Peoples Daily Newspaper, Monday 11, March, 2013

www.peoplesdailyng.com

Vol. 10 No. 51

Monday, March 11, 2013

. . . putting the people first

PDP govs set to endorse Shema as NGF chair >> PAGE 2

Rabiul Akhir 29, 1434 AH

N150

Why our planes NASFAT confers good were in Nigeria, governance honour

by British military on Gov. Yero >> PAGE 3

>> PAGE 6

Senate queries Civil Defence boss over recruitment scam

By Ikechukwu Okaforadi

T

he Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps is entangled in recruitment scandal which appears to be the lot of several Federal Government agencies and parastatals in recent times.

Investigations by Peoples Daily revealed that the NSCDC recruited 30,000 staff in 2012, against the mandate it had to recruit only 10,000 employees.

The development reportedly led to the inability of the agency to pay the salary of the additional 20,000 staff.

According to our findings, this problem necessitated the Commandant, Ade Abolorin, to request appropriation of more funds from the Senate Committee investigating illegal recruitment, to enable the corps retain and maintain the excess 20,000 staff, whose names are not in the NSCDC payroll.

Competent sources said that in the controversial recruitment, 1900 positions were allocated each to the south-south and southwest states while some states from the north had between three and six.

In addition, it was gathered that graduate cadre posts were given to the states in the southsouth and south-west, like Bayelsa and Ogun, where the Contd on Page 2

PD INDEX 8th March, 2013

L-R: Chairman of Board of Directors, Peoples Media Ltd, Malam Wada Maida, presenting some copies of Peoples Daily to Kano state Governor, Engineer Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, during a visit by officials of the media house to the governor, recently in Kano.

Report links Archbishop of Canterbury to £6bn shady Nigeria oil deal

CBN RATES $ £ EURO CFA RIYAL

BUYING 154.75 234.50 201.78 0.2878 41.26

SELLING 155.75 236.02 203.08 0.3078 41.52

PARALLEL RATES EURO £ RIYAL $

BUYING 208 254.50 42 157

SELLING 210 257.50 43 158

By Abdulwahab Isa, with agency reports

D

ecades after it closed its operations in Nigeria, the sordid past of how French oil giant, Elf allegedly used its top officer to fleece Nigeria of £6 billion in oil deal has been unearthed in a fresh revelation linking the revered Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, as link person.

The report by the Daily Mail of London, also brings to fore, allegations of atrocities and criminality perpetuated against citizens of the Niger Delta region during the hey day of ELF. Daily Mail said its investigation yesterday found that, far from working on the margins of Elf Aquitaine, Justin Welby was one of its finance ‘sharks’ – and employed on a morally questionable plan to protect the

firm’s oil interests in Nigeria in the early eighties.

Named Bonny LNG, the plan involved persuading the Nigerian leaders that Elf and other major oil companies were poised to invest £6 billion in an energy project that had scant hope of being realised.

Throughout this period, the French state-owned company – which later became synonymous with corruption and scandal – was

allegedly committing human rights abuses against the people of the oil-abundant Niger Delta.

Mr. Welby, 56, now the spiritual head of more than 80 million Anglicans worldwide, insisted that, while he was aware of rumours of corruption during his time at Elf, he never encountered evidence of it.

According to Daily Mail, Mr. Welby, who made regular visits Contd on Page 2

PAGE 2

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2013

CONTENTS

PDP govs move to endorse Shema as NGF chairman

News

By Lawrence Olaoye

2-10

Editorial

12

Op.Ed

13

Letters

14

Opinion

15

Metro

16-18

Business

19-22

S/Exchange S/Report Law Health

23 24-25 26 29-30

First ladies' N4bn ego trip, Page 4

Int’l

31-33

Digest

36

Politics

37-40

Sports

41-45

Leisure

47

Columnist

48

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU The Peoples Daily wants to hear from you with any news and pictures you think we should publish.

You can send your news and pictures to: letters@peoplesdaily-online.com pictures@peoplesdaily-online.com contact@peoplesdaily-online.com

Phones for News: 070-37756364 09-8734478

T

he newly formed Peoples Democratic Party Governors’ Forum (PDPGF) will today meet in Abuja to review political developments in the country and deliberate on issues considered critical to the sustenance of the party.

Topmost on the agenda of the meeting to be chaired by the Akwa Ibom state governor, Barrister Godswill Akpabio, according to an impeccable source, is the need to strategize on the planned adoption of the Katsina state governor, Alhaji Ibrahim Shema, as a possible replacement for his Rivers state counterpart, Rotimi Amaechi, the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) in an election scheduled to hold by May. It was also gathered that the meeting would be reviewing the

political developments in the country as it relates to the dangers posed by the merger of the opposition against the ruling PDP. The source, who preferred anonymity, equally hinted that the governors would be looking into all avenues to reconcile aggrieved members of the party with a view to building a formidable party that would have the verve and nerve to contain the opposition’s merger’s All Progressives’ Congress (APC).

It added that the meeting would also be deliberating on how to further strengthen the party by adequately funding its leadership.

The source said “The PDP Governors’ Forum is not leaving anything to chances; the governors under Akpabio’s leadership are bent on protecting the PDP and would want to perfect their strategies to stop the

incumbent NGF Chairman from getting re-elected in May. “You are aware that the NGF’s Chairmanship election was scheduled to hold at its last meeting but was defered till May ostensibly to save Amaechi’s from embarrassment as the PDP governors have been mobilized enough to vote him out and replace him with Governor Shema,” the source added.

The PDPGF meeting is coming even as there are insinuations that Amaechi, who has been the arrowhead of some governors’ opposition to certain policies initiated by the presidency, and his cohorts have begun to make reconciliatory moves to woo the President.

The NGF Chairman equally entered into troubled water when news made the rounds that he had perfected plans to run as the Vice

Presidential candidate to the Jigawa state governor, Alhaji Sule Lamido, by 2015.

This allegation the NGF boss has yet to publicly deny.

It was also gathered that Amaechi’s carriage which shows little or no respect to the PDP leadership has also become a source of worry to the ruling party and it was feared that his continued leadership of the NGF ahead of the 2015 Presidential election could spell doom for the party’s electoral fortune.

The source equally added that the NGF could no longer be trusted in the President Jonathan’s political chess-game.

Although the President has yet to openly declare his interest in contesting for the Presidency in 2015, the PDP has left no one in doubt that there may not be vacancy in the Presidency.

Report links Archbishop of Canterbury to £6bn shady Nigeria oil deal Contd from Page 1 to the country’s capital for meetings at the time, strenuously denies being aware of the claims or the true motivation for the Bonny LNG project.

Soldiers paid by Elf seized land from tribesmen in the region, often using violence and locals say police officers were paid to arrest those who resisted, the report said.

When he joined the company in the late seventies, the Nigerian government was planning to nationalise the country’s oil fields, something Elf, Shell, BP and others were desperate to prevent, it said.

They attempted to talk the government out of it by dangling a giant carrot – a promise to invest £6?billion between them in a project that involved shipping natural gas from Nigeria to Europe.

But Bonny LNG collapsed before it began, just as the ‘investors’ knew it would.

“Everyone was scrambling for crude at the time and everyone wanted to please the Nigerians,”

said Mr Skjevesland. “This project was way, way off and unrealistic.”

He said that the oil companies were simply “playing games” with the Nigerian government to ensure they could “still get the crude out.”

During Mr. Welby’s five years at Elf, he worked under a number of colourful characters, none more so than the Corsican-born oil executive Andre Tarallo, dubbed Monsieur Africa.

Tarallo, who was in charge of African operations, would later feature in a massive fraud inquiry that tore the company apart in the nineties. He was jailed for four years in 2003 for paying millions in bribes to African leaders in return for oil contracts.

“Some of my other colleagues had contact with Tarallo and they were caught with their pants down,” said Mr Welby’s former boss, Kjell Skjevesland.

“Justin would have had direct contact with him. Justin would have been in the meetings with him, probably as the only nonFrench guy in there.” However,

Mr Welby denies meeting Tarallo in person.

Elf’s headquarters was in Paris near the Champs-Elysees. But, for the Bonny LNG talks, Mr Welby usually travelled to the Nigerian capital Lagos as the company’s sole representative. ‘He made a meaningful contribution,” said his boss.

Thomas Knutsen was another Elf finance executive who worked with Mr. Welby. Asked if the project was designed to trick the Nigerian government into believing it would go ahead, when in all likelihood it would not, Mr Knutsen replied: ‘I think that is a good assumption.’

Asked if Mr. Welby was aware of the tactic, Mr Skjevesland replied, “Yes, of course he was.” But the Archbishop insists he “believed it to be a genuine project ... and nothing [he] learned about it at the time suggested otherwise.”

Unlike the Archbishop, Mr Skjevesland has conceded that he himself was ‘probably’ aware of the human rights abuses committed

by Elf.

After Bonny LNG’s demise, the plan to nationalise the industry was halted, ensuring the oil companies’ Nigerian interests were saved.

They enjoyed massive profits, while the majority of Nigerians continued to lead impoverished lives.

At the time of Mr. Welby’s visits to Nigeria on behalf of Elf, corruption within the country’s government reached its zenith. Its people received precious little of the oil profits, despite revenues accounting for four-fifths of the nation’s income.

It is estimated £250 billion has been stolen by corrupt government officials since oil was struck, leaving 70 per cent of Nigerians currently living on less than 65p per day.

Ibama Ibegwuru, 80, has lived for 40 years in the Egi region where Elf had a major onshore operation. He says he was imprisoned by Nigeria’s military junta after protesting against the alleged human rights and environmental abuses committed by the company.

Senate queries Civil Defence boss over recruitment scam Contd from Page 1 Commandant hails from, while indigenes of some north eastern states like Borno, Yobe, were employed as cleaners and ordinary level certificate employees.

This apparently explains why Senator Ali Ndume, PDP Borno state, queried the Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Abdulrasheem Oba, on why only low rank positions were allotted to some of the states in the north while their southern counterparts got over 12 graduate positions.

He sought from the FCC Chairman explanations why he gave a stamped and certified certificate of compliance to the NSCDC, despite this imbalance in the recruitment exercise.

Based on these discoveries, the Senate joint committee investigating the allegations of scandal against some Federal Government’s Ministries, Department and Agencies, therefore, gave the Commandant,

until today to submit their corps nominal role.

According to our source, this will enable the members to balance the requested additional funds with the actual staff strength of the corps and to ascertain their level of compliance with the federal character principles in terms of spread in both recruitment and cadre of recently recruited staff.

In the course of the joint public hearing over the matter, the Commandant had admitted that over 100 staff of the NSCDC were being accused of engaging in job racketeering, saying that they were already being prosecuted.

The NSCDC staff were alleged to have extorted N300,000 and above from unsuspecting Nigerians to enable them procure jobs in the service.

To this, the Senate committee mandated the Commandant to make available to the committee, evidence of prosecution and names of the people involved in the fraud, to aid the committee in their

investigations.

In addition, there is an allegation that the NSCDC is planning to recruit more 7500 staff for 2013 but further investigations by Peoples Daily revealed that the recruitment may not proceed owing to plans by the corps to use the funds to pay off the excess 20,000 staff from the 2011 excess recruitment.

Meanwhile, when the Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Abduraheem Oba, was questioned by some of the senators over the lopsided recruitment and went ahead to issue them with certificates of compliance, he kept mute but the Minister of Interior Affairs, Aba Moro, made frantic efforts to provide answers to the questions, saying that only candidates who applied for jobs are considered.

When contacted for more clarification, the NSDC spokesperson, Emmanuel Okeh, denied that the corps recruited

30,000 staff. He said that there was never a time when the corps had the mandate to recruit 10,000 as alleged.

He said that in 2011, the NSCDCcorps never recruited any staff but only had the approval to replace 2000 staff who left the service.

Okeh added that the Commandant had submitted the report on evidence of prosecution of the corps as demanded by the Senate committee investigating the job racket syndicate in federal parastatals and agencies.

Speaking further, he refuted the report that the over 100 job syndicate suspects being prosecuted by the corps are NSCDC staff.

Nevertheless, during the public hearing, the senators had argued that there is no way fake staff would be recruited by the corps and their names got into the NSCDC’s pay role and they received salaries for three months before they were discovered.

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2013

PAGE 3

Security challenges not peculiar to Nigeria, says Ado Bayero From Edwin Olofu, Kano

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he Emir of Kano Alhaji Ado Bayero, has said that the general insecurity crisis in the country especially in the northern part is not peculiar to Nigeria alone but more of an African problem.

Bayero who spoke when Vice

President Namadi Sambo paid him a courtesy call in his palace yesterday, said the insecurity problem appears to be an African problem, saying that Allah will bring an end to it.

He urged Nigerians not to be frightened, but be prayerful about what is happening now; adding that whatever is happening now

is an act of Allah and Nigerians should rededicate themselves to see the end of it.

The monarch hinted that some prominent Nigerians and African leaders showed him love while he was in his hospital bed as they paid him solidarity visits.

He particularly commended

the Ghanaian and Benin presidents who were among the foreign head of states that visited him in his hospital bed in London.

It would be recalled that Bayero was attacked by gunmen in January when five people were killed in his convoy; he was flown to London alongside two of his sons to get

medical attention.

Since his return many prominent Nigerians that include the Speaker of the House of Representatives Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, Nassarawa state Governor Tanko Almakura among others have been paying him sympathy visit in his palace.

Gunmen kill four in Kano As fresh attack claims scores of lives in Borno From Mustapha Isah Kwaru, Maiduguri, with agency report

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L-R: Vice-President Mohammed Namadi Sambo and Emir of Kano, Alhaji Ado Bayero, during the vice-president's visit to the Emir, yesterday in Kano.

Why our warplanes were in Nigeria, by British military As UK, Italy, Greece confirm hostages killed

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he United Kingdom's military has said that its warplanes recently spotted in Nigeria were in the country to move soldiers to aid the French intervention in Mali and not to rescue kidnapped foreign hostages, as claimed by the insurgent group, the Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimmeena fi Biladis Sudan (Ansaru.)

This was just as Britain, Italy and Greece yesterday confirmed that hostages from their countries were among seven construction workers reported killed in Nigeria over the weekend.

The UK Ministry of Defense said yesterday that the planes had ferried Nigerian troops and equipment to Bamako, Mali, and not to rescue foreigners kidnapped by the group.

The Ansaru partially blamed the presence of those planes in Nigeria as an excuse for its action in killing seven foreign hostages it had taken.

Those kidnapped included four Lebanese citizens and one each from Britain, Greece and Italy, all employees of Setraco, a Lebanese construction company with an

operational base in Bauchi state.

The Voice of Russia and Fox news online reports confirmed that the UK declined to comment further about the claimed hostage killings. The hostages were yet to be found, the reports said.

The Ansaru, on Saturday, said it killed seven foreign hostages it seized on February 7 from a local construction company, SITE Monitoring Service reported.

Among them were a Briton, an Italian, a Greek and four Lebanese nationals.

In its statement, the group said it decided to kill the hostages because of attempts by Britain and Nigeria to rescue them.

“This was an act of cold-blooded murder, which I condemn in the strongest terms,” British Foreign Secretary, William Hague, said in a statement announcing that a British construction worker was among those killed.

Nigerian militant group Ansar al-Muslimeen claimed responsibility for the February kidnappings of the seven construction workers from an office in north eastern Nigeria. The group, widely known as Ansaru,

released images of some of the bodies on Saturday.

Italy’s Foreign Ministry said yesterday that it appeared the report of the deaths “is founded.”

Greece said one of its citizens was among the dead and that his captors “at no stage either communicated or expressed demands for the release of the hostages.”

Ansaru blamed the deaths on a joint Nigerian-British military operation intended to free the hostages.

Without directly addressing the claim, Hague said, “responsibility for this tragic outcome rests squarely with the terrorists.”

“I am grateful to the Nigerian government for their help and cooperation,” he said. “We are utterly determined to work with them to hold the perpetrators of this heinous act to account and to combat the terrorism which so blights the lives of people in northern Nigeria and in the wider region.”

Some of the other hostages were from Lebanon, which had not commented on the reports Sunday.

All seven hostages were seized from an office of Lebanese-based construction firm Setraco in northeastern Nigeria on February 18. In claiming responsibility for the attack, Ansaru said it taken them captive because of "transgression and atrocities" against Islam in Afghanistan, Mali and other locations.

Setraco's Nigerian subsidiary is involved in many major road construction projects in northern Nigeria.

U.S. officials say Ansaru is an offshoot of the Islamist militant group Boko Haram, which Nigerian authorities say is behind a recent rash of killings and kidnappings in the country. Boko Haram -- whose name means "Western education is sacrilege" -- has killed more than 2,800 people in an escalating campaign to impose strict Islamic law on largely Muslim northern Nigeria, according to Human Rights Watch.

Ansaru has previously claimed responsibility for the December kidnapping of a French citizen near the border with Niger and for an attack on a prison in Abuja in November.

iding on a tricycle, suspected members of the Boko Haram militant group reportedly killed four persons yesterday morning in Kano suburb.

Eyewitnesses said the gunmen first struck at Dakata bus stop where they killed the first two persons and then drove to Dakata Kawaji area opposite a graveyard near the Custom’s barrack in the area where they also gunned down two other people.

Policemen and Nigerian troops belonging to the JTF reportedly arrived the scene about 10 minutes after the gunmen had left, to evacuate the people shot.

And in Borno state, an unspecified number of persons including policemen were feared killed yesterday morning when suspected insurgents attacked the newly built police outpost in Konduga town, the administrative headquarters of Konduga local government area of Borno state .

Konduga is about 40 kilometers from Maiduguri, the state capital and had witnessed series of attacks and killings.

Although the state police command and the Joint Military Task Force, (JTF), declined comments on incidents, locals in the area who spoke to newsmen on phone said over 10 young men, armed with assault rifles and explosives had reportedly raided the area at about 11.30am It was further gathered that the invaders, who arrived in the area in three tricycles, divided themselves into two, with one group directly firing at the outpost, while the other took strategic locations and fired sporadic shots into the air.

The policemen on duty were said to have been taken unawares by the attackers, before launching the onslaught which lasted for an hour, overpowering the policemen and forced them to flee.

The gunmen have equally detonated improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in the station, leaving the structure completely burnt.

The attack paralyzed socioeconomic activities in the area as residents were forced to stay indoors, while markets, shops and to other commercial centers were immediately shut down.

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2013

Senator Ita Enang’s lies on oil blocs ownership

By Sonde Abbah

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enator Ita Enang certainly knows how to create some dramatic effect. Witness, for instance, the melodrama enacted on the floor of the Senate last week. Enang, chairman of the Senate’s Business and Rules Committee, struck in the heat of the debate on the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB), reeling out facts and figures to prove that Northerners allegedly own 83% of the nation’s oil blocs.

Not unexpectedly, the senator’s “mother of all revelations” stunned not a few Nigerians, more so as Enang reeled out a list of names to buttress his points. But facts at the disposal of our correspondent belied the controversial senator’s claim. In fact, selective amnesia apparently dictated Enang’s sensational submission.

“It’s true that a number of Northerners own sizable oil blocs,” a source close to the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) disclosed to PEOPLES DAILY. “But, based on available facts and figures, I can confirm to you that the oil blocs owned by Northerners is, compared with those of their Southern counterparts, relatively small. What happened is that the senator merely twisted facts to suit his wild submissions.”

Truly so. For instance, Moni Pulo Ltd, Seplat Petroleum Development Company, Britania-U, Chorus Energy, and Elcrest Fxploration and Production Nig Ltd are some of the high profile outfits owned by Sotherners. Others are: platform Petrol Ltd, Britania-U, Energia Ltd, Consolidated Oil, and Dubril Oil Company Ltd also among the oil blocs owned by Southerners, all of who parade sizeable ioil blocs.

Putting the whole thing in perspective, Toyin Akinosho, a petroleum geologist and former news reporter, is now publisher of African Oil and Gas Report, stated as follows: "Senator Ita Enang's spirited claim at the National Assembly Wednesday to the effect that 83% of the country's oil bloc is in the hands of northerners appears to be inspired from assertions contained in an old article by a newspaper commentator, Mr. Ross Alabo-George whose famous essay was titled Poverty And Deprivation: Why The North Is Poor.

"Alabo- George writes about the estate of the late Mai Deribe, the Bornu State born businessman, supposedly owning

Senator Ita Enang a huge oil field; Rilwanu Lukman having controlling shares in Afren; Atiku Abubakar being the stupendously rich beneficiary of the profits of Intels, the logistics company; Aminu Dantata's Express Petroleum. He ties Amni Petroleum to only Sani Bello.

"Oil acreage ownership in Nigeria does not have ethnic coloration. When Jibril Aminu handed out oil prospecting blocks, in the first comprehensive effort "to encourage indigenous participation" in 1991, he gave blocs to companies owned by Folawiyo, Abiola, Adenuga, Udoji, Ibru, Igbinedion,(all Southerners) as much as he gave to enterprises set up by people like Saleh Jumbo and Mai Deribe.

"The author cites a number of hydrocarbon acreages belonging to Northern elites, but ignores the fact that holding an acreage is one thing; getting value out of it is another. That so many people believe the poorly researched

Gen. T.Y. Danjuma article, is testimony to poor knowledge of how the oil industry works.

"The first field the author mentions is Obe field, which, he rightly claims, is held by Cavendish Petroleum, a company set up by Alhaji Mai Deribe. Alabo- George lied by saying that the Obe field, the main hydrocarbon pool in OML 110, contains 500Million barrels of oil reserves.

"The Obe field does not have a proven 20 Million barrels. I am not sure it has 10Million barrels.

It is not producing as I write. The Obe field has not produced for five years, since 2007, when Tranfigura, the last technical partner engaged by Cavendish, walked out."

He added: "Alabo George's second example of a wealthy northerner swimming in oil money is Mohammed Indimi, "a Fulani and close friend of General Ibrahim Babangida". He says

“

"Oriental Energy Resources Limited runs three oil blocks: OML 115, the Okwok field and the Ebok field. OML 115 and Okwok are OML PSC, while Ebok is an OML JV. All of them good yielding offshore oil blocks".

The author just doesn't care to verify his claims. True, Indimi's Oriental Resources holds the three assets. OML 115 is not producing as I write. No one has certified that there's a producible field in the acreage. Ebok is being produced, on Oriental Resources' behalf, by Afren, a UK listed company. Last year, the field delivered an average of 8,000Barrels of Oil per Day (BOPD), according to Afren's website. You can google it.

Okwok, as I write, is still in development. Translation: it has produced nary a drop of oil.

Aminu Dantata's Express Petroleum holds the Oil Mining Lease 108, with technical partners Shebah Petroleum,

Little wonder, many Nigerians are strongly of the view that Enang was merely being economical with the truth. “The gentleman is merely playing to the gallery,” said Dr. Tukola Andrew, a legal practitioner based in Abuja. “Half truth, as they say, is like lies.”

which bought out Conoco, the original technical partners. Fine.

The Ukpokiti field, the main asset on the acreage, produced for quite a while; and should have made the Dantatas quite rich, over a period of more than seven years. The field died out at some point and is being revived as I write.

"NorthEast Petroleum is owned by another Fulani businessman from the North East, Alhaji Saleh Mohammed Jambo", Alabo-George testifies.

"The license was awarded to him

by General Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida". Another truth: North East Petroleum has NEVER produced a single drop of oil since that award in the early 90s. There, simply, hasn't been a discovery worth the while for operator TOTAL.” Little wonder, many Nigerians are strongly of the view that Enang was merely being economical with the truth.

“The gentleman is merely playing to the gallery,” said Dr. Tukola Andrew, a legal practitioner based in Abuja.

“Half truth, as they say, is like lies.”

Senator |Abdullahi Adamu couldn’t agree more. Hear him: “Let him (Enang) bring out the details of those who have oil blocs.

You don’t just bring eight or nine allocations as evidence of oil blocs owned by the north. That is trash. I accepted the principles of disclosure for the benefit of the debate, but let the whole country have the full disclosure, the whole story, not part of the story.

Let’s go to the archive, the NNPC

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2013

PAGE 5

Navy cautions on fake recruitment syndicate

By Joy Baba

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Yobe state Governor, Malam Ibrahim Gaidam (middle), his Borno state counterpart, Alhaji Kashim Shettima (2ndright), Yobe state Deputy Governor, EngineerAbubakar Ali (right), Borno state Deputy Governor, Malam Zanna Mustapha (left), and former Borno state Governor, Senator Ali Modu Sherrif (2nd left), after a meeting, yesterday at Government House, in Damaturu, Yobe state capital.

Insecurity: PDP endorses Jonathan’s position on Boko Haram

By Lawrence Olaoye

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he leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) yesterday endorsed President Goodluck Jonathan’s resolve to leave the military Joint Task Force (JTF) in the steets of Borno and Yobe states until the leaders are able to commit themselves into an inviolable undertaking that makes them responsible for further killings and destruction by the Boko Haram sect.

The party, in a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Chief Olisa Metuh, said the position of the President clearly shows his forthrightness and great concern for the safety of Nigerians including those living in Borno and other troubled spots in the country.

The statement added that the President and the PDP fully understood and deeply shared in From Inumidun Ojelade, Ibadan

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he Oyo state government has signed a joint venture agreement with an Australian-based firm, Maldon Minerals and Engineering Consortium, for the provision of agricultural and agro-allied services and solid mineral exploration and exploitation.

The agreement was signed at the Executive Council Chambers of the Governor’s office at the weekend by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaji Waheed Akin Olajide, on behalf of the state government and Dr. Dapsy Olatona, on behalf of the firm.

The partnership, when fully operational, will involve agriculture and agro-processing, educational and vocational training as well as mining and allied services.

While the consortium will contribute 70 per cent of the total project cost, the state government is expected to shoulder the remaining 30 per cent, while the agreement will remain in force for a period of one year after which it will be subjected to quarterly

the worries of Borno elders on the imperative of cessation of violence and restoration of peace in order to enable social and economic activities.

It further commended the President for his well thoughtout humane approach in handling the situation, thumbing up for the successes recorded so far by security agencies.

“We commend the President for his humane approach and for his unrelenting commitment to the improved welfare of Nigerians”, Metuh stated.

“The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) fully aligns with the challenge of President Goodluck Jonathan to the Bornu elders on their responsibility vis a vis the withdrawal of the military Joint Task Force (JTF) .”

“The position of the President shows his forthrightness and intense fatherly concern for the

safety of all Nigerians living in Borno state and other troubled spots in the country. This is a direct challenge to all of us, especially those from the troubled areas to rise to the occasion and re-engage dispassionate avuncular responsibilities in genuine search for peace.”

“Our great party understands and deeply shares in the worries of the Borno elders over the protracted insurgency in the region and its grave implications for social and economic activities.

However, we deem it necessary that the elders accept this challenge and reflect in-depth on their preeminent position as a cardinal portal of peace as connoted in the assertion by the President.”

The party also commended the President for the heart to heart discussion with elders of Bornu and Yobe State and for sparing time to visit some

orphanages saying such was an indication of his concern for vulnerable Nigerians.

“The President was not in Bornu and Yobe for photo-ops and showmanship as did the Governors of the opposition APC who cooed in the streets of Maiduguri and boasted in the media to invite attention to themselves.

The President was on a genuine mission for peace and development.”

The Party further said it strongly believes that the efforts of the Jonathan administration will succeed in checking the security challenges as witnessed by the successes already recorded by the security agencies and further appealed to those behind the violent attacks in the country to have a rethink. “Life is sacrosanct and nobody has the right to shed innocent blood under any guise.”

Oyo, Australian firm sign MoU for mineral exploration, agro-allied services review based on the mutual agreement between the two parties.

Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Abiola Ajimobi said that the development was the fall out of his trips abroad last year in search of foreign investors that would partnership with his administration to actualize its transformation agenda.

It would be recalled that one of the countries which the governor

visited in 2011 was Australia where he met with some investors, one of which was Maldon Minerals and Engineering Consortium which signified their intention in partnering with government in transforming the economy of the state.

Governor Ajimobi described the firm as one of the foremost companies in Australia specializing in mining, agriculture and agro-allied

services, and skill acquisition, assuring that the partnership would also provide mass employment and ensure the growth and development of the state.

He said that all the infrastructure needed for the smooth take-off of the project would be put in place in the next few weeks, adding that production, exploitation and exploration would begin shortly.

Measles ravages Katsina communities, kills 40 children From Lawal Sa’idu Funtua, Katsina

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eports from Kakumi village and its environs in Bakori local government area of Katsina state say no fewer than 40 children have died from measles infection within the last two months.

