrent expenditure and the increasing debt service burden are warning signals for the political leadership at all levels to act fast to ensure that Nigeria does not fall off the fiscal cliff and plunge into a debt peonage.

•OTOBO is a non-resident Senior Expert at the Global Governance Institute, Brussels.

•OBAZE is a public policy expert and MD/ CEO Selonnes Consult, Ltd. Awka. by boats or by make-shift ships get drowned in the Mediterranean Sea. The whales and fish in the Sea consume them as food. From year to year, the corpses of our African people, Nigeria included, (mostly youths) trying to migrate illegally into Europe float in the Sea. Tufiakwa!

Experience is the best teacher. But it is regrettable that we do not learn from experience. The Road Safety Corp normally warns in dangerous roads: “Slow down, many have gone” yet some drivers speed along and end up fatally. The fatal fate of some of our youths trying by all means to make it to overseas should be a lesson for others. Yet some of our youths have deaf ears.

An Igbo proverb says that a fly without an adviser perishes with the corpse. Why should our youths continue to perish in the desert or sea?

Why should they eat excreta overseas when we have abundant nutritious food at home?

Tufiakwa!

•Copied from Aniebo Nwamu’s Facebook Wall

THE GROUP Managing Editor/COO Felix Oguejiofor Abugu Deputy Managing Editor/COO Sopuruchi Onwuka Chairman Editorial Board Igwebike Mbanefo SE/SS Editor Odogwu Emeka Odogwu Acting BDM Kelechi Nze Head, Graphics & Designs Nnamdi Alex Chukwu Circulation Manager Felix Oti

22

The Oracle Today Wednesday May 15-21, 2019

ENERGY

Nigeria overshoots OPEC quota, pumps 1.95 mbd in April

Stories by Sopuruchi Onwuka

N

igeria pushed crude oil supplies to the international markets at the rate of 1.95 million barrels per day (1.95 mbd) in the month of April, marking significant rise in the rate of production earlier March.

According to a table production performance of the members of Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) compiled

by Platts, Nigeria produced additional 110,000 barrels per day in the month.

Historical production data from Platts showed that Nigeria’s crude oil production rose by 0.11 mbd from 1.84 mbd in March to 1.95 mbd in April. Thus, the country formed part of the five members of the oil exporters’ group that increased production in the month to offset production declines from a number of other members.

The Oracle Today reports that whereas production figures for Nigeria as regularly posted by Platts tallies with those of shipping sources and OPEC data, they hardly agree with figures released separately by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).

Platts’ figures largely draw from export loading schedules at the Nigerian oil export terminals for international trading companies, tanker tracking sources and supply deal documents. It is not clesar whether the commodity trading intelligence group captures internal supply arrangement to local refineries and topping plants that operate marginal processing activities at production sites.

Government reserves some 445, 000 barrels per day for domestic refineries located in Port Harcourt, Warri and Kaduna; eventhough the NNPC which owns the refineries now exports the volumes for swap with imported petrol.

Besides, OPEC quota refers strictly to crude oil and does not regulate production of other hydrocarbon liquids including condensates and other natural gas liquids.

Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, says that Nigeria produces about 600,000 barrels of condensate with which it boosts its daily production to over 2.0 mbd. Therefore, if condensate is factored into the country’s total output for the month production would soar about 2.55 mbd in the month.

Other members of OPEC that posted production increase in the month, according to Platts, include Iraq which added 100,000 barrels per day to raise daily production average from 4.57 mbd in March to 4.67 mbd in April. Libya also recorded production increase by 40,000 barrels per day from 1.06 mbd in March to 1.10 mbd in April.

Venezuela also added 40,000 barrels per day to boost output from 0.74 mbd in March to 0.78 mbd in April.

Four members of OPEC maintained steady production rate across the two months. Algeria maintained output at 1.02 mbd; Ecuador remained at 0,53 mbd; Equatorial Guinea kept a plateau of 0.13 mbd while United Arab Emirates (UAE) pegged output at 3.05 mbd.

Production declines in the month came mainly from Iran which is cur-

OPEC production (in million b/d)

OPEC production vs allocations (in million b/d)

COUNTRY

COUNTRY

APR CHANGE MAR

APR

ALLOCATION

ALLOCATION

Algeria

1.02

0.00

1.02

Algeria

1.02

1.025

0.00

Angola

1.41

-0.05

1.46

Angola

1.41

1.481

-0.07

Congo-Brazzaville

0.34

-0.01

0.35

Congo-Brazzaville

0.34

0.315

0.03

Ecuador

0.53

0.00

0.53

Ecuador

0.53

0.508

0.02

Equatorial Guinea

0.13

0.00

0.13

Equatorial Guinea

0.13

0.123

0.01

Gabon

0.20

-0.02

0.22

Gabon

0.20

0.181

0.02

Iran

2.57

-0.12

2.69

Iran

2.57

EXEMPT

N/A

Iraq

4.67

0.10

4 .57

Iraq

4.67

4.512

0.16

Kuwait

2.69

-0.01

2.70

Kuwait

2.69

2.724

-0.03

Libya

1.10

0.04

1.06

Libya

1.10

EXEMPT

N/A

Nigeria

1.95

0.11

1.84

Nigeria

1.95

1.685

0.27

Saudi Arabia

9.82

-0.05

9.87

Saudi Arabia

9.82

10.311

-0.49

UAE

3.05

0.00

3.05

UAE

3.05

3.072

-0.02

Venezuela

0.78

0.04

0.74

Venezuela

0.78

EXEMPT

N/A

Total

30.26

0.03

30.23

Total

25.81

25.94

-0.13

rently suffering worsening trade sanction from the United States of America, Angola which is experiencing production declines, Congo Brazzaville, Gabon, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia.

Angola shed 50,000 barrels per day from 1.46 mbd in March to 1.41 mbd in April; Congo lost 10,000 barrels per day from 0.35 mbd in March to 0.34 mbd in April; and Gabon slacked by 20,000 barrels per day from 0.22 mbd in March to 0.20 mbd in April.

Other OPEC countries that cut production are Iran which reduced production by 120,000 barrels per day from 2.69 mbd in March to 2.57 mbd in April; Kuwait which dropped 10,000 barrels per day from 2.70 mbd in March to 2.69 mbd in April; and Saudi Arabia which cut output by 50,000 barrels per day from 9.87 mbd in March to 9.82 mbd in April.

Consequerntly, overall OPEC production performance in April appreciated by 30,000 barrels per day from 30.23 mbd in March to 30.26 mbd in April.

In terms of OPEC quota compliance, the Platts table showed that 11 members with allocations achieved 116 % recommended production cuts.

The high quota compliance record is underpinned by Saudi Saudi Arabia’s voluntary drop of over 490,000 barrels per day, translating to a at 15-month low at 9.82 mbd despite its quota of 10,311 mbd.

Second biggest production cut came from Iran whose output was now less than volumes it served the market during previous sanctions.

Other members that produced below their quota include UAE which produced at 3.05 mbd despite its quota of 3.072 mbd; Kuwait which produced at 2.69 mbd, 30,000 barrels per day below its quota of 2.724 mbd; and Angola which under-produced by 70,000 barrels per day, pumping at 1.41 mbd despite its quota of 1.481 mbd.

Nigeria led quota break with over 270,000 barrels per day, according to the table, pumping at 1.95 mbd against a quota of 1.685 mbd.

The country’s output boost in April, translating to 14-month high comes as surprise to industry observers following delays to loadings of

key export grade Qua Iboe according to traders and cycle of fire blasts on the Nembe Creek Trunkline which inflicted disruptions to loading of the Bonny Light crude grade.

Other in the violation line aare Congo which produced by 30,000 barrels per day above its 0.315 mbd quota; Ecuador which pumped at 20,000 barrels per day higher than its 0.508 mbd quota; and E. Guinea which pumped above its 0.123 mbd by 10,000 barrels per day.

Gabon also broke its 0.181 mbd ceiling by 20,000 barrels per day; Iraq overproduced by 160,000 barrels per day against its 4.512 mbd quota.

Iran. Libya and Venezuela are exempt from quota restrictions.

Cumulatively, OPEC cut more oil supply than it agreed as total quota underproduction neutralized total quota over production. Whereas total quota allocation totaled 25.94

mbd, the group produced at 25.81 mbd, undersupplying the market by 130,000 barrels per day.

The Oracle Today reports that the tightening supplies from OPEC and its coalition of 10 non-member countries has continues to stoke fears in the market and build support for higher prices.

But with the US this month tightening its sanctions on crude exports from Iran by allowing waivers to eight countries to expire, all eyes will be on Saudi Arabia and how it manages its production going forward.

Saudi Arabia boats of total production capacity of 12.5 million b/d, and faces immense pressure from the US to fill supply gaps created by sanctions on Iran. The likely outcome in balancing OPEC supply sources is feared to create division in the group.

Iran kicks against use of OPEC members by the United States to

address impact of its sanctions in the global crude oil market. It particularly sees likely ramp up in Saudi crude production as extension of the traditional geopolitical feud between the two countries.

Iran’s oil production has dropped to record lows since December 1988, the Platts survey found, as many buyers began to shy away in anticipation of the US decision on the sanctions waivers. Many analysts expect an even heftier fall in Iranian crude production going forward as the US cracks down on sanctions enforcement.

Saudi Arabia is set to host a meeting of the nine-country OPEC/non-OPEC market monitoring committee that it co-chairs with Russia in Jeddah this Sunday. The group is also scheduled to meet with its coalition members on June 25 to decide on the future of its 1.2 million b/d production cut agreement that expires June 30.

OVH rewards customers in ‘Oando Oleum Awoof!’

O VH Energy Marketing Limited has launched a customer loyalty promo for its Oleum brand of lubricants, flaunting prizes worth millions of Naira for buyers who patronize the brands at Oando retail stations across the country.

Head of Oleum Lubricants at OVH Energy Marketing Ltd, Mrs. Lilian Ikokwu said the Consumer Protection Council and the National Lottery Commission have both approved the Oleum Scratch & Win promo.

She explained that the reward promo seeks to avail the company’s loyal customers of high quality range of lubricants to guarantee fuel efficiency and optimum performance of their petrol and diesel automobile engines.

She added that the campaign also seeks to reward loyal customers that have helped the company sustain the brand as staple in the Nigerian automobile lubricant space.

“Oando Oleum has become a staple in the Nigerian automobile lubricant space and this is only possible because of our loyal customers. This promotion is a platform for us to appreciate them.

We believe that using the right lubricant is an essential element of auto care that’s why we invest time, expertise and innovation into creating high quality lubricants suitable for petrol and diesel automobile engines. Our Oleum lubricants guarantee fuel efficiency and optimum engine performance,” she said.

The Oracle Today reports that OVH prides itself as “the licensee of the Oando retail brand and Nigeria’s leading provider of trusted petroleum products and services” The company said it launched the promotional campaign, called ‘Oando Oleum Awoof!’ to reward its loyal lubricant customers with opportunity to win prizes worth millions of Naira, including a car, television sets, motorcycles,

tricycles, power banks, airtime and much more.

The company stated that participation in the promo is available across Oando retail stations and distributors outlets nationwide.

The ’Oleum Awoof!’ promo, which runs from May 13 to August 31, the company said is open to customers who purchase any 4 litre or 25 litre Oando Oleum lubricant; and participants are required to scratch the silver foil and text the secret code and location to the SMS short code 38353 for a chance to win at the regional raffle draws.

Also commenting on the Scratch & Win Promo, the Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), OVH Energy Marketing Ltd, Mr. Babafemi Olabiyi, said, “As the sole licensee of the Oando retail brand in Nigeria, we are enriching the forecourt experience of our customers in our stations and continue to ensure high quality products and service delivery nationwide.

23

The Oracle Today Wednesday May 15-21, 2019

ENERGY Nigeria Generates Over $180bn Revenue from Deepwater Operations … As Deepwater Production Sets to Double in 10 Years

N

igeria’s deepwater operations have generated revenue exceeding $180 billion following industry players’ capital investment in excess of $65billion with the potentials for growth amidst untapped abundant opportunities in the sector.

The Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Dr. Maikanti Baru, made this disclosure while delivering a paper entitled: “Deepwater Operations in Nigeria: The journey so far” at the Panel session of the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN) in the ongoing golden anniversary of the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) in Houston, Texas.

Represented by the Chief Operating Officer, Upstream of the NNPC, Mallam Bello Rabiu, Dr. Baru stated that Nigeria held approximately 13billion barrels of oil, out of which about 2billion has been produced with a huge volume yet untapped.

Dr. Baru said Nigeria remained an active player relative to other regions in terms of deepwater development, stressing that the industry started with the deployment of latest technology, a stride it has continued to maintain.

“Out of the 15 Floating

Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) in Nigeria, seven have been deployed for deepwater operations. Nigeria ranks only behind Angola within the African deepwater operations in terms of FPSO deployment,” Dr. Baru informed.

According to the GMD, the country has utilized each deepwater project as an avenue to upscale its unique human capital skills in different areas not limited to engineering design, project management, welding and diving.

He added that the local content contribution or services share in deepwater had continued to grow and improve from the sub 1% level to an aggregate contribution of over 25%, from engineering manhours of less than 20,000 to over 1.1million in recent Egina project.

“With the Nigerian content, tonnage has grown by 600% from the first deepwater project till date,” Baru noted.

The NNPC helmsman stated that deepwater projects had benefited the wider Nigerian economy by boosting demand for a range of goods and services, including offshore vessels and platforms, materials, floating hotels, helicopters and manpower, creating jobs and providing wide range of training and maintenance services to the industry locally.

• Energy Transition

Energy transition not threats to petroleum industry –Avuru

E Baru bags local content award

T

he Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Dr. Maikanti Baru, has been conferred with the Outstanding Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his leadership and contributions to the development of the local content in the nation’s Oil and Gas Industry.

Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs Division, Mr. Ndu Ughamadu, said the award was

conferred on Dr. Baru during a Dinner Night as part of activities to herald the golden anniversary of the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) in Houston, Texas.

Dr. Baru, who was represented by the corporation’s Chief Operating Officer (COO), Upstream, Mallam Bello Rabiu, said the award would further spur the existing collaboration between NNPC and the indigenous companies.

Explaining that the support for the growth and development of local oil and gas companies would continue to receive the attention of NNPC, Dr. Baru stressed that by so doing, more jobs would be created and the Nigerian economy would continue to blossom for the benefit of all stakeholders.

Speaking shortly after presenting the award, PETAN Chairman, Mr. Bank Anthony Okoroafor, said the Association’s Outstanding Lifetime Achievement Award was conferred on the NNPC GMD following his tireless support and determination to grow the indigenous oil and gas companies in-country.

U.S. powers 12m homes with solar

T

here are now more than two million solar installations in the United States, a milestone reached just three years after hitting the one million mark.

U.S. solar installations now produce enough electricity to power more than 12 million homes, the Solar Energy Industries Association said in a joint statement with energy research firm Wood Mackenzie.

The number of installations in the United States is forecast to double to 4 million in 2023, Wood Mackenzie said.

“We believe that the 2020s will be the decade that solar becomes the dominant new form of energy generation,” SEIA CEO Abigail Ross-Hopper said in the statement.

Solar energy has boomed in the United States over the last decade thanks to rapidly falling prices on the technology, state mandates that require utilities to source large amounts of renewable energy and

a federal tax credit worth 30 percent of the cost of a system. Solar is now a $17 billion industry, SEIA said.

Yet despite this growth, solar is still a small part of the U.S. energy mix compared with fossil fuels.

This year solar, wind and other renewables excluding hydropower are expected to provide 11 percent of U.S. electricity generation, compared with 37 percent for natural gas and 24 percent for coal, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

California accounted for 43 percent of the second million installations, but represented more than half the first million. Other states where solar has grown rapidly over the last three years include Texas, Utah, Florida, Rhode Island and Maryland, SEIA said.

By 2024, there will be one solar energy system installed per minute in the United States, Wood Mackenzie said.

minent geologist and petroleum industry investor, Mr. Autin Avuru, has dispelled fears among industry players over the hyped peak oil by 2040, saying rising global urbanization and associated economic growth would continue to generate ample demand for petroleum fuel beyond 2040.

He told excited audience who were expecting an alarm bell over imminent demand gloom in the industry, Mr. Avuru said evolution of alternative energy and emerging energy transition to accommodate renewable sources must be seen as positive intervention of technology to save global economy from inevitable oil drought.

With annual three percent in energy demand, he argued, the world would have been plunged into economic catastrophe if technology had not unlocked shale oil and renewable energy options.

He explained that technology developers and industrial innovators still have great business in finding replacement for finite petroleum resources which, according to him, would inevitably run out in the future.

Mr. Avuru’s position rhymes with declarations in the world energy outlook by British Petroleum (BP) which described 2040 as the onset of plateau oil instead of peak oil, stressing that even in the event of switch to electric cars, other industrial and transportation application for petroleum fuel would continue to propel demand.

The Oracle Today reports that demand for transportation fuel account for the bulk of global demand for oil, and environmental activists contend that transportation fuels also carry proportionate liability for global green house gas emissions.

Energy policy shifts among the Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries in favour of renewable and sundry environment friendly options have sparked and stoked fears over the future of the highly profitable petroleum industry after the 2040 deadline for energy switch.

Conversations and policy

•Dispels 2040 peak oil fears

•Autin Avuru

debates over peak oil heightened with recent pan-European policy commitment to deemphasize fuel burning automobiles for electric cars by 2040. Industry pundits note that effective implementation of the plan by industrialized economies would slash demand for petroleum liquids and neutralize that value of the commodity.

Also, huge investments in new manufacturing lines by automobile companies, innovations in battery production and rising development of charging installations for car charging all sound the alarm that the glory of oil is waning.

But Mr. Avuru insists that bipolar analysis of medium to long term energy demand outlook presents a clearer picture of an evolving demand pattern that simply accommodates various energy options in an expanding demand scenario.

He said fossil fuel would still account for 53 per cent of the world energy demand even up to 2040, pointing at the global energy transformation that currently defines the world economies.

Mr. Avuru spoke at a panel session at the 2019 workshop at the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) in Houston Texas, United States.

According to him, ‘’Even up to 2040, fossil fuel will account for 53 per cent of the world energy demand. So what we are seeing today is a gradual decline in the total contribution of fossil fuel to the energy mix over time. It is not an overnight elimination of fossil fuel. ‘’As we move beyond 2030, 2040 and 2050, the energy mix will continue to be guided by availability, commercial consideration; which means, even for fossil fuel, countries will pay attention to cost because fossil fuel will have to be able to compete the same way renewable will have to be able to compete.”

He explained that fossil fuel was always known to be a finite resource which means that the world, even over the past 100 years, knew that we will come to a point where there will be a decline in the supply of fossil fuel as energy source.

“Those days in the 70s, there was a prediction by the International Energy Agency (IEA) that between 2012 and 2015 we would get to peak oil. Peak oil means that beyond that point, we will begin to see a decline in the world production.

