Peoples Daily Newspaper, Friday 15, February, 2013 Edition

www.peoplesdailyng.com

Vol. 10 No. 35

Friday, February 15, 2013

Reps in open row with Deputy Speaker

. . . putting the people first

Rabiul Akhir 5, 1434 AH

N150

FG dismisses US Demolition commences threat to boycott in Mararaba, Monday Nigerian oil — Al-makura

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Slain health workers: Deport illegal aliens now, Senate urges FG

By Ikechukwu Okaforadi and Edwin Olofu, Kano

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he Senate yesterday charged the Nigerian Immigration Service to step up efforts in flushing out illegal aliens from Nigeria, saying the country has become overwhelmed by terrorists

Deceased families receive N24m donations crossing over from ravaged neighboring countries.

The senators said the terror attacks in Kano and Borno states which left seven and two polio vaccinators dead, might have been masterminded by the intruding terrorists, urging

government not to give up in its determination to eradicate polio in the country.

And a total of N24.45 million has been donated by the Federal Government, Kano State Government and Dangote Group of Companies to support the

families of 10 health workers who were recently killed by gunmen in separate attacks, while on routine Immunization exercise in Kano.

In a resolution passed after debating a motion by the chairman of the Senate

Committee on Health, Ifeanyi Okowa, the Senate affirmed its support in the fight against polio, observing a minute silence for the victims.

In his ruling, the Senate President, David Mark, represented by his Deputy, Ike Ekwetenmadu, said the number

Jonathan dodgy over Maina P

Contd on Page 2

By Abdulrahman Abdulraheem & Lambert Tyem

He is still on the run - Police

resident Goodluck Jonathan yesterday spoke tongue in cheek over the fate of the embattled Chairman of the Pension Reform Task Team, Alhaji Abdulrasheed Maina accused by the Senate of corruption in the management of pension funds.

In one breath, the president denied supporting the controversial Maina to shun the Senate while in another, he subtly shielded him from the Senate query.

The Upper Chamber had in a plenary presided over by Senate President, David Mark on Wednesday given the President two days to sack Maina from the civil service or face the wrath of the lawmakers.

Maina has incurred the wrath of the Senate for allegedly shunning repeated invitations forwarded to him to answer series of allegations of fraud against his name.

President Jonathan however argued that the fate of Maina could only be decided based on laid down civil service rule.

In the midst of these, Police authorities in Abuja yesterday said the Pension Reform Contd on Page 2

PD INDEX

13th Feb., 2013

CBN RATES $ £ EURO CFA RIYAL

BUYING 154.74 240.93 208.77 0.298 41.26

SELLING 155.74 242.48 210.12 0.318 41.52

PARALLEL RATES L-R: Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, Alaafin Of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, and Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Alhaji Abdulazeez Arisekola Alao, during the Sultan's visit to the Alaafin over his burnt palace, yesterday in Oyo. Photo: NAN

EURO £ RIYAL $

BUYING 208 254.50 42 157

SELLING 210 257.50 43 158

PAGE 2

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

CONTENTS News

2-10

Editorial

12

Op.Ed

13

Letters

14

Opinion

15

Metro

16-18

Business

19-22

S/Exchange S/Report Islam

23 24-25 26

Strange World 31

Reps in open row with deputy speaker embers of the House of Representatives, yesterday, protested what they termed "biased and dictatorial” ruling by the Deputy Speaker, Emeka Ihedioha who presided over the plenary.

The bone of contention was the debate for second reading on a Bill for an Act to Amend the Industrial Training Fund for the purpose of empowering the fund to design, set up and operate guidelines for the training, certification, at state, local government and ward levels and to establish area registries for maintaining up-todate registers of certified artisans and technicians in all fields and in all parts of the federation.

The bill, which was sponsored

by Rep. Chudi Uwazuruike, is aimed at setting standards for artisans so as to expand the scope of industrial training, attracted

massive opposition from lawmakers who argued that the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) was taking care of the functions sought by the new bill.

Trouble started when the Deputy Speaker called for a voice vote on the bill after an exhaustive debate. After the first call, he opted to take it second time explaining that the difference was not discernible. He therefore put the question again, which according to the lawmakers, the ‘nays’ again overwhelmed the ‘ayes’.

However, after conferring with the Deputy Clerk, the Deputy Speaker ruled in favour of the ayes. As soon as he ruled, those who were against the bill stood up and were about walking out of the chambers before he appealed to them to take their seats.