Most of the affected areas in Kakumi Village and its environs include, Zagin Mukaddas, Dotsa, Dan Goza, Garangozai, Sabon Layi,

Maci Kaya, Tunjimawa, Gidan Jauro, Unguwar Dan Daudu and Makera Kakumi.

A resident of Kakumi told this reporter that although there were adequate awareness on the disease in the area but lack of adequate vaccines has been frustrating the effort.

However responding to the situation, the Permanent Secretary at Ministry of Health, Dr. Qabasiyyu Ahmad, said there were

enough vaccines adding that, “in fact, children as old as six years were included in the immunization.

“What I will advise parents is that we have to take the issue of vaccination very seriously because that is the best way of checking the dreaded disease.”

On the death toll, Ahmad said he could not confirm the figures as he was awaiting reports from the from the state primary health care development agency.

igerian Navy has warned of a fake recruitment syndicate deceiving members of the public that it is recruiting on behalf of the Navy.

The Naval Director of information, Commodore Kabir Aliyu, said in a statement in Abuja yesterday that, “the attention of the Nigerian Navy has been drawn to the existence of some syndicates claiming to be carrying out recruitment exercise on behalf of the Service.

“The Navy wishes to inform members of the general public that it has not commissioned any group to carry out any recruitment on its behalf.

“The Service has a standard procedure for its recruitment exercise.”

The statement further said that the Navy recently carried out the first phase of its 2013 recruitment exercise nationwide noting that the exercise was well advertised in the print and electronic media and the result of the exercise is yet to be released.

FOCI warns on kidnapping, killing of construction workers

By Josephine Ella Ejeh

D

isturbed by the spate of kidnapping and killing of construction workers in the country, the Federation of Construction Industry (FOCI) has called on the federal and state governments to take drastic measures to tackle the menace before the sub sector is grinded to a halt.

In a statement issued in Abuja, the FOCI President, Solomon Ogunbusola, noted that in the last one year, 11 expatriates employed

by Setraco Nigeria Limited were kidnapped in the southern part of the country adding that additional seven expatriates are currently being held in the north with little or no information about their fate.

Ogunbusola said that trend was posing a serious threat to the execution of development projects in the country.

According to him, unless the situation is checked, the country will lose its attraction to foreign investors.

As Ogunbusola put it, “Nigerians will still recall that an expatriate employee of Dantata& Sawoe Construction Company Nigeria Limited was kidnapped last year and was never released.

“He was killed several months after being kidnapped and we also recall that one Briton and one Italian worker were equally killed in an attempt to rescue them by security forces in Sokoto last year.

“During the same period, four expatriates working for a Chinese Construction Company were killed.”

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, MARCH, 11, 2013

PAGE 8

www.kn.gov.ng/new/

88th KANO STATE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING The 88th Kano State Executive Council Sitting was held Today Wednesday 6th March, 2013 (24th Rabi'ul Thani, 1434 AH) under the Chairmanship of Governor Engr. Rabi'u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE. Ten (10) MDAs submitted twenty eight (28) memoranda for deliberation by the Council. Fifteen (15) of the submitted memoranda were approved for execution with ten (10) of them having monetary implications to the tune of Two Hundred and Twenty Three Million, Six Hundred and Eighty Two Thousand, Three Hundred and Seventy Five Naira, One Kobo (N223,682,375.01) while the remaining five (5) were on policy issues as presented below: 1.

MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT Request for funds to facilitate the production of 1,000,000 seedlings:Since inception, this Administration has been doing everything to create the enabling environment that will empower its citizenry, whose major occupation is farming. The State has been the food basket of the nation and the leading centre of agricultural exports.

However, with environmental degradation and encroaching desertification arise the need for the establishment of shelterbelts in the State. The belts are expected to contain and curtail desertification and provide the rural community with other economic activities through the harnessing of economic trees, such as gum Arabic. The long-term interest of this policy is to improve rural earning, encourage farming, and discourage rural to urban migration.

Kano Afforestation Project (KNAP), a parastatal of the Ministry of Environment was established to improve agricultural production and reduce threat of desertification in the State. This has been its major engagement and every support is being given by the Administration to the Agency to achieve such a laudable objective.

Council recalled that in 2012 more than N10 million was released to the Agency to produce seedlings for afforestation program. The seedlings were produced for the reinvigoration of seven (7) shelter-belts, establishment of one plantation and distribution to interested individuals for farms and homestead planting.

The success of this program explains the present request by the Ministry of Environment for the need to produce one million (1,000,000) seedlings by the Agency. The seedlings are to be utilized in the establishment of the 8-Kilometer new Shelter-belt at Saye Village, reinvigoration of the existing 35- Kilometer Shelter-belts, 30 hectares of Industrial plantation of Gum Arabic and 30 hectares enrichment plantation scheme of deforested forest areas in the State.

This time around, the Ministry of Environment requested for the release of the sum of N9,875,000.00 to enable KNAP facilitate the production of yet another 1,000,000 units of seedlings for use as stated above.

Council approved the release of the requested sum of N9,875,000.00 to the Ministry of Environment to enable KNAP undertake the project of producing yet another 1,000,000 units of seedlings for use as stated.

3.

MINISTRY OF LAND AND PHYSICAL PLANNING Request for funds to enable the payment of compensation for properties affected in the course of upgrading/ expansion of Sheikh Ja'afar Road:The contract awarded for the Construction of Sheikh Ja'afar Road was approved via Council resolution number SSCA/CA/ EX/7/1/57 dated 8th March, 2012. This contract is amongst the major contracts awarded by this Administration for the opening up and expansion of Kano metropolitan roads worth over N40 billion. Amongst the roads under construction are the Hadejia Road, Zaria Road, and Gwarzo Road. These roads are the major access roads into and out of Kano metropolis. Their upgrading from single lines to dual carriageways indicates Government commitment towards the improvement of communication/ transportation and the modernization of the State. Improved road networks are critical to the modernization process of the State because of their direct impact on the social, political, and economic development. Such roads channel the flow of persons, commodities, and facilitate access to remote and new areas for future development in addition to reducing vehicular congestion.

As Kano metropolis is facing facelift, the rural areas are not left unattended. Contracts for the construction of five (5) kilometer roads were awarded in each of the 44 Local Government Areas worth around N80 billion.

In the process of construction and expansion of these roads, private individuals or public facilities or structures are affected either for relocation or for compensation. This explains the basis behind the contents of this memorandum. The Ministry of Land and Physical Planning, KNUPDA and the Water Board have identified some structures to demolish in order to relocate and lay public water supply pipelines. The structures identified include storied dwelling/shops and a mosque on the right hand side of Bayero University Old Site fence, which are assessed and valued at the total sum of N29,667,605.00. The Ministry of Land and Physical Planning requested for the release of the sum of N29,667,605.00 to enable the payment of the compensation for the demolished structures mentioned.

The request was approved by the Council to ensure the completion of the project according to schedule.

incapable of admitting hundreds of youths seeking admission.

The development so far achieved towards the establishment of these Health Institutions led to the reason behind the submission of this memorandum.

Contents of this memorandum referred Council to the approval granted for the construction of Administration Block, Demonstration/Laboratory Block and Electricity Generator room at the site of the new School of Health Technology, Bebeji to the tune of N49,905,898.64. The approval was granted via Council Extract Number SSCA/CA/EX/13/1/29 dated 23rd February, 2012.

The work has been satisfactorily completed awaiting provision of furniture, equipment and landscaping to enable the immediate take-off of academic programs at the Institution within the 2012/ 2013 Academic Session. So, the Ministry of Health requested for the release of the sum of N52,246,268.16 by the Council to facilitate the provision of furniture, equipment and landscaping at the site of the new School of Health Technology, Bebeji. Thus; SN i. ii. iii. iv.

ENGR. RABI`U MUSA KWANKWASO Executive Governor, Kano State

4.

MINISTRY OF EDUCATION Request for funds to enable the purchase of a private House (Building) adjacent to the one donated to the Ministry of Education at Koki quarters, Municipal Local Government Area for the establishment of a Junior Secondary school:If there is any Administration that gives education the attention it deserves in Nigeria of yesterday and today is the present administration of Eng. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. The only State Government sponsored over 500 postgraduate students to study overseas, 100 graduates to study piloting in Jordan and sponsored 100 students to study medicine and another 100 to study Pharmacy overseas. The Government also established the Northwest University, which is now in session after admitting 1000 students.

Citizens may recall that, Eng. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso was the person who established the Kano University of Science and Technology, Wudil during his first term. In the same vein, over N5 billion was expended on the construction of classrooms, staff quarters and the provision of laboratory equipment and instructional materials to the schools. Through these, the Administration is setting up a stage for the development of human capital in the State. The State youths being trained in and outside the State in particular and the country in general will develop engineering, medical, legal and/ or other specialized skills thereby increasing their capacities to contribute to the gross national product. Thus, the Nigerian societies will benefit in the end from their education. It is true to say that it is very difficult to identify, quantify and measure the benefits of this Administration's policy on education.

In addition to these efforts, Government has been encouraging private individuals to contribute their quota towards the development of education in the State. Seeing what has been happening in the State, individuals such as Aliko Dangote, have been encouraged to support the Government in executing its laudable education program. This was the basis of this memorandum. Council was notified by the Ministry of Education, through contents of this memorandum, that a Philanthropist, Alhaji Sa'idu Muhammad Koki has donated a house (building) to the Ministry of Education for conversion into a Junior Secondary School at Koki Quarters, Municipal LGCA. On inspection during the handing over exercise, it was established that the donated building (house) would not accommodate a School, which made the Ministry of Education to recommend for the purchase of the house (building) adjacent to the donated one to enable the establishment of a standard Junior Secondary School.

The sum of N9,200,000.00 was requested for release to enable the purchase of the adjacent house by the Ministry of Education to actualize the purpose intended.

Approval was granted for the release of the requested sum of N9,200,000.00 to the Ministry of Education, as verified by the Ministry of Land and Physical Planning, to purchase the house stated for the purpose presented.

Council was gratified by the gesture of the philanthropist and call on people of goodwill to emulate.

5.

MINISTRY OF HEALTH Request for funds to facilitate furnishing/equipping of New School of Health Technology, Bebeji:This Administration realizes that the major problems of healthcare delivery services are those of lack of healthcare personnel and the efficiency in the supply of health services to the teeming populace.

In trying to tackle these problems, this Administration has approved and established new School of Nursing at Madobi, School of Midwifery at Gezawa, and School of Health Technology at Bebeji to train healthcare personnel to complement the existing ones that are

v. vi. vii. viii.

Items Landscaping works Equipping/Furnishing of Administrative Block Equipping/Furnishing of Female Hostel Equipping/Furnishing of Classroom Block Equipping of Practical/ Demonstration room Laboratory Equipment/ Instruments/Reagents Equipment/Furnishing of School Clinic Pre-Accreditation/ Accreditation Total

Amount (N) 19,770,096.00 7,815,910.00 5,490,334.91 5,294,700.00 4,039,925.00 4,201,174.32 3,634,127.93 2,000,000.00 52,246,268.16

Council noted, considered and approved the release of the requested sum of N52,246,268.16 to the Ministry of Health to execute the stated purpose so as to actualize the immediate takeoff of the new School of Health Technology, Bebeji.

7.

OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY TO THE STATE GOVERNMENT This Office submitted sixteen (16) memoranda on behalf of some MDAs for deliberation by the Council. Four (4) of them were approved for execution as follows; a.

Request for funds to facilitate the purchase of one unit each of brand New Sunny Excavator 310 and a Pay-loader 2L 50f for use by Kano Urban Planning and Development Authority (KNUPDA):KNUPDA is the agency reposed with the responsibilities for urban planning and development. Executing these, responsibilities require the procurement of modern earth moving machines for road constructions, drainage excavation, and demolishing of illegal structures amongst others. The struggle of this Administration towards the modernization of Kano State led to the provision of equipment worth over N200 million to the Agency since inception. Kano metropolis is now wearing a new face due to the commitment of this Government in seeing that the State Capital becomes a modern city worth emulating. This memorandum was also for the procurement of working equipment by the Agency.

Council noted, considered and approved the release of the sum of N57,400,000.00 to the Office of the Secretary to the State Government to procure and allocate one brand new Sunny Excavator 310 and a Pay-Loader 2L 50F to KNUPDA for use in the delivery of its services. b.

Presentation on "Waste to Fuel" as proposed by Affordable Energy Solutions Ltd:The State Ministry of Science and Technology along with that of the Ministry of Environment were directed to study a proposal submitted by Affordable Energy Solutions Ltd on "Waste to Fuel" for which details were presented. The two Ministries studied the proposal and submitted their findings for Council's consideration.

The Company claims to have developed a prototype machine capable of converting waste plastics and other related materials to fuel. The company also stated that: i.

The machine can process at least 5 tons of waste plastics per day. ii.

A ton of processed waste plastic will produce 600-900 litres of fuel. iii.

The Company requires financial support to the tune of N60,000,000.00 to develop the technology in collaboration with the Ministries of Science and Technology and that of Environment.

Council appreciated the presentation and directed the Ministry of Science and Technology to invite the Company to assess the viability, maintenance and reliability of the machine, discuss the grey areas inherent in the design of the machine and establish sustainability of source of material to be supplied to the Company.

The decision of the Council was because waste contains resources

CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

PAGE 9

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, MARCH, 11, 2013 that are usable in the production of goods and services such as the generation of electricity. This proposition by the company may be economically beneficial and may open up other possibilities.

In fact, the metropolitan centers are presently facing huge refuse of waste from production and consumption of finished products.

Recycling this waste will be of great interest to the State. c.

Request for funds to facilitate the procurement and allocation of 18-Seater Bus to the Office of the Special Adviser on Metropolitan Affairs:The Office of the Special Adviser on Metropolitan Affairs requested for the allocation of 18-Seater Bus through the Office of the Secretary to the State Government. This will be used as an official vehicle to facilitate easy movement/shuttle in coordinating/ monitoring activities on the training of 10,000 butchers selected from the 44 LGCAs as approved by the Executive Council.

Council agreed on the relevance of the request and approved the release of the sum of N7,500,000.00 to the Office of the Secretary to the State Government to purchase and allocate a Toyota Hiace 18-Seater Bus to the Office of the Special Adviser on Metropolitan Affairs. d.

Presentation on a report submitted by the Kano Renaissance Think-Tank (KRTT):The Office of the Secretary to the State Government presented/ introduced the Kano Renaissance Think-Tank (KRTT) as a Committee composing public spirited individuals who have the conviction and sense of responsibility of identifying the challenges facing Northern Nigeria. The individuals in the Committee are professionals in their respective fields of endeavours.

Council was further intimated of the fact that the KRTT selected Kano as a case study due largely to its cosmopolitan nature and leading role in the socio-economic development of Northern Nigeria in particular and the Country in general. As such, the suggestions and solutions of meeting identified challenges for Kano State are therefore adjudged applicable, with some modifications therein, to other States in the North.

The report submitted by the KRTT Committee evaluated the problems of development facing Kano State in four areaseducation, energy, healthcare and public transportation. The current situation in these major sectors was analyzed, problems identified and solutions/recommendations for rectitude made phase one of which is summarized as follows; i.

Establishment of an Independent Curriculum review Committee to oversee all issues relating to the periodic review, modernization and implementation of educational curriculum in Schools. ii.

Establishment of Teachers Quality Assurance Board and Teachers' Code of Conduct Board to handle matters relating to the hiring, training and retention of quality Teachers as well as setting up of highest Standards of ethics in the educational system. iii.

Imbibing the Culture of research excellence in our highest Institutions of learning by way of creating and funding centers of excellence in some key areas relating to socio-economic needs of the State. iv.

Establishment of an Independent Kano Electricity Company v.

Formation of Kano Electricity Regulatory Commission vi. Fostering closer strategic partnership with Niger Republic in the area of gas supply. vii. Exploring and setting up Research Centers for alternative forms of energy. viii. Establishment of World-Class Medical Center and Diagnosis Center in the State. ix.

Facilitate regular media coverage of State-owned Hospitals

by Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital. x.

Introduction of courses in Medical Health related disciplines by Kano University of Science and Technology (KUST), Wudil and Northwest University, Kano. xi.

Formation of Road Network Maintenance Board. xii. Creation of Kano Mass Transit Authority to oversee the development of a modern "State of the art" Public Transportation System (which include double decker buses, metered taxi cabs and light rail transportation system. xiii. Designing and managing effective vehicle registration as well as licensing system.

Council appreciated the presentation and agreed that some of the suggestions either were identified by the Government and are being implemented or are in the pipelines for implementation.

Nevertheless, MDAs are directed to peruse suggestion(s) relevant to their organizations and apply. This Administration is eager to receive viable suggestions from either individuals or organizations that will be of assistance in the development of the State. Already, suggestion boxes are stationed in strategic places such as the Local Government Headquarters and the Offices of the District/ Village Heads for the use of individuals desirous of submitting their suggestions and recommendation. e.

Presentation on the allocation of 180 metric tons of agricultural lime to Kano State by the Office of the Honorable Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development:The Office of the Secretary to the State Government presented the actual allocation letter from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development to the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources involving 180 metric tons of agricultural lime.

Specifically, the allocation was said to be in line with the on-going reform in the Agricultural Sector under Agricultural Transformation Agenda (ATA). The lime was allocated to Kano State so as to enhance productive capacity of the abundant agricultural land available in the State.

Further, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development communicated that; i.

In order to rehabilitate the degraded agricultural soils caused by acidity, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development intends to liaise with KNARDA and establish Pilot Demonstrative Farms in some selected areas of the State. This is in response to the demand to improve farmers' livelihood and ensure food security through rehabilitation of some affected areas. ii.

Also, the Train the Trainers (TOT) Technology will be scaled up to ensure proper adoption and sustainability among

farmers in the targeted communities. iii.

Emphasis is placed on the creation of awareness to farmers and Extension Agents, which leads to opening up of more land for Agricultural production, generation of income and creating of job opportunities for the teeming youths.

Council appreciatively acknowledged the presentation and directed the Hon. Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources to prepare and submit a comprehensive sharing formula for use in the distribution of the fertilizer stated. f.

Presentation on Awards by the Governor Engr. Rabi'u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE to Players and Athletes and request for the release of the pledged Cash Reward:The Ministry of Information, Internal Affairs, Youths, Sports and Culture submitted a reminder letter through the Office of the Secretary to the State Government on the pledged Cash reward made to players and athletes for winning laurels for the State during a reception held in their honour at the Government House on 6th October, 2012. The sum of money pledged was to the tune of N7,800,000.00 to be disbursed to forty six (46) people, thus;

Release of the pledged sum of N7,800,000.00 was approved by the Council to the Office of the Secretary to the State Government for onward payment to the Ministry of Information, Internal Affairs, Youths, Sports and Culture for disbursement to the 46 beneficiaries as presented. The gesture was in cognizance of the fantastic performances of the beneficiaries and the good name they bring to the State.

8.

MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND NATURAL RESOURCES Request for funds to facilitate civil works on sample wind turbines installed for irrigation at Pada Dam in Gwarzo LGCA:A Company called the New Era Energy, introduced to the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources, a new technology that utilizes wind energy for pumping water for irrigation purposes.

The fact that wind blows all year round in Kano, the technology enables utilization of free energy for irrigation. In the long run, this more than compensates for the initial cost of installation as it makes recovery of investment within two (2) years possible.

Confident in the suitability of the technology to the type of agricultural techniques utilized in Kano State, the Company offered to install a free sample to demonstrate the applicability of wind turbines for surface water pumping for irrigation. Indeed, the sample installed has already been commissioned on 1st April, 2012 and only awaits civil works for surface irrigation so as to commence farming.

In any case, the civil works is to be borne by the State Government for which the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources requested for the release of the aggregate sum of N4,895,000.00 to facilitate the surface water irrigation civil works at the sample wind turbines installed at Pada Dam in Gwarzo Local Government.

Approval was granted as requested by the Council to enable the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources ascertain the applicability of the sample wind turbine installed at Pada Dam Gwarzo Local Government.

9.

MINISTRY FINANCE Presentation on the formalization of the appointment of temporary staff of the Kano State Pension Fund Trustees:The Honorable Commissioner for Finance submitted a report on behalf of the 3-Member Committee mandated to look into the issue of formalization of the appointment of seventeen (17) temporary Staff of the Pension Fund Trustees to permanent and pensionable. The Committee comprised the Head of Civil Service, the Accountant General and the Honourable Commissioner for Finance.

Notably, the Committee submitted the following summary on the 17 people affected; i.

Two (2) NCE holders among the Staff though found hardworking and dedicated to work were recommended for formalization and deployment to KSSMB where their services are suitably required. ii.

Eight (8) National Diploma holders were recommended for formalization and retention by the Pension Fund Trustees. iii.

One (1) National Diploma holder was disqualified for formalization due to his weakness in the discharge of duties assigned to him. iv.

Two (2) SSCE holders were recommended for formalization and retention by the Pension Fund Trustees. v.

Four (4) Primary School Certificate holders recommended for formalization and retention by the Pension Fund Trustees.

This brought the number of staff recommended for formalization to sixteen (16), which Council considered and approved.

10.

MINISTRY OF WORKS, HOUSING AND TRANSPORT Presentation on report on the construction of DiggolDausayawa road in Dambatta LGCA:The Honorable Commissioner for Works, Housing and Transport reminded Council, through the contents of this memorandum, of the construction of farm access road at the site mentioned above

by Commercial Agriculture Development Project (CADP) under KNARDA. Reflectively, the Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport was instructed to inspect the project and report back on findings at the site. The site was visited and the following observations were made. o The road is 3.5 Kilometers long and starts from a junction on Dambatta-Diggol-Gwada road and link to Dausayawa settlement.

o There are indications of farming activities in the area. o The project has been completed.

Nevertheless, the contractor was directed to make good all the defects observed within the defect liability period pending settlement of the retention money. The Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport requested for the release of the sum of N40,430,898.85 by the Council to enable settlement of Final Certificate submitted by the contractor.

Council noted, considered and approved the release of the requested sum of N40,430,898.85 to the Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport to effect payment of the final claim submitted by the contractor that executed the project.

UPDATE ON ACTIVITIES OF THE 88TH EXCO SITTING 1.

CONDUCT OF MONTHLY ENVIRONMENTAL SANITATION EXERCISE Council acknowledged the successful conduct of the monthly sanitation exercise held on Saturday 02-03-2013 in the State and extended its gratitude to all stakeholders and the public for their untiring support to ensure clean and healthy environment.

2.

GOODWILL MESSAGE TO HIS HIGHNESS THE EMIR OF KANO Council expressed its delight on the safe return of his Highness, the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Dr. Ado Bayero from a medical treatment to the United Kingdom as a result of the unfortunate attack on his convoy by some unknown gunmen.

3.

FLAGGING-OFF OF SECONDARY SCHOOLS SPORTS COMPETITION Council acknowledged the flag-off of the Kano State Secondary Schools Sports Competition and distribution of 370 footballs on Monday 04/3/2013. Declaration of Government support to resuscitate sports and also ensure its revival across all the Secondary Schools in the State and also create an avenue where students will excel in sporting activities was reinstated.

4.

DISTRIBUTION OF CAR LOAN CHEQUES TO TEACHERS Council acknowledged the issuing of car loan cheques to teachers on Tuesday, 5/3/2013, which is in tandem with the desire of the present Administration to improve the welfare and lives of the teachers by providing them with car loans to ease transport difficulty. Council also recalled its approval for the release of another N100 million for the teachers' vehicle loan scheme.

5.

GRADUATION OF 400 YOUTHS OF FARM MECHANIZATION INSTITUTE Council acknowledged and appreciated the graduation of 400 Youths of Farm Mechanization Institute, Bagauda.

This was considered a laudable legacy of the present administration.

6.

GRADUATION OF 126 YOUTHS OF LIVESTOCK INSTITUTE, BAGAUDA AND 150 WOMEN TRAINEES FROM A 3-DAY WORKSHOP Today, Council acknowledged the graduation of 126 youths of Livestock Institute, Bagauda and the graduation of 150 women trainees from a 3-Day Workshop held in collaboration with Bayero University, Kano State Government and other Agencies.

7.

PRESENTATION OF AWARD TO GOVERNOR ENGR. RABI'U MUSA KWANKWASO, FNSE BY NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF SMALL SCALE INDUSTRIES (NASSI) Council witnessed the presentation of an award to His Excellency the Governor by the National Association of Small Scale Industries (NASSI), which was presented by the National President, Chief Chukwu Nwachukwu for his tremendous support in developing Small-Scale Enterprises. His Excellency was identified as "the Most Entrepreneur Friendly Governor in Nigeria''.

8.

PRESENTATION OF AWARD TO GOVERNOR ENGR. RABI'U MUSA KWANKWASO, FNSE BY THE ASSOCIATION OF NORTHERN NIGERIAN STUDENTS (ANNS) Council witnessed the presentation of an award to Governor Engr. Rabi'u Kwankwaso, FNSE by the National Association of Northern Nigerian Students, which was presented by the President, Comrade Musa Usman as the ''Best Performing Governor for the Educational Sector in Northern Nigeria''. This was attributed to the viable legacies and achievements recorded by the present administration towards improving and reviving the Educational Sector.

9.

DONATION TO FAMILIES OF THE VICTIMS OF D7 POLIO ATTACK Council witnessed the presentation of donation by the Federal Government to the victims and families of the polio vaccinators who were attacked by unknown gunmen during the D7 Polio mop-up exercise. During the attack, ten (10) people lost their lives and four (4) others were injured. The Federal Government donated the sum of N1,000,000.00 each to the families of the deceased and N200,000 each to those who were injured in the unfortunate incidence. This is in addition to the earlier donation made by Kano State Government and Dangote Groups.

USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS ON ANY EMERGENCY Council endorsed the under listed phone numbers submitted by the security agents for easy access in case of any emergency on the metropolitan roads. Accordingly, the public may easily contact KAROTA for: Breakdown of Vehicle, Traffic Congestion, Accident, Illegal / Wrong Parking through the following numbers on - 08091626747. Similarly, the State Police Command could be contacted on - 08032419754, 08123821575. In addition, the State Fire Service may also be contacted on 07051246833, 08191778888 for the public to note and make use of it.

For further information on Government activities visit us at: www.kano.gov.ng/new Signed: Hon. Commissioner, Ministry of Information, Internal Affairs, Youth, Sports & Culture, Kano State

PAGE 10

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2013

Sumaila blames northern leaders for region’s underdevelopment

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo (left), processing his new driver's license, recently at the FRSC headquarters, in Abuja.

With him is FRSC Corps Marshal, Mr Osita Chidoka (middle).

From Edwin Olofu, Kano

T

Photo: Mahmud Isa

Residents back Shettima over dialogue with Boko Haram R From Mustapha Isah Kwaru, Maiduguri

esidents of Maiduguri, the Borno state capital have thrown their weights behind Governor Kashim Shettima for insisting that dialogue with members of the Boko Haram sect remained the only option to end the persistent security challenges occassioned by the violent campaigns of the insurgents.

A cross section of the residents, who spoke to our correspondent at the weekend, observed that

Governor Shettima deserved applause for opposing President Jonathan’s declaration that the insurgent group is a ghost and can only be granted amnesty or engage in dialogue, if they come out in the open.

“Actually we are behind the governor’s reaction over President Jonathan statement, the former was absolutely right for suggesting that government can still hold peace talks with ghost”, Malam Goni Modu noted.

According to him, the president ought to have emulated

the procedures adopted by the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua in granting amnesty to the Niger Delta militants.

“For God’s sake, how can the president say Boko Haram members are faceless and that they must come out in the open before they can be pardoned, when his brethren in Niger Delta enjoyed same gesture in the past with out placing similar condition?”, he asked.

Another resident, Goni Ba’ana opined that he is totally in support of the governor’s position that

Pate commends Wamakko

T

he minister of state for Health, Dr Mohammed Ali Pate has commended Governor Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko of Sokoto state for sponsoring a radio programme on Poliomyelitis across the country.

Dr Pate who is also chairman of

the presidential taskforce on polio eradication said that the sensitization programme will contribute in no small measure in the fight against Polio in Nigeria.

Speaking as guest of the week on “Rigakafi ya fi Magani” monitored on Radio Nigeria Kaduna, the

minister said that Sokoto state government has demostrated enthusiastic commitment in the fight against polio.