Thanks to technology. That date has been shifted forward. Peak oil will come. We have only shifted it forward because of technology,” he explained. ‘’Today technology has enabled us to get crude oil and natural gas out of shale. Those of us who are geologists have always known that there was crude oil in shale but shale didn’t have the permeability to release it. What technology has done through tracking is to induce that permeability to release the crude oil and natural gas from shale.

Thanks to technology because we have seen additional sources of crude oil and natural gas that moved backwards the date for peak oil.” ‘’So what we are seeing today is a very sensible scientific move by the world and by the advanced technologies of the world to start developing that alternative to fossil fuel because the day will come when there will be no fossil fuel,” he added.

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The Oracle Today Wednesday May 15-21, 2019

AVIATION March passenger demand grows by 2.1% for African airlines –IATA Stories by VICTOR NZE

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he International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced global passenger traffic results for March 2019 showing that demand (measured in revenue passenger kilometers, or RPKs) rose 3.1 per cent, compared to the same month a year ago, which was the slowest pace for any month in nine years.

The report also showed that African airlines’ demand increased 2.1 per cent compared to March 2018, down from a 2.5 per cent rise in February. Similarly, capacity climbed 1.1 per cent, and load fac-

tor strengthened 0.7 percentage point to 71.4 per cent.

According to the IATA report, the upward traffic trend has softened since mid-2018 in line with falling business confidence in some of the region’s key economies, this it said was largely owing to the timing of the Easter holiday, which fell nearly a month later than in 2018.

On a seasonally-adjusted basis, the underlying growth rate has been relatively steady since October 2018 at a 4.1% annualized pace.

Capacity (available seat kilometers or ASKs) for the month of March grew 4.2% and load factor dropped 0.9 percentage point to 81.7%.

“While traffic growth slowed considerably in March, we do not see the month as a bellwether for the rest of 2019. Nevertheless, the economic backdrop has become somewhat less favorable, with the IMF having recently revised its GDP outlook downward for a fourth time in the past year,” said Alexandre de Juniac, IATA’s Director General and CEO. The country wise passenger market share is Africa (2.1 per cent), Asia Pacific (34.4 per cent), Europe (26.7 per cent), Latin America (5.1 per cent), Middle East (9.2 per cent), and North America (22.5 per cent).

Meanwhile, domestic demand rose 4.1 per cent in March, which was a deceleration from 6.2 percent growth recorded in February.

It was largely due to developments in China and India.

Juniac said: “Aviation is truly the Business Freedom for the more than 12.5 million passengers who will board flights each day. But it also remains extremely challenging, as the recent failures of Jet Airways and WOW Air illustrate”.

The 75th IATA Annual General Meeting and World Air Transport Summit will take place in Seoul, from 1-3 June.

Aviation unions in showdown with FG over new NCAA organogram

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ome aviation unions have given the Federal Government a seven-day ultimatum to review the newly -approved organogram for the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) by the Federal Ministry of Transportation.

The unions, which issued the ultimatum on Monday, during a peaceful protest at the NCAA Headquarters in Lagos, vowed to embark on a warning strike if their demands are not met.

The unions are: the Air Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), and the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE).

Others are the Association of Nigerian Aviation Professionals (ANAP), and the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE).

The protesters, who carried placards with various inscriptions, accused the Federal Ministry of Transportation of trying to create redundancy in the NCAA through the merger of key directorates in the agency.

They also decried the non-promotion of some NCAA staff for well over three years due to lack of vacancy, which they claimed had affected the morale of workers.

In his speech, the President of ATSSSAN, Mr Illitrus Ahmadu, condemned the collapse of the directorates which included: Consumer Protection, Licensing Standards, General Aviation, Aeromedicals and Legal Services, in the new organogram.

Ahmadu, represented by Mrs Sarah Rimdams, First Deputy National President, ATSSSAN, said that the move was a flagrant violation of the agreement entered between the aviation unions and the Ministerial Committee set up to resolve the vacancy issue.

“Rather than address the vacancy issue to enable the promotion of our officers, they elected to embark on mergers of Directorates/Departments and the total constriction of the obsolete NCAA organogram.

“This will annihilate several existing manned positions of As-

Minister of State for Aviation, Senator Sirika Hadi; Edo State Governor; Godwin Obaseki; and Ekiti State Governor; Dr. Kayode Fayemi; during a meeting at the Minister’s office in Abuja, Friday.

Arik adjusts flight schedule for routine maintenance

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rik Air said that it has carried out adjustment on its scheduled operations to cope with the exigencies of its aircraft that are on mandatory maintenance.

An online statement issued by the PR & Communications Manager, Arik Air, Adebanji Ola explained that the airline’s fleet has witnessed a reduction in number in the last two weeks due to the fact that some aircraft have been flown overseas to Approved Maintenance Organisation (AMO)

in Europe.

The management stated that in order to maintain schedule integrity and ensure flights depart on time, it had to cut down on the number of flights operated daily.

The airline further stated that as a safety conscious airline, it takes aircraft maintenance very seriously.

Arik however assured its customers that the aircraft would start returning from maintenance in the next few days while scheduled operations would return

to normal in a couple of weeks.

Speaking on the development, the Chief Executive Officer of Arik Air, Captain Roy Ilegbodu said, “We regret any inconveniences that our customers may suffer due to this schedule adjustment. We are almost done with the checks and our customers will start seeing the effect with improved services.”

He appealed to customers to bear with the airline at this period while assuring that their safety and comfort would not be compromised.

sistant General Managers, Deputy General Managers, General Managers and Directors in the various Directorates.

“These to us, is a classic recipe for future redundancy which we will not accept,’’ he said.

Ahmadu said the unions therefore reject the new organogram, adding that the NCAA management, the Ministry of Transportation and other aviation stakeholders should urgently review the

move in the interest of industrial harmony.

However, Mr Sam Adurogboye, General Manager, Public Relations, NCAA, told NAN that the unions were within their rights to voice their complaints over the new organogram and that the matter would be looked into by the management.

Adurogboye explained that the collapsing of the directorates was done by the committee because

they were established outside of the NCAA Act. “On the issue of promotion, what happened is that everybody cannot be promoted when the positions available are few, so management has to use different criteria.

“Management is still looking at the issue and is considering posting some persons outside the headquarters to create more spaces for them,’’ he said.

SAA launches Jo’burgGuangzhou service

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outh Africa has said it would soon commence the implementation of the e-visa regime to improve and facilitate tourists’ visit to the country, even as the country further pledged to make the environment conducive for people to come.

According to the tourism minister, South Africa will soon implement e-visa system.

“We want to have visa regime generally and we want to rapidly move to e-visa. Our President is passionate that people should have freely visit the country to improve the sector.”

Department of Tourism Director General said the e-visa system has been designed and is now being tested and would be implemented “soon”.

Meanwhile, South African Airways (SAA), one of the leading carriers on the African continent, will launch direct flights between Johannesburg and Guangzhou, China, on 18 September 2019, giving customers access to the heart of China’s export led manufacturing industries.

This is yet another strategy implementation initiative aimed at enhancing SAA’s route network.

“The decision to launch this direct service between Johannesburg and Guangzhou means we remain on track in executing our strategy to transform SAA into a fit for the future airline that will operate both efficiently and competitively,” said SAA CEO, Vuyani Jarana.

The Guangzhou route will cater for a spectrum of travellers between Johannesburg and China including business and corporate travellers and will be of special interest to traders.

Cargo operations will complement the viability of this route considering that high value cargo is sourced from Guangzhou.

SAA will be the only carrier operating a direct service between Johannesburg and Guangzhou, with flight time of approximately 13 hours and 40 minutes, providing the shortest travel time on a nonstop basis between the two points.

There will be three new flights per week to Guangzhou, in South China, and these will complement SAA’s current operations to Hong Kong.

This means, SAA will fly four times a week to Hong Kong. Airbus A340300 aircraft will operate both the Guangzhou and Hong Kong routes.

Guangzhou is the largest city in the Guangdong province in South China and the third largest Chinese city after Beijing and Shanghai. It is an important transportation hub and trading port, located on the Pearl River about 120km Northwest of Hong Kong.

“Adding a direct service to mainland China, combined with our current popular flights to Hong Kong provides SAA with immense growth opportunities to and from mainland China. It also gives our traders access to the centre of Chinese manufacturing,” said Jarana.

The province of Guangdong is the centre of China’s export led manufacturing industries and described as “the world’s manufacturing hub”.

Formal and informal traders source the majority of goods purchased in Sub-Saharan Africa from the province, due to Africa’s poor manufacturing capacity.

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The Oracle Today Wednesday May 15-21, 2019

INSURANCE & PENSION NCRIB admits 17 into Fellows

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igerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers (NCRIB) has admitted 17 individuals including the Executive Governor of Osun State, Mr. Gboyega Oyetola into the Society of Fellows of the Council.

Also admitted into the Society of Fellows include the Commissioner for Insurance, Alhaji Mohammed Kari; NCRIB Vice President and Honourary Treasurer, Barrister Rotimi Edu and Mrs. Ekeoma Ezeibe respectively.

The admission of 17 new members brings the total number to 94 members. The Society of Fellows is the Committee of all Fellows of the Council, including some notable net worth individuals in the country and overseas The admission was ratified at the Board meeting of the Council held in Lagos after the successful candidates scaled the hurdle for admission as stated in Section 6 Subsection 4a of the NCRIB Act No. 21 of 2003.

President of the Council, Mr. Shola Tinubu disclosed that the new Fellows would be required to demonstrate high level of professionalism and assist in taking the broking profession to higher heights.

He urged the new members to see their new status as opportunity to shun unethical practice and uphold the tenets of the profession at all time.

A former Deputy Governor of Central Bank, Dr Tunde Lemo delivered the Fellows Day’s lecture titled, “After Fellowship, What Next”.

Tinubu in his welcome speech explained that the choice of Dr. Lemo was informed by the impeccable image and reputation he has earned for himself, both within and outside the shores of Nigeria as an economist.

NUJ moves to reactivate insurance policy for members

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igeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), says it is studying its insurance policy with the view to reactivating the process and making it more useful to its members.

National President of NUJ, Mr Chris Isiguzo who disclosed this Sunday in Cross River, noted that the policy, which was initiated by the former President of the union, Mr Garba Mohammed, during his tenure, was laudable, though many Journalists did not key into it.

Isiguzo, who was in Cross River for the burial of late Ndoma Akpet, former state Chairman of the union, said his administration planned to reactivate the process with the inclusion of National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).

“Mohammed initiated policy and a lot of members have benefited from it actually, but when he left office, because of the way we handle our things, it was not sustained. But now we want to reactivate it and even include NHIS because it is not just when somebody dies that he or she will benefit.

“But another thing is that most of our colleagues didn’t even key into the programme, they waited for state governments to enroll them; but this is something that is personal, ‘’ he said.

Insurtech investments break new records in Q1 2019 Stories by VICTOR NZE

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nsurtech investors worldwide executed the highest number of transactions, the highest number of property/casualty transactions, and the highest volume of Series B and Series C funding rounds during the first three months of 2019, according to the new Quarterly InsurTech Briefing published by Willis Towers Watson.

According to the report, eightyfive deals with a total value of $1.42 billion were announced in Q1 2019, marking the third-straight quarter

to deliver more than $1 billion in funding, said the report.

At 56, the latest quarter saw the greatest number of property and casualty (P&C) transactions since WTW began publishing this insurtech briefing in Q1 2017. P/C transactions were up 37% from Q4 2018.

Other findings from the report include: Insurtech deal count increased by 35% over the fourth quarter of 2018, although total funding volume decreased by 11 percent; Some 54% of deals were outside the U.S., marking a continu-

ing trend over the last two years.

For example, 42% of all insurtech deal activity that took place outside of the U.S in 2016.

More finding include: Deal count in the U.K. increased by 50%, and in the U.S. by 44%. However, deal count in China fell by 38% this quarter; Two-thirds of investments were in Seed and Series A rounds, but Q1 2019 recorded the highest-ever numbers of Series B and C investment rounds, at 12 and 6, respectively (up from 9 and 3 during Q4 2018), as more nascent insurtechs reach adolescence.

CEO, Nigerian Stock Exchange, Mr. Oscar Onyema; MD/CEO, AIICO Insurance Plc., Mr. Edwin Igbiti and Mr. Frank Aigbogun, Publisher, BusinessDay, during the presentation of Top 25 CEOs Award to the AIICO chief recently.

AIICO boss bags Top 25 CEOs Award

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anaging Director/Chief Executive Officer of AIICO Insurance Plc., Mr. Edwin Igbiti has bagged the Top 25 CEOs Award.

The prize is jointly organized by the Nigerian Stock Exchange and BusinessDay newspaper.

According to a statement by the company signed by Segun Olalandu, Head, Strategic Marketing & Communications, the award was

presented in recognition of the underwriter’s stellar performance on the Nigerian Stock Exchange in 2018.

Before the presentation, however, Igbiti had been accorded the prestigious honour of sounding the closing gong at the Nigerian Stock Exchange on Friday, May 10, 2019.

This climaxed the courtesy visit paid by AIICO’s Management team

to the Stock Exchange.

The AIICO Top Management team to the stock exchange also included; Dr. Leke Oshunniyi (MD/ CEO, AIICO Multishield), Sarah Adeniran (Group Head, Brokers Management, AIICO), Adewale Kadri (ED, Technical, AIICO), Babatunde Fajemirokun (ED/COO, AIICO), as well as Sola Ajayi (Head, Retail Business, AIICO).

NIA commits to eradicating fake insurance certificates

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igerian Insurers Association (NIA) on Tuesday reiterated its commitment to eradicate fake insurance certificates in the market and thereby bring insurance to the public.

Director-General of NIA, Mrs Yetunde Ilori, who gave the assurance at a media briefing in Lagos, said that the association initiated the Nigerian Insurance Industry Database (NIID) to assist motoring public verify the genuineness of their insurance

certificates.

Ilori said that to deepen the impact of the platform, the association in collaboration with Nigeria InterBank Settlement System (NIBSS) launched the “USSD *565*11#’’ code and allow easy access regardless of internet connection.

According to her, the platform is considered an important step in the fight against insurance fraud and economic sabotage.

“Prior to the establishment of the platform, cloning and faking of

insurance certificates were thriving business in the country, but now, it has reduced,’’ she said.

Ilori said that platform would further protect the image of the industry and also ensure that only insured vehicles were driven on Nigerian roads.

She noted that the association would continue to evolve technology to solve challenges confronting the industry and to deepen insurance penetration in the country.

Prestige Assurance grows profits by 27% Q1 2019

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restige Assurance Plc has released its unaudited first quarter ended March 2019 results, showing significant growth across major income lines.

Following a sterling performance in the 2018 financial year, the underwriter delivered another impressive 47 percent year-on-year growth in gross premium written ( GPW) in the first three months of March 2019.

The company grew its gross premium written from N1, 353, 820billion reported at end of first quarter (Q1) ended March 2018 to N1,989,050 billion same period of 2019.

The underwriting firm Net Premium Income rose by 60 percent to stand at N1,104,308billion at the end of March 2019 when compare to N689,824,000million reported in same period of March 2018.

Profit (loss) after tax rose from N279,578,000 million March 2018 to N355,348,000 million in same period of March 2019; indicating an increase of 27 percent.

Meanwhile, the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) has approved the company’s 2018 audited financial statements.

This was contained in a letter dated 11th April, 2019 and signed by the Director, inspectorare, Mr.Barineke Thompson made available by the company.

The financial statements revealed that despite the harsh operating environment during the year, the underwriting firm grew its total assets to N13, 020, 999 billion while gross Premium written of the company stood at 4,792,385,000billion.

The underwriter’s gross Premium income stood at N4, 662, 272bn at the close of business on 31st December 2018 while underwriting result was N450, 674m in 2018.

The statement added that the company’s net operating results stood at N645, 480m in 2018 while profit (loss) after tax stood at N423,795million at the end of 31st December 2018.

Poised to unlock the potentials in agric business and to address the yearning of Nigerian farmers across the country, the company last year secured the approval of the NAICOM to underwrite agric insurance in the Nigerian insurance industry.

The company said it has responded to the call in providing the much-needed protection the players in the agricultural business desire.

The Company known for its initiative exclusivity in special product design and development said these agricultural insurance products are tailored to suit the need of all classes of Nigerian farmers.

Thus, reiterating its preparedness to offer agricultural insurance to Nigerian farmers at all levels and potential investors in the agriculture business.

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The Oracle Today Wednesday May 15-21, 2019

e-Platform LG Electronics launches Artcool Dual Inverter AC in Nigeria ...Offers 10-year warranty on compressor

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G Electronics (LG) is set to impress the residential air conditioner market with the launch of its new Artcool Dual Inverter AC equipped with the Genmode function, which makes it possible for the AC to work on small Generators (12kBtu; 0.9kVA, 18kBtu; 1.5kVA). During the use of the Air Conditioner with PHCN, irregular supply of power or low voltage does not affect the normal functioning of the AC with its inbuilt voltcare function.

LG’s Dual inverter compressor technology enables the Artcool to operate at a pleasantly low noise level, enabling users to relax or rest comfortably without the distracting hum of the air conditioner.

Meanwhile, the durability and reliability of the compressor are guaranteed under its 10-year warranty.

Speaking on Wednesday, at the product unveiling event in Lagos, Mr Hari Elluru, Head of Corporate Marketing, LG Electronics, West Africa Operations, said LG is eager to introduce its new Artcool Dual Inverter AC to the residential air conditioner market to further enrich the lives of its customers.

“The new Artcool Mirror black embodies beauty, power, and performance while functioning as the centrepiece to any stylish, modern living room.”The ultrasleek black mirror and frame add an extra touch of elegance to its already stunning appearance, making it ideal for premium style homes. The eye-catching aesthetic design of the appliance is sure to attract attention just as its convenient features are guaranteed to enhance usability”, he said.

Commenting on the 70% energy saving and 40% fast cooling feature of the new product, Elluru said the “Inverter Compressor constantly adjusts a compressor’s speed to maintain desired temperature levels. Moreover, Dual Inverter Compressor with power saving operation range frequency saves more energy than the conventional compressor. Thanks to the Dual Inverter Compressor, the air is expelled farther and faster”.

He added that LG air conditioners are designed for easier and more efficient installation, regardless of the surroundings and the number of persons involved in the installation process. By reducing the manpower and time required for installation, it is now possible to install more air conditioners at more homes in a shorter period of time. LG’s Artcool incorporates an Ionizer feature, which releases up to three million ions that bond with harmful particles to effectively sterilize them and neutralize odours at the same time.

The strong airflow it generates with the help of the 4-Way Swing feature evenly distributes large volumes of airflow. This subsequently creates a consistent temperature throughout the entire room, the air reaching every corner and crevice.

DSO: N2.5bn payment to Pinnacle not violation of FG White Paper –ICPC Investigator Stories by VICTROR NZE

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he payment of N2.5 billion to Pinnacle Communications Limited by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) did not violate any provision of the Federal Government’s 2012 White Paper on Implementation of the Digital Switch Over (DSO) project.

An Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC) investigator, Charles Adama, admitted this on Thursday while testifying before the Federal High Court hearing the matter in Abuja.

The investigator, who had earlier maintained that the payment of N2.5billion seed grant

to Pinnacle Communications Limited by NBC was contrary to the recommendations of the White Paper, could not cite the particular section violated when asked to point it out from a copy of the White Paper given to him during cross examination.

Adama also disclosed that, although the ICPC normally acts on petitions received, there was no petition against Pinnacle Communications Limited and neither has the Presidency, which approved funding for the DSO project, lodged any complaints about the company, but he said there was a petition against ITS, the government-licensed signal distributor for DSO that was paid

N1.77 billion.

The ICPC investigator revealed that the Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, did not make a written statement on the matter when ICPC investigators visited him for questioning, saying he needed clearance from the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

Adama further told the court that the Minister had still not made a written statement and had not withdrawn his approval of the payment to Pinnacle Communications Limited.

The ICPC investigator claimed he did not know that the National Launch of the DSO was performed

by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo on

behalf of President Muhammadu Buhari on the site of the Pinnacle Broadcast Centre on Mpape Hill, Abuja in December 2016, months before the payment made to Pinnacle Communications Limited because they did not visit the site or the Kaduna Broadcast Centre during investigations.

He said he was aware that Pinnacle Communications Limited paid over N600 million for the signal distributor licence in 2014 but did not know that it subsequently took NBC to court for breach of licence agreement which was withdrawn following negotiations initiated by the Buhari administration in 2016 to resume DSO implementation.

TECNO upgrades SPARK 3 Pro to Q Beta

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obile phone brand TECNO Mobile has announced plans at Google IO 2019 which will see its SPARK 3 Pro running on Android™ P™ operating system upgrade to join Q Beta on May 7.

Stephen HA, Vice President of TRANSSION and GM of TECNO Mobile, said: “We are delighted to announce our further expansion of cooperation with Google. This year, with upcoming Android™ Q system, TECNO SPARK 3 Pro will upgrade and provide the users with a faster Q upgrade. “ TECNO Mobile has presence in more than 60 countries across the globe. It is now one of the major Partner, Aluko and Oyebode, Olubunmi Fayokun; Head of Marketing, Kia Motors, Jimoh Olawale; Team member, players worldwide. Its SPARK 3 Pro Africa Fintech Foundry (AFF), Anita Odiete; Executive Director, Operations and IT, Access Bank Plc, Ade Bajomo; is a 4G smartphone with AI Bright Head, Africa Fintech Foundry, Olusegun Adeniyi and Co-founder, Bluechip Technologies Limited, Olumide Camera and 32GB ROM + 2GB Soyombo at the AFF Disrupt 2019 Press conference held in Lagos RAM. With Android™ optimized OS, it can offer consumers several benefits including: Align user behaviors: Intelligent camera powered by AI Engine to be able to learn user behaviors including users’ habits, users’ intents.

9mobile: 9TEPP produces 31 Masters, 3 PhD students

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mobile has again set the pace with its revolutionary investments in the Nigerian education sector as its 9mobile Telecommunications Engineering Postgraduate Programme (9TEPP), established at the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State, has produced 31 masters and three PhD students.

The telco also restated its commitment to the promotion of quality graduate education in Nigeria by continuing to partner with reputable organisations on trailblazing and impactful academic programmes.

Acting Managing Director of 9mobile, Stephane Beuvelet, stated this on Thursday, May 9 while hosting the Vice Chancellor of the Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria, Professor Ibrahim Garba and a team from the institution during a visit to

9mobile corporate headquarters in Lagos. The team came to discuss further collaboration with the telco on taking the 9mobile Telecommunications Engineering Postgraduate Programme (9TEPP) to the next level.

9TEPP, a taught master’s programme situated in Ahmadu Bello University is implemented in partnership with Plymouth University, UK. Through it, 9mobile is innovatively developing local expertise with regards to telecommunications engineering skills.

Speaking while receiving Professor Garba and four other senior academics from ABU, Beuvelet disclosed that he was always impressed by the quality of ABU students he came across and that 9mobile was happy with the partnership.

He said, “We are happy to have

partnered with your university on the 9mobile Telecommunications Engineering Postgraduate Programme. What gives us satisfaction is not just improving the quality of your students but also lecturers as well. In fact, I’m always happy to engage your students during their internships with us; I remember they came up with some initiatives that blew our minds.”

Speaking further, the Acting MD noted that the telecommunications industry needs specialists and that 9mobile was happy to be involved in the process to develop the required capacity and technical know-how to bridge the skills gap currently existing in the country.

“Telecommunications is a fast-moving industry that needs specialists, and we are happy to be bringing Nigerian students to

the highest levels possible where they can further contribute to its development,” Beuvelet said.

He added that as an innovative brand, 9mobile was not resting on its oars, hence the telco is looking into big data, Internet of Things, blockchain, cloud technology and VOIP apart from cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence.

Responding, Professor Garba thanked 9mobile for supporting the 9TEPP academic programme which he described as “an important field of human endeavour.”

While giving the progress report, he disclosed that 31 master’s students have completed their study so far while 3 PhD holders have been produced. “This is a large resource; a lot of value for the industry,” Professor Garba said.

The Oracle Today Wednesday May 15-21, 2019

Travel & Hospitality

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RTPC to mine tourism’s economic viability for Nigerians –Okeke Stories by VICTOR NZE

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anaging Director of Sub Urban Heritage Initiative (SUHI), Hon. Rosemary Nkem Okeke, had described the ongoing Romarox Tourism Photo Competition (RTPC) as a platform created by her firm to add value to life by using tourism as a benchmark.

Speaking during the official launch/media conference for the 2019 edition of the RTPC, organized by her company at the Golden Gate Restaurant, Ikoyi, Lagos, Tuesday, Okeke said the desire to drive patronage for domestic tourism through the platforms provided by the various local tourist sites informed her company’s decision to float the photo competition which rewards participants with gifts and cash prizes.

RTPC is organized by the Sub Urban Heritage Initiative established

by Okeke, a former winner of the Miss Nigeria beauty pageant for 1984-1985, who is also the Tourism Ambassador for Imo State.

The photo completion was launched on April 26th, 2012 in Abuja and is endorsed by the Federal Government.

“The competition seeks to ensure that members of the Nigerian public appreciate their own immediate environment.

It has embodied in its goals the noble intention of spreading the message of peace, hope, love and the strength that is characteristic of the Nigerian people. It also prides itself with passing down values of our heritage of love to the underprivileged people amongst us through the skill empowerment projects of the Sub-Urban Heritage Initiative geared towards their socio-economic growth and development.

“It is a medium for Nigerians to explore potential of their immediate environment hence making it a prospect that has immense economic viability which entails amongst many, job creation, promote backward integration to the sub-urban than the urban.

“Participants are free to participate by uploading on the website, original pictures of tourist attraction sites in their immediate environments in any and every category of the competition which are: Special scenery, natural wonders, legendary materials/ iconic human, ecosystem festivals, history, monuments, developed tourist sites.

Speaking further, Okeke said the competition which already opened last March 2 is expected to close October 16, this year, is ‘a positive idea that promises mouthwatering prizes.’

The general public and all who mean well for the growth and development of domestic tourism in Nigeria therefore are enjoined to submit entries for the competition on the website which has being open for registration since March 2nd, 2019 and is slated to end on October 16th, 2019.

Describing he competition as ‘timely,’ Okeke noted that Nigeria tourism was lagging behind in the race for the top position in the

continent not as a lack of resources, potential and attractions but rather due to poor management by the public sector, brand promotion and patronage by Nigerians at home.

“The timeliness of this event is not in doubt because as they say, necessity is the mother of invention and as such, the many prevailing issues as they relate to our country today is the underlying reason for this event, how to add value to life by using tourism as a benchmark.

“A lot has been said and is still being said about the abundant natural resources Nigeria is blessed with, together with its vast land mass and exciting sights and features laced on it. It is thus safe to say that Nigeria is well endowed with everything it needs to be a leading light in Africa and globally, in material and human resources.

“Green as it is and with the appreciable successes it has recorded in the last few years, tourism in Nigeria still suffers low patronage and worst still from Nigerians themselves who most often are carried away by the lure of a vacation abroad, thus missing out on the chance to explore hitherto unknown beautiful tourist destinations in our country.

“Although while many travel abroad for those vacations on the premise of having no knowledge of some of the massive beautiful tourist destinations that abound here, others blame it on the poor packaging of these destinations/ centers thereby making it unattractive to elicit a visit.

“Although government at national and state levels have done well in trying to make tourism a more thriving market in Nigeria, a lot still remains to be done in certain cardinal areas that have far reaching effects on the patronage of our local tourist sites by Nigerians themselves,” Hon. Okeke stressed.

On his part, Chief Operating Officer, SUHI, Mr Olusegun Ekundayo, explained in his presentation that the competition is open to everyone as, according to him, participants are free to participate by uploading on the website (https:rtpc. romaroxresources.com), their original pictures of any local tourist attraction sites in their immediate environments in any and every category of the competition which are: Special scenery, natural wonders, legendary materials/ iconic human, ecosystem festivals, history, monuments, developed tourist sites.

Consultant, Romarox Tourism Photo Competition, Mr. Cornell Udofia; Project Coordinator, Mr. Emeka Anokuru; Nollywood Actress, Ngozi Orji; MD, Sub Urban Heritage Initiative (SUHI), Rosemary Okeke; former Nigerian Airspace Management Authority (NAMA), Engr. Nnamdi Udo; former President, Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP), Mrs. Fatima Gabati and veteran Nollywood Actor, Tony Akposeri, during the official launch of SUHI’s Romarox Tourism Photo Competition which held at the Golden Gate Restaurant, Ikoyi Lagos, Tuesday.

Hilton overtakes Marriott’s as world’s most valuable hotel brand

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ilton has extended its lead as the world’s most valuable hotel brand while the total value of its brand portfolio within the Brand Finance Hotels 50 ranking has overtaken Marriott’s, according to the latest report by Brand Finance, the world’s leading independent brand valuation consultancy.

Hilton’s brand value growth (up 17% to US$7.4 billion) was largely driven by strong revenue increase over the last year, cementing the brand’s leadership position in the industry.

Meanwhile, Marriott suffered a reduction in brand value (down 8% to US$5.0 billion) and its brand strength dropped from AAA- to AA+. Marriott has faced several challenges in the North American market from hacking scandals to persistent problems with its loyalty schemes. At the same time, the combined value of Marriott’s brands within the Brand Finance Hotels 50 ranking decreased by 30%, giving way to Hilton’s brand portfolio to claim the title of the world’s most valuable.

“Hilton’s strategic approach to brand growth has allowed it to ex-

tend its lead as the world’s most valuable hotel brand. At the same time, endorsement from the flagship brand has rendered benefits across the portfolio as Homewood Suites, Double Tree, and Hampton have seen their brand values sore. In its centennial year, Hilton is well-positioned for another hundred years of success,” Savio D’Souza, Valuation Director at Brand Finance.

The combined value of all Hilton brands which made this year’s top 50 ranking amounts to US$14.7 billion – nearly US$2 billion more than Marriott’s US$12.9 billion portfolio.

Hilton Worldwide Holdings achieved overall brand value growth of 41%, a stark contrast with the Marriott International brand portfolio decreasing by 30%.

Hilton’s brand value in the top 50 ranking is concentrated across six brands, up from five in 2018, all strongly leveraging the valuable Hilton brand name and each recording solid growth this year. Hilton has continually committed to its relentless expansion programme and with thousands of new rooms and hotels in the pipeline, the company shows no signs of slowing down in the

Sheraton Lagos Hotel to celebrate Whisky Day

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heraton Lagos Hotel has announced plans to celebrate the World Whisky Day for enthusiasts and lovers of the beverage this May 18 2019.

“World Whisky Day is a day to try a dram and celebrate the ‘water of life’ as it has been called since ancient times. We will offer 10 per cent off our whisky bottles and equally sell whisky based cocktails for just N2,500 on that day.

“We encourage you to show up with your friends and loved ones and indulge your Whisky palate.

To make it more pleasurable, we will commemorate all types of whisky as we encourage everyone to drink responsibly.

“A set menu will equally be available at our lobby bar and goodies pub for you to choose whichever whisky cocktail catches your fancy.

“It’s all about making it fun and

enjoyable, whether preferred with ice, a mixer or water, our teams are sure to deliver on your preference,” said General Manager for Marriott Hotel’s in Nigeria, Barry Curran.

On his part, Food & Beverage Director, Mr. Churchill Bemigho, guaranteed an enriching experience for anyone who comes in to savour our elevated Whisky cocktails, adding: “The hotel looks forward to welcoming all lovers of whisky.”

coming year.

Marriott has not fared so well, with four of its brands dropping out of the Brand Finance Hotel 50 ranking this year. With one new entrant, Marriott now has twelve brands in the ranking, many of which have nevertheless decreased in value.

Marriott’s recent announcement of entering the home-rental market however, is a promising move to take back market share from Airbnb and could contribute to an uplift in brand value in the coming year.

The Hilton and Marriott portfolios remain well ahead of third-ranked Wyndham, which also suffered a drop of 8% in brand value to US$7.3 billion.

The three hotel brands to grow the fastest in value this year all come from Hilton’s portfolio, and each contributed to its overall growth.

Their impressive performance was led by Homewood Suites (brand value up 99% to US$0.8 billion), followed closely by Double Tree (up 79% to US$2.1 billion) and Hampton (up 78% to US$3.2 billion). This growth allowed the latter two brands to reshape the ranking’s top 10, with Double Tree jumping from 17th to 7th and Hampton rising from 10th to 5th place over the past year.

At the same time, the three fastest-falling brands this year (Westin – down 46%, Residence Inn – down 46%, and Sheraton – down 44%), and altogether 7 out of the bottom 10 worst-performing brands, are part of the Marriott portfolio, dragging its combined value down.

Aside from calculating overall brand value, Brand Finance also determines the relative strength of brands through a balanced scorecard of metrics evaluating marketing investment, stakeholder equity, and business performance. Alongside revenue forecasts, brand strength is a crucial driver of brand value.

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The Oracle Today Wednesday May 15-21, 2019

EQUITY & Capital Market

April: Investors’ capital market losses reach above N700b Stories by JEROME USHAKANG

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luggish activities in the capital market is yet to be abated as total investment lost in the month of April climaxed at N713 billion.

The nation’s stock market recorded also lost N135 billion last Month, the heavy losses were recorded on Tuesday April 30, 2019, the last trading day of the Month.

Specifically, on the last trading of the month, the All-Share Index (ASI) declined by 1.22 percent to close at 29,159.74 points as the gains recorded in 26 stocks were offset by major losses recorded in 19 stocks.

Major losses were recorded in some blue chip companies including Dangote Cement Plc, Nestlé Nigeria Plc and Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc. According to market statistics of the last trading day of last month, a total of 543.924 million Ordinary shares valued at N8.2 billion were traded in 4,682 deals, representing 87.4 per cent and 278.8 per cent increase in volume and value traded, respectively, as the year-to-date return worsened to -7.22 per cent.

The stock market opened the month of April with a market Capitalisation of N11.672 trillion and an All Share Index of 31,041.42 points.

However, it closed with a market capitalisation of N10.959 trillion and ASI of 29,159.74points on the last trading day of the month.

Market statistics showed that the top traded stocks by volume were: Cement Company of Northern Nigeria Plc (CCNN) 132.328 million units, FBN Holdings Plc(FBNH)68.783 million units, Unilever Nigeria Plc 50.470 million units, Guaranty Trust Bank Plc(GTBank) 41.441 million units and Dangote Flour Plc 37.882 million units.

On the other hand, the top traded stocks by value were: Cement Company of Northern Nigeria N1.86billion, Unilever N1.56billion, GTBank N1.38billion, Dangote Flour (N712m) and FBN Holdings N497million.

Performance across sectors was largely bullish as three of five indices closed on a positive note.

The Oil and Gas index was the highest gainer, with a growth of 1.50 per cent following buying interest in Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc and Forte Oil Plc. The Insurance index increased by 0.11 per cent on the back of major gains recorded in Lasaco Assurance Plc, while the banking index recorded a marginal gain of 0.08 per cent due to major gains in Zenith Bank Plc and Access Bank Plc. However, the Industrial Goods index led the laggards as it was down by 3.19 per cent as a result of profit-taking activities in Dangote Cement Plc and Cement Company of Northern Nigeria.

…Pledges to discourage illicit funds in capital market

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he Securities and Exchange Commission, SEC, has restated its commitment to ensure that the Capital Market domain is not used in any way to inject illegal funds into the sector and the financial system as a whole.

The statement was made by Acting Director General of the SEC, Ms. Mary Uduk in her opening remarks at the Anti Money Laundering (goAML) Training for Compliance officers of capital market operators held in Lagos, Thursday.

Uduk who was represented by Malam Adamu Sambo, a Deputy Director and Head of Department, Monitoring, at the SECc said being the apex regulator of the Nigerian Capital Market, with a vision “to develop and regulate” a world class Capital Market that is free from any criminal activity, the Commission is not relenting in its drive to fight the menace of money laundering and terrorist financing.

According to Uduk, “financial Institutions shoulder great responsibility in ensuring

Similarly, the Consumer Goods index declined by 0.67 per cent as a result of major losses witnessed in Nestlé and Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc. Despite loss of billions, a market operator at Apt Securities and Funds limited hinted that the stock market will record bargain hunting activities, but added that while it’s not a talent possessed by many, some sure knows how to pick stocks that are worth more than they are valued in the market.

In the same vein, Market Analysts at Afrinvest Securities Limited said there will be activities of

such, though the analysts didn’t state to what extent the bargain hunting activities will be.

According to him,“In the near term, we expect to see bargain hunting activities due to the attractive entry prices of several fundamentally-sound stocks in the market, although this may be short-lived in the abs Meanwhile, the April monthly report said Investor sentiment, as measured by market breadth reflecting advance/decline ratio, strengthened to 1.4x from 1.0x recorded at the end of trading activities last month in contrast to market statistics of first Monday in May.

•NSE CEO, Oscar Onyema

•Acting Director General, SEC, Mary Uduk

SEC urges beneficiaries of deceased investors to claim their dividends

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he Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in a bid to reduce the growing quantum of unclaimed dividends in the market has again advised investors to provide sufficient proof of ownership to be permitted to regularize their accounts into one.

This advice was given by the Acting Director General of the Securities and Exchange Commission, SEC, Ms Mary Uduk at a One day National Seminar on reducing incidence of unclaimed Dividends held in Ibadan.

Uduk disclosed that the Capital Market Community has opened a forbearance window to allow investors with multiple subscriptions/ applications to public offers to regularize these subscriptions under a single account name.