“We visited Sokoto state recently and from what we saw on the ground, most of the challenges initially posing as bottleneck have

dialogue with the militants was possible as they are not faceless.

“How can you suggest that the sect has no identity and location, even when several of its members are being arrested and detained by the security agents. If indeed the president is sincere in tackling the insecurity peacefully, let him directed all relevant security chiefs and stakeholders to contact the detained insurgents so that they can link federal government with their colleaques”, Ba’ana queried.

been strengthened”.

While appreciating the state government as well as the Sultanate Council for the proactive measures they have so far embarked upon in order to rid the state of polio, Dr Mohammed Ali Pate appealed to the Governor to sustain the radio programme and include other diseases threatening the lives of children like meningitis and measles among others.

Lagos – Ibadan highway: FG not sincere – Afenifere From Ayodele Samuel, Lagos

T

he Pan Yoruba group,Afenifere has noted with concern the ongoing renovation work along the Lagos-Ibadan expressway as against the hope of reconstructing the “open grave” taken over from Bi-Courtney a few months ago.

The group in a statement signed by its Publicity Secatatary Yinka Odumakin said “We insist that the repair being carried out is not sufficient .We ask for a rebuilt road with six lanes on each of the northbound and southbound carriages between the interchange at Ojota in Lagos and the Sagamu interchange from where it should continue with four lanes on each

side to Ojoo in Ibadan”!

Odumakin said motorists and travelers have faced untold hardship on this road built close to 40 years ago with engineering designs of a road pavement with an asphalt layer as road surface and crushed granite layer above

laterite soil.

But the benign culture of corruption in Nigeria, he said ensured that the road was built without the crushed granite layer which led to uneven, broken and corrugated surface within few years of use.

“The culture of corruption has become a full-blown cancer over the years with billions of Naira budgeted every now and then ending in the pockets of corrupt officials with the attendant consequence of daily deaths on the trap.

he Deputy Minority Leader of the House of Representatives and member representing Sumaila/Takai federal constituency, Abdurrahman Kawu Sumaila has blamed northern leaders for the continued underdevelopment of the regions just as he asked youths to shun thuggery.

“Our youth should understand that the era of political thuggery is over. We should imbibe the culture of political tolerance and understanding. It is high time for us to realise that north has no political focus and our elders have failed us.

Should we keep on thinking that we cannot make any difference?”.

He also revealed that the deteriorating economic, social and political condition of northerners has forced the region to embrace merger with other political parties in the nation which he hoped would dethrone the ruling party, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from the Presidential Villa.

He made the observation when a group called Kawu Sumaila Political Awareness (KASPA) paid him a solidarity visit at his residence in Kano, under the leadership of Alhaji Mahmud Bala Nadada, to show their support for Kawu’s ambition to govern the state in 2015.

Sumaila revealed that northern legislators were speechless during the heated debate about the controversial Petroleum Industry Bill, currently at the second reading stage at the Senate, when one legislator from the South tendered documents showing how northerners own about 80% of the oil blocs in the country.

He challenged the northerners using religion or ethnicity to cause political disharmony in the region and the nation as doing so for personal interests.

He cited an example of General T. Y. Danjuma (rtd) who rendered assistance to Bayero University, Kano, the multi-billion commercial complex he is constructing in Kano and the N2billion assistance he gave to Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria during the 50th Anniversary of the University.

He dismissed other northern leaders that are Muslim,who could not do what General Danjuma was doing for the development of the north, adding that Muslims and Christians alike must put heads together, according to develop the north and Nigeria in general. “I do not see any point in putting blame on other people for the continued economic distress of our region. Those northerners that own about 80% of the nation’s oil blocks are mainly Muslims that are spread in almost all the states of the region”, he said.

Global Alliance: Gov Ahmed lauds Saraki’s membership From Olanrewaju Lawal,Ilorin

T

he Governor of Kwara State, Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed has commended the appointment of the former Governor of the State,Dr. Bukola Saraki as a member of the leadership council of the Global Alliance for Clean Cookstoves, an

initiative of the United Nations foundation.

Governor Ahmed in a congratulatory message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Alhaji Abdulwahab Oba said the appointment was an international affirmation and recognition of Senator Abubakar Bukola Saraki’s commitment to

the quest for a safer environment for the people of the world.

“It is very significant that Senator Saraki is replicating the ground breaking achievements he recorded as a two-term Governor of Kwara State at the national level, especially as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Environment and

ecology”.

Governor Ahmed noted that Saraki’s track records in public service would bring his experience to improve upon the activities of Global Alliance for clean cookstoves, especially the adoption of clean cookstoves and fuels in 100 million households by the year 2020.

PAGE 11

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2013

Reasons you must set life and business goals Compiled by Ibrahim Kabiru Sule, with agency reports

I

f you don’t have a particular destination, it doesn’t matter which road you take. You need to have a defined destination before the decision on the road to take can be of consequence. In the same vein, it doesn’t matter what thoughts you entertain, what actions you take, what vocation you undertake without defined goals. Living without goals is to live at the mercy of winds and currents of life. It is to live by the law of accident. Those who live without goals believe that success is largely due to luck.

But successful people believe that success is goals and they take responsibility for everything they are, everything they become and achieve. They set out in life by defining what they want, acquire skills necessary for its attainment and doggedly, pursue the goal. You must set life and business goals because: 1. You have an ally in nature in achieving them You are not alone. Nature is out to assist you in the pursuit and achievement of your goals.

You become what you habitually think. When you consistently think about, talk about and work on your goals, you begin to unconsciously attract to yourself the people, circumstances, resources, opportunities and ideas that will help achieve them. We found a classical operation of this law in Job’s life when he cried: “The thing I greatly feared has come upon me, and what I dreaded has happened to me.” Thoughts are powerful. That is why at times when you think about someone,

Business Tip There are only two kinds of People in Business - Know the Difference There are really only two kinds of people: expanders and containers. Learning to separate them quickly into the right category will save you a lot of time. 'Expanders' like to push the envelope, take risks, make new friends, and test how far they can go!

They also like to spend your money. 'Containers' like to keep things in order and stay on top of the details.

They keep you from losing your money. If you match the right person to the right position that takes advantage of their natural talents you'll build a powerful team of workers with all the strength needed to build a huge business.

Quote Business is never so healthy as when, like a chicken, it must do a certain amount of scratching around for what it gets. - Henry Ford

Aliko Dangote, Africa's richest man, and World's 43rd, has had his business goals when he started business the next minute the phone rings and the person is at the other end the line. Instead of using this law against yourself as Job did, by dwelling on what he does not want, you can use it to aid yourself by dwelling, in your thought and talk, on those things you most desire, like your life goals.

2. Goals take you faster on your success route Whatever your definition of success is, a well-defined and

precise goal, consistently pursued will get you there faster than you can imagine. Goals will eliminate every distraction and help you focus single mindedly.

It is like going to a new city and having the map of the city. It prevents unnecessary detours. If your definite life purpose is an exciting political life and you are focused on achieving it; you won’t have to waste your precious time by practicing to be a professional footballer. Rather,

you’ll develop skills like public speaking, negotiation, leadership and any other skills that will help your political ambition.

3. Goals give a sense of direction and purpose Living without definite goals is living by the law of accident.

Those who live by this law believe that success is achieved by being at the right place at the right time. They believe in luck.

They absolve themselves of the

responsibility to give direction and purpose to their lives. It is like finding oneself on the high sea in a ship without a rudder to steer it. You’re at the mercy of the turbulent waves. The waves can toss you up and down till you find yourself at a safe haven or they may ram you against some rocks leaving broken and shattered.

4. Goals put you in control / in charge To be in control is to have the ability or power to produce the result you desire. Power is the ability to change your life, to make things work for you and not against you. People fear and anxious because of lack of sense control of their lives.

Psychologists agree that a sense of control is crucial to feelings of happiness, confidence and power. You begin to have a sense of control when you take responsibility for your life by setting goals for the direction you want to stir your life and taking steps to achieving them.

5. Goals are keys to happiness Happiness is defined by someone as the progressive realization of a worthy ideal.

Since the pursuit of your set goals is gradually taking you to your ideal future the mere thought of your desired goals bring joy to your heart.

Moreover, pursuing a worthy goal gives you a sense of worth and importance which engenders happiness in you.

Your family business is not the family cash register

F

amily businesses face a variety of challenges that “normal” businesses do not have to deal with. Clearly the relationships between the family members who are working in the business, and even those who are not, create a different dynamic.

One issue in particular is how to manage the money.

When you are in a family business, there is an inherent level of trust that exists. Mom, dad, son and daughter are all happily working to drive the business forward.

But what happens many times is that since everyone has an ownership mentality, each believes they use and spend company funds as they see fit.

And sometimes even for their personal benefit.

I knew a family business with a married couple and two children working in the business.

Everyone had corporate credit cards, and the parents had checkbooks on top of that. The daughter was spending money to drive marketing; the son was using funds on manufacturing, and the dad was using the company funds as his own personal piggy bank.

The good news is that the company was doing so well that it didn’t matter, until there was a downturn. Then there was yelling, finger-pointing and general chaos.

The opposite can also occur: “We manage our finances very tightly,” says Sally Crowell, president of Crowell Systems in Charlotte, a software provider to

health care clients.

“Our daughter has a background in accounting, and we run everything through her.

Moreover, all of our systems come with financial management software for our customers, so we practice what we preach.”

It is easy to see how an environment where everyone feels they are entitled to access the bank account can be problematic. Here are five pointers to stave off problems before they crop up: • Have some financial policies.

Who has access to the checkbook?

Who has access to cash? How are expenditures recorded? What are the spending limits? What is personal vs. business spending?

• Have a budget. If you are a larger company, this is not an issue, but many small companies shy away from the idea of a budget as they fear how complicated it can be. But at the most basic level, it does not have to be.

The simplest budget is to take last year’s income statement, look at the percent of revenue spent in each of the expense categories, and if it was a decent year, establish those percentages as targets for the next year.

Taking it a step further, if you are aware of any new, big, or unusual expenditures that will need to occur in the coming year,

declare them now. Don’t wait until the money is needed, or spend it and inform everyone later.

• Set specific dates and times on the calendar to conduct formal monthly meetings to review the financial statements, measure your progress and ensure all are informed.

• Have a single point of contact to manage the finances. If you are small enough you can rely on a family member. If not, you will need to bring in someone from the outside. You will cringe from the price tag the goes along with a qualified accountant. But the difference between a good one and a bad one is the difference between knowing exactly where you are in the business and proactively driving it and pursuing tax advantages, and basically trying to drive your car with thick mud covering your entire windshield: You can’t see, and it is hard to clean up.

• Have a good external CPA who can review your books once a quarter to ensure that everything is in order.

Not having financial policies and procedures established for the family business can lead to poor spending habits, misunderstandings and lack of trust. But instilling good financial discipline leads to better business performance and a healthy family environment.

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2013

PAGE 12

EDIT ORIAL EDITORIAL

L

Unfulfilled promises and shameful power outages

ast week, Edo state Governor Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, in a fit of outrage over the unprecedented power outages the country is experiencing, urged Labour leaders in the country to organise a day of national protest against continued power failure in the country.

Sadly, this is coming about a month after President Goodluck Jonathan had claimed in a CNN interview that Nigerians were happy with his administration for improving power generation in the country. He had said that: "I would have loved that you asked an ordinary Nigerian in the streets of Lagos and Abuja or another other city this question about power.

That is one area that Nigerians are quite pleased with government, that our commitment to improve power is working. So if you are saying something different, am really surprised. That is one area that even civil society members agree that government has kept faith with its promise."

And penultimate week, Chairman of the Presidential Task Force on Power (PTFP), Beks Dagogo-Jack had assured Abuja residents that they "should expect their electricity supply to return to the normal load bandwidth of 300-350 megawatts by Sunday, February 24", following outages resulting from the temporary shutdown of Shiroro Hydroelectricity Dam. Sadly again, since then power outages in the Federal Capital have assumed a shameful regularity that some parts of the city receive less than five hours of electricity supply in 24

hours.

And at the 40th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) in June last year, President Jonathan had, in his usual rhetoric, assured that power supply in Nigeria would be among the best 20 in the world by the year 2020.

From 1999, when democratic

“

It is sad statement on the seriousness of the leadership to address the power generation debacle and other challenges facing the nation that the Presidency and the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have subordinated everything to President Jonathan's 2015 aspiration governance returned to these shores to date, not less than $20 billion was sunk in the bottom less power sector with pretty little on the ground as evidence.

Even at that, not everybody believes the government's claim that the country is producing up to 4,502 megawatts.

Expressing his doubt, Governor Oshiomhole has observed that "Nigeria cannot be producing 4,000 megawatts of power, this is reducing us to a joke.

OUR MISSION “To be the market place of ideas and the leading player in the industry by putting the people first, upholding the truth, maintaining the highest professional and ethical standards while delivering value to our stakeholders”

You can't run the economy on generator".

And the opposition All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) asserted that: "Officially, Nigeria's power generation has dropped from its December 2012 figure of 4,502 megawatts to 4,286 megawatts, though there are suggestions from various informed quarters that the actual generation is 3,700 megawatts. In fact, we make bold to aver that most of the Nigerian citizens are not feeling the impact of any increase in power generation, and the figures bandied around by the PDP-led Government does not have any impact on the lives of the ordinary citizen".

As if the standstill in power generation is not shameful enough, the Director General of Commonwealth Business Council (CBC) Dr Mohan Kaul, at a two-day power summit on Nigeria in London last week, disclosed that: "lack of power costs the Nigerian economy $100bn every year through lost output and high costs for local businesses."

It is a sad statement on the seriousness of the leadership to address the power generation debacle and other challenges facing the nation that the Presidency and the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have subordinated everything to President Jonathan's 2015 aspiration.

We agree with the position of Edo state governor that there is need for a national protest to tell the leadership that enough is enough; we want result not empty promises on power.

OUR PEOPLE

OUR VISION

CHAIRMAN MALAM WADA MAIDA, OON, FNGE DIRECTOR/ EDITOR-IN-CHIEF RUFA’I IBRAHIM ACTING EDITOR, DAILY HAMEED M. BELLO

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HEAD, ADVERT/MARKETING HUSSAINI ABDULRAHMAN, CNA

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MANAGER, ADMINISTRATION HASSAN HAMMANYAJI

HEAD, LAGOS BUREAU ADESOJI OYINLOLA

“To be a reputable, profitable, innovative and technologically reliant media company offering world class services and products”

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2013

PAGE 13

Sobowole’s phantom war against the Yoruba

By Mark Basil

A

t the launching of a book titled, Nigeria, Africa’s failed asset, written by Sir Olaniwun Ajayi, the Central Bank Governor Sanusi Lamido Sanusi known as a polemicist and for his candidness remarked to the gathering that “my grandfather was a Northerner, I am a Nigerian. The problem with this country is that in 2009, we speak in the language of 1953”.

It is imperative to recollect and share this anecdote here for the simple reason that some influential Nigerians are still swarmed by the tides of ethnocentrism even at a time when nations are bringing down walls that have become barriers to their commonality.

The prolific columnist Dele Sobowale recently went against the grain of objective discourse to speak as Sanusi said in the language of 1953. In his article Minister of Aviation declares war on Yoruba, he used near uncouth language that does not befit the toga of his erudition and experience; such that it makes one to pause and ponder what lessons Sobowale wants to bequeath to young people.

In the said article, he went on an arrogant winding ramble blaming Yoruba elites of scheming themselves out of power. However, his divisive intent clearly came to fore and thus he stated in an unabashed and unashamed manner “Of all the Ministries in the Federal Government, one, above all others, is headed by a Minister who has virtually declared war on Yoruba people in every area of her Ministry.

That is the Minister for Aviation. The reason for singling her out of the several MDAs in the federal government is again simple. It isstrategic to focus our energies on the worst offender, fight her to a standstill as an example to others that Yoruba people will not be pushed around by any transient holder of power. And she will not be the last holder of the ministry. She will go, sooner or later. But, the war will continue”.

He goes a step further making it doubly sad that a columnist of his status will write with such venomous bile and self assuredness “mounting evidence of her deliberate tribal hostility. She has started the war; she will not determine when it will end and how”.

This is totally unacceptable for one who has an influential following via the pages and syndication that his column enjoys.

The multitude of organisations he mentioned the Yoruba Unity Forum, the Afenifere Renewal Group and the Agbajo Yoruba Agbaye were formed to promote common interests and uphold the ethos, traditions and heritage of the Yorubas, irrespective of political and ideological inclination.

However, the tragedy of Sobowale’s brand of journalism is that he has crossed the line of editorial guidelines by hiding under the guise of OP-ED to spread his message of misseducation and biased reporting. In doing so he has succeeded in arrogating to himself the powers of the judge and the jury.

The most appalling part of his missive is the speculations

and outright falsehoods that he brandishes as facts. “I had no clue regarding who could be behind the plot to persecute Babalakin. Now, all the facts at my disposal point to the Minister of Aviation, who has gathered other co-conspirators, from her ethnic enclave, to help her execute the project”. It is surprising on how Sobowale whips out the ethnic card. For instance in the case of Wale Babalakin he has painted it in the hues of red ethnic colouration. He also doubts the justice system as an arbiter, as he is already convinced of the war attrition against Wale Babalakin, he goes a step further in making it the war of Nigeria Vs the Yoruba nation when he writes that “Other Yoruba people will join Babalakin to ensure they don’t succeed”.

One needs to remind Dele Sobowale that Wale Babalakin

is not a Senior Advocate of the South West but a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, a member of the body of benchers and also the Pro-Chancellor of a Nigerian University and even heads the committee of prochancellors in Nigeria made of eminent Nigerians from all facets of life. As such Babalakin himself cannot now come out and allege that the case against him is ethnically motivated most importantly he does not need bellicose cheerleaders like Sobowale to beat the drums of war on his behalf.

As he seeks to recruit an army of gullible Nigerians, Sobowale should be reminded that the Ministry of Aviation did not initiate the current proceedings against BiCourtney or its principal but the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC did.

In case he missed it, he should be reminded that the EFCC had

“

As he seeks to recruit an army of gullible Nigerians, Sobowale should be reminded that the Ministry of Aviation did not initiate the current proceedings against Bi-Courtney or its principal but the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC did. In case he missed it, he should be reminded that the EFCC had in a 27-count charge alleged that the defendants had illegally assisted former governor James Onanefe Ibori to transfer various sums, through various parties, to Erin Aviation account in Mauritius for the purchase of a Challenger Jet aircraft

in a 27-count charge alleged that the defendants had illegally assisted former governor James Onanefe Ibori to transfer various sums, through various parties, to Erin Aviation account in Mauritius for the purchase of a Challenger Jet aircraft.

This according to the court proceedings borders on conspiracy, retention of proceeds of a criminal conduct and corruptly conferring benefit on account of public action. The aforementioned is far and beyond the jurisdiction of the Federal Ministry of Aviation, its agencies and those who have the mandate to act on its behalf. We can use tribal and ethnic groupings to foster good governance, teach civic rights but not to use them as an umbrella to attack individuals based on our primordial sentiments. The beauty of the democratic process is that there are several channels to air grievances and seek redress.

Day in day out multitudes of Nigerians are working diligently to de-emphasise and bring down the walls that divide us. As Nigeria celebrates the centenary of the amalgamation of the Southern and Northern protectorates next year, it has become imperative for all men and women of goodwill to counter the likes Debo Sobowale and their perpetual penchant for flying the kite of primordial interests above that of our common interests. Like the age old saying united we stand, divided we fall.

Basil wrote in from Ikeja, Lagos

Treating women issues as non-issues

By Oge Ekeanyanwu

I

n a patriarchal society, it has become important to talk about female issues and the need to entrench in any society gender equality and do away with sexist stereotypes.

On March 8, women around the world gathered to commemorate the 2013 International Women’s day and set discourse in motion for real issues affecting the society including violence against women and the dangers of patriarchy.

The neglect of female issues, especially in developing countries, leads to a rising case of anomalies including the existence of high cases of sexual violence, and sexism in the work place being treated as normal.

In Nigeria, according to a Cleen Foundation report on National Crime and Safety

Survey for the year just ended, rape is mostly blamed on the female victim.

In the survey, Cleen Foundation sought to find peoples’ perception to rape.

About 76 per cent blamed raped on “provocative dressing by young women”.

Another 53 per cent said men lacked self control. 35 per cent said most rapists were influenced by alcohol to commit the crime.

Also, “about 77% of Rape

cases go unreported and those who manage to report their cases had no treatment or better services from the Police,” the survey shows.

While the Nigerian constitution provides a jail sentence for rapists, it is marred with asking the female to provide evidence such as proof of penetration, proof that the victim did not consent to the act, and proof that the accused person penetrated.

Some other evidences the

“

victim is asked to produce are pretty dehumanising.

According to the Police Public Relations officer, Frank Mba, in an interview with the Leadership newspaper in January, it is extremely hard to investigate rape cases because the female has “practically destroyed all the evidence, the victim had taken her bath, cleaned her cloths and even washed her undies and effectively by the time you subject the victim to forensic

With the relegation of girl-child education, maternal health is also continually rising and there are currently 630 deaths per 100 thousand women who give birth.

“Each day in Nigeria, 109 women lose their lives due to pregnancy-related

test you can’t find semen of the suspect, you can’t find blood stain, even pubic hair that you could have picked up have all been cleaned up.”

With the relegation of girlchild education, maternal health is also continually rising and there are currently 630 deaths per 100 thousand women who give birth.

“Each day in Nigeria, 109 women lose their lives due to pregnancy-related,” E4A, a non governmental organization in their new campaign page, mamaye.org.ng says.

In this regard, female rights group including, Working Group Of Eight On Violence Against Women, have condemned patriarchy in no small manner because it breeds abuses against women, in subtle sexist mannerisms that are denigrating to sensibilities; to glaring mannerisms that are detrimental to females.

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2013

PAGE 14

Ihedioha’s tour of NDDC projects

By Austin Uganwa

A

n army of people poured out to welcome Hon Emeka Ihedioha, Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives as he arrived Ngor Okpala Local Council of Imo State Friday, March 1, 2013. He was on an inspection tour to some of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) projects he attracted and facilitated to the state.

The people including political leaders and traditional rulers chanted inviting choruses as they displayed soothing placards that screamed messages of appreciation and excitement.

Long fleet of vehicles that joined the Deputy Speaker’s convoy from Sam Mbakwe Airport Owerri stretched through a kilometer. The vehicles snaked through the roads to the projects sites. It was a thrilling sight to behold as the indigenes of the communities lined the roads waving the Deputy Speaker’s convoy in utter admiration.

Although the projects attracted by the Deputy Speaker are located in different parts of the state, last week’s inspection tour took him to the projects located in various communities in Ngor Okpala Local Council of the state. The projects are principally infrastructureBy Favour Afolabi

W

hen some Nigerian Intellectuals begin to regale you with stories of how “other African countries” are ahead of Nigeria on so many fronts, you should go and check the details of their claims yourself. Despite all the noise about the Kenyan elections, I have decided to raise these issues: 1. Fresh Blood in Politics: Not that fast – Although Uhuru Kenyatta is 51-yearsold, he is the son of Jomo Kenyatta, Kenya’s first president (1964–1978) – he has the name, the wealth – and the burden that comes with his heritage while Ralia Odinga, 68 is the son of the first Vice President of Kenya, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and his brother, Oburu Odinga, is also currently a Member of Parliament (MP), just as Ralia himself has been a Member of Parliament for Langata since 1992, served as Minister of Energy from 2001 to 2002 and as Minister of Roads, Public Works, and Housing from 2003 to 2005. He was the main opposition candidate in the 2007 presidential election.

Following a violent postelectoral crisis, Odinga took office as Prime Minister in April 2008, serving as supervisor of a national unity coalition government.

2. Clean Records: Not that

based ranging early from road completion. construction, Similarly, erosion the inspection Peoples Daily welcomes your letters, opinion articles, text control, power tour took the messages and ‘pictures of yesteryears.’ All written injection Deputy Speaker contributions should be concise. Word limits: Letters - 150 station and to power electrification. injection subwords, Articles - 750 words. Please include your name and Ihedioha station being a valid location. Letters to the Editor should be addressed captured the constructed at to: essence of the Umuneke, inspection headquarters of The Editor, tour.

Ngor Okpala Peoples Daily, 1st Floor Peace Plaza, According to Local Council.

35 Ajose Adeogun Street, Utako, Abuja. him, the The power Email: opinion@peoplesdaily-online.com assessment station’s SMS: 07037756364 became capacity is necessary to 15MVA 33/11. enable him Ihedioha who appraise the extent of work Bulldozers and other spoke to media personnel noted done by the contractors who construction equipment were that the project was in are handling the various at the site during the fulfillment of his campaign NDDC projects he attracted to inspection, indicating that the promises. the state. This would project was on-going. Hon He however stated that essentially provide him an Ihedioha expressed satisfaction when the project is completed insight into the contractors’ over the extent of work done. it would enhance electricity level of commitment and the Also inspected was supply in the host community challenges being faced to Umuneke- Obike road and the adjoining districts ensure speedy job delivery. construction. The road was thereby ensuring the Five-kilometre road linking hitherto desolate for over 30 empowerment of the rural Umuowa community to years due to severe erosion people and the stemming of Nguru was the first inspection menace that largely rural, urban drift. “The point of the Deputy Speaker. fragmented and devastated it. enhancement of power supply The road was one of the many But now with the intervention in the area would enable the roads Imo State Governor, of NDDC facilitated by people consolidate on their Owelle Rochas Okorocha Ihedioha, live is gradually trades and skills which would earmarked for construction returning to the road. Some of discourage them from shortly after assumption of the construction works there migrating to the urban office as State Governor but are geared towards erosion areas”, he emphasized. reneged. Given the strategic control, erection of bridges and The electrification project nature of the road, the Deputy drainage system. Ihedioha embarked upon at Speaker ensured that the road asked the contractor he was at Umuekwune, a large is accommodated in the 2012/ the site to ensure that the community in Ngor Okpala 2013 NDDC budget. project is fast-forwarded for Local Council of Imo State was

WRITE TO US

also inspected by the Deputy Speaker. The project is being carried out under the rural electrification scheme of NDDC. It is a multi-million naira project that involves installation of transformers, cables, poles and so on. Deputy Speaker promised the community of high quality job while giving the contractor a marching order to ensure that the project is concluded by the end of this year’s second quarter.

The traditional ruler of the community, Eze George Nwosu extolled the virtues of the Deputy Speaker for “showing deep concern over the plight of the people and ensuring federal presence in the community for the first time.”He noted that the electrification of the community would impact positively on the means of livelihood of the indigenes.

The community, Umuekwune is an oil producing area. It is one of the few areas that make Imo an oil producing state but shows apparent signs of government neglect. Deputy Speaker noted that an area that produces oil should benefit evidently in terms of infrastructural development. He pledged to attract more projects to the area in the spirit of equity and democracy dividends.

Austin wrote in via austinuganwa@yahoo.com

Kenyan ‘never-ending’ election fast – Uhuru Kenyatta and his running mate, William Ruto, who are currently leading the polls with 53.36 per cent of the declared results are due to stand trial at the International Criminal Court [ICC] in April for crimes against humanity.

They are accused of organizing their supporters to attack each other in the violence which erupted after the last election.

Mr. Ruto, a Kalenjin, backed Raila Odinga in 2007, but he has since switched sides. Both men deny the charges. Odinga on the other hand believes he won the last elections and wasn’t going to “take it easy” until a mutual arrangement was worked out that had his party share power with Kibaki.

3. Cost: Not that cheap – Kenya has reportedly spent an estimated Ksh 24 Billion [i.e. $280m or N44Bn] on these elections compared to the Ksh 8 Billion spent on the 2007 election by the Electoral Commission of Kenya (ECK).

4. Violence: Drama still unfolding – 48 hours after the elections, the full results were yet to be out and there are already palpable fears “that kasala fit burst” when that happens. While awaiting that, 19 people have been killed already compared to the 1,100+ that were murdered in 2007, in addition to the 600,000+ that were displaced.

With such memories still raw, some people apparently feared

“

Kenya has long been described by many commentators as a “technology hub” in Africa and is home to Ushaidi [well, if you don't know that name, then you are obviously not a Geek/Nerd/Activist...LOL] – you would have thought from the reports you hear that “Kenya was another Silicon Valley” but I guess we now know better

these elections would lead to a new outbreak of violence, as seen during the party primaries in January 2013.

There’s also been the report of a kidnapped electoral officer.