She stressed that investors who provide sufficient proof of ownership will be permitted to regularize their accounts into one. However, the forbearance window closes on December 31, 2019.

She lamented that Continuous retention of dividends by Companies has a great potential of distorting the true financial position of Companies and misleading investors and other members of the public.

According to her, “the huge amount of unclaimed dividends could discourage foreign investment as well as discourage members of the public from staking their funds in the market.

The Acting DG, stated that non-receipt of dividends discourages investors in stock market and encourages them to search for alternative investment outlets such as the real sector and money market. Consequently, Public Companies are denied the opportunity of cheaper source of finance.

Uduk emphasised that e-Dividend (otherwise known as Electronic Dividend) is a secure on-line means of paying dividends directly to the Shareholder’s account instead of printing and mailing dividend warrants, as was the case before now.

“It entails a shareholder who has a bank account (Savings or Current Account) with any bank, to give his/her accurate account details, including Biometric Verification Number (BVN), to the Registrar of the Company and his/ her dividend would be paid directly into that account. , Uduk said there were enormous benefits for multiple accounts regularisation and e-dividends registration for investors.

“Each investor is required to enroll for the e-dividend regime by completing an e-Dividend ‘Mandate Form’ and submitting same at the nearest branch of his/her Bank or Registrar’s office, for identity validation leveraging the BVN platform of the NIBSS. Successfully BVN validated mandates are approved and passed to Registrars for dividend payment.” She added.

n a bid to further reduce the quantum of unclaimed dividends in the Nigerian capital market, the Securities and Exchange Commission, SEC has urged beneficiaries of deceased investors to step up efforts to claim such dividends.

This was stated by the Acting Director General of the SEC, Ms Mary Uduk in her welcome remarks at The enlightenment programme for Lagos State Probate Registry in Lagos, Tuesday.

Uduk who was represented by Acting Executive Commissioner Operations of the SEC, Mr. Isyaku Tilde, said the purpose of the enlightenment programme is to give participants an understanding of the operations of the capital market, especially in the area concerning transmission of shares and administration of estate, areas in which the Probate Registry is a key stakeholder.

Uduk stated that one category of investors whose investment yields have contributed to the growth of unclaimed dividends are deceased investors, whose beneficiaries as indicated in the will or letter of administration are yet to claim the investments and accrued dividends through the share transmission process.

According to her, “The capital market is a market for raising medium to long term capital via a number of instruments. The most popular of the instruments are shared and bonds with resultant yields of dividends and interests respectively.

“However, the quantum of unclaimed dividends in the Nigerian capital market has been on the increase as investors fail to claim the dividends from their investment in shares.

Uduk also congratulated the Probate Registry on the recent commissioning of the e-filing probate registry saying it will guarantee integrity of data, provide for online tracking of applications, simplify and shorten the application process of Letter of Administration and grants.

She therefore restated the readiness of the SEC to collaborate with the Probate Registry staff so that together the Nigerian capital market can become a desirable investment destination.

In a keynote address, Hon. Justice A.A. Oyebanji who represented the Chief Judge of Lagos state, commended the SEC on the enlightens programme which she said will go a long way in aiding the staff of the probate registry on the discharge of their duties.

Oyebanji said the Registry processed legal instruments for the administration of the real and personal estate of a deceased person who was resident in Lagos state and who owned landed properties in Lagos state.

She disclosed that the Probate Registry in Lagos state is now fully. Computerised and all applications must be made online.

“This e-Probate system was introduced primarily to ensure a more efficient delivery of services to elements of the public. It is aimed at reducing significantly the length of time required to obtain a Grant, wether in the Ikeja of the Lagos Division” she added.

compliance with all Rules and Regulations governing financial system. It is our collective responsibility as stakeholders to collaborate and work together as a community in building more capacity in the system for effective compliance program.

“The Principles for market Intermediaries is to have an efficient functioning system that delivers compliance with standards for internal organizations and operational conduct.“the Commission is investing in human capital training and developments in addition to the promotion of innovative technology and proffer solutions in the SEC’s and the Capital market operations

as contained in the SEC 10-year Capital Market Master Plan (CMMP)”.

She said the goAML training which is being done in collaboration with the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU),is going to be hands on, practical approach aimed at addressing challenges by CMOs in rendition of statutory returns and taking compliance to the next level in the Capital Market.

Uduk further emphasized the SEC’s willingness to engage relevant stakeholders in building capacity on developments and trends in compliance; changes in laws and rules and regulations; the interpretation and application

of same by the relevant authorities in order to encourage and promote the culture of compliance among Financial Institutions. goAML software application is a fully integrated software solution developed specifically for use by Financial Intelligence Units (FIU’s) and is one of United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, UNODC’s strategic responses to financial crime, including money-laundering and terrorist financing.The training is in line with the initiatives introduced by the SEC to sustain the confidence of investors in the capital market and to instill discipline in the transactional processes in the market.

SEC enjoins investors to regularize their accounts

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29

The Oracle Today Wednesday May 15-21, 2019

MONEY Market

FG will stop doing business with AMCON debtors –Osinbajo

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he Vice-President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo, has said the Federal Government will deal decisively with individuals and organisations that are highly indebted to the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria(AMCON) even as he said that the government will stop doing business such persons and orgnisations.

He said they had made it impossible for the corporation to resolve its outstanding N5 trillion debt, thereby holding the entire nation to ransom with their bad behaviour.

Osinbajo, who is the Chairman of the Economic Council also disclosed plans by government to set up an inter-agency collaboration

framework that would comprise relevant government Ministries, Departments and Agencies supervised by his office to ensure that institutions and individuals that were indebted to AMCON were not allowed to do business with government henceforth.

The Vice-President who spoke when he received some board members and the management of AMCON at the State House, Abuja led by the Board Chairman, Dr Muiz Banire (SAN), said the Federal Government under the leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari, would no longer fold its hands and allowed a few individuals that owed AMCON huge sums of money walk freely on the streets in the country.

According to him, “I think the time has come for us (Federal Government) to set some examples with some of these top debtors of AMCON, which I believe will set a good example and serve as deterrent to others.”

In a statement from AMCON, Osinbajo said he was impressed with the performance of the executive management of AMCON under the leadership of Ahmed Kuru, for the recovery successes that had been achieved so far against all odds.

He promised that the Federal Government would give AMCON whatever support that was necessary to enable it pursue the obligors that had remained

recalcitrant.

He said, “I congratulate AMCON for the work done so far having recovered over N1trillion and counting both in cash and in assets.

The work you do as a recovery agency is not something that is particularly easy or encouraging because we all know how Nigeria works.

“But we are committed to working more closely with your administration to ensure that these monies are recovered from AMCON obligors, because it will help our economy and provide the government with more money to continue to improve on the development of infrastructure across the nation”.

Global partners announce $61.8 million allocation to boost AfDB initiative for women entrepreneurs

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he Governing Committee of the Women Entrepreneurs Finance Initiative (We-Fi) has approved a funding allocation of $61.8 million for the African Development Bank’s Affirmative Finance Action for Women in Africa (AFAWA) program.

We-Fi is a partnership among 14 donor governments, eight multilateral development banks, and other public and private sector stakeholders, established in October 2017 and hosted by the World Bank Group.

“This substantial support from the Women Entrepreneurs Finance Initiative, We-Fi, will help us scale up our actions and achieve greater results for women entrepreneurs across the continent. Our ambition with AFAWA goes beyond regular assistance to women in business,” Vanessa Moungar, the Bank’s Director for Gender, Women and Civil Society said about the announcement.

With the We-Fi funding, AFAWA intends to improve access to finance for 40,000 women-owned/ led small and medium enterprises in 21 African countries, mainly in low-income and fragile countries, where women entrepreneurs face greater challenges in accessing finance, markets, knowledge, and mentoring programs. Specifically, the program’s activities will be implemented in Botswana, Burundi, Chad, Comoros, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

The activities funded by WeFi will be aligned with AFAWA’s three-pronged approach to holistically addressing the $42 billion financing gap between women and male entrepreneurs.

The first AFAWA pillar aims to increase access to finance for women through innovative and tailored financial instruments, including guarantee mechanisms to back up women entrepreneurs.

Norna Awoh, Head, Palestine Capital; Oladipo Aina, Managing Director/CEO, Signet Securities Limited; Mr. Jude Chiemeka, Divisional Head, Trading Business Division, The Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE); Adedapo Adekoje, President, Chartered Institute of Stockbroker (CIS); Sam Willie Ndata, Doyen of Stockbrokers and Patrick Ezeagwu, Chairman, Association of Stockbroking Houses of Nigeria (ASHON) at NSE Retail Investor Coverage Workshop at the Exchange in Lagos.

TSA Transaction Value Hits N30tr Says FG •Gambia officials in Nigeria arrive for tutorials

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delegation from The Gambia Ministry of Finance and Economic Matters, the Central Bank of The Gambia and the country’s Accountant-General on Monday began a two-week strategic training in Abuja towards understudying the successful implementation of the Treasury Single Account (TSA) in Nigeria.

Nigeria has become a global reference point for the successful implementation of the TSA programme, even as the government said it currently saves over N24.7 billion monthly while transaction value has hit N30 trillion.

Speaking at the event, the Minister of Finance, Mrs Zainab Ahmed said the visit was most welcome as both countries enjoy a very strong bond on various fronts.

She said: “TSA has helped us track government’s funds. The funds are pooled and help us balance our

ways and means when we have recourse to it.

“I urge the Gambian delegation to take advantage of this visit. Take as much information as you possibly can”, she said.

She hinted that Nigeria was considering another option of capturing all accruals by foreign missions to into a single account as it was presently having challenges including them in the TSA arrangement.

“One of the challenges facing the full implementation of the TSA in Nigeria is how to bring in revenue generated by foreign missions usually in different currencies into the TSA. “To address this challenge, the government is looking at different options to interface with TSA for foreign missions.

“With the introduction of TSA, balances in government account are regularly reconciled.

“So, I urge you all to take advantage of the two weeks study stay in Nigeria to visit some states in the country that have implemented a different variant of TSA from that of the federal government.

Also speaking at the meeting, the Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF) who was represented by the Director, Funds, Mr. Mohammed Usman said The Gambians have a lot to learn from Nigeria’s public finance management initiatives.

“Not just TSA. We also have various reforms introduced into public accounting process like the International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS), the Government Integrated Financial Management Information System (GIFMIS) is an IT-based system for budget planning, the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) is an Information

GTBank, Access, Ecobank, Coronation, Stanbic IBTC selected for 2019 African Banker Awards

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uaranty Trust Bank Plc, Ecobank (Ecobank Transnational Incorporated), Coronation Merchant Bank and Stanbic IBTC Bank have been shortlisted in various categories of this year’s African Banker Awards, holding next month in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea.

According to a statement by African Press Organisation on behalf of the organizers, the award, holding in the sidelines of the annual meetings of the African Development Bank, Ecobank (ETI) was shortlisted for in the African Bank of the year, along with African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), Attijariwafa Bank of Morocco; Equity Group, Kenya; Mauritius Commercial Bank, Mauritius; and Trade and Development Bank.

Ecobank (ETI) was also nominated for best retail bank in Africa, along with Nigeria’s Guaranty Trust Bank, Coris, Burkina Faso; KCB, Kenya; and QNB AlAhli, Egypt; while Coronation Merchant Bank, also of Nigeria was nominated for the investment bank of the year, along with ABSA, South Africa; Nedbank, South Africa; Rothschild; and Standard Bank, also of South Africa.

Those shortlisted in the award category for financial inclusion are Nigeria’s Bank of Industry, 4G Capital, Kenya; Amhara, Ethiopia; Cofina, Senegal; and Jumo, South Africa; just as Access Bank Nigeria is among the five nominated for the socially responsible bank of the year, just as Bank Misr, Egypt; Equity Bank, Kenya; KCB, Kenya, and Qalaa Holdings, also of Egypt.

Stanbic IBTC Bank was nominated in the equity deal of the year category for its handling of the Flour Mills of Nigeria rights issue; just like Al Ahly’s Canal Sugar Equity; EFG Hermes, for the ASA IPO; RenCap’s CiplaQCIL IPO; and Standard Bank/ RMB’s Vivo Energy IPO. For the deal of the year, debt category, Rothschild was nominated for its handling of the $2.2bn Republic of Senegal Dual-Currency Eurobond; TDB for the $1bn Sovereign Loan to GoK; and Afrexim for the $500m ChinaExim Syndicated Loan. CIB was also shortlisted for its $389m Egyptian Refining Company; just as Absa for the $350m Old Mutual Renewable Energy IPP Procurement Programme.

Communications Technology (ICT) project, among others.

In her remarks, Madam Ada Gaye, Permanent Secretary in the ministry of finance and national planning of The Gambia said they were in the country to learn from how Nigeria how it has managed its TSA as part of the public finance reforms taking place in the Gambia especially the monitoring of government funds.

“We’ve started implementing the TSA in The Gambia and we’ve good support from international bodies EU funded the trip to Nigeria. We only have Nigeria as the only country to visit for further study TSA implementation,” she said.

30

The Oracle Today Wednesday May 15-21, 2019

Entertainment

REVEALED:

Why I can’t have babies-Nse Ikpe Etim, actress

How Eddy Ugboma died broke, his unfulfilled dreams

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t has emerged that late seasoned filmmaker, Eddy Ugboma who succumbed to the cold hands of death on the morning of Saturday, May 11 died penniless.

According to an insider: “It is painful that once again, we have lost another great entertainment icon to the cold hands of death. His death could have been avoided.

Eddy Ugboma would go down as one of the biggest names as far as the entertainment industry is concerned in Africa.”

According to the source, in his hey day, Eddy Ugboma was one of the biggest actors/moviemakers in Africa holding the record of being the only African to shoot 13 films on celluloid and going on to be conferred with the Order of The NIger (OON) in recognition of his contributions to the growth of the

• Late Eddy Ugboma entertainment industry.

“However, hard times fell on him after he retired as the Chairman of the NIgerian Film Corporations and said things took a drastic turn during the last two years of his life as he was struck by a strange illness which rendered him bedridden. Eddy cried out in the media for help and it is a shame that nobody reached out to him. Even the Federal government, Lagos State government and Deta

State government all turned their backs on him.

“At some point he could not even afford his treateent and even offered to sell his home in order to fund his treatment abroad. That is not all, for years he had a dream of establishing Nigeria;s first ever Hall of Fame for the entertainment industry but it is sad now that he has taken all that with him to the grave.”

Gloria Doyle needs $20, 000 for surgery

Tonto Dikeh hints on desire to get new boobs for birthday

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ctress cum singer, Gloria Doyle is down with kidney ailment and needs a whopping $20, 000 for surgery.

In a chat with Oracle Today on her hospital bed at Lagos State Univeristy Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) Gloria Doyle said: “I don’t want to die. Please, I am calling on Nigerians to come to my aid. I still have much to offer mankind. Please, don’t let me die.

Please, come to my aid. I have a chronic kidney infection which has affected my right kidney. The money I need for the surgery is close to $20, 000 and I don’t have it. That is the reason I have been lying low for the past five years.

It has stopped me from doing my business.

“That is why I have not been

C • Gloria Doyle out there but people do not know. I have been out of circulation for over five years. It affected every facet of my life. My wine shop crashed. I can’t play shows any more because I am

bedridden; I cant move or do anything.

Nigerians should please reach out to me, I still have a lot to offer. Please don’t let me die.”

Nollywood raises the alarm over activities of politicians Tony Ogaga

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he Concerned Actors & Seasoned Nollywood Stars (CASNS), an umbrella body for Nollywood practitioners has raised the alarm over the spate of violence and insecurity sweeping across the country especially the North West during a peaceful demonstration held at O’Jez, National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.

Speaking, Ejike Asiegbu, a former president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) said the move became necessary against the backdrop of senseless and politically motivated killings in the country.

“We have watched with horror, the events in Zamfara State and concluded that our politicians have thrown the sanctity of human life to the dogs in the pursuit of their selfish interests and this has culminated in the loss of lives and the wanton

ollywood actress Nse Ikpe-Etim has revealed why she will not be able to bear kids of her own for the rest of her life.

According to the actress, she has no womb (uterus) after she was advised by her doctor to take it off and so she will not be able to give birth to a baby after she was diagnosed with an unfortunate condition.

The actress shared her pain with her fans and teeming audience,at an event in Lekki, Lagos, ahead of the release of her new movie, tagged, ‘Conversation with Nse’.

According to the actress, she was diagnosed three years ago with Adenomyosis, a condition whereby the inner lining of the uterus breaks through the muscle wall of the uterus.

In an interview, the actress said; “I was told I couldn’t have kids. And so, I had to have a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) to make me have a life again and to stop going through what I was going through. And I’m literally telling women and men, it really doesn’t matter if you can’t bear children. What really matters is what you would do for the world, for the universe.”

Nse also added that she was emotionally distressed the moment her doctor told her that she’d have to remove her uterus to live a normal life.

destruction of property,” Asiegbu stated, adding that henceforth, CASNS will no longer fold its arms and watch politicians continue with nefarious activities.

He continued: “We condemn the continued killings in Zamfara State and other parts of the county. It is indeed ironical that these politicians who were voted into office by the people have now turned their backs on the people that voted them. Gold is a precious stone but to equate gold with human lives is dangerous and such must be resisted in the interest of peace and tranquility.”

Calling on those behind the mayhem to desist from heir nefarious activities, Ejike argued that the should beware because the same politicians sponsoring them today could decide to turn against them tomorrow.

“Unless urgent steps are taken” Ejike emphasised, “the killings in the

North West will not abate because of the desperation exhibited by politicians. We state categorically that the gold in Zamfara State is not for a group of individuals but belongs to all Nigerians just as the oil in the Niger Delta belongs to all Nigerians. The world is now fully aware of the nefarious activities of these politicians and how they have placed a premium on gold over human lives.

“The job of securing lives and property is not only that of the police and security operatives but for all and sundry. We are calling for the end to the herders/farmers crisis and the total extinguishing of Boko Haram. In the same vein, we also recognise the hard work of our security operatives but more needs to be done to bring peace and harmony to the North East and Nigeria at large.”

ontroversial Nollywood actress, Tonto Dikeh on Tuesday hinted on her desire to get a new set of boobs for her birthday which comes up on June 9.

The 33-year-old singer and mother of one with 4.4 million followers revealed this on her Instagram handle, @tontolet.

The philanthropist and self-acclaimed evangelist posted her thought in form of prayers to God. “Dear Lord Jesus, I have all I want for now.

“My birthday wish is that you make me schedule and that of Dr Ayo allign so I have my new boobs in Jesus name I pray!! Thanks in addy Lord However, it is believed that the new boobs she was talking about might be additional plaster surgery to her mammary glans to enhance firmness.

The third child in the family of five had in 2017 reportedly undergone plastic surgery twice to increase the size of her butt and enhance her body image.