5. Voters’ turnout: How impressive is a 38 per cent turnout of the registered voters considering the expenses and drama that has been “invested” in this election plus all the enlightenment campaigns; Voters’ education efforts, focus of the international community, bla bla bla.

6. Diaspora Voting: Here we go again – Kenya “flirted” with “Diasporan Voting” but the electoral body claimed there was not enough time to have this done – and when the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission [IEBC] later announced a decision to register Kenyan Diaspora voters living within the East African Community Countries, the ten-day exercise concluded on 25 December 2012 with low turnout attributed to “logistical challenges”. The IEBC estimate was that about 1,700 people registered.

7. Electronic Voting & other irregularities: Widespread failure of newly instituted electronic biometric voting registration (BVR) kits, reports

of late voting at some polling station hours after polls closed officially, and an instance of a poll clerk issuing multiple ballots have all already been cited by Mr. Odinga’s party as cause for concern.

8. Technology & Social Media: Kenya has long been described by many commentators as a “technology hub” in Africa and is home to Ushaidi [well, if you don't know that name, then you are obviously not a Geek/ Nerd/Activist...LOL] – you would have thought from the reports you hear that “Kenya was another Silicon Valley” but I guess we now know better.

9. Declared Results: As at the time I was about to publish this article, and after more than 48 hours that voting commenced, only 42 per cent of the polling centers have returned results [See: http:// vote.iebc.or.ke/] – further increasing the fears of counteraccusations by these parties when the results eventually come out even as some rejected votes are also being considered to be “added” back to the results.

Editor’s note: This piece was written before the final results were declared

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2013

PAGE 15

Zaki-Biam massacre: The N8bn Greek gift

T

he most dubious record of the Obasanjo government (1999 – 2007) was its reaction to the 2001 massacres in Zaki Biam, Benue State. At the burial on October 22 of the 19 soldiers killed by Tiv militia in Zaki Biam, Obasanjo said that “I have directed security agencies to track down and apprehend the perpetrators to book. We will make sure this does not happen again.”

When it was later reported that the security agencies sent by the Commander in Chief to apprehend the perpetrators’ were massacring Tiv civilians and destroying villages and towns in revenge for the killing of their colleagues in Zaki Biam, the government first denied it all.

The Army Chief of Staff, Alexander Ogumodia said categorically that the army was deployed to the area to find killers of the nineteen soldiers and not on a revenge mission.

When the media continued to expose the atrocities and mount pressure on the government, President Obasanjo was forced to make a comment which strangely had no bearing to the gravity of the situation on hand.

In a discussion with journalists on a Radio and Television programme, “the President explains”, he said the actions of the soldiers were expected from the military and that the soldiers may have been acting in self

By SOC Okenwa

L

ast Tuesday the whole world was informed of the transition of Comrade Hugo Chavez, the ailing President of Venezuela who passed away in a military hospital in Caracas two weeks after returning home from months of battle with cancer in Havana, Cuba. As soon as the then Vice President and now Interim President Nicolas Maduro made the announcement amid tears millions of Venezuelans, men and women, young and old, whose lives Chavez touched one way or the other, trooped out onto the streets to express their collective grief. Soon after the announcement the fear of the unknown gripped the Latin American nation as the future with Maduro (without the 'ElComandante') became uncertain. That was expected because Chavez, for the past 14 years, had carved a niche for himself as an enigma, a nationalist and a friend of the poor.

Massing spontaneously opposite the Miraflores presidential palace and the military hospital where he gave up the ghost in the capital city many were weeping while others were praying and chanting in unison: "We are all Chavez! Long live Chavismo!"

Last weekend (Friday) the late President was given a befitting state funeral witnessed by scores of world leaders and millions of his faithful followers. According to his

defense. Later, his Army Chief was more forthcoming in his statement to the press; “It doesn’t give me joy to fight Nigerians.

But some things ought to be done.

If nineteen soldiers are killed and you keep quiet, a whole battalion can be wiped out.”

The first public confirmation by the government that the soldiers on rampage were acting on the instructions of the President came from Prof. Jerry Gana, the Minister of information. He said in a press statement that the President had ordered the suspension of the military operations. “The commander -in- chief in halting the advance of the troops has also instructed that any soldier found to have committed any act of indiscipline or not to have followed the rules of engagement will be appropriately dealt with.”

Perhaps the only sympathetic voice from the government came from Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, the Vice President who on October 31st visited some of the demolished towns where hundreds of unarmed Tiv civilians were murdered in cold blood by the rampaging soldiers. He was said to be shocked by what he saw and regretted that soldiers could wage such a savage war against civilians. “Two wrongs do not make a right. Unfortunately things went out of hand and today, we have to manage two wrongs.”

The Commander in Chief who

sent the soldiers went ahead to add more mercurial drama to the sad events. On January 1 2003, Obasanjo sneaked into an obscure church in Makurdi – his first visit to Benue since becoming president. Worshipers at the Church were frightened by his presence but the Pastor

Emmanuel Yawe 08024565402 royawe@yahoo.com reassured them and Obasanjo himself confirmed that he had come in peace and wanted to ask for forgiveness for the atrocities of his soldiers in 2001. The second visit was on February 14, Valentine’s day 2003. He told his audience at IBB square in Makurdi that he launched his re election campaign on that day because he wanted to show the Benue people how much he loves them. He also asked for forgiveness over the massacre of Tiv tribesmen in 2001.

Amazingly in 2011, four years after leaving office,

Obasanjo traveled to Makurdi and in the presence of Governor Gabriel Suswam gleefully announced that it was George Akume, the former governor of Benue State who was responsible for the atrocities of the military invasion of Benue in 2001. But he soon changed gear. Last year, he blamed President Goodluck Jonathan for being too soft on Boko Haram. He gave himself kudos for acting swiftly in handling the insurgency in Zaki Biam during his time in office.

If the Tiv people who suffered grave human rights abuses and deprivations during the invasion were looking for an opportunity to nail the culprit(s) of that massacre, this was it. By this confession, the man has volunteered his name as an accused person for trial at the Hague. When Dr Alexander Gaadi took his government to court in connection with the crime, he did not even enter a defense, leading to the historic judgment, awarding Gaadi N41 billion in damages.

That judgment has not been appealed against. Recently the Benue state government announced that it had accepted N8billion as out of court settlement on the case. From N41 billion to N8 billion? Haba!

The issue here is not even the quantity of money. On the Zaki Biam massacre, Obasanjo behaved as if he was above the

law or the law himself. Is it not time we show him that he is just under the law like me and you and Charles Taylor?

Again on the Zaki Biam massacre, the Tiv victims have been betrayed by their leaders.

While Gaadi was fighting for them in court, some Tiv leaders were busy negotiating with Obasanjo at night to be appointed Ambassadors.

But the most profound act of historical betrayal and stupidity is the acceptance of N8billion by the Benue state government.

When Obasanjo accused Akume of ordering the massacre, he did it in the presence of Suswam who did not fault the obvious lie. Why is he now accepting compensation money from the Federal Government?

This money is less than what Akwa Ibom is allocated every month by the Federal government. It is blood money not worth the property and Tiv lives that were lost in that massacre.

In any case, that money will be pocketed in Abuja and Makurdi as has been the case with all other allocations to the state in recent times. None of the victims in Zaki Biam will see a kobo.

The prosecution of Obasanjo at the Hague on the other hand will send a warning signal to African dictators, the little Adolf Hitlers who are tormenting us today.

Chavez: Dominus Vobiscum! anointed successor his body would be embalmed and deposited in a museum for good. Just like the immortals: Vietnamese Ho Chi-Minh, Chinese Mao Zedong and Russian Vladimir Lenin.

Chavez deserved whatever glorious 'treatment' he got after his demise given his popularity and patriotism.

Born in 1954 the second son of humble village schoolteachers studied at the military academy in Caracas and thereafter went to Simon Bolivar University. In 1992 he headed a Bolivarian Revolutionary Movement that tried to overthrow President Carlos Perez. When the effort failed Chavez was sentenced to two years in prison! (Two years only behind bars? He was very lucky to have come from Venezuela and not Nigeria where coup plotting attracted maximum life jail or even execution a la Mamman Vatsa).

Upon his return from the prison he founded the Fifth Republic Movement, a left-wing socialist political party, in 1997 to bolster his bid for the presidency the following year.

As the scourge of the oligarchs and hero of the poor the larger-than-life former paratrooper, in power for 14 years, was ready to end the institutional corruption that was eating away the Venezuelan resources.

Swinging between euphoria and occasional depression Chavez was unpredictable as he 'dictatorially' sought to apply his vision for a better Venezuela. He empowered millions of poor folks feeling marginalised in the scheme of things prior to his rise to power -- providing cheap houses, education and health services and other social amenities hitherto lacking. For doing justice to the cause of the poor the masses became his 'friend' voting for him in large numbers at every presidential poll, singing with him, dancing with him and praying for him.

Running a rich oilproducing country (unlike Nigeria where the welfare of the people and the security of their property are not the priorities of the governments) Chavez deliberately elected to pursue the welfare of his people to the detriment of multinational oil companies whose exploitative capitalist tendencies he denounced. His socialist policies produced mortal political backlash sometimes culiminating in violent sponsored overthrows that were nipped in the bud.

But he survived every politicoeconomic turbulence with the people by his side! His was a one-man revolution done 'sans' violence and shedding of blood!

A believer in Christ who loved using the new testament

of the Bible as a revolutionary weapon as it were (drawing from his Christian faith) Chavez evoked Jesus Christ as his fatal cancer treatment was turning out to be his last. He was quoted by the Vice President Maduro as having said that he was hanging on to life and to Christ as it became evidently clear that the strong man was having some protracted difficulty speaking and bouncing back to life in his usual boisterous presidential swagger. His compatriots prayed against the worst happening but unfortunately the worst they feared became a reality. And their beloved Hugo was gone -- gone to the great beyond even against his wish and their wish!

If the primary purpose of governance is to take care of the welfare and security of the people by judiciously utilizing the national resources for the greatest good of the greatest number, then the late Comrade achieved greatness indeed doing just that. Hugo Chavez, the deceased populist President, loved his people (especially the poor) with passion and the people loved him in return with equal passion following him about everywhere in every circumstance with patriotic loyalty in his anti-imperialism evolution and revolution. For them a hero to right the historic wrongs was born, one

strong enough to deliver them from their anguish and anxiety! Alas the revolution was still on when he succumbed to cancer.

Comrade Chavez, 59, during his controversial presidential sojourn here on earth, demonstrated forcefully what was developmentally possible with sound leadership tailored towards the improvement of the lives of the downtrodden. Rather than aligning with the imperialists he chose consciously to work with the people, for the people, damning whatever consequencies that were bound to follow such adamant show of pro-people bravado rare in many climes (especially African).

What he did in Venezuela was similar to what a young air-force officer did in Ghana many years ago by decapitating the corrupt Generals hell-bent on killing the Ghanaian hope and dream!

Jerry John Rawlings has many things in common with Hugo Chavez: fearlessness, resoluteness, patriotism and military bravado. There might not be much in terms of ideology or philosophy of power but they succeeded where the 'philosophers' and 'ideologists' had failed! We salute their staying power. Their courage; their audacity.

To be continued

PAGE 16

AMML explains rationale behind planned automation, timing of parking in markets

By Josephine Ella Ejeh

T

he Abuja Markets M a n a g e m e n t Limited (AMML) at the weekend explained the rationale behind its planned automation and timing of parking in all markets in the Federal Capital City under its management.

The AMML said through its Head Corporate Affairs,Mr Innocent Amaechina in a chat with newsmen that the plan is born out of continued strive for management efficiency; reduce turnaround time, enhanced security and better user-friendly environment.

Peoples Daily recalls that as part of its sensitization exercise, the AMML had mounted sign boards in some markets informing the general public of the proposed introduction of timed parking.

This has generated a number of questions especially from Garki Model Market.

Depending on the type of car, motorists currently pay charges ranging from N100 to N1000 to access most of the markets in the Federal Capital City.

However, when the automation/timed parking come into operation, motorists are to pay N50/hour.

Investigation had revealed that the proposed automation has not go down well with some traders, who argued that the policy would discourage shoppers from patronizing the market as they would be made to pay higher than N100 at the end of the day.

Reacting to this, Amaechina said the policy will be in the interest of the traders.

“You will agree with me that AMML is about the first to run an organized pay parking in Abuja, with Wuse Market example. As a foremost facility/Market management Company, our bid to deliver on our mandate of utilizing global best practice in providing a safe, shopper friendly, flexible and efficiently managed Market environment is a continues process,” he said.

Mr. Amaechina added that “the proposed automation and timing of parking in facilities managed by us is therefore one of those ways we hope to improve on our management efficiency and therefore add value to the market users”.

He further argued that rather than repel shoppers from the market, traders should expect an unprecedented patronage.

According to him, AMML analysis has revealed that as result of the on-street park- and- pay policy of the FCT administration, residents whose offices are adjoining the markets while escaping the on street parking that charges N100/ hour have turned the market to a dumping ground.

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2013

FCTA threatens action against sponsors of evil propaganda on polio vaccination

By Adeola Tukuru

T

he Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory(FCT),Oloye Olajumoke Akinjide at the weekend flagged-off a four-day polio immunisation exercise at the Family Health Clinic, Area 3, Garki, Abuja with a treat to sanction those sponsoring evil propaganda against polio vaccination.

Akinjide, issued the threat against the backdrop of insinuations in some quarters that polio vaccine are adulterated with birth control pills which according to them, is a deliberate ploy by the government to reduce the population of the north.

This growing propaganda is said to have prompted many northerners to reject polio vaccination for their children, thereby resulting to new infections.

She said the FCT administration held a meeting recently with stakeholders bordering on total polio eradication.

“We are overhauling every process to see that every child receive immunisation. We want to warn that propagandas of evil against polio vaccination stop or the FCTA will be forced to take an action against them”, she said.

The minister, who regretted that after two years of being polio

Minister of State for FCT, Oloye Olajumoke Akinjide (left) administering polio vaccine on a child, during the inauguration of FCT Immunisation Plus days, on Saturday in Abuja. With them is the Secretary, FCT Health and Human Service Secretariat, Mr Ademola Onokomaiya (right). Photo: NAN

free, the FCT has had three cases of Wild Polio Virus over the last three months,noted that Nigeria is the only country in Africa that harbours the virus.

Speaking on the mode of transmitting the virus, she said:”I want to inform you that the transmission of polio disease is through the faecal-oral route”.

She explained that: “This is when what the child puts into the mouth is contaminated with faeces containing the polio germ”.

Furthermore, she explained that living in and keeping a clean environment is very important in the fight against polio disease in addition to good environmental sanitation and hand washing practice.

She urged parents to avail their children and wards aged less than five years the opportunity to be immunised in the ongoing Immunisation Plus Days which commenced on Saturday and ends Tuesday.

Earlier in his remark, the Executive Secretary, FCT Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Rilwanu Mohammed said the reemergence of the disease in the FCT is a wake up call for everybody.

He told the minister that the board has ensured that vaccinators have been trained, mobilised and monitors deployed to the respective areas.

“We are going round to monitor what is going on in the area councils,” he emphasised.

On his part, the Sarkin Jiwa, Alhaji Idris Musa appealed to stakeholders for their collective effort to stamp out the menace.

He particularly appealed to area council chairmen to give to the vaccinators whatever is due to them as some of them often complain of not being paid.

Traditional rulers endorse Abuja land Swap initiative

By Adeola Tukuru

I

n a landmark boost to the FCT Administration’s new policy for infrastructure provision popularly known as Land Swap Model, some Traditional rulers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have endorsed the initiative.

These Traditional Rulers made this known during a meeting with the FCT Minister, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed (CON), the Chairman of the Abuja Municipal Area Council, District Heads, Village Heads, Youth Leaders, Land Swap investors as well as other stakeholders in the Minister’s Conference Room at Area 11, Garki I District, Abuja recently.

The 2nd Class Gomo of Kuje, Alhaji Haruna Tanko Jibrin

remarked that they have endorsed the Land Swap Initiative because its package is juicy and “we are waiting for it to materialize”.

The Gomo of Kuje said, “We shall continue to pray for you, cooperate and support your administration to achieve this lofty initiative”.

His words: “This is the first time we are seeing this kind of thing happening in the Federal Capital Territory, we have never been called upon to talk about own areas”.

The Gomo added, “I want to assure you that we will continue to support your Administration to ensure that genuine legacy is left behind”.

Also speaking at the meeting, the 3rd Class Sa-Peyi of Garki, Alhaji Usman Nga-Kupi, while saying that Abuja has come to stay and would join hands to ensure it

success, praised the courage of the FCT Minister for this landmark achievement.

The Sa-Peyi used the opportunity to announce that his people will prefer the policy of integration rather than outright resettlement.

Meanwhile, following the endorsement by the Chiefs, a highpowered delegation of the FCT Administration under the leadership of the FCDA Executive Secretary, Engr. Adamu Ismaila has began extensive tour of those areas to be affected by the opening up and provision of infrastructure for the 10 new districts under the Land-Swap-Model-Initiative in the Phase IV of the Federal Capital City.

Accordingly, the tour has been embarked upon with a view of engaging the indigenous people and further carry them along with regards the issues of compensation and resettlement.

During the meeting, the FCT Minister, Senator Bala Mohammed directed that it is mandatory for Land Swap investors to adopt the global best practices as they handle issues of compensation and resettlement.

Senator Mohammed insisted that the indigenous people in Abuja have a right to choose whether to be integrated or be resettled at any appropriate resettlement camp.

He stressed that the FCT Administration will never take over land from the Abuja natives without paying adequate compensation for all the economic trees and farmlands therein.

The Minister restated that any square meter of land taken would be adequately compensated for in tune with the best World practices; insisting that no investor will be allowed to commence work without inputting the cost of compensation.

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2013

PAGE 17

House boy, 22 charged with public nuisance

By Zainab Ahmed Maska

T

he Police on Friday arraigned a 22 year old house boy, Sunday Hassan of no fixed address, before an Abuja Magistrates Court for alleged Public nuisance, which contravenes Section 183 of the Penal Code law.

The Police prosecutor CP, Francis Tanko, told the court that on March 5th,2013, Inspector Daniel Agbor while leading a patrol team of the Divisional Police Headquarters, Wuse, Zone 3, Abuja, arrested the accuse at a black spot constituting nuisance selling dry leaves suspected to be india hemp in a public place.

The accused, however, pleaded not guilty.

Magistrate, Hajiya BintaDogonyaro, granted the accuse bail in the sum of 10,000 with one surety in like sum and a surety who must be a civil servant and must also reside within the court’s jurisdiction.

She adjourned the case March 19th, 2013 for further hearing.

Inside FCT Courts, page 17, metro 2 students in court over alleged burglary

T

wo students were on Friday arraigned before a Karu Senior Magistrates’ Court for allegedly breaking into their neighbour’s house and stealing property worth N340,000.

The accused, Kingsley Ezirim, 23, and Kelechi Nwauze, 17, both of Ajegunle, Mpape, Abuja, are standing trial for alleged joint act, house breaking and theft.

The prosecutor, Sgt. Atteh Effiong, told the court that they conspired between themselves and broke into the house of one Mr Chinedu Ezeakwu of the same address on Feb. 13,2013 and made away with his property.

Effiong said the accused stole 12 spring foam, one Sony DVD, one glass shade, one LG 14 inches television, one CD rack, one roll of rug carpet and three packets of extension wire.

Also stolen were one Prestige standing fan, the contents of a ward robe, two bed sheets, four pillows, one generator, two sets of pots, one stove, one necklace, one cell phone, one battery charger and N200,000.

The offences, according to Effiong, contravened the provisions of sections 79, 346 and 287 of the Penal Code, but the accused pleaded not guilty.

The defence counsel, Emeka Ajuolu, applied for bail for his clients.

Senior Magistrate Sharon Ishaya granted the accused bail in the sum of N100,000 each and two sureties each in like sum.

Ishaya said the sureties, who must reside within the jurisdiction of the court, should be people with good means of livelihood.

Ishaya said the accused should not be allowed to travel outside the jurisdiction of the court, and adjourned the case to March 20 for hearing. (NAN)

A brick layer putting finishing touches to a building, yesterday in Utako district of Abuja.

INSIDE FCT COURTS

2 men remanded in prison over alleged criminal intimidation

A

Karu Upper Area Court, Abuja, on Friday ordered two men to be remanded in prison for alleged joint act, criminal intimidation and extortion.

They are Adewumi Abayomi of behind Deeper Life Bible Church, Idu-Karmo, and Olaleye Wealth of Jiwa-Gwagwa, Abuja.

The prosecutor, Samuel Bulus, told the court that Mr George Isibor of National Integrated Power Project, Maitama, Abuja, reported the matter at the Area Command Metro Police Headquarters, Maitama, on Feb. 11, 2013.

Bulus said the accused had been threatening Isibor and his boss, Mr James Olotu through the telephone.

“The duo requested for N20 million from the complainant and his boss and threatened to kill them

if they failed to give them the money,” Bulus said.

He also said that a Diamond Bank account number in the name of Olaleye Wealth and a UBA account number with the name of Olarewaju Ebenezer were forwarded to the complainants to pay the money into.

“Having been intimidated, and in order to save their lives and also for the purpose of prosecution, the complainants made some payments.

“Isibor and Olotu deposited the sum of N200,000 and N350,000 into the said accounts respectively.’’

Bulus told the court that the alleged offences contravened the provisions of sections 79, 397 (b) and 292 of the Penal Code.

Section 79 stipulates that when

a criminal act is done by several persons in furtherance of the common intention of all, each of such persons is liable for that act in the same manner as if it were done by him alone.

Section 397 (b) states that if the threat be to cause death or grievous hurt, it is punishable with imprisonment which may extend to seven years or be fined or both.

Section 292 states that whoever commits extortion shall be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend to five years or be fined or both.

The accused, however, denied committing the offences, and the judge, Alhaji Umar Kagarko, ordered that they be remanded in prison.

He adjourned the case to April 30, 2013 for hearing. (NAN)

Man bags 6 months imprisonment for criminal breach of trust, cheating

A

Karu Senior Magistrates Court on Friday sentenced Uchena Okorie, 30, of Jikwoyi Phase 1, Abuja, to six months imprisonment for criminal breach of trust and cheating.

Police prosecutor Umar Mohammed told the court that one Mambo Funah of Lafia town in Nasarawa State, reported the matter at the Karu Police Station on Feb. 4.

Mohammed said Funah entrusted Okorie with 23 bags of crayfish valued at N15,000 each (or N345,000) on Sept. 10, 2012.

“Okorie sold the 15 bags and

converted the money to his personal use.’’

Mohammed said the offence contravened the provisions of sections 321 and 322 of the Penal Code and applied for the summary trial of the accused.

Okorie pleaded guilty to the charges against him, saying “I did not intend to embezzle his money’’.

“In fact, I have so far paid the sum of N115,000 into the account of one Mrs Udeme Udoka. All the tellers are with the IPO. “The balance now is N230,000.

If given time, I will pay back,” he said.

The Magistrate, Mrs Ann Akobi, said, “what you have done is an offence and the law says you should be punished.

“I have listened to the accused. He has not convinced the court on why he should not be punished.

“I, therefore, find the accused guilty as charged. He is hereby sentenced to six months imprisonment or pay a fine of N6,000.

She told the prosecutor to come on March 26 for clarification on the issue of compensation as the convict claimed to have paid N115, 000. (NAN)

Couples docked over alleged Cheating, theft

By Zainab Ahmed Maska

T

he Police one Friday arraigned Two couples, Saidu Hassan and Amina Hassan both resident of Tudun Wada Lugbe, Abuja, before an Abuja Magistrates Court, Wuse, Zone 2,Abuja for Joint acts, Criminal breach of trust and theft.

Police prosecutor, Inspector Jeremiah Elijah, said that in February 19th, 2013, one Mr Umar A. Isah of Shiroro Hotel Road TungaMinna, Niger State reported to the Lugbe Police station, that sometime in 2011 he entrusted his house to the accused to take care of.

Umar also said that in November 2012, He had to forcefully eject the accused, because he wanted to make use of his house.

He further explained that some items were missing in the house such as a 32 LCD television, double head gas barrel and curtains and the total value of the items is still unknown.

Mr Jeremiah also said that during investigations, the accused confirmed that the house keys were given to his wife who is still at large, and that Saidu couldn’t give a satisfactory account of himself when questioned by the police.

Jeremiah said the offence contravene to Sections 79, 322 and 287 of the penal law.

However, the accused pleaded not guilty.

The Presiding Magistrate, Mrs Vera Tom Tukura, granted the accused bail in the sum of N300,000 with one surety in like sum, who must reside within the court jurisdiction.

She further ordered that the accused must make himself available in court during the further hearing.

She adjourned the case to March 27th, 2013.

PAGE 18

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2013

Abuja court restraints company from trespassing on property A

n Abuja High Court has ordered a firm, Dubriks (Nig) Ltd, to desist from further trespassing on a property which ownership it is contending with another company.

The said property is a large expanse of land situated at Sabon Lugbe East Extension Layout on Airport Road, Abuja.

The court, sitting at Lugbe, granted an

interlocutory injunction in favour of the plaintiff, Parliamentary Hill Estates and Property Ltd., pending the determination of the substantive suit.

Ruling on the matter, Justice Angela Otaluka ordered a return to the status quo until she delivered judgment in the substantive suit.

“The court hereby orders an interlocutory injunction restraining the

defendant from interfering with the said property pending the determination of the substantive suit.

“This case is hereby adjourned to April 17 for definite hearing,’’ she said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the plaintiff sued the defendant for allegedly trespassing on its property known as Parliamentary Estate Villa, claiming

more than N60 million in compensation.

Counsel to the plaintiff Casmir Igwe had asked the court to compel the defendant to pay his client the sum of N50 million as cost of structures demolished by the defendant in the estate.

He had also asked for additional N10 million as ‘’exemplary damages on the extreme ill-will and

malice exhibited by the defendant towards the plaintiff’’.

Igwe also demanded the award of N1 million against the defendant, being the cost of action incurred by the plaintiff as well as 20 per cent interest per annum on the judgment sum till the judgment debt is liquidated.

He further asked for a perpetual injunction

restraining the defendant and/or its agents from trespassing on any part of the estate pending the determination of the substantive suit.

The defendant’s counsel, Emeka Amaefuna, had, however opposed the plaintiff’s statement of claims, as well as challenged the court’s jurisdiction in entertaining the matter.

(NAN)

Nigerian women prefer traditional hair-do in promoting culture

I

n commemoration of the just concluded International Women Day celebration on March 8th, 2013, Nigerian women have been advised to cultivate the habit of making traditional hair style.

A cross section of Nigerian women told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Thursday that doing this would go a long way in promoting the nation’s culture.

A business woman at

the Nyanya market FCT, Mrs Aderonke Tijani, rued the modern development of hair styles, adding that it had eroded the old style.

Tijani said that the old style of hair-do would bring out the beauty of a woman, unlike the modern style

FEDERAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION, P.M.B 2041, KATSINA 4th March, 2013 INVITATION FOR PRE-QUALIFICATION OF CONTRACTORS FOR THE YEAR 2012 TETFUND SPECIAL INTERVENTION PROJECT A. INTRODUCTION: The Federal College of Education, Katsina intends to execute the followings projects under the year 2012 TETFund BOT Special Intervention: i) Lot I: Procurement of Computers & office Equipment ii) Lot II: Procurement of Vehicles B. PRE-QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: Interested, experience and reputable Contractors are hereby invited to submit the following documents in order to qualify for Pre- qualification. a.

Certificate of Incorporation or Registration with Cooperate Affairs Commission, b.

Company Audited Account for the last three years (2010-2012). c.

Tax clearance certificate for the last three years (2010-2012) d.

Evidence of Pension and Social Security contributions for Companies with five or more permanent members of staff. e.

Evidence of Financial capability and Banking support f.

Company Profile including Curriculum Vitae of the key personnel. g.

Equipment and Technical Capability of the Company. h.

Similar projects executed and evidence of knowledge of the industry (please attach copies of award letters for on-going projects and completion Certificates for completed Projects) i.

Evidence of compliance with section 16(6) of the public procurement Act 2007 and section 6(1)-(3) of the Industrial Training Fund’s (ITF) 2011. j.

Any other additional information that may enhance the chances of the company.

C. SUBMISSION OF PRE-QUALIFICATION DOCUMENTS: Pre- Qualification Documents should be submitted in sealed envelope marked at the top left hand corner with the name Project and addressed to: The Head, Procurement Department, Federal College of Education, P.M.B 2014,Katsina.

To reach him on or before 12:00noon of 28th March,2013. LATE SUBMISSIONS will not be considered under any circumstance.

D. PUBLIC OPENING OF SUBMISSIONS: All submissions received shall be publicly opened at 12.01pm on the closing date in the College Board Room. Contractors should be ready to produce original copies of the documents forwarded if requested.

Contractors that made submissions or their representatives are advised to attend the opening exercise.

Signed Alh. Abdullahi Abubakar Registrar

which, according to her, often looked artificial.

She encouraged mothers to always imbibe the culture of the traditional hair style, especially in children.

“It is observed that children of nowadays do not like plaiting their hair, they prefer fixing artificial hair.

“Also, when you look at most private schools, hardly will you see a child without adding attachment to the hair,” she said.

She, however, urged authorities in the education sector to look into this trend as it could prevent school children from total concentration on their studies.

Another woman, Mrs Fidelia Umoru, a nurse, decried the modern way of making hair, saying “it is extravagant and very expensive than the traditional style.’’

Umoru maintained that most modern hair styles do not meet the unique standard in fashion industry, noting that most of the hairs were usually carried for a period of one month and beyond.

She said that the modern hairdos mostly smell as against the traditional way of making hair.

“Traditional hair plaiting is very good and which most men do really appreciate because it makes women look natural.

“A beautiful woman remains beautiful because of no additional artificial hair.

“The traditional hairdo always bring out the true woman and also make woman looks more African,’’ she stressed.

An aged grandmother, Mrs Ngozi Iheanacho, told NAN that the Holy book also recognised a woman leaving her hair natural without attaching any artificial hair to it.

“It can be found in the Bible that a woman must not attach any artificial things to her hair as this commands the glory of God upon her,” she said.

She said that since the invention of the modern hair style, she had not for a day engaged in fixing or attaching these hairs because of her passion for the traditional plaiting.

Iheanacho said that a woman’s natural hair was a thing of pride, honour, glory, joy and blessing, “which God has given her to cover her head’’.

She therefore enjoined women to join hands in promoting the African culture through the traditional hairstyles toward building the nation’s integrity.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the traditional hairstyles in Nigeria have been vogue since before the colonial era, which did not only showcase the beauty of the African woman but also promotes the country’s culture. (NAN) In the past, there were various symbolic hairstyles that are used for special occasions, while some others are made by special classes of people in the society.

Examples of these hairstyles include those plaited for spinsters, unmarried women, married women, elderly women, princesses and queens.

Some of the names of the hair styles are Koju-soko, Ipako-elede, Koroba, Patewo, among others.

Late Nasiru Danjuma

We still miss our son, family of late civil servant cries out

By Adeola Tukuru

T

wo years after the death of Nasiru Danjuma, a retiree of the FCT Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board (MPWB) in Gwagwalada FCT, his uncle Ambassador Aliyu Mohammed Katsina has said that the picture of the ghastly motorcycle accident that claimed his life is still very fresh in the memory of his family members.

Nasiru Danjuma who hails from Katsina state, age 41 years, died in a fatal motorcycle accident in September 13th, 2011, and has since been buried according to the Islamic rights.

On behalf of the family members, his uncle described Nasir as a fun loving, disciplined and level- headed person.

He said he brought Nasiru up when he was very young immediately his father died many years ago.

Nasiru survived by an aged mother, a wife and one child.

BUSINESS

PAGE 19

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2013

Email: aminuimam@yahoo.co.uk

From Suleiman Idris, Lagos

T

he newly remodelled Benin airport has been described as a facility strategically positioned to boost farming and the growth of industries in the midwestern states of Nigeria leading to increase in job creation.

The brand new facility, which was reconstructed under the airports re-modelling project has a departure hall that accommodates 600 passengers complete withmodern airport facilities.

At the commission ceremony, Edo state governor, Comrade

By Aminu Imam

D

angote Cement has officially commenced export of cement from its Ibese cement plant, Ogun state to Ghana.

The commencement of the export is coming on the heels of the meeting of national demand for cement by Nigerian cement manufacturers.

Last week, 50 silo trucks laden with bulk cement were parked at the Idiroko border town waiting for clearance to proceed towards Ghana through Benin and Togo Republics.

The cement company will be exporting 50 silo trucks of cement or 5,000 tons of bulk cement from the Ibese Cement plant on a weekly basis to Ghana and at the completion of all logistics, about 50 trucks will be leaving on a daily basis.

It should be recalled that Alh. Aliko Dangote in an interview with Reuters in London disclosed that the company would as from end of 2012 begin export of cement to some ECOWAS countries in view of its envisaged excess local capacity of more than 20 million metric tonnes and the huge demand for the product in the subregion.

As part of its strategy of capturing the ECOWAS market, he said Dangote already has a cement terminal with a bagging capacity of 1.5 metric tonnes per annum in Ghana, noting that there are good market opportunities in other neighboring countries such as Liberia, Sierra Leone and Cote D Ívoire, which lack limestone, one of the basic raw materials used in the production of cement.

“The only thing that we need to do is quickly to create that avenue of exporting cement rather than importing cement,” he said.

Dangote Cement commissioned its first overseas cement terminal in 2011 in Accra port, Ghana with a bagging capacity of 1.5MTPA. The terminal also enables Dangote Cement to supply to the neighboring landlocked nations which pay very high cost for cement due to transport cost.

The export to Ghana will provide an avenue to sell surplus cement resulting from excess local capacity in Nigeria and at the same time meet high demand for cement in Ghana.

INSIDE

- Pg 20

Banks introduce N100 monthly ATM fee

Mob: 08033644990

Remodelled Benin airport to boost farming, industries in mid west Adams Oshiomole declared that recent transformation in the aviation sector showed government can achieve similar feat in other sectors with the determination exhibited by the ministry.

He noted that no matter any ‘beautiful’ master plan the Minister has, it would remain ‘a paper tiger” without the necessary budgetary approval and

Dangote commences export to Ghana

...as Oshiomole lauds FG

allocation, affirming that the ministry has translated its vision into action with determination, vigour and courage.

Minister of Aviation, Stella Oduah reiterated that, “It is the expectation of government that this re-modelled Benin Airport terminal, which has a full complement of modern airport facilities, will not only stimulate air travel in Edo state and other surrounding states, but will also encourage large-scale farming

and the proliferation of industries.”

According to her, the rubber and palm oil plantation the the west is noted for will also received increased patronage from within and outside the country, saying “people of Edo state and other people who reside in the state and beyond must ensure that the airport is adequately utilized, to justify the huge resources spent in transforming it into an airport of choice.

She disclosed that the Benin Airport was accorded priority under the Airport Re-modelling project because of its potential for growth in scheduled flight and cargo operations, considering its proximity to major industries in the Niger Delta and farm settlements in Edo state.

“One of the major planks of the

L-R: Dangote’s Group Executive Director, Alhaji Sada Ladan Baki with Tanzanian Minister of Environment, Dr. Terezya Huvisa during the visit of the latter to Dangote’s Obajana Cement Plant, Kogi state at the weekend.

Management Tip of the Day

M

Build a better on-line network

ost managers today understand how to use online tools to build and expand their networks. It’s easy to reach out to industry contacts and colleagues through LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter. But building a useful online network requires focus on three things: reputation, specialization, and network

position.·Build your reputation by offering interesting content, drawing attention to your web presence, and motivating others to circulate and act on your ideas.·Show specialization by demonstrating knowledge, establishing links with other experts, committing to learn from those people, and being willing to offer relevant

information and referrals.· Position yourself as a bridge between otherwise unconnected groups. This can increase your influence because it gives you a chance to identify potential collaborations or conflicts and to accumulate better information.

Source: Harvard Business Review

aviation sector master plan is the development of international cargo terminals across the country, to encourage the exportation of perishable farm produce by air, to different parts of the world, with attendant economic benefits to all Nigerian farmers and businessmen”, she said.

NNPC meets security chiefs over oil theft, pipeline vandalism

By Etuka Sunday

T

he Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) at the weekend met with Nigerian security chiefs to fashion out ways to end the menace of crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism in the country, which according to NNPC had cost lots of billions of Naira.

The meeting which was held at the Petroleum Minister’s Board Room and saw Nigerian Army, Navy, Air force and the police in attendance was to discuss elaborately measures that would be taken to stop permanently the unwholesome acts of pipeline vandalism and crude oil theft that is posing great threat to the Nigeria’s economy.

Briefing newsmen after the meeting, the Petroleum Minister, Diezani Alison-Madueke said that the menace of crude oil theft and pipeline vandalisation in the country is affecting the economy in more ways than one therefore it became necessary for stakeholders to come together and re-strategise on what to do to ensure a very robust and aggressive way of handling it.

The Minister added that the meeting was one of the series of meetings and discourse that had been held over the period of time and would continue to be held, saying that very robust and implementable actions are coming out of the discourse and they would cover both short and medium terms.

“We expect to see aggressive, fairly and quick results out of some of the actions. Others, off course, will look at the medium and long term for the country in terms of production of our core critical national assets in the Oil and Gas Sector,” she affirmed.

According to her, the issue of crude oil theft and pipeline vandalisation is multifaceted and complex therefore more stakeholders would be engaged in the discourse especially international stakeholders to brainstorm on the best way to permanently address the issue.

PAGE 20

COMPANY NEWS MTN

M

TN Group Ltd., Africa’s largest mobile-phone operator, reported fullyear earnings that missed analysts’ estimates, weighed down by foreign-exchange losses and increased spending on networks.

Adjusted earnings per share climbed to 10.89 rand ($1.21) from 10.69 rand a year earlier, Johannesburg-based MTN said in a statement. That missed the 11.67 rand median estimate of 12 analysts surveyed by Bloomberg.

Exchange-rate moves, including the decline of the Syrian pound, Iranian rial and Sudanese pound, against the rand, curbed adjusted earnings per share of 1.79 rand, according to MTN, which operates in 22 African and Middle Eastern markets.

African start-up Forum

L

ondon, the financial centre of the world is set to host this year’s African Start-Up Forum, an annual event organised by the consulting firm of Hudson &Idowu.

The African Start-Up Forum aims to create an avenue whereby prospective African businesses with extraordinarily high growth potential are positioned to network with foreign Private Equity and Venture Capital firms.

It will highlight the core opportunities and challenges that are on offer within some African countries and their key sectors. Africa’s potential for growth, according to the organisers of the event is particularly relevant now as the global economy emerges from recession.

Skye Bank

A

s part of its commitment to the development of the Nigerian maritime industry, Skye Bank Plc has granted credit facilities amounting to $500 million to operators in the industry in recent times.

The amount represents money provided to indigenous ship owners and other stakeholders for the acquisition of ships and other critical work tools to enable them play an active role in the industry.

The bank’s General Manager, SegunOpeke, in charge of the Corporate Banking 11 Group responsible for the Maritime and Aviation sector, disclosed this recently at a forum of maritime stakeholders, noting that the bank was prepared to expand its credit lines to the operators to further develop the industry.

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2013

Banks introduce N100 monthly ATM fee

By Abdulwahab Isa

F

ollowing the scrapping of the N100 withdrawal charges on Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) by the Bankers Committee, some banks are planning to introduce monthly maintenance fee on ATM cards.

Investigations by our correspondent revealed that, though only one of the banks had announced the introduction of the fee from this month, others were in the process of finalising their plans.

Some of the banks, according to findings, are introducing the fee in exchange for the scrapped N100 withdrawal fee customers paid when using other banks’

ATMs. Already, First Bank of Nigeria Limited has informed its customers that with effect from March 2013, they (customers) would pay a monthly maintenance fee on their card.

The notice by the bank read, “Dear valued customer, in order to serve you better, from March 2013, a monthly N100 card maintenance fee will be charged for all cash withdrawals within the month.’’

Bank customers, who spoke to our correspondent on Wednesday, were displeased with the development.

The Bankers’ Committee, during a meeting in November 2012, had scrapped the N100 interbank charge on the use of

ATM cards.

The Governor, CBN, MalamSanusiLamidoSanusi, had said customers would no longer pay N100 on withdrawals on ATM whenever they used banks other than theirs starting from December 17, 2012.

Sanusi had said, “We have agreed on a final date of Monday 17 December, 2012 for the kickoff, which every bank will takeoff the charges. We allowed some time for banks that have not configured their IT to do so and stop charging and hopefully by 17th of December, you are not going to have any customer paying additional charges.”

The Managing Director, First Bank, Mr. Bisi Onasanya also said that the decision to stop the

charge would help to increase the patronage of ATMs, thus deepening the financial inclusion strategy of the central bank.

Onasanya had said, “We have decided to stop forthwith charges for usage of ATMs. Currently, when you use the ATM for a bank other than your bank, there is a charge of N100, which is borne by the account holder.

“We have decided that we will work out the modalities that will ensure that with immediate effect, we will pass on these costs to the respective banks; we will bear the cost of providing these services so that no matter where you are drawing your money, you will not be subjected to any charge for using the ATM.”

NEXIM bank supports export business with N70bn

By Abdulwahab Isa

T

he Nigerian Export- Import Bank(NEXIM) said its loan portfolio to exporters as at December 2012 grossed N70 billion.

Its Managing Director, Mr Roberts Orya.represented by an Assistant General Manager/ Head, Project, Mr. IfeanyiNwade

confirmed the figure at the weekend at the Annual General Meeting(AGM) of Finance Correspondents Association (FICAN) which held at Transcorp Hilton, Abuja.

While espousing various forms of NEXIM lending available to exporters, he mentioned that under the direct lending facility, NEXIM grants short, medium and

Inflation rates from Feb, 2012 to Jan, 2013 Max = 12.9 %, Min = 9 % for period in display.

Current Inflation rate = 9 % Source:CBN

long term fixed rate loans to exporters directly under cofinancing arrangement with eligible banks.

According to him, direct loans are available to assist exporters complete their exports sales by providing working capital, facilities and funds for procurement of equipment.

The MD stated that loans are granted directly to a Nigerian exporter in both local and foreign currencies up to 80 per cent of the total project cost.

He listed some items that are not eligible for financing to include, armaments, ammunition and other military equipment; psychotropic drugs and narcotic as well as all items prohibited by the international conventions or environmental constraints; pornographic and obscene materials and items prohibited for importation by prevailing government policies/ guidelines.

Orya said the Trade policy bank welcomes any financial house desirous of co- financing projects with it but added that such a bank must be in good financial health as evidenced by three years audited accounts and meet additional criteria set by NEXIM from time to time.

“A borrower must be a

Earnings Report for Banks Source:Pro-share Nigeria

creditworthy limited liability company, co-operative society, existing/new production units with a minimum of 50 per cent export orientation or an existing provider of export services. The borrower must establish that the loan will develop or expand his export business” he said.

In a remark earlier, Abuja chapter FICAN chairman, MrCobhamNsa harped on the need for diversification of Nigeria resources to non-oil sector because of its huge potential for resource earning, higher contribution to the GDP and employmentgeneration.

First Bank, GTB, Zenith account for 54% of Nigerian bank’s profit From NgoziOnyeakusi, Lagos

E

xperts at Prudential Trust Company posit that the top three banks in Nigeria – First Bank, Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB) and Zenith Bank Plc – which “account for 54 per cent of profit in Nigerian banking sector,” will post a N300 billion ($1.9 billion) profit for 2012 financial year.

According to a report, others in the banking industry will declare 550 billion naira ($3.49 billion).

Earlier in 2012, the financial advisory firm said that the three bankswill declare a profit of 100 billion naira ($640 million), but by June the three banks had generated more profit than the amount.

“As at June 2012, Guaranty Trust Bank Plc has declared a profit of N53 billion, First of Nigeria Bank Plc N49 billion and Zenith Bank Plc N45billion,” Prudential Trust said.

The firm added that two other leading banks in the economy Access Bank and United Bank for Africa had made 26 billion naira ($164 million) and 24 billion naira ($151 million) respectively at the time.

According to report, the analyst believe that given the continued growth of the Nigerian economy and a correlating performance from the banking sector, First Bank, GTB and Zenith could achieve the 300 billion naira projection.

PAGE 21

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2013

NSE loses 0.352 bn shares on investment Stories from Ngozi Onyeakusi, Lagos

H

eavy loses occasioned by drop in the share prices of some blue chip companies on the floor of the Nigeria Stock Exchange (NSE) last week has resulted in the market losing a total of 0.352 billion shares on investment.

This was as a turnover of 1.928 billion shares worth N20.990 billion in 28,832 deals were transacted in contrast to a total of 2.280 billion shares valued at N24.633 billion that exchanged hands in 28,170 deals the previous week.

Similarly,the NSE All-Share Index (ASI) depreciated by 334.09 points or 1.01% to close on Friday at 32,849.11 while the market capitalization of the Main Board equities depreciated from N10.618 trillion to N10.512 trillion.

The Financial Services

sector accounted for 1.510 billion shares valued at N13.532 billion traded in 17,688 deals.

As usual, the banking subsector of the financial services sector was the most active during the week (measured by turnover volume); with 1.074 billion shares worth N11.229 billion exchanged by investors in 11,333 deals.

Volume in the Banking subsector was largely driven by activity in the shares of UBA Plc, Zenith Bank Plc and Guaranty Trust Bank Plc. Trading in the shares of the three banks accounted for 464.928 million shares, representing 43.28%, 30.79% and 24.12% of the turnover recorded by the subsector, sector and total equity turnover for the week, respectively.

The Conglomerates sector, boosted by activity in the shares of Transnational Corporation of

Nigeria Plc of the Diversified Industries subsector followed on the week’s activity chart with a sector turnover of 121.134 million shares valued at N299.812 billion traded in 1,210 deals Part of the transactions for the week included 846 units of NewGold Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) valued at N2.035 million traded in 7 deals compared with a total of 2,681 units valued at N6.562 transacted last week in 8 deals.

Also included in the transactions for the week were 2,536 units of FGN bonds valued at N3.096 million traded during the week in 26 deals in contrast to 1,887 units valued at N2.314 million transacted last week in 20 deals (See details below). Likewise, 1,000 units of Lagos State Fixed Rate Redeemable Bond valued at N1, 000,000 was traded in 1 deal.

There were no transactions in

the Corporate Bonds/ Debentures sector.

A review of the equity price movements indicated that thirty-six (36) equities gained while forty-four (44) equities recorded price declines and one hundred and seventeen (117) equities remained constant.

When compared with the preceding week, thirty-eight (38) equities gained while fortysix (46) equities recorded price declines and one hundred and thirteen (113) equities remained constant.

Nestle Nigeria Plc. led the losers chart losing N50.00 kobo, followed by Guinness Nigeria Plc. N11.50 and Dangotte Cement Plc. N5.49 kobo.

Other stocks that depreciated during the week include Mobile Oil Nigeria Plc. N3.50 kobo, Total Nigeria Plc. N3.42, Cadbury Nigeria Plc. N2.60, Ashaka Cement Plc. N0.38 kobo among others.

Unclaimed dividends now N60bn, says SEC

T

he value of unclaimed dividends by investors in the Nigerian capital market at the end of last year was N60bn.The amount represents an increase of 46 per cent or N19bn over the N41bn that was recorded at the end of 2011.

The Director-General, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Ms. Arunma Oteh, disclosed the actual value of unclaimed dividends for 2012 on the sidelines of a media briefing

by SEC on the Nigerian capital market in Lagos on Wednesday.

Unclaimed dividends refer to

dividends payable to shareholders but have not been accessed by the beneficiaries for a period of not less than 12 months. Analysts and market watchers had projected that the value might be up to N50bn.

Oteh blamed the rising amount of unclaimed dividends on the challenges facing the postal system in the country, adding that the amount would reduce largely if the challenges were addressed.

She said another major reason for the accumulation of unclaimed dividends was

ignorance on the part of shareholders or when they changed their forwarding addresses without informing the registrars of companies they invested in; thus, making them to be unable to receive dividend warrants.

Oteh, however, said that SEC was involved in various efforts aimed at reducing the amount to a reasonable level this year.

“SEC is coming up with a policy to ensure that companies, which declare dividends, give out such amount declared to the registrars for onward disbursement to the

shareholders; this will lead to a significant reduction in the amount, going forward,” she said.

She said when the new Chairman of the SEC Board, Mr. SuleymanNdanusa, was the Director-General of the commission, the amount of unclaimed dividends stood at N8bn only, adding that he had promised to ensure that the current amount was reduced drastically.

The total amount of dividends declared by quoted companies but not claimed by investors in 2012 might hit N50bn.

Trading band expansion to boost liquidity at stock market

I

n the next couple of weeks, the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) will be made to relax restrictions on intraday price swings on all stocks from 5 percent to 10 percent, Peoples Daily has learnt.

Currently, only the price movement of Market Making stocks at the Nigerian bourse is allowed to go up to 10 percent each trading day, while other stocks outside the Market Making basket are trading at 5 percent band.

The recent pull-back in liquidity flow into the stock market caused a gradual erosion

of the market year-to-date (ytd) growth at 18.18 percent.

Responding to questions during a press briefing in Lagos with board members of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Mounir H. Gwarzo, executive commissioner, operations of SEC said, “In the next couple of weeks, all stocks trading band would be raised from 5 percent to 10 percent. It is not only the Market Making stocks that are going to be trading at 10 percent band.”

The apex market regulator has set an agenda for 2013 built around innovation, financial

inclusion and effective results from recommendations from both institutional and retail investors, as they continue to see the capital market as a way of participating in the growing Nigerian economy.

In April last year, a $10 million deal with NASDAQ was signed by the Nigerian Stock Exchange to adopt its trading platform, making it easier for foreign and local investors to trade electronically.

This development comes on the heels of SEC reaching the final stage on dematerialisation of shares. De-materialisation is

the move away from physical certificates to electronic book keeping.

“The SEC has reached the final stage on dematerialisation.

Any date we come out with would be the final. The only challenge we would have is the share certificates that are already in the market, but going forward, share certificates would be de-materialised,” Gwarzo added.

The effectiveness agenda of the Commission this year, is anchored on technology, as well as more robust enforcement and disclosure regimes.

Source:Pro-share Nigeria

INVESTORS NEWS BITS

SEC

T

he Securities and Exchange Commission has announced plans to strengthen the Collective Investment Scheme (CIS) framework to boost investment in the capital market.

The Director-General, SEC, Ms. Arunma Oteh, said this at a media briefing in Lagos on Wednesday.

She said the CIS platform was not doing as well as it should in the Nigerian market, and added that the commission would soon roll out guidelines and framework aimed at increasing participation in that market.

Mutual Funds

T

he Net Asset Value (NAV) of 49 funds under the Collective Investment Schemes (CIS) or mutual funds currently regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) grew to N111.859 billion last week, compared with the N111.285 billion recorded as of the week ended February 22, 2013.

A Collective Investment Schemes Net Asset Value is the value of the total assets of the fund, excluding its liabilities.

The SEC classified these funds into: Equity Based Fund, Money Market Fund, Bond Fund, Real Estate Fund, Balanced Based Fund, Ethical Fund, Sector Fund, Umbrella Fund, and Exchange Traded Fund. Figures at the SEC show that NAV of equitybased fund has grown from N52.286 billion to N53.079 billion in the week under review.

Nigeria’s Eurobond

N

igeria’s Eurobond yields fell the most in almost nine months after reports showed the economy accelerated in the fourth quarter and foreigncurrency reserves rose.

Yields on the $500 million of debt due January 2021 dropped 17 basis points, or 0.17 percentage point, to 4.144 percent in London last week, the biggest decline since June 6 on a closing basis and the lowest since February 6, according to data compiled

by Bloomberg. The Naira retreated less than 0.1 percent to 157.45 a dollar.

The yield on the country’s 16.39 percent domestic bonds, due January 2022, declined two basis points to 10.60 percent in the secondary market, according to data compiled on the Financial Markets Dealers Association (FMDA) website.

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2013

PAGE 22

NIGERIA DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION Plot 447 / 448 Constitution Avenue, Central Business District, Abuja E-mail: info@ndic.org.ng Website: www.ndic.org.ng

As Nigeria middle class grows, global brands hit market

SELECTION OF CONSULTANT PROJECT MANAGER FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE CORPORATION’S BRANCH OFFICES AT YOLA, SOKOTO, PORTHARCOURT AND BAUCHI REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST. The Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) intends to develop its branch off ices at Yola, Sokoto Portharcourt and Bauchi respectively.

The Corporation invites Expression of Interest (EOI) from reputable Consultant Project Manager with proven experience and competence in Consultancy Services for the building construction of its branch offices SCOPE OF WORK The role of the Project Manager is to ensure consistent, on-time execution of work across all disciplines of other Consultants, orchestrate workflow and resources on the client initiatives on the projects.

CONDITIONS FOR ELIGIBILITY Interested Consulting f irms are required to submit pre-qualif ication documents detailing their Company’s capabilities. The Consulting f irm should be registered with relevant professional body. Cognate experience of practicing Partners should not be less than twelve (12) years. Firms must be willing to enter into a formal agreement with the Corporation.

Submissions must be accompanied with the following: • Evidence of Company Registration with Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) in Nigeria.

• The current 3 years Tax Clearance Certif icate of the Company (2010 – 2012).

• The Company’s audited accounts for the last three years (2009 – 2011).

• Evidence of Financial capacity or bank support to undertake the project.

• Evidence of having successfully carried out similar works within the past three years.

• Comprehensive Company prof ile and Organizational structure.

• Evidence of Operational Capacity to execute the project.

• Resumes of key technical staff to be deployed.

• Evidence of availability of requisite and appropriate staff/skill for the job.

• Evidence of VAT registration and remittance.

• Evidence of compliance with Pension and ITF Acts; including proof of remittance to PFCs and PFAs. VERIFICATION CLAIMS Please note that the Corporation reserves the right to verify all indicated references and Operation Capacities as submitted by interested Consulting f irms.

SUBMISSION OF PRE-QUALIFICATION Note that 5no copies of the EOI should be submitted in sealed envelopes clearly marked EXPRESSION OF INTEREST FOR PROJECT MANAGER FOR CONSTRUCTION OF NDIC BRANCH OFFICES and addressed to: Director of Administration Department Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), Plot 447/448 Constitution Avenue, Central Business District, Abuja, Nigeria.

The closing date for submission is six weeks from the date of publication by 12:00 noon, 22nd April, 2013 The submissions are to be dropped in the tender box on the ground floor, reception in the Head Off ice. Companies dropping EOI are expected to sign the EOI register on the 2nd floor, Admin Dept, before dropping the tenders. Submission of EOI by post or courier will not be acceptable, and any EOI received at the designated location after the specif ied time and date shall be considered late and non-responsive.

OPENING OF DOCUMENTS Opening of documents will hold in the presence of applicants or their representatives at the Conference room of the Head Off ice building on Monday 22nd April by 2.00p.m.

IMPORTANT NOTICE All applicants are to note that;1 Nothing in this advert shall be construed to be a commitment by the Corporation, 2 Failure to comply with any of the above instruction or to provide any of the above listed documents may automatically result to disqualification, 3 The Corporation shall not enter into any correspondences with unsuccessful tenderers, 4 Only f irms capable of executing the project would be contacted.

SIGNED: MANAGEMENT

In this photo taken, Sunday, Feb. 10, 2013 customers buy Cold Stone ice cream in Lagos, Nigeria. (Photo: Associated Press )

I

nside this 1950s-style American diner, waitresses softly sing along to Aretha Franklin as they sling hamburgers and whip up milkshakes. The jukebox belts out Ritchie Valens as a customer wearing a Muslim prayer cap and flowing blue robes ambles in.

This isn't the U.S., where the kitsch restaurant chain Johnny Rockets has several hundred locations, but instead Nigeria, where foreign companies have hesitated to invest because of logistical challenges, poor electricity and government corruption.

Now, however, as Nigeria's middle class grows along with the appetite for foreign brands in Africa's most populous nation, more foreign restaurants and lifestyle companies are entering the country. And the draw on Nigerians' new discretionary spending has also put new expectations on providing quality service in a nation where many have grown accustomed to expecting very little.

"It really is impressive to go out to places and see places filled with everybody from all different walks of life," said Christopher Nahman, the managing director at the Johnny Rockets in Nigeria's largest city, Lagos.

"Nigerians are a very aspirational society also. Even somebody who it might be really kind of a burden on them financially, they will still do it to just have that experience.

"It's very encouraging moving forward because that's what you need to sustain an economy. ...

There's no going back."