Also, on Tuesday, Jan. 2, 2018 Dikeh who was raised by her step mother thanked her surgeon for the work he did on her body and wished him and his team a happy new year.

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The Oracle Today Wednesday May 15-21, 2019

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Trespass: Court awards N100m damages against Calabar monarch, 2 others ANIEKAN ANIEKAN, Calabar

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Calabar High Court presided over by Justice Imelda Etape has awarded 100 million naira damages against the Paramount Ruler of Calabar Municipality, HRH Patrick Inok Oqua and three others for trespass.

The judge further granted a perpetual injunction restraining him from further trespassing in a communal land described as Etab Ayip Kasuk situate along M.C.C. Road and cut through by the Marian (NdidemUsangIso) Road Extension/Boulevard and described further in Survey Plan Nos. EEA/CS/ CR/788/2011.

The judgment follows a 70 year old dispute between HRH. (Ntoe) EDEDEM OKON AYITO who is the CLAIMANT (for himself, EtabAyip Village and on behalf of the entire KasukQua Clan 11, Calabar) and HRM. PATRICK INOK OQUA, NTUFAM EYO ISO and NTUFAM FRANCIS OKON EFFIONG (for themselves and on behalf of the entire Ikot Ansa Community (Nkonib) of Calabar) as defendants.

Giving judgment in Suit No. HC/242/2017, Justice Etape said “That the Defendants’ acts of crossing over from beyond the area of land released to them by a Deed of Release dated

29th September, 2006 as a shown in the Survey Plan No. CR/C.928 into the Claimant’s communal swamp known as Etab Ayip Kasuk situate along M.C.C. Road and cut through by the Marian (Ndidem Usang Iso) Road Extension/Boulevard and described further in Survey Plan Nos. EEA/CS/ CR/788/2011 superseded

by Plan number IICC/AF/ CR/4/2017/29 consisting of approximately 78 hectares and Plan No. EEA/CS/ CR/4619/2012 consisting of 240.291 hectares and the adjoining dry land and dealing with same without the consent of the Claimant’s Community constitutes an act of trespass.

“That all the activities and dealings of the Defendants affecting the Claimant’s communal swap known asIGBOAJUCHI Etap Ayip Kasuk covered by Survey plan No. EEA/CS/CR/788/2011 supersede by Plan No. IICC/ AF/CR/4/2017/29 consisting of 78 hectares and plan No. EEA/CS/CR/4619/2012 consisting of 240.291 hectares and the adjoining dry land situate along M.C.C. Road and cut through by the Marian (Ndidem Usang Iso) Road Extension/Boulevard which is beyond and outside the area of land covered by the Deed of Release dated 29th September, 2006 as shown in survey Plan No. CR/C.928 are illegal.

ITF trains, empowers 3,500 Nigerian youths on entrepreneurial skills ANIEKAN ANIEKAN, Calabar

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bout 3, 500 Nigerian youths drawn from the states of the federation have been trained by the Industrial Development Fund on various entrepreneurial skills.

These skills range from tilling, Plaster of Paris (POP), Catering, craftsmanship in aluminum fabrication, roofing, among other skills.

The training which is in line National Industrial Skills Development Programme (NISDP) is aimed at drastically reducing unemployment in the country and the trainees received starter packs worth millions of naira from the ITF to enable them start-up businesses of their own.

Speaking while presenting the start-up kits to the graduands, the Director General of the ITF, Sir Joseph Ari, urged the beneficiaries to take advantage of the tools given them by ITF so they could become employers of labour.

The ITF boss while giving a rundown of achievements made so far in Cross River State stated that within the last two years, ITF, through

the NISDP and other skills acquisition programmes had equipped over 4,500 youths nationwide, with 3,500 from Cross River State with entrepreneurial skills.

“Our commitment to skills acquisition is based on the fact that it is a most sustainable solution to curbing unemployment, reducing poverty and youths restiveness in Nigeria”.

He charged them “not to sell the empowerment kits to brisk businessmen who may lure them with cash which can only solve their immediate problems and mortgage their future”.

The DG said with the starter packs, graduands of the programme have no cause to wait to be spoon-fed stressing that they should kick start their businesses without delay.

Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa receiving in audience stakeholders in the health sector under the aegis of the National Malaria Programme led by Dr. Evelyn Ngige, at the Government House in Asaba, Tuesday

Okowa calls for collaborative efforts to check malaria, AIDS, others JONATHAN AWANYAI, Asaba

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elta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa has called for the collaboration of all stakeholders in the health sector in the achievement of universal health coverage in the country.

Speaking on Tuesday in Asaba when he received in audience stakeholders in the health sector under the National Malaria Programme led by Dr. Evelyn Ngige, Senator Okowa said that to achieve universal health coverage in the country and eliminate malaria by the year 2020, all stakeholders including global health partners need to cooperate and support government’s efforts and programmes that impact positively on the people.

While expressing his delight that Delta State was chosen as one of the pilot states for the National Malaria programme, the governor assured the committee and global partners of the readiness of his administration to

CHANGE OF NAME NORA: I formerly known as MISS OBI CHISOM NORA now wish to be known as MRS ONYEDINMA NORA CHISOM. Born on 23/11/93. former documents remain valid. Banks and General public take note.

collaborate with them to achieve success in the fight against AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria.

He said, “I am glad that Delta State is one of the states chosen for this programme, we are interested in the improvement of the health of our people, and we will collaborate with the federal government, and the global partners to ensure that the programme succeed as it will impact positively on the

health of our people.”

“We need to take the advocacy to the grassroots; we will mobilise the traditional rulers, community leaders and other stakeholders in the communities to ensure the success of the programme for our people,” he stated, adding, “this programme in addition to our Contributory Health Scheme will help in the achievement of universal health coverage and delivery for our

PUBLIC NOTICE Jonathan Friendship Foundation The general public is hereby notified that the above-named foundation has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) for registration under part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

Names of Trustees: Chidalu Emmaculata Utojiuba Chioma Esther Utojiuba Ngozi Magdalene Utojiuba Amarachi Pearl Oji Aims/Objectives: We are a Christian Non-Governmental Foundation with the following aims/objectives - 1) to propagate the gospel of Jesus Christ through our teachings, lives and a practical demonstration of love according to the standards of Christ, within the communities we serve.

2) to identify and show commitment in responding to the needs of the socially outnumbered.

3) to foster an environment of mutual live and respect, irrespective of social standing.

4) to challenge and reform structures that marginalize minorities in the society.

5) to serve as a non-profit ministry that provides a forum for social inclusion to people living with social stigma.

Any objection should be forwarded to the Register-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja, within 28 days from the date of this publication.

Signed: Chairman.

people.”

While commending the Federal Government for the national malaria programme initiative, Governor Okowa said that the flag off of the distribution of Long Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLIN) campaign in the state would be on June 7, 2019 promising his administration’s support for the successful campaign.

CORRECTION OF NAME AGATHA: I Ajagu Agatha Oby mistakingly written as Ajagu Agatha Chiamaka now wish to be known and addressed as Ajagu Agatha Oby Banks and general public please take note.

CORRECTION OF NAME PETER: I formerly known as Ekeh Francis Peter now wish to be known and addressed as Ekeh Ifeanyichukwu Peter.

Banks and general public please take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME HAPPINESS: This is to confirm that Ekwonyeaba Happiness and Ekwonyeaba Happiness Anurika is one and same person now wish to be known and addressed as Ekwonyeaba Happiness Anurika.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

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CHARITY: I formerly known as MISS OKOYE AFOMA CHARITY now wish to be known as MRS OKAFOR AFOMA CHARITY. former documents remain valid.

Banks and General public take note.

OBIAGELI: This is to certify that UKOH NKEM ONYEZE and UKOH NKEM OBIAGELI is one and the same person now wish to be known as MRS UZOMA NKEMAKONAM OBIAGELI. former documents remain valid. Banks and General public take note.

HELEN: I formerly known as MISS ONWUEGBUSI IJEOMA HELEN now wish to be known as MRS IKERI IJEOMA HELEN .former documents remain valid.

Banks and General public take note.

ANGELA: This is to certify that NWEKE ANGELA and EKPENI NNEKA .A. is one and the same person now wish to be known as EKPENI NNEKA ANGELA. former documents remain valid. Banks and General public take note.

IGBOAJUCHI: I formerly known as EZE PRICILIA IGBOAJUCHI and OKOJIE PRICILIA IGBOAJUCHI is one and the same person.

Former documents remain valid. Banks and General public take note.

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The Oracle Today Wednesday May 15-21, 2019

NEWS

Anambra man flees Kano over forced conversion

By IBE NWACHUKWU

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Kano State-based political big-wig, Mr. Samuel Gbuzue, who converted from Christianity to Islam faith along with members of his family, as a result of his political interest and ambition, has refused to endorse a proposed marriage between his son, Henry Ejike Gbuzue and his bride, Onyinyechi Confidence Gbuzue, for failing to join in the league of family Muslim converts.

Gbuzue insisted that unless and until Henry joins his family members as a moslem convert, his proposed marriage to Onyekachi would not receive his blessing because, according to him, his refusal to convert to moslem has adversely affected

his political fortunes in the north.

In furtherance of the efforts to get Henry converted from Christianity, some moslem faithful allegedly teamed up with Henry’s father to threaten his life.

Sequel to this development, Henry who was born on March 23, 1986, in Sabongari area of Kano State, fled his father’s house at Sabongari to Yamkudim Estate where he rented an apartment and continued his work as a painter, a trade he learnt from a Ghanaian master he stayed with for nine years.

Confirming the development to newsmen, Tuesday, in Onitsha, Anambra State, Mr Gbuzue stated that the threat to Henry’s life continued unabated to the extent that some armed

moslem youths traced him to his new residence at Yamkudim Estate and started launching series of attacks on him and his wife at nights with sticks and machetes, which resulted in his wife losing her two-month old pregnancy due to excessive bleeding.

According to his father, there was a night Henry was whisked away to an uncompleted building where he was kept incommunicado for months, tied to a chair and beaten to pulp to renounce Christianity but he refused and when untied, he came back home only to discover to his chagrin that his wife abandoned the house and left to unknown destination.

After searching for his wife to no avail, he decided to rush to Uli town in Anambra state where the

wife hails from in continuation for her search but could not see her, which prompted his in-laws to threaten to deal with him ruthlessly if he did not produce their daughter as he returned to Kano in despair.

As she was not also in his father’s house in Sabongari, he returned to his house at the estate and a neighbour told him that, “they said that you have been declared wanted for not converting to moslem and that you will be killed if seen anywhere in Nigeria and your wife, Onyinyechi Confidence Gbuzue, ran away to an unknown destination because of incessant threat to her life”, and as he was telling him that on February 2019, “my son Henry Ejikeme Gbuzue, became afraid and immediately fled to an unknown destination

also because of threat to life and has not been seen till date”.

Mr. Gbuzue further revealed to newsmen that, “I became a moslem convert because my political mentor in Kano, told me that I will not vie or benefit politically unless my entire family converts to moslems.

My problem is that they are looking for this my son, Henry Ejikeme Gbuzue, to kill him for obstructing my relationship with the moslem faithful and they have sworn to find and kill him where ever he may be in Nigeria”.

He lamented that his son, Henry Ejikeme Gbuzue was last seen in February 2010, adding that ever since then, his whereabout and that of his wife, Onyinyechi Confidence Gbuzue, was yet to be ascertained.

Crime fighting: Imo CP appeals to media, traditional rulers to aid police

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ommissioner of Police in Imo, Mr Rabiu Ladodo on Tuesday appealed to individuals, the media and traditional rulers to aid the police in the fight against crime in the state.

Ladodo, who made the appeal in in Owerri, said all useful information to the police would be treated as confidential.

According to him, Imo citizens should be very bold to give useful information to the police as their identity will always be protected.

“I call on all to understand that fighting crime is everybody’s business and must not be left in the hands of security agencies alone.

“We all have a role to play, the media, the traditional rulers

Olumide Bolumole (NSE), Dr. Leke Oshunniyi (MD/CEO, AIICO Multishield), Sarah Adeniran (Group Head, Brokers Management, AIICO), Adewale Kadri (ED, Technical, AIICO), Oscar Onyema (CEO, NSE), Edwin Igbiti (MD/CEO, AIICO), Babatunde Fajemirokun (ED/COO, AIICO), Sola Ajayi (Head, Retail Business, AIICO) and Jude Chiemeka (NSE) when Igbiti sounded the closing gong at the Nigerian Stock Exchange, Friday

Fear grips Anambra community, as Royal father plots construction of mosque From Pamela Eboh, Awka

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ear has taken over Neni community in Anaocha local government area of Anambra State following reports that the traditional ruler of the community, Chief Anthony Enukeme is working towards building a Mosque in the town.

According to the report, Enukeme connived with some unidentified people outside the state to attract the Mosque to Neni as part of the grand plan to Islamise the state.

Reacting to the accusation, Enukeme, said that though he does not discriminate against any religion, it was not true that he was planning to build a

Mosque in the state.

The Royal father who is the Chairman and Managing Director of TONIMAS Nigeria Limited and president of the Anambra State Council of Traditional Prime Ministers denied the allegation saying that it is the figment of the imagination of some social media practitioners.

A statement he issued on Monday yo journalists said: “My attention has been drawn to the falsehood and unpalatable insinuation being peddled in the social media that I am planning to build a Mosque for the Hausa community in Neni, Anaocha local government area of Anambra State with a bid to Islamize the state.

“The publication in not only

malicious and ridiculous, but a deliberate ploy to tarnish the good image I have garnered over the years. I am not planning to build a Mosque in the community or planning to donate land for the Hausa community in Anaocha local government area for a cemetery as alleged.

“The purveyors of the ugly and unwarranted publication and attacks were only intended to cash in on my rare achievements, philanthropy and humanitarian services.”

He called on those concerned to rather join hands with him to promote peace and tranquility in the state and focus on issues that unite instead of wasting their time on irrelevancies in the social media.

and other stakeholders. We want you to know that police work on useful information,” he said.

He warned kidnappers operating within and outside the state to give up crime because community policing in the state had been strengthened to ensure criminals no longer have a hiding place.

He said: “If you attempt to kidnap, police will catch you and you must face the law, so for your interest give up crime now.”

Ladodo added that the command had studied and taken over flash points in the state.

The CP however expressed worry over the rising level of cultism in the state and assured that the command would fight it to a standstill.

Ikpeazu inaugurates committee on

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bia State Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu, has inaugurated a committee on reform of state government establishments which have not made significant contributions to the realisation of socioeconomic development.

At the event in Umuahia, Monday, Ikpeazu decried the increasing reports of institutional decay caused by the unlawful activities in most establishments.

He said there was an urgent need to rid the system of faulty employment processes, salary padding, wastage and a complete lack of direction in state establishments.

The governor, who was represented by his Deputy, Mr Ude Oko-Chukwu, directed the committee to “look into Abia State University Teaching Hospital, Abia Specialist and Diagnostic Centre, Umuahia, Others are School Of Health, Aba, Abia State College Of Education (Technical),

Arochukwu, Hospitals Management Board, the judiciary, Local Government Service, Abia State Universal Basic Education Board and the Civil Service.

He said the step was “in order to correct the anomalies in these institutions and parastatals that have affected governance negatively in the state.”

The governor charged the committee to proffer objective recommendations that would fast track development in the state and facilitate faster delivery of democracy dividends to the people.

Responding, the Chairman of the committee, Chief Chukwuma Agu, said that the team would live up to expectation.

Agu thanked the government for the opportunity given them to serve and promised that members would bring their knowledge and expertise to bear on the assignment.

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The Oracle Today Wednesday May 15-21, 2019

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Obiano frets over resident doctors’ strike Pamela Eboh, Awka

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he Anambra State Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Mr C Don Adinuba has described the strike action embarked on by resident doctors of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital, Amaku, Awka as a profound disservice to the people of the state.

Adinuba in a statement made available to journalists in Awka said that the state Governor Willie Obiano did promise a review of the salary of the doctors saying that in view of the ongoing national effort at salary review across the board, the Anambra State

... Holds emergency meeting with medical workers Government explained to the Resident Doctors that it would be untidy to review their salary alone last month, only to do another review for them once the salary review of other public servants is concluded.

The statement said in part, “This situation was well conveyed to the doctors through the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr Joe Akabuike.

“More than any other group of Ndi Anambra, the Resident Doctors at the state Teaching Hospital should exhibit great understanding of what the present administration’s

commitment to the growth of the hospital and its workforce.

“For instance, the teaching hospital could not be accredited by the Medical and Dental Registration Council of Nigeria, thus making the undergraduate medical students stay in school for a whole eight years without obtaining the basic medical degree and without any hope of obtaining the licence.

“If any group of workers in Nigeria must embark on an industrial action, there are laid down procedures which must be followed. There is

unfortunately no indication that the Association of Resident Doctors at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu Teaching Hospital followed due process on embarking on the ongoing strike. Anambra is a state governed by law and due process, and our people expect all individuals and organizations in our midst to show exemplary behavior in all things, in keeping with the culture of excellence evolving in Anambra State.”

Adinuba reminded the Doctors that the casualties of their ongoing strike are not Anambra State

Government officers but numerous patients at the state teaching hospital, especially the downtrodden who cannot afford to go to private hospitals for specialist treatment.

He appealed to the Association of Resident Doctors at Odumegwu Ojukwu Teaching Hospital, Awka, to return to work immediately in the name of the Hippocratic Oath they have taken to save life to continue to work for the common good.

It was however gathered that the state Governor has already gone into an emergency meeting with

the striking doctors to figure out measures to end the strike.

When our Correspondent visited the Hospital, patients were seen killing around as it appeared the strike has not taken full effect.

At the office of the Chief Medical Director of the Teaching Hospital, Dr Basil Nwankwo, he said that the hospital is not totally grounded He explained that the consultants are working and that skeletal medical services are still being rendered by the teaching hospital as well as the outpatient section.

Anambra police move to secure Ngige, family over NLC threats OZO RAY

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he Anambra Police command has announced that it would ensure the protection of the lives and property of the relations of the minister for labour and employment Sen Chris Ngige at his home town Alor Idemili South Local government area This is coming as the local vigilant group in the town has strengthened security formations in the area in response to rumors that some unidentified persons were alleged to have laid siege to his country home.

It would be recalled that the National President of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) Mr Ayuba Wabba had declared war on the family of the minister over the face-off between the labour union.

Speaking to reporters in Awka, Monday, the police public relations officer Mr Mohammed Haruna directed the family members to make an entry at the nearest police station on the state of insecurity in the area adding that the command would provide adequate security in the community.

“The command will

provide security at the ministers village and ensure that nothing happens there but they have to report to the nearest police station to the community’ he said.

At the moment the local vigilant group of Alor community has commenced rutine security operations in Alor community following rumors that some persons suspected to be labour officials have been laying siege to the minister’s country home.

“We call it rumour but we cannot leave anything to chance as some people may cash in on the statements by the labour union to cause trouble.