The majority of those who live in Nigeria, home to more than 160 million people, live in poverty. Just more than 60 percent of Nigerians earn the equivalent of less than $1 a day, according to a 2012 study published by the country's National Bureau of Statistics. For decades, only tiny sliver of the population either involved in the

country's oil industry or its government roundly criticized for corruption had access to wealth.

The end of military rule in 1999 saw the country's economy slowly open up, with new professional jobs being added in banks and the rapidly growing mobile phone market. That gave birth to Nigeria's rapidly growing middle class, whose members earn about $480 between $645 a month and represent nearly a quarter of the country's population, according to a September 2011 study by investment firm Renaissance Capital.

Over time, those figures started to attract businesses who previously hadn't been working in Nigeria. In retail, South African firms have flocked into Nigeria, finding places in the new malls being opened around Lagos.

MassMart Holdings Ltd., of which Wal-Mart Stores Inc. of Bentonville, Arkansas, owns a controlling stake, has its Game department there.

Supermarket chain Shoprite Holdings Ltd., considered a budget grocer at home in South Africa, draws a moreupscale crowd in Nigeria, where most still shop for food in open-air markets.

The market has drawn U.S. restaurant chains as well.

KFC, owned by Louisville, Kentucky-based Yum Brands Inc., has seen a rapid expansion across Nigeria, with 17 restaurants opening across southwest Nigeria.

Domino's Pizza Inc. of Ann Arbor, Michigan, recently had a franchisee open two locations in Lagos as well.

Even ice cream seller Cold Stone Creamery of Scottsdale, Arizona, has opened to offer scoops and waffle cones to take the edge off of Nigeria's sweltering heat.

At Johnny Rockets, which sits on Lagos' swanky business-hub Victoria Island across the street from a major hotel frequented by foreigners and dignitaries, the restaurant has a velvetroped waiting area in the parking lot. Inside, the

stainless steel kitchen gleams and customers watch, often with openmouth fascination, as workers dance each hour to "Hippy Hippy Shake" or another classic song.

The menu of burgers, fries and onion rings has the Nigerian addition of jollof rice, a spicy staple of tables throughout the country.

Others coming in have followed including Domino's, which puts it atop a specialty pizza for the Nigerian market. However, most come for a taste of something different.

That luxury does come at a steep price. A double bacon cheeseburger sells for 3,500 naira, the equivalent of about $22. A vanilla milkshake is 1,800 naira, or $11.25. Yet the service does come with a smile, a song and a bit of spectacle often missing in Nigeria, where customer service can quickly degenerate into exasperated shouts and curses at blank-eyed employees.

"This, obviously, is not an everyday place," said Mimi Ade-Odiachi, a landscape and garden designer dining there recently with a friend.

"It's a once in a while, I want to celebrate something small in my life" place.

Despite the possible profits, challenges still remain for these companies.

Stores must rely on diesel generators for electricity, as Nigeria's state-run power remains epileptic at best and blackouts can last days.

Having adequate supply chains also can prove to be a challenge, as some Nigerian suppliers don't immediately meet Western standards and backlogs at the country's major port in Lagos can be weeks at a time. Corruption also remains rampant at government and regulatory agencies, analysts and private businesses acknowledge, making operating legally with proper accreditation even more difficult.

(Source: Washington Post)

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PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2013

FOR THE RECORD

Why govt has the duty to uncover ‘ghosts’ Boko Haram for dialogue

By Kashim Shettima

I

t is a rare privilege and honour to welcome most warmly, on behalf of the Government and good people of Borno State, His Excellency, the President, Commander-in-Chief of Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR, to our very beloved State, Borno, and in particular, to the historic city of Maiduguri, which we locals fondly call Yerwa.

Mr. President sir, we indeed are genuinely glad to have you in our midst today, not only because of the legendary inclination of the Borno man and woman to be good to their visitors, especially august and special ones like you, but also because of the symbolism of your visit. Few will dispute the fact that these are no ordinary times in our continued struggle and quest for nationhood. For us here in Borno in particular, this period will definitely go down as one of the most challenging of epochs in the annals of our long, eventful and proud history. To have your august presence in our State today therefore, kindles a ray of hope for us, and leaves us with an enthralling sense of optimism.

Only last month, His Excellency, the Vice-President, Arc. Mohammed Namadi Sambo, GCON, had also come calling to show solidarity with us. Your visit today, coming as it were in God's chosen time, therefore represents the ultimate icing on the cake. Mr. President wushe kinshero, sannu da zuwa. I also extend our special welcome to all the dignitaries in your entourage particularly Members of the National Assembly, Honourable Ministers, Special Advisers and Service Chiefs.

Your Excellency, as you are no doubt aware, the challenge of insecurity of the scale we have been confronted with in the last three years or so can constitute a huge distraction to governance. The unfortunate insurgency spearheaded by the Jama'atu Ahlis Sunnah Lidda'awati Wal Jihad, a.k.a Boko Haram has left in its wake a heavy toll of death and destruction.

Hundreds of human lives have been lost while hundreds of millions of Naira worth of property have been destroyed, not to mention the unquantifiable loss occasioned by the crippling of businesses and other economic activities. Our alien experience during the period under reference has emphatically brought home to us the wisdom of the axiom that peace is a necessary pre-condition for development.

I described our current experience as alien because over the more than one thousand years that Islam has taken its roots in Borno, it indeed has affected the lives of our people positively, and has through its doctrines guided our daily lives and interpersonal relations ranging from social to economic interactions. As an integral part of our existence, the Borno Region stands proud in its Islamic history that had been long in existence even when Usman Dan Fodio was waging jihad on communities. In this regard, even the emergence of colonialism in 1900 recognised the fundamental supremacy of Islam and its values and did not alter and or manipulate the Islamic values and traditions. The virtues of tolerance, being your brother's keeper, good neighbourliness, social justice, accountability and honest leadership were - and still are - the hallmarks and enduring legacies of Islam in our state and indeed our lives Borno was a model, a standard of what was good in the African culture, a pride of the Blackman everywhere and our history was compared to that of the Ottomans and Sa'adi Morocco, some of the oldest and most impressive dynasties in the world. Borno as a society was, and still remains, a cosmopolitan, multicultural, multi-ethnic as well as multi-religious society. This heterogeneity often referred to as a melting pot was sustained by a tolerance of dissenting views.

Tolerance, moderation and accommodation were the traits that made us great as a people and as a society.

Once the fundamental right of the other person to hold opinion is abridged, there can never be peace and harmony.

The current state of insecurity and deplorable state of affairs is not unconnected with the attempt to impose the opinion of a small group on a larger society, a

Borno State Governor

KASHIM SHETTIMA situation which clearly abridges the freedom to freely hold and express ones opinion which is fundamental and inalienable in any given society.

We as a society have had our fair share of instability and even wars in our chequered history including the sacking of Birnin Ngazargamu by the jihadists in 1808, Rabih's invasion and occupation in 1893 and the Maitasine riots of the 1980's. In all these crises, destructive and vicious as they were, the wars did not degenerate into killing of innocent souls, targeting of public recreational centers, places of worships in a sustained and protracted manner, as we sadly witness today. The targeting of innocent and unarmed civilians regardless of their ethnicity, race and or religious beliefs is alien not only to our norms and culture, but to the fundamental doctrines of Islam.

“

"I deliberately delayed the most important issue that should occupy the minds of all of us here, that is the much discussed issue of peace negotiations especially with the recent offer of ceasefire made by some members in the leadership of the Jama'atu Ahlil Sunnah Lidda'awati wal Jihad, Boko Haram in common parlance. As a people and Government of the State most affected by this insurgency, we most passionately welcome this development because the peace process must start from one step.

Getting just a person can lead to getting hundreds and more. Our focus must be on the way forward and not to be stiff or go down to distraction. It is our duty to unearth the ghosts that we seek to negotiate with. To draw a lesson from the works of an American author, Robert Fulghum, we must know and accept, that Peace is not something we just wish for; it's something we have to make ourselves, it is a gift we offer to ourselves, we do not do a favour to anyone by chatting the course of peace because trouble is mobile, it steadily comes to our safe homes when we fail to share efforts to stop it from breathing in the very far"

However, we have refused to allow the situation deter us as we have embarked on a single minded pursuit of the developmental aspirations of our people. In spite of all the odds, we have not relented for a single moment in our determination to provide quality service for the people of Borno in the areas of education, health, agriculture, water supply, roads, decent and affordable housing and general infrastructure among many others. By the special grace of Allah (SWT) we have worked day and night and judiciously utilized our resources for the greatest good of the greatest number of our people.

While we are indeed doing our best and intend to do even more in the days, months and years ahead to achieve our mission of re-inventing and re-engineering Borno, it is an open secret that our resources are severely limited. Even in relatively stable times, resource scarcity has been one of our major banes.

Conflict and strife and their unpleasant consequences have exacerbated this resource scarcity further. More than ever before, we need all the help we can get to fight the scourge of poverty and ignorance. I make bold to state categorically that the many crises the world over, including the insurgency we are faced with today are in the main borne out of extreme poverty and social exclusivity. If one successfully disconnects the Boko Haram ideology from poverty, one may find it difficult to separate the fertile grounds for recruiting new foot soldiers of insurgency from the lack of employment that keeps them on the streets, making them volatile to collecting pittance to execute mortal plots.

For us in Borno State, building peace out of our current precarious situation remains the priority development agenda. This is a priority because our conception of development is people centred. It is about real improvement in the existential conditions of our people. We are committed to the human security paradigm, which is based on the twin concepts of freedom from fear and freedom from want. This is the surest way of guaranteeing peace and security. This government is committed to open, transparent, accountable and inclusive governance. This way our people will learn to trust their leaders and bridge the trust deficit between leaders and the led. For lack of trust and deficit of leadership are some of the underlying reasons for our current predicament.

As a way forward, we need to immediately tackle these underlying causes of the problem, and to do that speedily and without further damage to societal cohesion, the support of the Federal Government is critical. I am aware that some 30 citizens of Borno were amongst beneficiaries of business grants under the Federal Government's 'You-Win' business promo in which youths were invited and encouraged to initiate business plans after which the best plans were rewarded with grants. We thank the President for this creative programme. As a government, we have from our first days in office declared an unspoken emergency on jobs creation through integrated Agriculture and vocational skills. So many of our youths have been taken off the streets, nearly 30,000 jobs have been created through our different agricultural programmes. Only last week, 50 unemployed graduate youths returned from Thailand after three-months train-the-trainers theoretical and practical courses on integrated agriculture, they are expected to transfer knowledge to atleast 10,000 young farmers. Other youths were trained in Benin Republic and our own farms in Nigeria, including the Sabore farms in Adamawa. Many of our youths now know how to make bricks, roofing tiles and interlocks while they also know how to assemble them to build houses, roof them and interlock the streets. There is still so much to be done to make our youths productively self employed.

For the avoidance of any doubt Your Excellency, we have no intention of abdicating our responsibilities to our people. We are at all times alert to the covenant we signed with them which we intend to keep to the letter.

We also appreciate the decision of the Federal Government to cite in Borno State projects like the CBN's Entrepreneurship Development Centre (EDC) for the North East Zone which aims at fighting the curse called Continue on page 25

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PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2013

FOR THE RECORD Continue from page 24 unemployment and the Financial Inclusion Initiative pilot scheme which provides the poor with access to financial services. However, we feel very strongly that to make life even more abundant for our people, we need to have a far more productive and sustainable partnership with the Federal Government. Pursuant to this partnership, we call on the Federal Government to immediately engage all stakeholders and initiate the process of articulating a comprehensive blueprint for addressing the scourge of poverty and deprivation in Nigeria. I specifically enjoin the Federal Government to come up with a Marshall Plan for the North East geopolitical zone in the same way it did for the Niger Delta to tackle the twin menace of poverty and insecurity.

Integral to that Marshall Plan should be the recharging of the dwindling Lake Chad, the water resource which has the potential of positively transforming the lives of more than 30 million people spread on the shores of the region.

For Borno State which should derive a special attention, we suggest that the following specifics, among others, should constitute part of the proposed Plan: a) The recharging of the fast shrinking Lake Chad through the diversion of water from River Congo. I am very much aware of Mr. President's commitment in this regard through his active participation with other heads of governments of member states of the Lake Chad Basin Commission. I urge sustained commitment. b) The facilitation for the quick exploration and exploitation of oil in the Chad Basin area as seismic analysis shows large deposits of hydro carbons so that Borno State can join the league of oil producing states. c) The completion of the 330 KV Line to enable the State enjoy a much improved supply of electricity. d) The construction in the State of a solar and/or wind-powered energy farm with an installed capacity of thirty (30) kilo watts. The combined effect of c) and d) above in boosting economic growth and development, especially wealth creation and employment generation in our State, your Excellency will agree with me, will be enormous. e) An intervention on almajiri-quranic education which we call Tsangaya here in Borno State. Being a fountain with over 1000 years history of Islamic scholarship, Borno has the highest number of young almajiris seeking Islamic education with a record of 987,000 almajiris, from all over the north and some part of the south western Nigeria. We have 11,217 registered tsangaya schools, located in Maiduguri, Jere, Bama, Ngala, Konduga and host of other places in the State. This explains why Borno pioneered the integrated quranic education in 1999 which later became a model borrowed across the nation. The federal government under Mr President has granted us six almajiri schools, out of which two have been completed but yet to be handed over to us. We are very particular about the model-two boarding school, which is amongst the four, yet to be completed. The State government has built fifteen of these schools; we cater for teachers' stipends, feeding of pupils, instructional materials and infrastructure. We have a huge challenge in this regard more so that leaving almajiris on the streets could pose so much danger. f)The accelerated completion of the Kano-Maiduguri dual carriageway, the only one of its kind in the entire North East Zone. g) The reconstruction/rehabilitation of the following Federal roads in Borno State which are in total state of decay and dilapidation: Maiduguri - Ngala Road, Maiduguri - Bama - Banki Road, Bama - Gwoza Road, Dikwa - Monguno - Baga Road and the Maiduguri - Biu - Kwaya-Kusar Road. h) The accelerated completion of the long-standing Biu Dam Project i) The accelerated completion of the Maiduguri (Bulumkutu Axis) Water Works j) The establishment of a Federal Polytechnic or College of Education in the State It is important at this juncture to draw Mr. President's

Why govt has the duty to uncover ‘ghosts’ Boko Haram for dialogue

L-R: President Goodluck Jonathan, Borno state Governor, Alhaji Kashim Shettima, elder statesman, Shettima Ali monguno, former Borno state Governor, Senator Ali Modu Sheriff, Borno state Deputy Governor, Alhaji Zanna Mustapha, Minister of state for Agriculture, Alhaji Bukkar Tijani, and Minister of state for Finance, Alhaji Yerima Ngama, at a town hall meeting during the visit of President Jonathan, on Friday in Maiduguri. attention to the fact that even the limited resources which accrue to the State have been further depleted, first by the logistic and other forms of support we render for the operation of the Joint Task Force (JTF), and secondly and more recently, by the unanticipated expenditures we had to incur since the senseless burning of schools and other public infrastructure by insurgents and common criminals started across the State. In essence, we now have a situation in our hands in which resources meant for providing other vital services for teeming population are being diverted to the reconstruction of the burnt schools, thereby further impoverishing the State and its people. We are therefore calling on the Federal Government to kindly come to our aid by directing the UBEC, TET-FUND and/or any other relevant agencies of government to take over the reconstruction of these schools.

Furthermore, we also appeal to the Federal Government to seriously consider Borno State for assistance in the area of flood control the same way it is treating other flood prone States. Already, the State Government has demonstrated strong commitment to tackling this problem across the State. For example, Government has awarded a N14 Billion contract and work has actually commenced for the provision of infrastructure including road networks and drainage system to Bulumkuttu, a highly populated area in the Maiduguri Metropolis which is aimed partly at tackling the perennial problem of flooding in the area. Works are going on in Mobbar LGA, putting in place flood control measures and for the construction of 750 houses for villagers sacked by flood in 2012. We are even going further with a programme that aims at eradicating stalk houses in our villages and replacing them with modern low-cost brick-houses at no cost to be borne by the villagers.

Mr. President sir, I deliberately delayed the most important issue that should occupy the minds of all of us here, that is the much discussed issue of peace negotiations especially with the recent offer of ceasefire made by some members in the leadership of the Jama'atu Ahlil Sunnah Lidda'awati wal Jihad, Boko Haram in common parlance. As a people and

“

"Life is a continuum for the resolution of conflicts. As John F. Kennedy rightly posited, "Let us never negotiate out of fear, but let us never fear to negotiate". Unless we want to engage in an endless war of attrition, it would be defeatist to foreclose any discussion with the sect, especially with the moderate elements of the Boko Haram"

Government of the State most affected by this insurgency, we most passionately welcome this development because the peace process must start from one step. Getting just a person can lead to getting hundreds and more. Our focus must be on the way forward and not to be stiff or go down to distraction. It is our duty to unearth the ghosts that we seek to negotiate with. To draw a lesson from the works of an American author, Robert Fulghum, we must know and accept, that Peace is not something we just wish for; it's something we have to make ourselves, it is a gift we offer to ourselves, we do not do a favour to anyone by chatting the course of peace because trouble is mobile, it steadily comes to our safe homes when we fail to share efforts to stop it from breathing in the very far.

Life is a continuum for the resolution of conflicts. As John F. Kennedy rightly posited, "Let us never negotiate out of fear, but let us never fear to negotiate". Unless we want to engage in an endless war of attrition, it would be defeatist to foreclose any discussion with the sect, especially with the moderate elements of the Boko Haram.

Mr. President, while we thank the Federal Government as we look forward to continued intervention to contain the insurgency in our State and other affected states across the country, I wish to appeal that more efforts should be geared towards the deployment of cutting edge technology so that rapid success may be attained. The widespread deployment and use of CCTV cameras, devices for the detection of arms, ammunitions, bombs and explosives will go a long way in ameliorating the situation. That said however, we are convinced beyond any doubt, like I had said, that the ultimate resolution of this crisis lies in the resort to a political solution. Without prejudice to the use of other solutions, we must be ready to embrace the spirit of dialogue and negotiation to end this dark phase of our life as a nation in general and Borno State in particular.

Finally, Your Excellency, as I pledge our faithfulness to, and express our willingness to cooperate with, the Federal Government to bring development to our people, I kindly crave your indulgence to enjoin you and members of our entourage to fully avail your good selves of the traditional and widely acclaimed 1000 years old hospitality of Borno people.

We wish you a very successful working tour of our State and a safe journey back to Abuja and God's mercies and blessings.

Shettima, the Governor of Borno State and former University lecturer, delivered this speech last Friday, when President Goodluck Jonathan met members of the Borno executive council at the council chambers of the Government House, Maiduguri, during the President's visit to the State.

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PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2013 08028402920 sbejike@gmail.com

Stories by Sunday Ejike Benjamin

A

Federal High Court in Abuja sitting before Justice Adamu Bello has fixed March 21, 2013 to deliver judgment in the suit brought before it by the chairman of the recently dissolved Presidential Task Force on Pension Reforms, Dr Abdulrasheed A. Maina, seeking to stop his arrest and prosecution over his role in the alleged multi-billion naira scam when he was at the helms of affairs of the Presidential Pension Reform Task Force.

Maina’s pension reform team was alleged to have been involved in N195 billion frauds, a situation which prompted the Joint Senate Committee investigating Pension Administration to issue a warrant for his arrest after his persistent refusal to appear before it to clarify the issues surrounding the alleged fraud.

Maina, on the 4th of February 2013 dragged the Senate and Nigeria Police Force to Court seeking an order setting aside the warrant of his arrest by the Senate on February 2, 2013 as same constitute a violation of his rights as guaranteed under section 35(1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).

Maina also prayed the court to declare that the decision of the Senate, through its Joint Committee on Establishment & Public Service; and the Committee on State & Local Govt. administration directing his immediate arrest and detention by the Police without any legal

Alleged N195bn Pension scam: Court sets March 21 for judgment chambers had asked the president to fire Maina and order his prosecution for his alleged role in the alleged N195 billion pension fraud. The lawmakers also accused Maina, an assistant director in the ministry of interior, of snubbing its repeated summons.

In a statement on Friday, the Customs, Immigration and Prison Pension Office, CIPPO, said Mr. Maina was removed as the

Abdulrasheed Maina justification is unconstitutional illegal ultra vires null and void and of effect what so ever as same violates section 36(1) and section 6 (6) B of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended).

Other reliefs are declaration that the threat and intimidation and attempts to arrest him by the Respondents on the basis of the exercise of his lawful and legitimate duties as Chairman, Pension Reform Task Force is unconstitutional, illegal, null and void and of no effect whatsoever and an order directing the respondents

to pay him the sum of one billion naira as aggravated and exemplary damages for unlawful interference with his right to perform his lawful duties and sum of N500 million as general and exemplary damages.

The trial Judge fixed the date for judgment following last week adoption of written addresses by parties in the suit.

Meanwhile, President Goodluck Jonathan had last Friday removed Maina; nearly a month after a senate’s resolution urged the president to act in that respect.

The upper legislative

Court restrains SEC, EFCC and ICPC against Gora, software coy

T

he Federal High Court had ordered the Security and Exchange Commission (SEC) to immediately remove a ‘wanted notice’ posted on its website against the Managing Director of Cashflow Nigeria Limited, Mr. Philemon Gora.

The Cashflow boss, who is the applicant, had claimed that the Economic and Finacial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and SEC also instructed his Banks not to honour his chegues.

The trial Judge, Justice Adeniyi Ademola, in his ruling last week further restrained the Inspector General of Police (second defendant) from taking further steps against the applicant pending the hearing of his motion on notice.

“All parties to the suit before this court must maintain status quo pending when the interim order is vacated”, the Judge held.

SEC had filed a petition to the IG-P and EFCC to investigate Cashflow and its Managing Director, Gora, for allegedly running an illegal financial institution.

The Commission had further asked them to stop the illegal transaction with a view to protecting depositors’ funds.

According to the applicant’s counsel, James Ocholi (SAN),”It amounts to a mockery of research and disregard for the court for SEC to post and declare my client wanted even when the parties have been put on notice’’.

“In fact, My Lord, the EFCC,

Director of CIPPO and will be replaced by Olabisi Jaji, while Elizabeth Zenetimi, will serve as the deputy director. The directive, the statement said took effect March 4, 2013.

Friday’s decision closed one chapter of a controversy that raged for months between the senate and Mr. Maina. But the government has yet to respond to the call for Mr. Maina’s prosecution.

Corruption: SERAP launches document to encourage whistle blowers

A

Non Governmental Organisation, SocioEconomic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) had launched a document that would encourage Nigerians to report any act of corruption to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

In a media briefing in Lagos recently to launch the document carried out in collaboration with the Open Society Initiative for West Africa (OSIWA), and written by Professor Oyelowo Oyewo former dean of the faculty of law University of Lagos, the organization’s executive director Adetokunbo Mumuni said that, “This simplified document aims to increase citizens’ awareness about the ICPC, and contains practical information, including the very important points such as examples of typical incidences of corruption by local government officials, and how a citizen can lodge a complaint before the ICPC.” SERAP said the document encourages citizens to take on the role of “whistle-blowers” that can trigger investigations into corrupt practices that will lead to prosecution and conviction of

corrupt public officials.

According to the organization, “Section 24 (e) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) imposes a duty on every citizen to “render assistance to appropriate and lawful agencies in the maintenance of law and order”.

It said there is a duty placed on every Nigerian citizen to report to the ICPC any form of action, activity, transaction, event, or phenomenon, that portends corruption under whatever guise.

The report explains that “the ICPC Act in section 6(f) imposes a duty on the Commission to “to enlist and foster public support in combating corruption.”

According to the organization, “Several allegations of corruption among local government officials are not adequately reported; and actions are rarely taken to redress the problem or to achieve accountability. Yet, local-level corruption is assessed to be much more widespread that corruption at the federal and state levels, probably because of the direct and personal contacts local government officials have with citizens in providing the most ordinary and most sought after public services.”

Court fixes April 23 to resume trial in suit against Police

C Ibrahim Lamorde ICPC and SEC have continually intimidated Gora for doing legitimate business,’’ he said.

The applicant (Gora) claims that the huge sums of money in his multiple accounts were proceeds from a contract with Google.

Gora is therefore seeking the order of the court to compel EFCC, ICPC and SEC to allow him access to his Bank Accounts, alleging that the freezing of the accounts had brought hardship on the employees of the software company.

“All my accounts are inoperative as the authorities freeze my Bank Account and

declared me wanted’’, he told the court.

Mr. Austine Emumejakor, counsel to the EFCC, said that the Commission had operated within its mandate so far.

“My Lord, I am not holding brief for SEC, but suffice to say that Gora was placed on the wanted list of the Commission before he (Gora) rushed to court.

“Investigation was also near completion to commence his prosecute for allegedly running an illegal financial business.

The court adjourned to March 15, 2013 to hear the applicant’s motion.

ourt slates April 23, 2013 to resume trial in the suit brought by one Mrs. Kate Okwor against Kuje police station over a missing detainee, Mr Jude Onunze.

The plaintiff, through her counsel, PAN Ejiofor, of Nnaemeka Ejiofor & Associates, wants the court to direct the Police to produce the body and person of Jude Onunze to court dead or alive.

She is also claiming a total sum of N600 million as damages and for the maintenance and upkeep of Jude’s wife, five children and rehabilitation of Jude’s younger brother and old parents.

A statement of oath, sworn to by the plaintiff 5th February 2010, claimed that on, “1/1/2009, Jude called me at about 11am to say that he has been arrested and detained at Kuje police station in Kuje; that Jude told me he was arrested because he told John Ogbonna that

somebody has threatened to kill him.”

She claimed that on 3/1/2009 when her husband and members of her town union went to demand that Jude be released on bail, the police asked them to return the next day. When they went the next day, the bail was refused.

According to her, “On 5/1/09, the 7th defendant told us that Jude was released at night on selfrecognition; that we looked for Jude everywhere without success, and my husband reported to the police.”

Since then, the detainee has not been seen.

The defendants to the suit are the inspector general of police, Police Service Commission, FCT Police commissioner, Attorney General of the Federation, CSP Roland Okoh (O/C homicide FCT), SP Nuhu M. Chindo, Insp. Felix O. Isaac, and PC Peter Ageh.

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PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2013

Islamic Group Establishes College of Education In Osun A

prominent Islamic group in Iwo, Osun State, Jama’tu Ta’wunil Muslimeen Society of Nigeria has established college of Education christened “A-Hummah College of Education (UMCOED).

Speaking at the laying of the foundation stone of the college at its permanent site, Oguro, the State governor, Mr. Rauf Aregbesola urged Muslims in the country to cultivate the habit of good character as part of their religion tenets, just as he declared that faith without good character is nothing in Islam.

Governor Aregbesola also advocated for seeking of knowledge at allcost by Muslims in the country as directed by Prophet Muhammad, adding that stated that “if God needs only faith, He will not create human being because angels had faith than human being”.

Speaking further, he urged Muslims to be patient in whatever they aredoing in, stressing that God in the Holy Quran has orderedevery Muslim to be patient and diligent in dealing his fellow Muslims and non-Muslims.

“I want to advise Muslims communities in the country to stop building mosques because there are enough existing ones.

We should repair and maintain the existing ones to keep them clean. It is time we start building schools because Islam is a religion that compels every Muslim to seek knowledge at all cost”.

Aregbesola then sought for the support of Muslim communities in the state to contribute towards the college project, urging the proprietor and the implementation committee of the college to find a structure where they would name “Ta’wunil Institute of Bilingual Studies and offer short term training on Arabic and English languages before the completion of the project site to address the issue of unemployment among Muslims in government establishments.

Also speaking at the event, Chairman, Implementation Committee of the College, Professor Alagbe Wasiu Gbolagade, disclosed that the main objective of establishing the institution is to compliment the efforts of the state government in the Education sector.

He said,” The proposed College of Education will be for the benefits of the Muslim Ummah in particular and all Nigerians in general. The mission of the college is to be the best in producing morally upright teachers and to increase the number of Islamic and Arabic teachers that are few in government schools in Nigeria today.

“The college will have five schools, that is School of Arts, Languages, Sciences, Social

Sciences and Business Education and Vocational Studies.

However, we would like to start with two productive schools that will involve entrepreneurship studies

according to how it appears in our academic brief”.

Earlier in his welcome address, the National President of the group, Sheikh Dawood Iman Molaasan urged the state

governor, to give every citizen of the state his right in the scheme of government projects.

While soliciting assistance from the State government and wealthy Nigerians in the society

on the completion of the college, Molaasan commended the Governor on the initiation of State logo and anthem which he said has gone a long way in the promotion of the Yoruba culture.

L-R: Osun state Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, National President, Jama'atu Ta'Awunil Muslimeen, Sheikh Daood Imran Molaasan, and Assistant Chief of Staff to Osun state Governor, Hon.Mudasiru Togun, during the laying of the foundation stone of Al-Ummah College of Education (UMCOED), recently in Iwo.

Unilorin faults ASUU group claims on harassment From Olanrewaju Lawal,Ilorin

T

he authority of the University of Ilorin has faulted claims by a group of Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) that the institution harassed its members on the campus.

The institution in a statement issued and signed by Mr. Kunle Akogun, the Deputy Director of Corporate Affairs of the institution said the unknown union members are head bent on disrupting the ongoing examination of the students while the Vicechancellor they sought audience with were not around.

“There is no iota of truth in the allegation that the University harassed anybody with its security personnel let alone men

of the Nigeria Police Force. What happened on Wednesday, 27th February was a case of a group hell bent on holding illegal meeting at a venue where postgraduate students were busy writing their examinations.

“The group that claimed to be representatives of ASUU national body had earlier phoned to seek permission to visit the ViceChancellor on an undisclosed mission. But the acting ViceChancellor, Prof Felix Oladele, told them that the VC was not around and that they should be patient until he returns.

“But despite this explanation, the ASUU members still decided to come to the University.

Meanwhile, their visit coincided with the meeting of a group of academic staff of the University

that goes by the name ‘Concerned Academics’. This raised some curiosity.

According to the statement, every member of the University community is well aware that meetings are held in lecture halls/ theatres only after formal permissions to use such halls have been duly sought and given. But these ‘Concerned Academics’ neither sought nor got permission to use any hall for their proposed meeting.

“Even despite this, nobody interrupted their clandestine plan until they got to the proposed venue, the Faculty of Arts Lecture Theatre, where they saw that exams were going on. They then moved to the Faculty of Law Theatre but the Dean politely informed them that a

JIBWIS to establish University From Ahmed Kaigama, Bauchi

I

n a bid to boast education in the country, the Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’a Wa Iqamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS) will soon establish its university in Jos, Plateau state.

The group spiritual leader, Shiekh Yahaya Jingir, who disclosed this at the weekend during its National Preaching session in

Bauchi, said Nigeria needs more Universities to void overcrowding.

He said the idea to establish the university is to boost the education sector in the country and to reduce the idleness among our youth adding that having more academic institution in the country is necessary because it would assist the youth who find it difficult to gain entrance into other higher institutions in the country.

According to him, “already we have constructed administrative block at the University site and gradually it will become a reality.

We have about four NCE institutions running in the country”.

However, he expressed optimism that when the University take-off, it will give the youth adequate Islamic knowledge as well as help them attain their religious goals in

postgraduate exam was about to take place there.

“They now converged under a tree and resolved to go to Henry George Hotel to hold the meeting.

There was no hot exchange of words whatsoever, let alone any incident of harassment or intimidation”, it said.

It further explained that the University of Ilorin duly recognises the essence of academic freedom, which it is trying to promote. We are fully aware that this is the key to industrial harmony, which has yielded great dividends to the University these past few years as evidenced in its unrivalled academic excellence and allround feats in all areas of learning, research and community development.” life by ensuring that they excel in the recitation of the Holy Quran and adhere strictly to the Islamic tenets.

He appealed for the translation of courses into local languages for easy comprehension and learning by students in the university.

He called on government at all levels to be fair and just in their dealings with all segments of the society, stressing that, this development will address the security challenge and other problems the nation is currently facing.

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PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2013

NTIC award winners of 2013 national language festival

By Maryam Garba Hassan

T

he Nigerian Turkish International Colleges (NTIC), at the weekend awarded winners of its just concluded 2013 national Festival of Language, organised by the colleges, in Abuja.

The festival which was organised in three Nigeria's

major languages, Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba and Turkish, French and English languages was participated by 2000, students of the Colleges across the nation.

According to Yunus Emre Dogan, Principal of the College in Lagos, the competition which started three years ago, was initiated to promote Nigeria's rich culture, peace and unity

and friendship among its people, and showcase the various languages in the country as well as to strengthen the bilateral relationship between Nigeria and Turkey.

He however, lamented that the schools management observed that sometimes students cannot come together because of language and

religious differences.

Speaking at the award ceremony, the Coordinator of the competition, AbdullahiYigit, said for years, Turkey has been organising such competition where it brings different nations of the world together and thought it will be a good idea do same in Nigeria adding said winners of the just

L-R: Minister of State for Education, Barrister EzenwoNyesomWike, Vice-President Mohammed Namadi Sambo, AkwaI bomstate Governor, Chief Godswill Akpabio, Minister of Education, Professor Ruqayyatu Ahmed Rufa'I, with pupils, during the national flag-off of the distribution of instructional materials for basic education schools, on Saturday in Uyo, Akwa Ibom state.

Photo: Justin Imo-Owo

concluded national completion will represent Nigeria in Turkey at the international competition, where 140 countries participate and 2000 pupils of the colleges will represent Nigeria.

Commending Nigeria for its rich culture, Yigit, said last year, the country came first at the international competition because of the rich culture presentation by the pupils.

Former Speaker House of Representative, Ghali Umar Na Abba, who applauded the schools management for the initiative, urged other schools to emulate the colleges in the interest of peace and unity, especially now that the country is facing security challenges.

"Nigeria is a good country with a rich culture and a lot of languages. In spite of the problems we are facing currently, we should not wait for others to come and do our work for us".

11 year old Lawrence Linus Awute, who came first in Turkish language, told Peoples Daily, that he developed interest in the language because he wants to be a linguist.

According to him, it took him 1 year to study and understand the language with the help of his teachers.

"I feel happy that I emerged the winner in Turkish language competition. It was tough competition. Turkish language is an interesting language and easy to learn with constant practice. Now I can sing and compose poem in the language without the help of my teachers".

NANS urges minister to check students' unjust suspension, fees increment

By Maryam Garba Hassan Leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called on the Minister of Education Prof.

Ruqayyatu Ahmed Rufa'I, to intervene in the issue of unjustly suspension and expelling of students in the Universities and tertiary institutions across the country. as well as the constant increment of tuition fees in the institutions by schools.

The association which spoke through its national President Comrade YinkaGbadebo of AOU, Ile-Ife, made the call yesterday

in Abuja when a team led by the Special Adviser to President Jonathan on Youth, Jude Imagwe, paid a courtesy call on the minister in her office.

Ogbadebo decried that students these days have no right to air out their views concerning issues they feel strongly about especially on their welfare without been suspended or even expelled from the school.

He said another issue that needs the Minister's urgent intervention is the frequent increment of school fees which is on the increase in higher institutions saying that even if

there is the need for that, it should be done gradually so as not to affect parents, guardians and students who are coming from poor homes.

"Students are made to pay caution fees up till today in all the higher institutions of learning in the country even as there are some schools that have not had protests in the last 20 years, we pay library fees when most of our school libraries are stock with old and out dated books written more than 4 decades ago as well as pay sports facilities when these facilities are not there", he said.

The association also called for

the scrapping of Post UME JAMB, alleging that the officials are only making money out of the development at the detriment of Nigerian students adding that rather than having it, government should invest more in JAMB to strengthen it and make it more credible than it is.

The association also calls on the minister to intervene on the issue of unionism to allow it to strive on campuses.

Responding, minister of education, who commended the role the present NANS leadership is playing in ensuring that things are done in the right

UNI Uyo to be among top 100 Universities in the world by 2020 - VC

By Mike Etim, Uyo

T

he Vice Chancellor of the University of Uyo, AkwaIbom State, Professor Comfort Ekpo, has pledged the university's determination to emerge as one of the top 100 universities in the world by the year 2020.

The VC said that the University has what it takes to get there but stressed that the feat could only be attained if the Federal Government provides the requested funding and support the University needs.

Prof. Ekpo who spoke during her presentation before the Senate House Committee on Education led by its Chairman Senator

UcheChukwumerije who were on a working visit to the University, told the Committee that the University has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Nigerian Export Council to build a common facility centre on the campus.

She also told the committee that the university has also been

appointed as E -Learning centre and it was looking forward to building an ICT centre with a space for over 1000 computers for students use.

She pointed out that the University has consolidated its position from the setback it had in 2005 when 90% of the program offered were denied accreditations due to logistic problems but

way, said the issues raised by the association requires government to have a closed door meeting to be able to address them.

On Post UME JAMB, she said Universities VCs have the right to choose the quality of students they will offer admission to into their schools adding that they must have the opportunities to identify quality of students that can defend the credentials they present.

She however assured the team that the issues they raised will be looked into with urgency and seriousness to ensure peace in the country's higher institutions. maintained that under her tenure the University today has all its programs accredited including Medicine and Law Program.

Saddled with the problem of running five campuses scattered all over the state, she pointed out that the University was forced to bring down it campuses into two due to huge expenses on running them and to monitor the activities of students.

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2012

PAGE 37

Nassarawa: Al-makura’ll contest in 2015 From Ali Abare Abubakar, Lafia

T

he Tanko Al-makura (TAAL) campaign organisation, has said it is strategizing and preparing toward presenting Governor Tanko Al-Makura as a governorship candidate for the Nassarawa governorship election in 2015.

The organisation made this known in Lafia, the Nasarawa state capital, via a press release

signed by Suleiman Abdulwahab Suleiman, Director of publicity, adding that Almakura will seek re-election as governor based on his determination, political will and sincerity of purpose to move the state to greater heights.

The release stated further that in line with its objectives and to ensure effectiveness, TAAL campaign organisation will open offices in all the local governments and development

areas of the state, having resolved to meet once a month to further strategize prior to the proper campaign takeoff.

The organisation said it observed with keen interest the emergence of the All Progressive Congress (APC), which it described as a way forward to ensuring viral democratic practice, while hailing Almakura for being in the fore front of the agitation for the merger of opposition parties.

The statement said the organisation will soon launch its website that will serve as an avenue for information dissemination and also showcase the achievements of Governor Al-makura, while also providing an opportunity for interacting with the general public.

TAAL campaign organisation then called on the support of the people of the state for it to achieve its objectives.

R-L: Minister of Special Duties and Inter-governmental Affairs, Alhaji Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, chatting with Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Treasurer, Engineer Bala Kaoje, during a dinner in honour of the minister, at the weekend in Abuja.

Photo: Miriam Humbe

2015: S/south group endorses Buhari/Oshiomhole's ticket Mohammed Umar-Puma

A

group, South-South Mandate Forum has endorsed the duo of Gen. Mohammadu Buhari and the Edo state governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole as Presidential and Vice

Presidential candidates respectively on the platform of the newly formed All Progressives' Congress (APC) in 2015.

The group in a communique endorsed by its National Cocoordinator, Chief Joel Amadi and Chairmen from the six states

of the zone noted that it was convinced that the duo's ticket is the panacea to rescue Nigeria from the social-political and economic quagmire currently bedeviling it.

The communique read in part, " The South-South Mandate Forum will reach out to other

ethnic groups, geo-political regions and progressive minds to sell this wining candidates; we therefore challenge Nigerians not to take decisions based on sentiments but to critically look at issues objectively so as to save the future of Nigeria for our children".

Tambuwal canvasses Africa, South South ties for world stability

By Lawrence Olaoye

S

peaker of the House of Representatives, Hon Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, has said forging a closer economic and political ties between African and South-South countries is crucial for world stability and integration.

Speaking at the opening of the Crans Montana Forum on Africa and South South Cooperation in Brussels, Belgium, Tambuwal said the near uniformity of challenges which affect

all parts of the globe has made it imperative for all nations to work together for the benefit of humanity.

A statement issued in Abuja and signed by the Speaker’s Special Adviser on Media and Public Affairs, Malam Imam Imam, quoted Tambuwal as saying that many countries are encountering natural, political, economic and humanitarian challenges of varying degrees, a situation that calls for urgent action to find lasting solutions to the challenges.

“The moment has come to have a multi-dimensional, multi-sectoral wholistic approach to these global challenges,” he added.

Tambuwal said due to its unique position in Africa, Nigeria, just as Germany and France have done much for European integration, is most qualified to lead the consolidation of regional integration not just in West Africa, but throughout the continent.

He said despite the fact that some African countries are endowed with natural and human resources, there

is still need for investable funds from abroad especially in areas like railways, energy, telecommunication and manufacturing.

“This is where the investment corporations, especially from the Arab world, have an important role to play.

If we are able to forge a new partnership in these areas, it will enhance the much-talked about South-South corporation for which not much has been achieved so far,” the Speaker added.

I wasn’t tipped for Defence Ministry, says Turaki

By Miriam Humbe

T

he Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Alhaji Kabiru Tanimu Turaki ,has debunked media speculations that he was tipped by the Presidency for the position of Defence Minister.

Turaki said this in an exclusive chat with this reporter at a dinner organised in his honour by friends and indigenes of Kebbi state based in Abuja to celebrate his appointment into the federal cabinet during the weekend.

“I have not been tipped for the position of Minister of Defence. If a vacancy existed for the position of minister of Defence, the President has the mandate to send any minister anywhere.

He sent me to Special Duties and he has now added another responsibility of Inter-governmental affairs to me. I thank God and pray that God will give me the capacity to discharge that mandate”.

The newly appointed minister who described himself as an ambassador of Kebbi also said, “I now have a larger constituency which is the Federal Republic of Nigeria” also urged all to pray for his success adding that he had the responsibility to ensure that millions of Nigerians were served the right way the President who appointed him wants, assuring that “I will not disappoint Nigerians”. “What I do will not be influenced by prejudices like religion or where one comes from. We should recognise our weaknesses and agree that is the way out. Our diversity is what has kept us going. I pledge that I will do well to all manner of people not only to people from Kebbi but all Nigerians”, he added.

National Treasurer of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Engr. Bala Kaoje who represented the Kebbi State Governor, Alhaji Sa’idu Dakingari promised the minister the support of the government of Kebbi state to enable him succeed in his assignment. Speaking earlier, chairman of the occasion, General Ishaya Bamaiyi (rtd) thanked President Jonathan for the appointment which he said was for Kebbi state as a whole and urged all to pray for Turaki’s success.

He warned detractors to avoid the pull-him-down syndrome just as he enjoined them to support one another whether they are in politics or not. He also urged the minister to carry the whole of Kebbi state on his shoulders.

It would be recalled that following his nomination mid February, the media had been awash with speculations that Turaki would be assigned the portfolio as Minister of Defence to fill the vacuum created by the purported resignation of former minister, Alhaji Haliru Bello, also from Kebbi state.

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PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2012

HOS commends 4 retired Perm Secs

T

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar being received by Senator Jibirin Doguwa on arrival for a one-day orientation meeting on the Turaki Network for Change (TNC), yesterday in Kaduna.

Present credible candidates, Awoniyi tells Yagba Const. politicians From Sam Egwu, Lokoja

P

eople seeking to be council chairmen in the next dispensation from Yagba Federal Constituency of Kogi state have been warned by the state Deputy Governor, Yomi Awoniyi, against misappropriation of funds or risk going to jail.

Awoniyi gave the warning at a Peoples Democratic Party stakeholders meeting held in Mopa in Mopa Muro Local Government Area of the state at the weekend.

The Deputy Governor urged the people to elect candidates with status and name to protect and only those who have the ability to think in an extra-ordinary way in moving the council forward.

Awoniyi urged the people of the constituency to serve as a model in the selection of credible candidates adding that the present administration in the state would not encourage political party faction. He called on those with political differences within the party to rather than be

confrontational make dialogue their best option.

He urged aggrieved politicians who are in court over the party’s recently held congresses to seek out of court settlement by exhausting the party’s internal dispute machinery in seeking redress.

Awoniyi described the meeting of the constituency as a beginning of a process that will engender growth and development while urging politicians to see politics as service to the people. The Deputy Governor tasked the people of the

South-east APC leaders set to fight PDP marginalization Ikechukwu Okafoadi

A

ll Progressives Congress {APC} in the South East recently met in Owerri, Imo state capital, vowing to utilize the new politcla platform to fight the alleged marginalization meted out to the zone by the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Those at the meeting include the host governor, Owelle Rochas Okorocha, Senator Chris Nwabueze Ngige, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu, Chief Achike Udenwa, Chief George Moghalu, Hon. Ododo Charles, Engr Ezekiel Izuogu, Hon Uche Onyeagocha, Sen Osita Izunaso, Sen Ucha. Others were Engr Adaugo Obi, Princess Frances Mgbada, Val Nnaedozie, Okey Ezea, Peter

Okonkwo, Hon. Peter Edeh, Chief Livinus Nwambe, Chief Nnamdi Olebara, Prince Marshal OkaforAnyanwu, Rt. Hon. Stanley Ohajuruka, Chief Nath Ikeocha, Dr. Nyerere Anyim, Hon. Ezenwa Onyebuchi, Hon. Mathew Omegara.

The meeting held at the weekend in a communiqué issued deeply expressed concern "over the hopelessness, despair and despondency in the zone," and "expressed reservations over the increasing rate of unemployment, pervasive poverty strangulating our people and the menace of monumental corruption."

It also "regretted how the hope raised by our return to democracy in 1999 was dashed and how at

every election the people of the South East had voted massively for the Peoples Democratic Party {PDP} and how regrettably the PDP has failed to redeem its promises."

According to the group, the zone resolved to massively join the APC just as it urged others to follow suit.

It also demanded that the fine ingredients of internal democracy be enshrined in APC's manifesto and constitution so as to guarantee that the choice of party members prevail at all times. It gave the assurance that the APC government shall invest public resources in the development of critical infrastructure and thereby create the enabling environment for job creation.

APC in South East, calls for internal democracy

T

he All Progressives Congress (APC), South East Zone, has called for the entrenchment of internal democracy in the manifesto and constitution of the party.

The call is contained in a communiqué issued by the leaders of the party in the zone, at the end of

a two-day meeting held in Owerri, Imo capital.

The communiqué, signed by Sen. Chris Ngige, representing Anambra Central in the senate, said that the call was to ensure that the choice of members prevailed at all times.

The communiqué said that the party had resolved to set up offices in

the five states in the zone, as well as local government areas and wards without delay.

“APC government shall invest public resources in the development of critical infrastructure, and also create the enabling environment for job creation”, it stated. (NAN)

constituency on patience, describing the Capt Idris Wada led administration in the state as transparent, and a listening government with an unwavering desire to take the state to the next level of development.

Awoniyi maintained that the present administration in the state as one of service for development has drive and is resolute for the progress of the state.

In their separate remarks, representatives of the three local government areas that made up the constituency pledged their commitment to the party and appreciated the confidence reposed in the Deputy Governor by Capt Idris Wada.

he Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Alhaji Isa Sali, has commended four permanent secretaries who retired recently from the Federal Civil Service for their dedication to duty.

Sali gave the commendation in Abuja on Saturday at a reception to honour them.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the retirees are Ms Anne Ene-Ita (Aviation), Dr Dere Awosika (Power), Dr Ibrahim Daudu (Communication) and Mr Anthony Ozodinobi, (FCT).

The head of service stated that the decision to honour them was taken by the body of permanent secretaries, due to the “meritorious service they had rendered to the nation”. ‘’We are here today to celebrate the successful tenure of these four permanent secretaries who had served their fatherland and they were worthy of being permanent secretaries.

“The service and the country will continue to be proud of them as they rendered their service to the best of their abilities.

“It is my sincere hope that successive permanent secretaries will continue what we have started today,’’ he said.

Ene-Ita, who responded on behalf of others, thanked President Goodluck Jonathan for giving them the opportunity to serve the country. ‘’The reforms in the civil service are commendable because if we don’t reform the system to suit us, nobody will ever come and do it for us.

“I also thank the head of civil service for the wonderful job he is doing for the civil service.

“We are always around, we will make ourselves available when you need us,’’ she said. (NAN)

Information Minister lauds quality of projects in Akwa Ibom

T

he Minister of Information, Mr Labaran Maku, on Saturday, lauded the quality of projects spread across Akwa Ibom, describing them as true dividends of democracy.

Maku stated this during the Citizen’s Forum/Town Hall Meeting to mark the end of the good governance tour in the state.

According to him, the good governance tour is impressed with the level of projects spread across the state.

He said that Akwa Ibom has massively transformed from what it used to be in the 1980s to becoming a major commercial centre in the Gulf of Guinea.

“Democracy is working perfectly in Akwa Ibom. We have seen the state that is working, a government that is working and a happy people.’’

Maku said that the Federal Government was building 10 new power plants which would be

inaugurated by the end of 2013 to boost power supply in the country.

He appealed to the contractor working on the East West road to speed up the pace of work to ensure prompt completion, adding that Federal Government was committed to completing the job.

“The East West road is a strategic road, there are some sections of the road that work is slow, so I urged the contractor to speed up work in the side.’’

Maku also said the Federal Government was committed to returning to the railway transportation to reduce the heavy traffic on the road and also extend the life span of the highways.

In his remark, Mr Oluwale Okunniyi, a member of the ProNational Conference Organisation, representing the Civil Society Organisation (CSO), advised government to reduce the cost of governance across the country.

(NAN)

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2012

Yerima arrest signals clamdown on opposition, says ACN From Ayodele Samuel, Lagos

T

he Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) has strongly condemned the arrest of the former Governor of Zamfara, Senator Ahmed Sani Yerima, by the police for allegedly making an ‘inciting’ comment on FRCN Kaduna, saying the arrest may signal an impending clampdown on the opposition by an increasingly jittery Federal Government.

In a statement issued in Lagos yesterday by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the party said Yerima’s arrest by the police, for saying in a radio interview that there will be a mass protest if INEC refuses to register APC after it would have met all legal requirements, was nothing short of budding fascism.

It said the Senator did not say anything extraordinary by threatening a protest, because protests are an integral part of liberal democracy and cannot be wished away or banned by anyone. ‘’We will like to say, in support of Senator Yerima, that if INEC refuses to register the All Progressives Congress (APC), when all the legal requirements have been met, the protest in Tahrir Square in Egypt will be a child’s play compared to what we will do at the Eagle Square. We say this because we are aware that the PDP, which is mortally afraid of the rise and rise of the APC, is behind the phantom African Peoples Congress which has applied to INEC for registration, in an effort to instigate an acronym crisis and give INEC a reason, if it needs any, not to register the All Progressives Congress.

“But we will like to warn that if indeed INEC has not merged with the PDP, as one of our leaders, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, has brilliantly said, then we do hope that the electoral body - which by the way is not unaware of the All Progressives Congress as the authentic APC - will not succumb to the evil machinations of the apprehensive PDP,’’ ACN said. The party said it expects more arrests, investigations by the pliable anticorruption agencies and other acts aimed at intimidating its leaders in the weeks and month ahead, but warned the FG to make sure it had enough prison space to accommodate those it plans to arrest.

“After all, it is generally believed that the recent redeployment of Police Commissioners in the states was done in readiness for the pre-2015 clampdown on the opposition. We know the arrest of Senator Yerima is just a tip of the iceberg, as the PDP-controlled FG gets ready to bare its fangs. But we must warn that fascism can never prevail over liberal democracy,’’ it warned.

PAGE 39

Power privatization: Reps urge FG to complete ongoing projects

By Lawrence Olaoye

T

he House of Representatives at the weekend urged the government to endeavour to complete all ongoing power projects in the country so as to attract investors into the sector.

Chairman, House committee on Power, Rep Patrick Ikhariale,

while commenting on the situation of things in the power sector at the weekend in Abuja explained that House supported the privatization exercise because through its oversight functions, it has been discovered that over sixty percent of this nation’s problems is irregular power supply.

According to him, “Over 60

percent of problems of this country is in the power sector due to irregular power supply; power should not be left in the hand of the federal government alone. It would not work. The private sector should be allowed to participate in the generation, transmission and distribution of power”.

The lawmaker noted that

L-R: Agwatyap of Zangon Kataf, Dr. Yusuf Bungwon, and Special Adviser to Vice-President on Special Duties, Senator Isaiah Balat, during the former's visit to Vice-President Mohammed NamadiSambo, recently at theState House,in Abuja.

Photo Joe Oroye

even though the government is generating enough megawatts, the distribution has to be left in the hands of private sectors which would able to effectively distribute the power and generate enough funds that could be used to maintain the plants. He explained further that part of the innovation is to bring in private people to participate in not only generation but also in distribution.

“So we are working towards full privatisation of the sector and immediately this one comes into fruition most of the problems would be resolved,” he assured.

According to him, inasmuch as the legislature is cooperating with the executive, the government should ensure that all ongoing projects are completed.

“We have used instrumentality of law to compel them to set their plant near the raw material. It is a deliberate policy to put a stop at gas flaring and when this happens, we would get more gas to various thermal stations that would power their plants”, he assured.

On the settlement of the NEPA staff, the lawmaker explained that certain amount of money has been set aside to take care of some workers that may not be useful but the fact remains that the sector is purely professional therefore, majority of them would still be useful, “On this area, we have been talking with the unions and supporting them in most of their their agitations,” he said.

ANPP fault Yerima's arrest, says PDP is undemocratic

By Umar Muhammad Puma

T

he All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) has vehemently condemned, the arrest of the former Governor of Zamfara, Sen. Sani Yerima over alleged 'inciting' comments on a live radio programme run by Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Kaduna.

The party in a statement issued yesterday by its National Publicity Secretary, Emma Eneukwu, stated that Nigeria democracy guarantees free speech and Senator Yerima was exercising his rights without breaching public peace by any

means.

Moreover, peaceful demonstration is also legal, Eneukwu added.

“If Senator Yerima expresses doubts about the sincerity of the ruling party in supporting democratic best practices, and calls for a future peaceful demonstration, it is only a government which has malicious agenda that would take offence at such opinion".

"As a party, we throw our weight behind the distinguished Senator, and support his views and convictions in this matter. So far, the PDP-led government has telegraphed all the signs of a jumpy regime; and if anything, we are

worried that it might, out of its signature malevolent edginess, start acting undemocratically. The Kaduna affair is a signpost to this".

The statement further reminded all democracy lovers in Nigeria that dictatorship does not happen overnight; it starts in trickles, with seeming unremarkable actions, until it culminates in a breaking point when the silent rivulets of evil break the dam of reason, and everything comes tumbling down.

ANPP continued "History records that the German dictator, Adolf Hitler began his career of turning his nation upside down by muzzling the opposition at the minutest excuse, and installing Nazi supporters to control

the critical aspects of the national life.

At the end, the powerless German legislature signed the Enabling Act, without knowing they signed away the rights of the whole nation into the hands of a few ''mad men''.

"We are devoted to the coming together of progressives in the emerging All Progressives Congress. No intimidation can rattle us. And as a party, we shall not waver in playing the part history has reserved for us in the ranks of other likeminded progressives. We believe that Nigeria has all it takes to stand tall in the comity of nations, the statement added.

Amnesty: Ex-minister supports FG’s position on Boko Haram

S

en.

Akinlabi Olasunkanmi, former Minister of Youth Development, has expressed support for President Goodluck Jonathan’s decision to reject appeals for amnesty for the Boko Haram sect.

The former minister told newsmen in Ode-Omu, Osun, yesterday that the amnesty could not apply to the insurgents for now.

Olasunkanmi explained that the Federal Government could not grant amnesty to an unidentified group of people whose activities had caused ripples in the polity.

He said the only condition for such amnesty should include the readiness of the insurgents to unmask their faces, bury their hatchets and appear before the government’s representatives to ascertain their identities.

He said unlike the then Niger

Delta militants who were granted amnesty by late President Umaru Yar’Adua, Boko Haram was an underground group with an unclear mission.

O l a s u n k a n m i said government could not pronounce amnesty for a faceless group of people.

“The people must unmask and then present their grievances to the government for further action.

‘’They should even demonstrate what they want by not using all the products of western education such as arms and telephone facilities among others which they had complained against,’’ he said.

Olasunkani reiterated commitment to his governorship ambition, adding that he had put necessary measures in place to succeed Gov. Rauf Aregbesola.

(NAN)

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PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2012

Boosting performance of local government councils via autonomy

By Salisu Idris

B

y most accounts, the poor performance of Nigeria’s local government councils could be blamed on constitutional provisions, which made the third tier of government an appendage of the second tier of government – the state government.

Analysts, however, contend that if the local government councils are granted financial autonomy, there would be rapid development of the country, particularly at the grassroots.