“Besides he is our brother and we cannot allow this to happen in our community. one of the vigilant group members who gave his name as Chinedu Nwankwo said.

When contacted on phone the Anambra state Chairman of the Nigerian Labour Congress Comrade Jerry Nubia refused to pick his calls and each time his phone rang it was pressed busy.

At the NLC office in Awka he was not on seat and no labour Officer was seen to speak on the matter.

Ekiti State Governor; Dr. Kayode Fayemi, Branch Controller, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Ado-Ekiti, Mr Atobatele Ademola; PSSD, CBN Headquarter, Abuja, Arc Olajide Bandipo; Assistant Director, CBN, Ayo-Ajayi Odekunle; during the CBN Team’s meeting with the Governor in Ado-Ekiti, Monday

NYSC, INEC in Anambra bicker over corpers’ election duty allowances

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ational Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Anambra has directed corps members on electoral duties during the 2019 general elections who have yet to receive their allowances to forward their names to its secretariat.

Coordinator of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in the state, Mr Kehinde

Aremu, gave the directive while addressing some corps members in Awka on Tuesday.

Aremu said the directive became necessary following a letter from INEC, Anambra office, which claimed that the commission had paid all corps members who worked as ad-hoc staff during the elections.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) engaged corps members as ad-hoc staff during the Feb. 23 and March 9 general elections.

Some of them however staged a protested at the INEC Headquarters in Awka last week, alleging nonpayment or incomplete payment of their allowances

to them for the election duties.

The NYSC coordinator said that the issue had resulted in a quarrel between officials of the two agencies in the state.

He said that he was determined to ensure that corps members engaged for the electoral duties were not denied their allowances.

Reverse brain drain, YPJEN urges federal, state governments

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ood governance and rights advocacy group, the Youth Advocates For Peace, Justice And Empowerment Network (YAPJEN) has called on the Federal and State Government to take proactive steps and practical measures to reverse the ever increasing wave of brain drain plaguing the country.

Executive Director of Youth Advocates For Peace Justice And Empowerment Network (YAPJEN), Amb. Timothy Nwachukwu, made

this call while interacting with young people in Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka over the recent strike embark upon by residents doctors in Anambra State and the protest for the nonpayment of 13 months’ salary owed medical doctors by Abia State Government.* Nwachukwu described as unacceptable the depressing statistics from Nigeria’s medical sector where over 50,000 of the registered 80,000 Medical doctors are practicing abroad and over

100 has resigned due to poor working condition at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, A total of 88 doctors have left the Kogi Civil Service; in UCH over 100 doctors have resigned from their appointment while in Lagos more than 800 doctors have resigned from Lagos State hospitals.

He further bemoaned the human capital flight hitting the various sectors of Nigeria, stating that according to the US Department of State, more

than 163,000 immigrant and non-immigrant visas were issued to Nigerians between March 2017 and January 2018.* The YAPJEN Executive Director decried the inability of Abia State Government to pay the protesting residents Doctors their 13 months’ salary and the Doctor’s Strike in Anambra State led by Dr. Obinna Aniagboso, Chairman of the Association of Resident Doctors, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital

(COOUTH), Awka branch over poor conditions of service as some doctors earn below 50 per cent of their actual entitlement compared to their counterparts elsewhere and the meager income hardly meets the bare necessities of life for the doctor and his family, let alone sponsoring professional examination and academic courses of Residency Programme as credited to the NBA branch Chairman “It was quite disheartening as a recent

revelation shows that 92% of Nigerian doctors are making plans to leave for foreign land and are taking exams to that effect. He lamented that statistics from General Medical Council (GMC) UK, shows that over 4,765 Nigerian doctors are working in the UK. This is 1.7 per cent of the total of the UK’s medical workforce and about 10,000 to 15,000 Nigerian doctors are working outside the country and 90 per cent of them were trained in Nigeria,” he said.

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The Oracle Today Wednesday May 15-21, 2019

NEWS

Enugu Assembly to recommend sanctions against erring contractors

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nugu State House of Assembly Committee on Works says it will recommend sanctions against contractors who fail to deliver on their contract agreements with the state government.

The Chairman of the committee, Mr Chima Obieze, said this in Enugu on Tuesday during the committee’s visit to Udenu and Isi-Uzo Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the state as part of their quarterly oversight.

Obieze said that the oversight was in keeping with the committee’s resolve to checkmate the excesses of contractors working with the Enugu state government.

According to him, the committee is embarking on its routine oversight in line with its constitutional powers to ensure that what the state is getting on the

site of work is exactly what they have approved in the budget.

Obieze said: “We expect that at the end of the tour, we will be able to take down the names of erring contractors with a view to passing a resolution which we will send to the executive asking it to do the needful.

“The executive will now be left to either penalise, blacklist or delay payment of such contractors until they do the needful as contained in the contract papers.

“So, we deem it fit to pay a visit to Udenu and IsiUzo councils to inform the chairmen that we are in their domain because they are the chief security officers of the local governments.

“We also want to use the opportunity to commend them on the tremendous change in the council areas.

“We saw that the roads inside the councils have been tarred, we also saw some new buildings springing up.

“These showed that the council under their leadership are complementing the efforts of Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, who is doing so much to develop the state.”

Obieze said that the committee was in the two council areas to inspect the ongoing road projects, Ultramodern Adada Specialist Hospital and a magistrate’s court building.

In a remark, Chief Frank Ugwu, the Chairman of Udenu LGA, commended the committee for embarking on the oversight.

Ugwu described oversight as a crucial legislative duty meant to ensure that proper things were done, especially in budget implementation.

He also thanked the

committee for being thorough in their verification of both the quantity and quality of the projects under implementation in the area.

He lauded the house for the easy passage of the projects and continued support to the governor, who hails from the area.

The chairman said that there was no way projects could be successfully executed at the council areas without the strict supervision of the legislature.

He expressed disappointment with the slow pace of work at the the magistrate’s court.

Also, Dr. Benjamin Edeoga, the chairman of Isi-Uzo LGA, described the committee’s visit as timely.

Edeoga said that the visit would enable the committee to see and assess the projects being executed in the area.

Tribunal asked to stop Buhari’s inauguration

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political party, Hope Democratic Party (HDP), has filed a motion seeking an order of the presidential election tribunal restraining President Muhammadu Buhari from presenting himself to be sworn-in on May 29th, 2019.

The party is also seeking an order restraining the Chief Justice of Nigeria from swearing-in, administering the oath of office and oath of allegiance to the president on May 29th, 2019.

In a motion on notice made available to journalists on Tuesday, Hope Democratic Party filed the motion on six grounds pursuant to section one subsection two of the 1999 constitution as amended and under the jurisdiction of the tribunal.

Some of the grounds of the application is that there is a pending petition challenging the election and return of President Buhari as the winner of the February 23 presidential election.

The Hope Democratic Party also said the petition has been served on President Buhari and

pleadings have been exchanged.

The Hope Democratic Party claimed that inspite of the pendency of the legal action against President Buhari, he has been making frantic efforts and preparation for his inauguration on May 29, 2019, by the CJN. The party further said that unless President Buhari restrains from presenting himself for inauguration he will foil ” a fiat accompli and state of hopelessness on the court and render their petition nugatory.

The Hope Democratic Party also averred that the law is settled that once a question of the validity of an election of any person is challenged that person is not competent to take oath of office or assume the seat of power.

The application was filed on May 9th, 2019 and it is been heard today, May 14, 2019.

The respondent including counsels to President Buhari, the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) said they have not been served with the motion.

Umahi restates commitment to transparency, accountability CHINEDU NWAFOR, Abakaliki

G Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode flanked by his Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Mr Ade Akinsanya, commissioning the Bariga Waterfront Jetty, five transport ferries, Tuesday, in Lagos

Anambra police warn politicians, others over use of branded, covered plate Pamela Eboh, Awka

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nambra State Police Command has expressed concern over the continued use of unmarked and covered number plate and branded campaign vehicles in the state.

A statement by the state Police Public Relations Officer SP Haruna Mohammed enjoined politicians to repaint their branded Campaign vehicles saying that hoodlums use them to perpetrate Crimes.

The statement reads in part, “Information at the disposal of the Anambra State Police Command revealed that hoodlums in the State are using branded and or unmarked/tinted

vehicles with covered plate numbers to perpetrate Crimes in the state in order to avoid being detected by the law enforcement agencies.”

It explained that such acts are not only unlawful but also constitute serious security threats to the public which if left unchecked could worsen the security situation in the State.

The CP called on politicians in the state to repaint their branded Campaign vehicles on or before June 6, 2019 or the Command will be left with no option than to impound such vehicles since Electioneering campaigns are over.

The statement added.

“In view of the foregoing, the Commissioner of Police

CP Mustapha Dandaura has ordered with immediate effect the arrest and prosecution of persons using unmarked/ tinted and masked vehicles without authorization “Consequently, the CP also warns that any Security personnel found escorting their principal with an unmarked vehicle or those with covered vehicle number plates will be arrested and dealt with accordingly.”

Meanwhile the Command has also arrested a notorious robbery handbag and snatching syndicate at upper iweka, Onitsha.

The suspects who hailed from Nsukka, Enugu State are among the hoodlums terrorising Upper Iwekka

and Owerri road axis.

It would be recalled that on May 9 2019 the Command mobilized personnel and logistics at upper Iweka to curtail the menace of robbery and handbags snatching syndicates in the area through operation Puff Adder.

A statement by the PPRO said, “On the 14/5/2019 at about 6:30am, following the flag off of operation Puff Adder in Onitsha by the Commissioner of Police CP Mustapha Dandaura, Police operatives attached Special Anti Robbery Squad (SARS) and operation “Puff Adder” in conjunction with local vigilante arrested at upper Iweka Onitsha, one Ugwuanyi Ifeanyi, aged 21years oldand one Sopulu Ugwoma ‘m’ aged 22 years.

overnor David Umahi of Ebonyi has restated his commitment to transparency and accountability in his administration.

He slated this during the inauguration of the 32member Steering Committee of the Open Government Partnership and the Launch of the OGP Action Plan for 2018 – 2020.

Represented by the Deputy Governor, Barrister Eric Kelechi Igwe during the event, the Governor reiterated his government’s commitment to the Open Government Partnership Programme.

He said the state Government would support the Steering Committee to actualise the State OGP Action Plan.

He said that Government had always partnered with Anticorruption Agencies as it had nothing to hide and would always adopt programmes that would give value for money in terms of utilisation of scarce resources to develop the state.

He described the OGP programme as a Unique Programme that involved the Civil

Society and Government and was confident that the partnership will be sustained for the good of Ebonyi people.

State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Ebonyi State. Mrs Ugo Nnachi, in her remarks thanked Ebonyi State Government for joining the OGP Global family especially at this time the entire world was talking about transparency, accountability and good governance.

She explained that Ebonyi State had adopted three (3) thematic areas of Fiscal transparency, Access to Information and citizens engagement which is broken down into Seven (7) Commitments that were identified through co-creation between Government and Civil Society.

She believes that the implementation of the Action Plan by the line Ministries, Development Agencies and Civil Society will enhance quality service delivery for the people.

Speaking on behalf of the Development Partners present the Regional co-ordinator of DFID South East and South South Mrs Olachi RonnieChucks assured the state of the readiness of her organisation to support implementation of the Action Plan.

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The Oracle Today Wednesday May 15-21, 2019

SPORTS Chukwu poise to depart for England for further medical checks Stories By MADUABUCHI KALU

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ecuperating former national team captain and coach, Christian Chukwu, Member of the Federal Republic (MFR) will this week depart the shores of this country for England where he will undergo further medical checks to enable him return to his normal self before he was admitted in private clinic in Enugu last month.

It is recalled that the former Enugu Rangers captain and coach was billed to travel to the United States of America after a lifeline was extended to him by oil and gas mogul, Femi Otedola of the Forte Oil, by offering to foot Chukwu’s medical bills after it was reported that the former Kenya coach was abandoned by both the Enugu State Government led by Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) led

by Amaju Melvin Pinnick.

This claim that the former Enyimba and Heartland coach was abandoned was debunked by both the management of Enugu Rangers and the leadership of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

For the management of Enugu Rangers, it was an embarrassing statement to claim that the management of Enugu Rangers that represents the Enugu State government could abandon Christian Chukwu, who is the face of Enugu Rangers. The management of Enugu •Christian Chukwu Rangers explained that, the first tranche of money, that is the sum of two hundred thousand Naira (N200,000) Rangers Players’ Association, Mr. Ejindu that prompted both deposited at the private clinic where Chukwu was being the management of Enugu Rangers led by Davison Owumi, treated then was made available by the management of the leadership of NFF led by Amaju Melvin Pinnick and Femi the club which represents the Enugu State Government. Otedola to respond in the manner they did.

The management of Enugu Rangers while speaking Speaking with the Oracle Today Sports, the man at the further, explained that the state government had centre of the matter, Christian Chukwu said he was likely to spent more than N2million in the treatment of Christian depart for Queen’s Land this week for further medical checks.

Chukwu and as a result, frowned at the unsubstantiated It is recalled that following the uproar that Chukwu’s claim that he was abandoned which necessitated the ill-health generated in the country, the Amaju-led board clarion call by the patron of former Enugu Rangers of the NFF while leading Femi Otedola’s representative, players’ association, Benson Ejindu to solicits for a Philip Akinola, in redeeming the $50,000 (N18million) $50,000 financial help for Chukwu to be flown abroad pledge to Chukwu at his residence in Enugu, announced for proper medical treatment. the Federation’s package for the former international and a It was this clarion call by the patron of former Enugu legend of the round leather game in the country.

Tiger Woods sued over death of drunk bartender MADUABUCHI KALU with agency report

...Says “We’ve prepared very well for World Cup

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uper Falcons’ coach, Thomas Dennerby has expressed optimism that the Super Falcons will do well at this summer’s Federation of International Football Association (FIFA) Women World Cup which France will be playing host to from next month, saying they have prepared very well for the Mundial.

The nine time African champions who are currently in action at the 2018 West African Football Union (WAFU) Women’s Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire, walloped their West African neighbours, the Malian women national team 15-0 at the ongoing sub-regional tournament taking place in Cote’d’Ivoire and the women football tactician sees the tournament as another step forward in their build-up to France 2019.

Although he is at the regional championship in Abidjan only with home-based players, the Swedish gaffer is of a view that some of the lasses could show stuff good enough to be part of the main team to France next month.

The nine-time African champions have already played invitational competitions in China and Cyprus, at the start of their countdown to France 2019, then had two friendlies in Spain in the second phase of the preparations, all of which Dennerby believes puts them in good stead for heroics at the Female Mundial.

Okagbare returns to Shanghai for Diamond League 4 years after

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igeria’s queen of the tracks, Blessing OkagbareIghoteguonor will be making a return to Shanghai for Shanghai IAAF Diamond League meeting this Saturday four years after she last competed at the Shanghai Stadium.

The Nigerian’s last visit in 2015 was a hugely successful one as she won the 100m in 10.98 seconds ahead of USA’s Tori Bowie (11.07) and Trinidad and Tobago’s Michelle-Lee Ahye (11.13).

On Saturday, she will hope to put up a better performance than the 23.14 seconds she ran over the 200m in Doha last week as she battles 2016 double Olympic sprint champions, Elaine Thompson of Jamaica, two-time USA champion at 200m (2015, 2018) and 2015 NCAA Division I Outdoor Track and Field Championships over the 100m, Jenna Prandini and Michelle-Lee, the 2018 Commonwealth Games 100m champion for the $10,000 top prize money and the eight points on offer.

African trio win EPL Golden Boot Award istory was made at the weekend when the African

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iger Woods has been sued by parents of a bartender at his Florida restaurant, who died in a drink driving accident after allegedly being over-served alcohol.

TMZ reported that the parents of Nicholas Immesberger, who died last December at age 24, filed the lawsuit saying their son had worked as a bartender at The Woods in Jupiter, Florida, and knew the golf star personally.

The news broke hours after Woods played his opening practice round for the 101st PGA Championship, the year’s second major golf tournament which starts Thursday at Bethpage Black on Long Island in New York.

Woods snapped an 11-year major win drought by winning the Masters last month and seeks his 16th career major title this week. He was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom last week at a White House ceremony.

The restaurant’s manager is Erica Herman, who is Woods’s girlfriend and, according to TMZ, recruited Immesberger to the restaurant.

According to TMZ, Immesberger finished his shift on December 10 but stayed at The Woods to drink at the restaurant and was allegedly served to the point of “severe intoxication” before being sent out to his car.

Immesberger lost control of his car that evening while driving home and crashed, dying in the accident, according to the report, which also said Immesberger had a blood alcohol level of .256, more than three times the legal limit.

Falcons’ coach optimistic of good outing in France

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•Tiger Woods

trio of Egyptian and Liverpool’s Mohammed Salah, Senegalese and Liverpool’s Sadio Mane and Gabon’s and Arsenal’s striker, Pierre-Emerick Aubamenyang shared the 2018/19 golden boot as the trio emerged the highest goalscorers of the 2018/19 English Premier League.

The trio won the golden boot award after all three finished on 22 goals at the end of the season on Sunday, which mean the three contributed 66 Premier League goals at the just concluded 2018/19 EPL season.

Liverpool forward Mohammed Salah went into the final afternoon leading the way but was pegged back after his team-mate, Mane struck twice in their 2-0 win over Wolves that proved not enough to win the title just as Aubameyang scored twice in Arsenal’s 3-1 win at Burnley to take his place at the top of the leaderboard. It is the first time three African players have shared the award.

This achievement by the African players this season means the contributions of African players in the prestigious English Premier League cannot be over looked as they continue to contribute to the development of the leagues considered to be the strongest league on earth if the confession of many managers such as Pep Guardiola is anything to go by.

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The Oracle Today Wednesday May 15-21, 2019

SPORTS Coca Cola/Eva Water join Okpekpe race MADUABUCHI KALU

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Women’s W/Cup: Oparanozie, Oshoala, 25 others in Super Falcons provisional squad MADUABUCHI KALU

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igeria’s Super Falcons Coach, Thomas Dennerby has named a squad of 27 players for a final training camp in Austria ahead of next month’s women’s World Cup in France.

The bulk of the group is from the team who won a record 11th African women’s championship in Ghana last year.

Three-time African Player of the Year, Asisat Oshoala from Barcelona who is set to feature in this weekend’s Champions League final as well as Francebased striker, Desire Oparanozie are in the squad.

The team are expected to leave Abuja for Austria on May 20 for the Avita Resort in Bad

Tatzmannsdorf – the same facility where their male counterparts, the Super Eagles, had their final base before the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

The Super Falcons will leave Austria on June 4 directly for Reims, where they open their World Cup campaign against Norway four days later.