Alhaji Inuwa Garba, the Chairman, Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures, underscored the need to grant autonomy to the third tier of government so as to fast-track development in the rural areas.

Garba, who is also the Speaker of Gombe State House of Assembly, however, said that the anomaly should be corrected through the amendment of the constitution.

He pledged that that the houses of assembly would support any constitution amendment that would guarantee full autonomy to the local governments.

Sharing similar sentiments, Mr Tosin Adeyanju, the Executive Director of Conscience Nigeria, a non-governmental organisation, attributed the slow pace of development at the grassroots to the local councils’ lack of financial autonomy.

He said that it was necessary to grant the third tier of government absolute autonomy since the majority of Nigerians lived in the rural areas.

Adeyanju stressed that the country’s development and the survival of its democracy largely depended on the efficiency and effectiveness of its local government system.

“There is need for the devolution of powers to the local government, as it will go a long way in raising the development of the local communities.

“There is too much concentration of power at the federal level and that is why people continue to blame the presidency for the social infrastructure decay at the grassroots level,’’ he said.

Adeyanju, nonetheless, noted that the existing local government system could not satisfy the yearnings and aspirations of people at the grassroots because the councils did not have absolute control of the funds released to them from the Federation Account.

He reiterated that the financial autonomy of local government councils would provide the necessary environment for socio-economic activities to thrive at the grassroots.

Adeyanju recalled that the 1976 local government reform was intended to bring

Alhaji Inuwa Garba (Chairman Conference of Speakers) development closer to the people.

“The creation of more local governments was a major step by the then military administration to achieve this development objective and ensure popular participation,” he said.

Dr Yunusa Tanko, the National Chairman, National Conscience Party (NCP), advocated the full separation of powers, saying that the three tiers of government must operate within the ambit of the constitution to ensure virile democracy in the country.

He stressed that the state government must not have overriding power on the local government, in order not to stunt development at the grassroots.

Mr Nwabueze Okafor, the National President of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), said that the demand for local government autonomy by Nigerians “cuts across partisan interests”.

According to him, the local government system has a direct bearing on the lives of the people at the grassroots.

He said that Nigeria’s local government system ought to be strengthened, stressing that the abolition of the local government system in the country would be very counterproductive.

Okafor stressed that the perceptible imperfections inherent in the system notwithstanding, the local government was still the only tier of government that people

Mr. Nwabueze Okafor (ALGON Chairman)

Dr. Yunusa Tanko (Chairman NCP) could easily have access to.

“In the rural areas, primary school education, primary health care, sanitation and community security function very well under the local government system.

“I can tell you that the failure of the local government system brought about the current insecurity of lives and property across the country.

“The present situation started manifesting after the local governments were stripped of their capacity to deliver on their

“

The governors should also allow free and fair elections to hold at the local government level, instead of imposing their candidates and appointees on the councils

statutory duties to the people,” he said.

Okafor urged key political players to protect and promote the public interest by supporting efforts to grant autonomy to local government councils.

Mr Wale Ogunade, the President of Voters’ Awareness Initiative (VAI), a nongovernmental organisation, said that the country’s development would be significantly enhanced if the local government councils were granted autonomy.

“The local government is the tier of government that is closest to the people; that explains why we are calling for the local councils’ financial autonomy.

“This will make governance to flow from the grassroots, while deepening our democratic process,’’ he said.

Ogunade said that the current political system of the country had inadvertently rendered the local government councils mere appendages of the state governments.

“The way the local government system is being operated now hinders its relevance; state governors can create or dissolve local councils at will.

“In fact, more than half of the councils are being governed by caretaker committees appointed by the governors.

“The local government institution is not strong enough to withstand the strength and powers of the state governments,’’ he added.

Ogunade, however, noted that the amendment of the constitution would offer an opportunity to correct the anomaly.

“The earlier we grant autonomy to our local councils, the better is it for Nigeria and our democracy.

“Once autonomy is granted to local government councils, the elected chairmen will know that their responsibility is primarily to the people and they must deliver the dividends of democracy to them,’’ he said.

Nevertheless, Mr Ibrahim Khaleel, the President of Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), appealed to state governors to stop their campaign against the autonomy of local government councils.

“I want to call on the state governors to be bold enough to implement the decision of Nigerians who want the local governments in the country to be autonomous.

“The governors should also allow free and fair elections to hold at the local government level, instead of imposing their candidates and appointees on the councils,’’ Khaleel added.

The debate on the proposed financial autonomy for local government councils is still on but concerned observers insist that any decision taken at the end of the day ought to reflect the true wishes of Nigerians.

Source: NAN

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PAGE 43

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2013

Good Governance:

Wamakko’s Strategy (one)

By Aminu Binji

D

emocracy relates to governing a people with their consent. This implies that, act of governance in a democratic setting is a collective responsibility. When the good people of Sokoto State willingly extended their mandate to Magatakarda Wamakko to become their Governor, it was an eloquent expression of the hope and confidence they have in him.

One distinct feature of the Wamakko administration is its readiness to listen to the yearnings and aspirations of the people and attending to such accordingly. Magatakarda Wamakko has over the years evolved a number of policies and programmes aimed at demonstrating good governance in all strata of human endeavour.

The unscheduled visits to public schools and Local Government Council Secretariats is one of such policies aimed at illustrating good governance.

Over the years, Aliyu Wamakko has been scoring remarkable goals by embarking on people-centred policies that were hitherto not known around here and even elsewhere.

Wamakko's unscheduled visits to these establishments have systematically injected a new lease of life into them. This is so because, public schools across the State are now more lively and busy as the teachers are on their toes to discharge their duties. Primary school teachers especially in the villages had the habit of absconding from their duty posts without genuine reasons, for now that unwholesome practice is history.

The visits had equally availed the Governor the opportunity to interface directly with the teachers at the grassroots, to know their problems and see for himself the physical conditions of those primary schools.

These visits also serve as morale-booster both to the students and the teachers.

Many teachers were lucky to be promoted to the next level, at the time of the Governor's visit because of their punctuality.

The pupils themselves will be encouraged to put in their best seeing that the Governor himself is keenly interested in their intellectual development.

It is wonderful that a State Governor could visit a primary school outside the metropolis as early as 7:30am just to see things for himself!

This clearly demonstrated the high level of Wamakko's avowed commitment to take Sokoto State to the next level.

When Governor Wamakko visited Turaki Model Primary School in Sokoto metropolis, he met only 7 teachers out of 46! That situation is lamentable as the State Government is doing all it could to improve education, while some stakeholders are not up to the task.

This strategy by Governor Aliyu Wamakko to pay unscheduled visits to schools and Local Government Council Secretariats is unique as it is the first of its kind in Sokoto State for many decades. Visits of this noble nature makes workers more responsible and alive to their duties.

Governor Wamakko now has first hand information about the attitude of Local Government Council staffers to their work.

Particularly, his visits to Wurno, Yabo and other Local Government secretariats conveyed to him the 'tradition' of how the managements there work.

At least, for the first time in the State, Local Government officials were queried on account of absenteeism!

My interaction with many Local Government Directors in the State, tells me that, they now

governor!

While some state governors are busy engaged in globe-trotting, Wamakko is here with his people, visiting primary schools in the villages, interacting with the pupils and teachers to see how the state government can further improve their standards. This is worthy of emulation by other state governors who are actually committed to the welfare of their peoples.

Understandably, The Sokoto State government in this dispensation has kept on investing hugely in education as rightly pointed out by Wamakko during these visits. It is therefore only natural that all stakeholders including the communities should complement the efforts of the state government in moving education forward.

Those who deserved commendation at the schools and local councils visited were duly commended and those who deserved the opposite were offered same.

The essence is to instill discipline and sense of responsibility in the teachers and council officials for the restoration of their lost glory.

The visits by the governor have in another way re-awaken both the public and civil servants to their responsibilities.

Sokoto State Governor The initiative has by no means really gingered the targets to be more alive ALHAJI ALIYU MAGATAKARDA WAMAKKO to their duties.

In an effort to ensure even distribution of teachers and education officers report to their offices as early as 8:00am for fear across the state, Governor Wamakko has of being caught wanting. These visits by Governor directed the immediate redeployment of Wamakko have restored full time activities in the education officers under SUBEB and mass local councils, as a means of ensuring good transfers of teachers governance. across the state.

The local councils being at the grassroots and In this respect, Governor Wamakko should not closer to the ordinary man, ought to be signposts waver in seeing that rural schools are adequately of good governance. staffed, as many schools in the metropolis are As a result of his visits to the councils, Governor almost over-staffed to the detriment of their Magatakarda has directed all the officials to now rural counterparts. be domiciled in their respective headquarters as As rightly pointed out by Wamakko, these there are houses meant for that purpose. corrective visits and measures are intended to Governor Wamakko will be doing a greater job restore public confidence in public schools, and to humanity and posterity by restoring the lost the local government councils as well. glory of local government councils in the state, There is palpable sense of responsibility in all and luckily enough, he has started on a sound the primary schools across the state, and the footing. local government councils are now wearing a These unscheduled visits by Wamakko have new look as their officials are now regularly in elicited a lot of commendations from the people, their offices. as sanity is gradually returning to particularly These unscheduled visits by Wamakko have primary schools and local government councils. jolted the local government councils into Generality of the people are of the conclusion that activity thereby breaking the stagnation and the indeed, Wamakko is a grassroots politician, one inactivity associated with local government who listens to the views of his people. system.

As a result of the Governor Wamakko's visits, In history of the state, no governor or the state Universal Basic Education Board and the administrator had in the past embarked on Local Government Service Commission have unscheduled visits of this nature to schools and since swung into action by embarking on their local government councils as a strategy of own independent visitation to these institutions. galvanizing them into productive activity.

Magatakarda has thus blaze the trail again!

Governor Wamakko has therefore scored As a measure of promoting justifiable dealings, another historic distinction in ensuring good Governor Wamakko directed that those teachers governance. Yes, it is good governance when who were found absent should be made to forfeit public and civil servants are motivated and one day's pay or more depending on how long actuated to discharge their assigned they have absented themselves from their duty responsibilities with utmost diligence. post, which should be remitted to the state Zakkat We therefore say 'kudos' to Governor committee for distribution to the needy.

Wamakko for these unscheduled visits to schools This I feel is appropriate as this would serve as and local government councils, as these deterrent to others. institutions are on the way to going back to their One sparkling feature of these visits by Wamakko past glories. particularly to public schools is that, his humility AMINU BINJI has further come to the fore as he interacts freely Head, Features Unit, Min. of with the teachers and pupils wherever he visited.

Information, This again qualifies him the more, as a grassroots Sokoto.

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2013

PAGE 47

True democracy can't survive without certain conditions- General Buhari(III) Being continuation of the insightful speech by General Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, at the Africa Diaspora Conference, London, United Kingdom, on Tuesday, 5th March 2013.

13. Yet Western Governments turned a blind eye to Nigerian elections and an eagle eye on Zimbabwe's and its supposed shortcomings. No better illustration of double-standards can be cited. Accordingly, in 2011, the international observers, having seen their painstaking work in earlier years completely ignored, took the line of least resistance and concluded after cursory examinations that the elections were okay.

14. So it is quite clear from these brief recollections that many preliminary elements of a democratic set-up are missing in Nigeria namely: level of educational development, level of economic development, homogeneity, level playing field, rule of law, impartial judiciary and free and fair elections.

15. As observed earlier, democracy cannot function optimally without a certain level of economic attainment.

16. Economically, Nigeria is a potential powerhouse, a large population, 167 million by the last official estimate, arable land, more than 300, 000 square kilometers, 13,000 square kilometers of fresh water. In addition, the country has gas, oil, solid minerals, forests, fisheries, wind power and potentials for tourism and hosting of international sporting events. It is a miracle waiting to happen. The lack of leadership and policy continuity has resulted in great under-achievement.

17. Many Nigerians in the audience today will relate to the situation of our countrymen and women. More than 100 million of our people live below $2 a day according to the Nigeria Bureau of Statistics and many internationally recognized estimates. We lack security, are short of food, water, live in poor shelters with hardly any medicare to speak of. Small scale farmers, foresters, micro businesses such as market women, washermen, vulcanizers, tailors, street corner shop-keepers and the like lack both power and meaningful access to small scale credit to ply their trade and prosper.

No wonder, the publication, "The African Economic Outlook 2012" under the auspices of the United Nations lamented that poverty and underdevelopment were on the increase. In fact, GDP figures in the raw or in outline tell little about the spread of wealth, employment levels, infrastructural development and the effect of socio-economic programmes such as schooling, health care, and security on the generality of the population.

It is under these circumstances that many a voter is tempted to sell off his voting card for a pittance on Election Day. CONCLUSION 18. We now come to crux of the matter by attempting some answers to the very pertinent questions which the organizers of this conference put to me. How stable is Nigeria's economy? The short answer is that it

very much depends on the international oil market. The failure over the years to diversify and strengthen the economy or to invest in the global economy has left Nigeria perilously at the mercy of global oil prices. We must start from first principles - by developing agriculture and industries. Sixty years ago, we exported considerable quantities of cocoa, cotton, groundnuts, rubber and palm kernels. There were sizeable incomes to the farmers. Indeed in two years, if I recall correctly, 1951 and 1953, Nigeria produced a million tons of groundnuts. Today, other than a few thousand tons of cocoa, hardly any cotton, rubber or palm products are exported.

19. Until and unless serious budgetary attention is paid to agriculture, the vast majority of rural population will remain on subsistence basis and will eventually wither away by migration to the cities and increasing the stress on urban life.

What is required is applying today's technology, primarily improved seeds and seedlings, irrigation systems, use of weather forecasts, and above all, substantial subsidies and access to cheap credit. In Nigeria, the basic tools for agricultural take-off, the Six River Basin Authorities were wantonly scrapped in 1986 under the disastrous Structural Adjustment Programme.

They are the best vehicle for our country's agricultural revival and expansion.

INDUSTRIES 20. Next to agriculture, government and railways industries are the country's biggest employers of labour. Industries are vital in absorbing urban workforce. Nigeria's burgeoning industrial growth was brought to an abrupt halt by the Structural Adjustment Programme which massively devalued the naira under IMF harassment and bullying.

Uninterrupted Nigeria's capacity by now would have been able to produce basic machine tools, bicycles, motor cycles, car parts, parts for industrial machinery and the likes. But alas, the car industry is down; tyre manufacturing is down, both Michelin and Dunlop have closed; battery manufacturing and sugar industries are down; cable industries all but down: all in the wake of the Structural Adjustment Programme. The last 14 years have added to the misery due to red tape, high interest rates, power shortages and competition from developed economies under World Trade Organization (WTO) imperatives. Subsuming all these problems is the old and ever-present devil: corruption.

Corruption has shot through all facets of government and economic life in our country. Until serious efforts are made to tackle corruption which is beyond the capacity of this government, economic growth and stability will elude us. On corruption, don't just take my word for it. The Chairman of one of the bodies charged with the task of fighting corruption in

General Muhammadu Buhari Nigeria, Mr. Ekpo Nta of Independent Corrupt Practices and other related Offensive Commission (ICPC) was quoted by the Daily Trust newspaper of 14th February, 2013 as saying that there was no political will to fight corruption in Nigeria.

21. A second fundamental question asked by the organizers is: Can Nigeria as presently structured administratively and politically emerge an economically competitive nation? I believe it can. There is a lively debate going on in our country about the need to re-structure the country.

What shape this reform is going to take is uncertain. Even the most vocal advocates of re-structuring the country, although long on rhetoric seem short and vague on details. We have tried regions and this was deemed lopsided and a trap to minorities. Moreover, I also believe that Nigeria's problem is not so much the structure but the process.

Nevertheless, I believe a careful and civil conversation should be held to look closely at the structure.

22. But how do we go about it?

Go back to the Regions? I do not think this would be acceptable; except perhaps in the old Western Region.

Try the present Six Geo-political Zones as federating units? I believe there will be so much unrest and strife in SouthSouth and North-Central; this is not to say that there will be no pockets of resistance in the North West and North East as well - the consequence of all these will unsettle the country.

Go back to General Gowon's 12 state structure? Here too, entrenched

personal or group interests will make collapsing and merging states impossible to operate in a democratic set-up. It is only when you come face to face with the problem you will appreciate the complications inherent in re-structuring Nigeria.

23. However, once a national consensus is reached, however defective, the environment will facilitate political and economic stability. At long last we can look forward to Nigeria finding its place among the BRIC nations and instead of BRIC, the media would be talking of BRINC nations: Brazil, Russia, India, Nigeria and China. I sincerely hope this happens in my lifetime.

24. The third question put to me by the organizers is: Can the present electoral body in Nigeria guarantee and deliver credible elections that will strengthen the nation's democracy in 2015?

25. All the present indications are that INEC as it is presently constituted would be unable to deliver any meaningful elections in 2015. I have gone to some lengths earlier in my talk to describe INEC's conduct in the last decade. The Electoral Body has developed a very cozy relationship with Executive and Judicial arms of government that its impartiality is totally lost. In the run-up to the last elections INEC requested (and received with indecent haste) in excess of 80 billion naira (about £340m.) a hefty sum by any standards, so that it could conduct the elections including organizing bio-metric voters data specifically for the 2011 elections.

26. But when opposition parties challenged the patently dishonest figures it announced and subpoenaed the bio-metric data in court, INEC refused to divulge them on the laughable excuse of "National Security". INEC's top echelon is immersed deep in corruption and only wholesale changes at the top could begin to cure its malaise, inclination to do so I am not so sure. The only way I and many more experienced politicians than myself expect the 2015 elections to be remotely free and fair is for the opposition to be so strong that they can effectively prevent INEC from rigging. I would like, here, Mr. Chairman to repeat what I have said time and time again at home in Nigeria with regards to the election aftermath.

Some commentators and public figures have wrongly pointed accusing fingers at me for inciting post-election violence. Post-election violence was triggered by the grossest injustice of election rigging and accompanying state high-handedness.

27. Lastly, Mr. Chairman, I will attempt to address the two very important questions you put to me namely: How can the poverty level in Nigeria be reduced? And How can the masses generally benefit from the nation's vast wealth? As remarked earlier, there is no short cut to poverty eradication than to get people to work and earn money. Poverty means lack of income. If serious efforts are made to support agriculture through states and local government apparatus in the shape of inputs, i.e fertilizers and pesticides, extension services and provision of small-scale credits, agriculture will boom within 5 - 7 years.

Farmers will generate more income to enable them to grow the food the country needs and to look after our environment. In addition, the drift to urban centres will be greatly reduced.

However, these two major policy initiatives can only succeed if there is substantial improvement in power generation. As remarked earlier, adequate provision of power will help small scale business to thrive and linkup with the general economy. Power is the site of the legion, in other words, it is central to all economic activity.

28. May I, Mr. Chairman, conclude this presentation by referring to the distribution of income in Nigeria today? No better illustration of the huge income disparity can be quoted than the statement of Malam Adamu Fika, Chairman of the Committee set up by Government to review the Nigerian public service. In the course of presentation of his Report, the Chairman pointed out that 18,000 public officers consume in the form of salaries, allowances and other perquisites N1.126 trillion naira (£4billion) of public funds. The total Nigerian budget for 2013 is N4.9 trillion (£20 billion). This is the worst form of corruption and oppression. A wholesale look at public expenses visà-vis the real need of the country has become urgent.

29. Mr. Chairman, the Honourable Members, Distinguished Guests, I thank you for your patience and attention.

General Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR London - United Kingdom Conluded

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MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2013

SPORTS LA TEST LATEST

I and the public know What all schoolchildren learn, Those to whom evil is done Do evil in return.

W. H. Auden

L

ords and phrases have a away of assuming lives of their own in this country, largely because we are too lazy to interrogate them.

Language is not an innocent medium of communication. It is a very powerful tool in social relations, which is why we need to be very careful about how we say what we mean. In recent months, President Jonathan's tendency to refer to insurgents as ghosts when discussing issues around resolution of the conflict has become an accepted currency in official circles. Similarly, the term, "amnesty", has become popular since it was used to cover up what now looks like the large-scale abdication of responsibility by the Yar'Adua/Jonathan administration in the Niger Delta.

Now very senior politicians and leaders use the term in a manner that suggests that very little attention has been paid to its full implication. For the purposes of clarity, ghosts are used by the President to refer to insurgents whose anonymity is standard weaponry. Amnesty refers to legal pardon for people who have broken laws of the land, but it is valueless to people who reject the legitimacy of the state.

A few days before the visit of President Jonathan to Borno and Yobe States, the Sultan of Sokoto chaired a meeting of Jamaatu Nasril Islam, and thereafter called on the President to grant amnesty to those elements of the Jamaatu Ahlil Sunnah Lidda'awati Wal Jihad (JASLIWAJ) who have offered to negotiate a ceasefire with the Federal Government. It could have been a coincidence, or an effort to give the president an agenda as he set to visit a part of the country many had criticized him of abandoning to the military. Either way, the Sultan's suggestion for an offer of an amnesty was significant in terms of the position of a critical segment of northern Muslim opinion regarding the conflict. It was the first time the Sultan will make a public statement with a weighty suggestion, the type that ought to have been the product of considerable thought. It is also safe to assume that the Sultan would have expected that the Abdulazeez group which he apparently referred to as those holding up the offer of negotiation would not be classified along with others as ghosts by the President. After all, they had made numerous appearances as humans, albeit with hooded faces, made specific demands, and even had northern

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The emergence of Obasanjo came as a result of what happened in the country.

The country was in a very serious crisis and we had to find the solution to these problems — Gen. Ibrahim Babangida

Ghosts with guns

Suarez shines as Liverpool beat Tottenham 3-2 uis Suarez edged the battle of the PFA Player of the Year contenders as he scored and earned the match-winning penalty to eclipse Gareth Bale and keep Liverpool's slim top-four hopes alive.

The Premier League's leading scorer drew first blood with his 29th of the season - and 22nd in the top flight - and, although his opposite number had a hand in both of Tottenham's goals, the Uruguay international had the last laugh by winning the late spot-kick from which Steven Gerrard scored.

Centre-back Jan Vertonghen had scored twice after Suarez had put the home side ahead only for calamitous misjudgements by Kyle Walker and goalkeeper Hugo Lloris to gift Stewart Downing the equaliser.

Suarez showed again just how sharp he is in the penalty area with an instinctive firsthalf finish and while Bale's danger was restricted to crosses he could not match his rival's threat in the penalty area.

The Wales international drilled in an early swerving free-kick which Brad Jones, back in the side because of Jose Reina's calf injury, batted away unconvincingly but then had to cede centre-stage to Suarez.

Bale's response was to plant one left-footed shot into the Kop and then drive an angled rightfooted effort wide Bale played a part in Tottenham's second just after the break when his free-kick was weakly headed down by Carragher to Vertonghen who fired home.

Gerrard, so often Liverpool's big man for the big occasion, stepped up to slot home his ninth of an increasingly profitable campaign.

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FIFTEEN MINUTES with Dr Hakeem Baba-Ahmed drbabaahmed@yahoo.com governors claim credit for their creation.

As President Jonathan embarked on his visit, many people expected that the Sultan's advise would carry some weight.

To be sure, it had lost some of that weight between when it was made, and when Jonathan landed in Maiduguri.

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and some traditional rulers in the Niger Delta had condemned the idea of amnesty for JASLIWAJ, and had denounced the parallels with Niger Delta militants who were granted amnesty. A chorus of condemnation of the Sultan's suggestion followed from many other quarters, mostly pointing out the injustice involved in granting amnesty to people who murdered and maimed Christians.

It is now history that the President has ruled out amnesty for the insurgents because, as he had always said, they are ghosts.

You grand amnesty to, say, the Niger Delta militants who crippled the nation's oil and gas industry, and who all came out of the creeks with faces showing, after the late Umaru Yar'Adua called them.

Boko Haram, on the other hand, are unknown; they do not come when you call them, and they do not communicate except with violence.

So there. The people who have murdered over 3000 Nigerians and foreigners, and who continue to do so, are ghosts. These ghosts bomb and shoot Nigerians and kidnap foreigners. They put out information regularly on the Internet or distribute material to media. Hundreds or thousands of them are incarcerated by the police and the military. Even the US has declared some of them as terrorists.

They, or some of them even give press conferences in persons. Only a few days ago, northern governors were gloating that they were responsible for creating the circumstances in which Abdulazeez came forward with offers of a ceasefire. They let out copious details on how the committee they set up on security and reconciliation met with Boko Haram militants who gave terms and conditions for cessation of violence, including details of a

meeting in the governor's residence in Maiduguri.

In fairness to Mr President, it must be said that Imam Abubakar Shekau himself had denounced Abdulazeez and the entire developments around him. This was the same Abdulazeez the Sultan was encouraging the President to grant amnesty to; the same one northern governors are beating their chests over. So Mr President's position may be that Shekau is the ghost who cannot be communicated with, and Abdulazeez is a human with a covered face who is not worth discussing with. This leaves everything pretty much where they are. Those who thought President Jonathan will make more than a symbolic damage control visit to Borno and Yobe by making some profound statements about amnesty and the JTF will be disappointed. On the other hand, those who think the President should not provide a blanket pardon to murderers will see his act as some evidence of personal courage, and a statesmanly posture against evil.

So what possible good could the visit have done, other than to marginally reduce the embarrassment caused to the President by the visit of the A.P.C governors? Difficult as it is to believe, the only good to come out of the visit is that Nigerians are reminded that the problem with the insurgency is as bad as it has been in recent times, and no one should be fooled by claims of breakthroughs. The President was right not to have been convinced to throw a few words on amnesty at the general direction of people who were the cause of the total lockdown of two cities just so he can visit. The insurgency is alive and real, as his security chiefs and quite possibly even the governors may have reminded him, and a gesture as important as a forgiveness, even a conditional one, will most likely amount to nothing. A few insurgents may abandon the battle, but unless you deal directly and comprehensively with the leaders, those who break ranks will be prey to those under arms, and they may not be protected by the state. Even acceptance of amnesty terms by factions will trigger even

more bloodletting than is now being seen with slaughters and shootings.

What could the governors of Borno and Yobe have advised the President to do? An offer of amnesty which is ignored, or carries unacceptable preconditions will amount to a setback, and preclude another offer in future unless the conditions for it radically improve. Does he offer amnesty (forgiveness without prejudice, if you lay down your arms and renounce further violence) before discussions, or does he offer, as he has done before, to discuss resolution which may include amnesty? Since the President does not accept Abdulazeez as a credible discussion partner, should he just offer amnesty and sit back and see what happens? It is not inconceivable that governors of Borno and Yobe states who successfully managed a 2-day security cover for APC governors have had a say in the Presidents' position. Perhaps they know that the conditions on the ground will make the demands for amnesty impractical and valueless, because the insurgency is not interested in amnesty. Perhaps the security advise has drawn attention of the President to the futility of a major policy initiative which will be repudiated for a propaganda purposes by the insurgency.

Perhaps there are other reasons behind a rehash of the old position that Boko Haram are ghosts even on a symbolically important occasion like the visit.

The issue for the President and the nation now is that the Sultan and a few prominent northerners think that offering amnesty to the insurgents will make a major impact. That he disagrees with granting amnesty in the manner being suggested will further pitch the President against leading opinion in the North. Those who were being offered as possible bridges to the others by the Sultan and others will now most likely retreat into irrelevance. Those who have denounced them (and denounced the Sultan, the President and the entire Nigerian state) will feel vindicated that they (the ghosts) are the only game in town.

The president would have left the people of Borno and Yobe states with the depressing feeling that this conflict will drag on for quite a while. Northern opinion leaders will think he has missed a good opportunity to make a dent on the insurgency, and they will dig in around the idea of an amnesty as a possible solution which the President refuses to consider. The President visited Borno and Yobe States and came back empty handed as far as the insurgency is concerned. And the ghosts will still have their bombs and bullets. It is time to go back to the drawing board. This insurgency must end long before the 2015 elections. The north must find a solution to a problem destroying it, no matter who is responsible for it.

Published by Peoples Media Limited, 35, Ajose Adeogun Street, 1st Floor Peace Park Plaza, Utako, Abuja. Kano office: Plot 3, Zaria Road, Opposite Kano State House of Assembly. Lagos Office: No.8 Oliyide Street, off Unity Road, Ikeja, Lagos. Tel: +234-09-8734478. Cell: +234 805 727 9862. e-mail: contact@peoplesdaily-online.com; pmlnewsdesk@gmail.com ISSN: 2141– 6141