Squad: Goalkeepers: Tochukwu Oluehi (Rivers Angels), Alaba Jonathan (Bayelsa Queens), Chiamaka Nnadozie (Rivers Angels), Christy Ohiaeriaku (Confluence Queens) Defenders: Osinachi Ohale (Vaxjo/SWE), Ngozi Ebere (Arna Bjornar/NOR), Onome Ebi (Henan Huisanhang/CHN), Josephine Chukwunonye (Kungsbacka/SWE), Faith Michael

Mikel MADUABUCHI KALU

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he Oracle Today Sports can authoritatively report that Super Eagles’ captain, John Obi Mikel is back to the national team if feelers from our reliable source are anything to go by.

According to our reliable source, Mikel at the weekend had a fruitful discussion with the Super Eagles’ gaffer, Gernot Rohr and the German tactician is delighted with the outcome of the meeting saying he would come out with a statement on the meeting with his captain during the week.

It is expected that the Anambra State-born international midfielder will lead the team to next month’s Africa Cup of Nations which Egypt will be hosting from next month.

The Franco-German Coach is putting finishing touches to his preparations’ for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations holding in Egypt s from June 21 and there was the need to have one-on-one meeting with his Captain who had not played for the team since the last World Cup held in Russia in 2018.

(Pitea/SWE), Chidinma Okeke (FC Robo) Midfielders: Cecilia Nku (Ferencvaros/HUN), Rita Chikwelu (Krstianstand/SWE), Ngozi Okobi-Okeoghene (Eskiltuna United/ SWE), Evelyn Nwabuoku (Rivers Angels), Ogonna Chukwudi (Djurgardens/SWE), Halimatu Ayinde (Eskiltuna United/SWE), Amarachi Okoronkwo (Nasarawa Amazons) Forwards: Desire Oparanozie (Guingamp/FRA), Anam Imo (Malmo/SWE), Asisat Oshoala (Barcelona/ESP), Chinaza Uchendu (Braga/POR); Uchenna Kanu (Southeastern University, USA), Rasheedat Ajibade (Alvadsnes/NOR), Francisca Ordega (Shanghai W. FC/CHN), Ini-Abasi Umotong (Brighton/ENG), Alice Ogebe (Rivers Angels).

Heartland groan under N130m debt

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igeria Professional contacted after Abia Warriors Football League, NPFL defeated Heartland 4-2 in a match side, Heartland FC are day 19 clash at Okigwe Township understood to be engrossed in Stadium. huge debts to the tune of over “I could not imagine Heartland N130m, The Oracle Today has losing to Abia Warriors 4-2. It is exclusively gathered. too painful, so sad, in fact, I’m The amount represents a heart broken. balance of Governor Rochas “I tried to find sleep but Okorocha’s approvals for the club it refused to come. But how for the outgoing 2018/2019 NPFL can I sleep? Nobody seems to abridged season but which has understand what I’m passing yet to be made available to the through. club.

“It’s like we are pursuing a Checks further reveal that poisonous animal (snake) with with hope the balance sum would empty hands. be released to the club, officials “Yes, we are engrossed in went about borrowing money huge debts, I’m being inundated to conduct their preseason build with demands for the settlement up as well as recruitment and of debts we owe to clubs as clearance of players. regards players recruitment and “Today (Sunday, May 12) is my clearance. saddest moment in the game”, “This is because balance of Executive Chairman of the the money approved for us this club, Chief Chibuzor Etuemena season has not been released to “Bash” managed to offer when us.

‘Don’t sack our management board please’

returns to Eagles Rohr had been diplomatic about the absence of Mikel in the team, citing various reasons why the former Chelsea star who now plays for Middleborough this season, had missed action.

But the Coach and his Captain had now me and had a successful discussion concerning his return to the team for the AFCON tournament in Egypt.

“We had a good meeting with Obi Mikel and we will do a statement in a few days”, Rohr disclosed to sports journalists shortly after watching the game between Leicester City and Chelsea on Sunday.

oca-Cola and Eva Water, products of Nigeria Bottling Company (NBC) don’t want to be left out the Okpekpe 10klm Road Race and as a result, the beverage giant have partnered the organisers of the athletics event to make this year’s event more eventful.

With this partnership, The Oracle Today Sports gathered that the soft drink giants will refresh athletes, officials, spectators and VIPs when the 7th edition of the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) silver label Okpekpe international 10km road race holds on May 25, 2019, in Okpekpe, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State.

Zak Amodu, director of organisation for the race reveals that Coca-Cola, the best-known and biggest-selling soft drink in history and Eva Water, the processed water which is subjected to filtering and purification treatment before being bottled and is compliant

with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) have come on board as refreshment partners of the historic race.

“This is a big development for us at Okpekpe to have unarguably the best soft drink and purest processed water join us as we strive to make more history for Nigeria and West Africa,” said Amodu.

“Remember we are the first road race to be granted a label race in West Africa, which means we are the first road running event to be internationally recognised.

We didn’t stop there as we also moved a step up to a silver label race and our target now is to go for gold.”

“A label certifies the global sporting significance of the race, the organisational quality and the compliance with relevant IAAF competition rules,” explains Amodu who restated the organiser’s resolve to use a gold label template to organise this year’s event in a fortnight.

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It is recalled that Mikel has not played for the Super Eagles since his last game for Eagles at the FIFA World Cup against perennial rivals, Argentina.

Mikel played no part in the qualifiers siting injury and lack of form but never said he is no longer going to play for the country.

Despite not making his squad for AFCON public, one take it to the bank that Mikel is a member of the 23-man final Super Eagles squad that will be flying the country’s flag at the biennial continental biggest football fiesta.

he Oracle Today has gathered that players of struggling NPFL side, Abia Warriors, have spoken of their displeasure over the decision of the state government to sweep out out the board of the team alongside other boards of government Departments and Ministries.

The embittered players say the decision should be reversed forth with especially as it affects the club, saying government’s action is like throwing away the child with the bath water.

“Our position on the table is not the best. At this stage of the season, we need all hands on deck to ensure we crossed the red line”, offers one of the players without wanting to be named on print for fear of victimisation.

He added: “Removing the leadership of the club at this stage will do more harm than good. The leadership of the club

should be retained until after the season”.

Abia Warriors are in race against relegation for the first time since joining the Premiership in 2014.

But the recent executive order by the government order relieving the board of their duties is seen as one capable of derailing their survival effort.

“Sports, particularly football, is different from other aspects of governance”, quips another player.

“We are making headway in our efforts to remain in the Premiership. And removing the board with just four matches to go will do the club more harm than good”, he stressed.

Abia State government on Saturday announced the dissolution of all government owned Departments, Boards and Parastatals including those of Abia Warriors FC and Enyimba FC, Aba.

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The Oracle Today Wednesday May 15-21, 2019

SPORTS AFCON 2019: Football fans urge Rohr to consider home based players

Tenure Crisis: Teslim Balogun Stadium sealed in Lagos

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he sports family in Lagos was on Monday shocked to find that state-owned Teslim Balogun Stadium in Surulere had been sealed off by policemen.

A detachment of policemen and other security officials were stationed at the entrance of the stadium, preventing people from gaining entrance into the facility.

The Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC) had been engulfed in crisis following an April 23 circular singed

by Adeniran Odeyemi, Permanent Secretary, Cabinet Office, directing heads government agencies to hand over by May 10.

However, LSSC Chairman, Dr Kwekwu Tandoh and the Director General, Babatunde Bank-Anthony, had claimed that the Commission not affected by the circular.

But the workers union and athletes had earlier threatened to shut down the commission if Tandoh and Bank-Anthony showed up in office after their May 10 hand over date.

A portion of the read; “Members of Statutory Board, Chief Executive Officers of Parastatals, Oganisations and Governing Council, whose tenure have not lapsed are not affected by this directive.

MADUABUCHI KALU with agency report

A “For avoidance of doubt, the Statutory Board under reference above are; Civil service Commission, Judiciary Service commission, Independent Electoral Commission, House of Assembly Service Commission, Audit Service Commission, Teaching Service Commission, Local Government Service Commission, Primary Health Care Board and Lagos State Pension Commission.”

Some of the sportsmen using the facility as training ground were also turned back at the gate by the security operatives, citing order from state secretariat.

“We are told that the security officials were posted from Alausa to prevent a breakdown of law and order.

The state government got wind that some staff and athletes wanted to stage a protest in the stadium. “I believe government cannot act in isolation, so in order to make the stadium safe, government needed to act.

“Though this is the first time we are experiencing such occurrence,” said an athlete who pleaded anonymity.

LSSC Spokesperson, Titi Oshodi, was not available to comment on the development as calls to her phone were not answered.

NPFL Group B: Gombe pip Ifeanyi Ubah 1-0 MADUABUCHI KALU

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ombe United Football Club of Gombe Monday piped visiting Ifeanyi Ubah FC of Nnewi 1-0 in a 2018/2019 Nig eria Professional Football League (NPFL) Group B fixture.

The hosts secured the lone goal in the 13th minute of the Match Day 19 fixture through Adamu Mohammed.

The victory therefore, moved Gombe to 24 points from 19 matches, ahead of their next match against Nasarawa United FC on Wednesday.

Reacting to his team’s victory after the encounter, Coach Ladan Bosso of Gombe United FC praised the visiting team for putting up a good performance, adding that they were determined and young.

Bosso, however, said Gombe United needed the result more than the visiting team. He said: “We fought better today because we are fighting for

Udo-Obong hails inform Oduduru as sprinter clocks sub 10secs again

survival, while the visiting team are comfortable on the table.

“I was expecting we would go for more goals to close up against Abia Warriors. That was my target.

We worked to get the result.”

On their next match, he said Nasarawa United were familiar foes, adding that they would put in place good strategies towards winning the match.

On his part, Uche Okagbue, the coach of FC IfeanyiUbah, said the match was a good one for them and he was happy because his boys played well.

On the officiating, Okagbue said: “The experienced sweat merchant disclosed that the officiating was a bit fair. But he was quick to point out that it was not in his nature to criticise referees.

Okagbue, however, expressed confidence in his team picking the maximum three points against Heartland FC of Owerri today (Wednesday). On his team’s poor away record, he said: “the second round has been very unfair to us.

MADUABUCHI KALU x-sprint international, Enefiok Udo-Obong, said the recent performance of Divine Oduduru, has proved that the country has a lot of talents and just have to put the right things in place for them to excel.

The Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) athletes’ representative said Oduduru peaked at the right time.

According to him, it takes four years for an athlete to be ready for major championships and with what the Texas Tech student has done, he will continue to excel.

“Oduduru came to limelight in 2013 and he is peaking in 2019 which shows he is in the right direction,” he said.

“The performance only shows us that we have talents in this country and all we just need to do will be to put the right atmosphere and technical input in place for them to excel.

“It takes four years for an athlete to peak and he has been doing that since 2013 leading to what he started at the start of the year.”

Meanwhile, the Delta State-born sprint star, at the weekend qualified for the 2020 Olympic Games in style after clocking another sub 10secs in the space of one month.

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s the countdown for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations gets closer, Nigerian Football fans in Ilorin have called on the Technical Adviser of the Super Eagles, Gernot Rohr to consider proven home based players in his team selection for the forthcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Egypt scheduled for June.

The fans told The Oracle Today Sports on Tuesday that Rohr should consider home-based players in his final 23 man squad, not just foreign based players.

One of the fans, Saheed Usman, said some homebased players deserve to be selected to showcase their talent on the big stage.

“We have talented players plying their trade in the Nigerian League and they are better than some foreign based players.

“Rohr should critically look inward and select those that are ready to play for their fatherland and not select big names that warm benches in Europe,” he said.

Another soccer fan, Mr Rotimi Adeoke, advised the Eagles Coach to select the best legs to represent Nigeria and not base his team selection on big stars.

“There is no need to respect any player because he plays in Manchester united, Chelsea, Barcelona or Liverpool. Select the ones that are ready to play for their fatherland.

“There are some players in the Nigerian League that have the hunger and zeal to play for Nigeria.

Don’t beg or force any player to play irrespective of his status,” he said.

On his part, Philip Ikechukwu, said Nigeria based players are equally talented as much as the hyped European players and deserve to be selected.

“As we see in South Africa 2013 when Nigeria won the AFCON with superb performance from homebased players like Sunday Mba of Enugu Rangers, Godfrey Oboabona of Sunshine Akure and others.

“Rohr must not look down on home-based players.

He needs to give them chance to encourage and promote our league. You can’t write them off in order to favour foreign-based players,” said Ikechukwu.

Another enthusiast Femi Idowu, said Nigerians expect nothing but victory from the Super Eagles in June. We want the Gold and nothing less.

School sports festival, an annual event in Delta –Okowa … As Nosiere lifts headmasters’ cup JONATHAN AWANYAI, Asaba

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he grand finale of the first Delta State School Sports Festival took place at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba with Governor Ifeanyi Okowa saying the sports fiesta will remain an avenue to discover budding talents for national and international sports meet.

Governor Okowa who gave glory to God that an annual School Sports Festival was born in the state, stated that talented sports men and women discovered at the festival would be nurtured by the state government.

Nosiere Primary School 1, Agbor emerged overall winner in the festival by beating Destiny Primary School, Ughelli 1-0 to lift the trophy of the Headmaster’s Cup which climaxed the Sports fiesta. Students of different secondary schools in the state and pupils of primary schools also, competed for medals in different athletics competition - different categories of races, discuss, long jump, short put, high jump, javelin, scrabble, chess, badminton, table tennis, volleyball, handball, basketball, among others.

“It is well known that Delta State is a sports-loving state and its athletes did very well in feeding the teams of Mid-West and later Bendel States before Edo and Delta States were created from Bendel State; what we are doing this afternoon is to replicate what we were doing in the past, in the days of old Bendel and we are excited to witness and participate in this sports festival,” the governor said.

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The Oracle Today Wednesday May 15 - 21, 2019

Crime

Police nab armed gang operating on Abuja-Kaduna expressway

Stories by VICTOR NZE

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combined team of police operatives attached to Operation Puff Adder has arrested nine kidnap suspects and recovered of two AK-47 Rifles, four AK-47 Magazines, 54 rounds of live ammunition, five dane guns and 200 stolen cows.

A statement by Force Public Relations Officer, Force Headquarters, Abuja, Mr Frank Mba, said the kidnap suspects who include: Ayuba la-

…Recover arms, ammunition

wal, Saidu Bello, Abdullahi Bello, Adamu Lawal, and Umar Sani, all males and indigenes of Dan Musa LGA of Katsina State, were arrested on May 11 at Kudaru Forest in Lere LGA of Kaduna State following credible intelligence and support from the locals in the community.

Other suspects, Muhammed Sani,

Jibrin Shehu, Usman Sani, Musa Garba, all males, were similarly arrested at Akilbu forest around Chikwale in Kachia LGA of Kaduna State. All the suspects have made useful statement to the Police on their involvement in a series of kidnap cases on the Abuja – Kaduna expressway.

The police statement further add-

ed that the Acting Inspector General of Police, Mr Mohammed Adamu, has commended the people for their cooperation and support to the Police and has assured that with the consistent support by the public the war against kidnapping and other heinous crimes in the country will certainly be won in no distant time.

SARS responsible for 80% of police success – IG

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cting Inspector-General (I-G) of Police, Mohammed Adamu, said in Benin on Monday that the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) has contributed up to 80 per cent of the successes recorded by the Nigeria remark in Police Force.

Adamu made the remark at the commencement of a three-day Human Rights Training Programme for officers of SARS in Edo. The I-G, represented by CP Abiodun Odube, Commissioner of Police in charge of Training and Development, said this was in spite of the protests by Nigerians against the activities of SARS. He noted that one area of conflict between the public and SARS was in the area of human rights.

The I-G said the training was, therefore, a holistic approach to enhance the performance of the squad. He also said that the force was committed to the training and re-training of its officers and men across the country to respect the human rights of the citizens.

According to him, the training seeks to improve professionalism of officers, who are expected to take the training down to their subordinates and the rank-and-file. He stressed that the training was part of a holistic reform to get police personnel adequately equipped to discharge their duties and win the trust of Nigerians.

Meanwhile, CP Mohammed DanMallam, Edo Commissioner of Police, commended the I-G for approving the participation of officers of the command in the intensive training.

He said he believed that the training would aid the repositioning of the police for more efficiency and put them in good relations with members of the public. Earlier, Dr Uju Agomoh, Executive-Director, Prisoners’ Rehabilitation and Welfare Action (PRAWA), said it would be the first time such training on human rights would be scaled down to the unit levels.

Agomoh, whose organisation provided the technical support for the training, noted that it was not enough to call for banning of police units.

According to her, the units should be supported with training and re-training, to get the best out of them.

RRS arrests ex-convicts, one other for robbery in Lagos peratives of Lagos State Rapid Response Squad (RRS) have arO rested two ex-convicts and one oth-

er suspect for robbery in Lekki.

The suspects, Mohammed Abubakar, 25; Emmanuel Michael, 20 and Simeon Michael, 27, were arrested after robbing a 25-year-old lady of her belongings at Lekki Phase One. According to the preliminary investigation, one of the robbers, Emmanuel Michael stated that he was recently released from prison after spending time for four years for manslaughter and that with the assistance of his brother he travelled down to Lagos and stayed in Alaba Rago, Ojo where he met Mohammed Abubakar who lured him into robbery.

On his part, Mohammed Abubakar, 25, who is also an ex-convict, while pleading for leniency, claimed that he invited Emmanuel Michael and Simeon Michael, 27 for what he referred to as a “Student Parole”.

He said “We were on “student parole”. We saw the lady and our interest was to scare her into parting away with her mobile phone. We told her we were Aiye Cult members and that the colour of her dress gave her out as rival cult member”.

Abubakar, who is a stylist was arrested in Maryland, Lagos in September 2018 for robbery but released in December 2018 from Ikoyi Prison.

Tips on how to behave at checkpoints, by the Police (verified Twitter handle, @PoliceNG) •Some of the kidnap suspects operating on the Abuja-Kaduna expressway paraded by operatives of the Puff Adder police unit including: Ayuba lawal, Saidu Bello, Abdullahi Bello, Adamu Lawal, and Umar Sani, all indigenes of Dan Musa council of Katsina State, arrested at Kudaru Forest in Lere council of Kaduna State

Transnational crimes: IGP hosts sub-regional police chiefs A s part of ongoing efforts at galvanizing multinational efforts towards finding a lasting solution to transnational crimes, especially terrorism, violent extremism, kidnapping, illicit circulation of small arms and light weapons, human trafficking, maritime security, herders and farmers’ conflict amongst others, the Acting Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, has formally declared open the West African Police and Security Chiefs (WAPCCO) meeting.

The meeting which holds under the auspices of WAPCCO in Abuja, will run from May 14th – 16th at the National Universities Commission (NUC) complex, Abuja.

The event, which has in attendance the INTERPOL Secretary General, representatives of African Union Mechanism for Police Cooperation (AFRIPOL), members of the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) in South Africa and representatives from Committee of Chiefs of Police from Central Africa among other key Security Stakeholders will present very importantly, an opportunity for all Security Chiefs across West Africa to re- commit themselves to collaborate more effectively towards tackling trans-border crimes and other regional security threats

in an increasingly globalized world.

The West African Police Chiefs Committee (WAPCCO) is a structure under ECOWAS designed to bring together Heads of Police of ECOWAS Member States to exchange and share intelligence and collaborate with one another in the

fight against criminality and Security threats in West Africa.

WAPCCO’s areas of interest include the tackling of illicit trade on drugs, enforcement of immigration laws, policing of marine space, customs activities, and financial intelligence amongst others.

Adamu appoints Markus as head of CRU in Abuja

A

8. Also, don’t go into a physical fight with an armed security officer. He may resort to the use of his weapon (rightly or wrongly) to defend himself.

9. Avoid unnecessary argument with armed security personnel. There are a thousand and one ways to seek redress where you feel your rights have been infringed upon.

10. Never try to touch an officer in an unfriendly manner. He may suspect you of trying to disarm him.

11. If you are a regular traveler or road user, make sure you have the police emergency phone numbers of the route you operate. You never can tell when an emergency situation could arise and you need the Police to come to your aid.

12. Make sure you have all your relevant car papers and desist from actions or inactions that constitute either criminality or traffic offence. Such infractions of the law provide veritable grounds for possible charges and other forms of adversarial contact with the Police or other law enforcement agencies, including unnecessary arguments.

cting Inspector General of Police, Mr Mohammed Adamu, has appointed ACP Markus Ishaku Basiran to head the Complaints Response Unit (CRU) of the Force. ACP Markus Ishaku Basiran takes over 13. Don’t give the impression that you from ACP Abayomi Shogunle who are unhappy to see an officer on his has been redeployed as Area Combeat or that he is wasting your time. But if you do have an emergency, politely mander Nkalangi, Ebonyi State. inform the officer. Don’t speed off while The new head of the CRU restill being checked. sumed duty fully, 13th May, 2019.

Prior to his appointment, ACP 14. Take note of the name tags, Force or Service numbers, personal descripMarkus Ishaku Basiran has held diftion, description of weapons or patrol ferent positions within the Force, •ACP Markus Ishaku vehicle of the security officer especially some of which include; Police Public where the officers begin to conduct ACP Markus, who has attended Relations Officer, Zone 12 Bauchi, themselves in an unprofessional manUnit Commander in the Police Mo- Policy, Strategy and Leadership ner. bile Force (PMF) in Abuja and Bayel- Course at Kuru Jos and Tactical Intel- 15. Seek an audience with the most sa, O/C Research and Planning, ligence Command & Management senior police officer at the checkpoint if Peacekeeping Office, FHQ Abuja, Course in Enugu is a graduate of things are not working out smoothly.

O/C Zonal Intelligence Bureau, Sociology from Ahmadu Bello UniPolitely insist to be taken to the Lokoja, Area Commander, Nkalagu, versity and holds an M.Sc in Crime 16. police station if your complaint is not Management and Prevention from Ebonyi State. properly addressed.

Bayero University, Kano.

39

The Oracle Today Wednesday May 15 -21, 2019

NEWS

... Nigeria from disintegrating, by Bishop Ibezim Cont’d from Pg 2

port and pray for them to embark on true governance.

He said the sit-at-home should not be obeyed because it is self-centred an urged all to rally for good governance not violence, adding that Ndigbo should work hard together to salvage the nation by speaking with one voice rather than join those causing confusion.

The Archdeacon in-charge of Adazi Ani Archdeaconry, Venerable Christian Okafor described the theme of the Synod “The victory that has overcome the world even our faith’’ as apt and thanked everybody whom God used to make the synod successful.

Archbishop Chukwuma condemned bandits and herdsmen killing in strong terms, noting that it is inhuman and savagery to waste lives the way it has turned up in Nigeria under Buhari. He called on the Service Chiefs to sit up to their responsibility or resign

as they have failed Nigerians.

On Ngige, Archbishop Chukwuma restated that Senator Chris Ngige did what the Federal Government asked him to do, and therefore NLC should stop creating confusion and render an unreserved apology to Senator Ngige or lose their relevance.

Bishop tasks wives on priests, asks Ndigbo to embrace God Meanwhile, the Anglican Bishop of Etsako, Bendel Province, Edo State, The Right Reverend Jacob .O.B Bada has blamed failures of the expectations from men of God from the laity particularly in the Anglican Communion on the wives of the clergymen.

Bishop Bada who informed that God never forgets His priest or anyone at that enjoined women particularly clergy wives to stand in prayers for their husbands.

He insisted that if there are praying wives, that there is a God that answers prayers.

Speaking as a Guest Preacher

on the theme “The Victory that has overcome the world even our faith” at St Jude’s Anglican Church, Adazi Ani, Anaocha council area during the 3rd Session of the 11th Synod of Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Province on the Niger, Diocese of Awka, Bishop Bada urged wives of clergymen to be steadfast in prayers.

The Bishop of Etsako encouraged Christians to make God relevant in their lives in all material circumstances and shun being yoked together with unbelievers in order to experience the uncommon testimony of God’s grace.

He decried laziness that has crept into the Anglican Church members prayer lives which has deprived many from exercising their faith, adding that there is need to renew their praying lives, even add fast to it for the family’s liberation.

While describing Ndigbo as Hebrews of Nigeria in Africa, Bishop Bada said: “Igbos love God and

have served God with all their might including their wealth and therefore would be rewarded by God adequately, but their actions should not fail God’s expectations no matter the precarious situation.

He reminded that the yoke of bondage would be broken in the lives of the congregation after the Synod.

The Bishop of Etsako further urged families fighting over mundane things and earthly property to show love and tolerance.

While noting that money is important in evangelism , Right Reverend Ibezim, however, believes God wants Christians’ spiritual life first before their wealth or talents.

Bishop Odedeji tasks Christians on faith Similarly, the Bishop of Lagos West Diocese, The Right Reverend Dr James Olusola Odedeji has tasked Christians on the need for uncompromising faith in God at all times.

•Bishop Chukwuma

...threaten Anambra-born Christian for refusing to convert to Islam

By IBE NWACHUKWU

M

r. Samuel Gbuzue, a Kano State-based political big-wig who converted from to Islam faith with members of his family allegedly to actualise his political interests, has refused to endorse a proposed marriage between his son, Henry Ejike Gbuzue and his wife, Onyinyechi Confidence Gbuzue, because Ejike refused to join the league of family Muslim converts.

Gbuzue insists that unless and until Henry converts to Islam as his other family members have done, the proposed marriage between his Henry and Onynyechi will not receive his blessing because, according to him, Henry’s refusal to convert to Islam has adversely affected his political fortunes in the north.

In furtherance of the efforts to get Henry converted from Christianity to Islam, some Islamic faithful allegedly teamed up with Henry’s father to give him incessant threat

to his life. Sequel to this development, Henry who was born on March 23, 1986, in Sabongari area of Kano State, fled from his father’s house at Sabongari to Yamkudim Estate where he rented an apartment and continued his work as a painter, a trade he learnt from a Ghanaian master he stayed with for nine years.

Confirming the development to newsmen yesterday in Onitsha, Anambra State, Mr Gbuzue stated that the threat to Henry’s life continued unabated to the extent that some armed Muslim youths traced him to his new residence at Yamkudim Estate and started launching series of attacks on him and his wife at nights with sticks and machetes, which resulted in his wife losing her two-month old pregnancy due to excessive bleeding.

According to his father, there was a night Henry was whisked away to an uncompleted building where he was kept incommunicado for months, tied to a chair and

beaten to pulp to renounce Christianity but he refused and when untied, he came back home only to discover to his chagrin that his wife abandoned the house and left to unknown destination.

After searching for his wife to no avail, he decided to rush to Uli town in Anambra State where the wife hails from in continuation of the search for her but could not see her, which prompted his inlaws to threaten to deal with him ruthlessly if he did not produce their daughter as he returned to Kano in despair.

As she was not also in his father’s house in Sabongari, he returned to his house at the estate and a neighbour told him that, “they said that you have been declared wanted for not converting to Islam and that you will be killed if seen anywhere in Nigeria and your wife, Onyinyechi Confidence Gbuzue, ran away to an unknown destination because of incessant threats to her life.”

“On hearing this—about February this years, my son Henry Ejikeme Gbuzue became afraid and immediately fled to an unknown destination also because of threat to life and has not been seen till date,” Samuel Gbuzue said.

Mr. Gbuzue further revealed to newsmen that “I became a Muslim convert because my political mentor in Kano told me that I would not vie or benefit politically unless my entire family converts to Islam. My problem is that they are looking for my son, Henry Ejikeme Gbuzue, to kill him for obstructing my relationship with the Muslim faithful and they have sworn to find and kill him whereever he may be in Nigeria.”

He lamented that his son, Henry Ejikeme Gbuzue was last seen in February 2019, adding that ever since then, his whereabouts and that of his wife, Onyinyechi Confidence Gbuzue have remained unknown.

Bishop Odedeji who spoke during the 3rd session of the Eleventh Synod of the Church of Nigeria, Diocese of Awka at St Jude’s Church, Adazi-Ani on Saturday, decried that Nigerian leaders are clueless on issues of good governance, and true essence of democracy, thanked God for still being God in the affairs of Nigerians.

Bishop Odedeji listed five types of faith Christians could have in God to include unusual/ uncommon faith like that from Abraham; radical faith like Joseph; never-the-less faith like when the Angel of God joined Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego in the fiery furnace; uninterrupted faith like exhibited by Job and uncompromising faith like exhibited by Daniel.

He said without faith, Christians couldn’t survive the tribulations targeted at them for serving Jesus Christ, adding that without faith one cannot overcome anything in the world characterized by evil.

He insisted that once one’s faith is in God and unwavering, the person is sure of victory.

He described the theme of the synod ‘’ The Victory that has overcome the world, even our faith (1 John 5:4) as apt, judging from situations “in which we found ourselves in Nigeria.”

Hailing Bishop Odedeji for appointing an Awka man from Awka Diocese his Chaplain from among over 400 priests in the Diocese, further describing the Bishop as a true ecumenical Nigerian, Right Reverend Ibezim announced a partnership with the Diocese of Lagos West but did not give details.

At the palace of the traditional ruler of Adazi-Ani, Igwe Robert .N. Nwankwo Bishop Ibezim warned that nobody should misunderstand the Synod as money making programme because money can’t quantify the blessings of God that Synod heralds in any hosting community.

Bishop Ibezim thanked Igwe Nwankwo and his cabinet as well as the entire Adazi Ani community for hosting the Synod for the second time since he became the Bishop of Awka, adding that the community should be able to confirm the blessings of God since the last synod because Synod is a blessing to the community.

He described Justice Okechukwu Okeke, the Diocesan Chancellor as a good man even as he called on Adazi Ani to continue to support the Anglican Church.

He thanked Venerable Christian Okafor in charge of the Archdeaconry for taking proper charge of events.

The traditional ruler, Igwe Nwankwo thanked Bishop Ibezim and wife, Mrs Martha Chioma Ibezim , President , Mothers’ Union , Women’s Guild and Girls’ Guild as well as Diocesan officials for their visit and confirmed that after the last synod development came into the community in quantum with tarred roads everywhere.

Among other Bishops who attended the synod was the Bishop of Eha-Amufu Diocese, The Rt Reverend Daniel Olinya.

President General of Adazi Ani, Engr John Eyisi was also in attendance.

WEDNESDAY May 15 - 21, 2019

The

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Nigeria still owes them

A

t this time 23 years ago, the greatest Nigerian that has ever lived (and, I believe, will ever live) had died at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu. As the end approached, The Right Hon. Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe must have seen life in its stark nakedness. I learned the last words he uttered on his deathbed were like these: “Oh God, I’ve made the greatest mistake of my life. I chose heroism instead of sainthood. Now that I’m about to lie lonely in the grave, who will remember to pray for me anymore? Lord, please, if for all that I suffered for the sake of Nigeria, forgive my sins and receive me in your kingdom.”

Zik must have thought about loneliness in the grave and then recalled the words of the preacher: “Vanity of vanities... All is vanity.”

He was one of the old people whose words of wisdom I cherished. In his case, I listened to him as a journalist -- we interviewed him shortly before his birthday (November 16) each year between 1988 and 1994. We had no opportunity to speak with him in 1995 because he had been bedridden by November. But on his 90th birthday, I travelled from Lagos to Nsukka, and, together with the cream of Nigerian society, celebrated what was a farewell party in honour of the foremost nationalist of pre-independence struggle, the country’s first president, and the Owelle of Onitsha. On the occasion, he recited a poem he had composed in the 1930s; a line reads, “My life has been a joy to me”.

It’s not likely there is any Nigerian – indeed any citizen of the world – alive today that is Zik’s age mate. He was born in Zungeru [he told us the correct pronunciation of the town was Zun-guru] in today’s Niger State at noon on Wednesday, November 16, 1904, and died shortly before 11am on Saturday, May 11, 1996.

Just as he feared on his deathbed, Zik has not been commensurately rewarded by the nation he fought for all his life. One of the strangest demonstrations of ingratitude and ineffectiveness of the Nigerian government was the non-completion of Zik’s mausoleum at Inosi Onira in Onitsha. I’m glad to hear that the structure has now been completed after 22+ years. But structure alone doesn’t make a mausoleum. Were it in another country where people go into government to work and not to steal, Zik’s mausoleum would have since become a tourist site bringing millions of dollars in revenue. His home in Nsukka – he lived in Onuiyi Haven from 1945 – would have also become a tourist’s delight.

Then, there is the second Niger Bridge – about 4km from the place Zik was buried in Onitsha. For the past 40 years, that bridge has been mentioned only in politicians’ campaign speeches. Only “a second Azikiwe” [Goodluck Jonathan] was able to pay a huge sum for the project’s contract; under the current regime, work has been proceeding at snail’s speed. How ungrateful could a nation be?

Nigeria will forever owe Zik a debt of gratitude. No tribute to his memory would be too much, for in the struggle for independence he was the primus inter pares.

When I asked Adeniran Ogunsanya, in 1992, whether Zik contributed the most, he asked

•Obafemi Awolowo

•Nnamdi Azikiwe

Aniebo

Nwamu me, “Who else did?” So, these days, when I read some ignorant people mentioning their tribal warlords first before Zik among our founding fathers, I shake my head.

Zik always believed that the struggle for Nigeria’s independence was worth it. Perhaps he was right. Driving away foreigners was the right thing to do at the time. It is out of frustration with the present system of things that many like me think the quest for independence from the colonialists was a mistake. India, for instance, is on the fast lane. So are Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, the UAE, and the two Koreas – countries that were behind us by 1960. Had the First Republic not been truncated, there is no way a nation led by Zik, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Sardauna Ahmadu Bello, Obafemi Awolowo, Mike Okpara, Samuel Ladoke Akintola, Tony Enahoro and their contemporaries would have been overtaken by the “Asian tigers”.

Meanwhile, here’s a reminder: Zik’s junior nationalist Obafemi Awolowo died on May 9, 1987; Herbert Macaulay (who handed the baton of nationalism to Zik) died on May 10, 1946; and Zik himself on May 11, 1996.

Strange coincidence? Perhaps we should have national holidays from May 9 to 11 of every year to honour these founding fathers.

To win independence for Nigeria, Zik (who spoke Hausa, Yoruba and Igbo fluently) knew he could not fight alone. Until he died in 1996, he never stopped giving the credit for Nigeria’s independence to all his teammates. He often decried the lack of unity and the quest for material things among the leaders that succeeded them. I wonder what Zik’s generation would be discussing

on the other side, seeing what we have got today.

They were our real heroes – the leaders of the First Republic and earlier. It was in their era that mother tongues were spoken; it’s not like today that almost everyone speaks dogo turenchi – in fact, languages like Igbo are vanishing because “enlightened” parents do not speak the “ancient” language to their children. Our founding fathers got along very well with one another. The famous exchange between Zik and Bello – “Let’s forget/understand our differences” – was a mirror of true nationalism at its best. Apart from speaking the three languages, Zik also gave his children Yoruba and Hausa names. And I have read how Sardauna Bello travelled to Ilorin in 1962 to congratulate the former Catholic archbishop of Abuja, John Cardinal Onaiyekan, when he excelled in the WASCE of that year.

Today nothing works. All we’ve got is a rapacious elite: lawmakers who do nothing but determine their own incomes; 1, 700 officeholders sharing a third of what belongs to 200million Nigerians; incredible billions of pounds and dollars locked up or lost forever in foreign banks’ vaults; an education system that churns out millions of jobseekers each year. No jobs. No food. No power supply. No clean water. No rail system.

Available roads are death-traps. Hospitals are glorified mortuaries. Assassins, armed robbers, terrorists and kidnappers rule the roost. Nigeria has become hell on earth.

That we have failed woefully in all indices of human development does not, however, belie the genuine struggles of our founding

•Herbert Macaulay fathers. This is far from the country of their dream. And each died with deep regrets and disillusionment. I’ll continue to pay tribute to them – all the men and women who rendered the selfless service of founding a nation that ought to lead Black Africa. Just as the Americans refer to those that fought in World War II as the greatest generation, I recognise the pre-independence nationalists as Nigeria’s greatest generation. In no small measure, they determined the fate of my generation and the generations yet to come from this part of the world.

Conversely, I identify the men that fought the civil war as Nigeria’s least and worst generation so far. When members of that generation staged the first military coup and murdered our founding fathers, the latter must have placed a curse on them. And a genuine curse, according to those who know, lasts three generations. Is it not probable that my generation and the one after us have been suffering because of that generation of robbers, thieves and liars? By my calculation, the third generation is already 10-25 years old; let’s hope the sins of their grandfathers will be forgiven before they start getting their own children.

Or shouldn’t we begin to beg the spirits of our ancestors to terminate the curse they might have placed on us? May the sins of those who turned Nigeria upside down not be visited on the next younger generations anymore.

That evil generation of looters has been making attempts to rewrite our history. In the books they have written and interviews they have granted, you read lies upon lies meant to distort the true accounts of the past. You see the culprits standing on the dais or facing the camera while peddling their wares. But, thanks to the white man’s internet, the younger generation can always read the true accounts of Zik and other founding fathers almost all of whom have now died. Those who banned the study of History in Nigerian schools labour in vain.

•Nwamu, an entrepreneur, is the CEO of Eyeway.ng. +234-8054100220 (SMS/ WhatsApp only)

The Oracle Today is published by The Oracle Newspapers Limited. Head Office: 116 Awka Road, Onitsha. Lagos Office: 25 Remi Fani-Kayode Street, GRA Ikeja. Abuja Office: 1st Floor, Plateau House, Central Business District, Abuja, FCT. ISSN: 2545-5869 Email: oracletoday2016@yahoo.com, Twitter: @oraclenews.ng Facebook: oraclenews.ng@facebook.com Website: www.oraclenews.ng Advert hot lines: 09078310060, 09061836916. Editor: FELIX OGUEJIOFOR ABUGU.