Hon. Ali Madaki (PDP, Kano) immediately raised a point of order reminding the Deputy

Contd from Page 1 Task Team Chairman Alhaji Abdulrasheed Maina declared wanted recently by the Police on the order of Senate Chamber for failing to appear before it is still on the run.

Jonathan, speaking through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati, clarified that he was not backing Maina against the Senate.

He acknowledged that the Senate has constitutional right to summon anybody since nobody is above the law.

The President reiterated his strong belief in the rule of law, insisting that laid down procedure should be followed in addressing issues.

He said the procedure is that it is the Head of Service of the Federation that can take a decision concerning a civil servant according to civil service rule.

"The Senate has constitutional power to summon anybody. If such person failed to appear before them, the lawmakers are also

empowered to issue warrant of arrest against the person.

"The President has not in any way stood in the way of the Senate in inviting Maina. You will recall that the police even declared him wanted.

"Maina is a civil servant. If he has done something that amount to a breach of civil service rule, the appropriate office to do the right thing and ensure that due process is followed is the office of the Head of Service of the Federation.

"Nobody should suggest that the President is backing Maina. It is not an issue for the President.

"There are laid down procedures for handling situations like this. The President believes in due process. It is a matter for the civil service to handle. The President does not have to be disciplining civil servants personally."

The Police Spokesman Frank Mba speaking on behalf of the Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar who declined comment on the issue raised earlier by the Press, Mba

By Umar Muhammad Puma

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Speaker that according to the House Standing Rules, in situations like that the members would have to be divided to decide.

The Deputy Speaker ignored the point of order and ruled that "this bill has been referred to the Committee on Industries".

The ruling drew the anger of majority of the lawmakers who started protesting before the House leader would move for adjournment, the members walked out and were waiting for the Deputy Speaker to come out.

As he was coming out of the chambers, one member told him: "You cannot continue this type of attitude in this House. You have to respect our opinion because we are all representatives of the people.

The lawmakers who supported the bill such as Friday Itulah (PDP, Edo), Patrick Ikhariale (PDP, Edo), Sekonte Davies (PDP, Rivers) and the sponsor of the bill, Uwazuruike (PDP, Imo) tried to intervene. But

Hon. Aisha (PDP, Adamawa) who laid a solid foundation for opposition against the bill on the floor enthused “we cannot seat here all day and our opinion will not be taken into consideration by the presiding officer. Nobody was elected as presiding officer from his constituency; they were all voted here on the floor. This is bad and it has to stop".

The deputy speaker walked passed them but as he was leaving the main building otherwise known as "white House" for his office in the new building, he was again accosted by the aggrieved lawmakers who expressed displeasure at the way he handled the ruling on the bill.

It was at this point that the Deputy Speaker rebuked Tijanni Abdullahi Jobe shouting at him "keep shut! keep shut!! You read motives into everything we do on the floor of the House. We don't have any interest in this bill".

Jonathan dodgy over Maina

Why we’ve not convened PDP NEC, by Olisa Metuh, Page 37

Revue

32-33

Int’l

34

Feature

35

Newsxtra

36

Politics

37-40

Sports

41-46

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

claimed the Police is still searching for Maina and appealed to the public to assist the Force with information to help in arresting him.

According to the Police "If you are conversant with policing tradition, you will understand that the declaration of any person wanted is usually necessitated by a need.

"In this instance, he was declared wanted because he went into hiding and made it difficult for the force to execute a warrant of arrest that was legitimately issued against him.

"And the Nigeria police force remains irrevocably committed to finding him and as soon as we lay our hands on him, we will arrest him and take him before the senate as mandated in that warrant of arrest.

"On allegation that Maina was still having police men guarding him, Maina has no police officer in his entourage to the best of my knowledge.

"And again media practitioners

are responsible members of the society and even in that declaration and in the press release that we issued over declaring Maina a wanted man, we did say that if any citizen has information that could help us in executing that order, the person should please pass that information to the appropriate authority.

"So if you have information that could help us in executing this warrant of arrest, we will be glad to receive it from you.

"On the issue of Maina going to court over undue harassment we will not go into those things, those things have nothing to do with us, we will not be pulled into unnecessary controversies. But the point remains that the National Assembly as represented by the senate has issued a warrant of arrest and that warrant of arrest has mandated us to arrest him and we are focusing on that task and we are irrevocably committed to discharging that statuary responsibilities", the Police Spokesman stated.

Slain health workers: Deport illegal aliens now, Senate urges FG Contd from Page 1 of security personnel securing Nigeria cannot be sufficient, adding that inadequacy of funds has further hampered the ability of the forces to procure some modern facilities to aid the fight against crime.

He added that if criminals who have been arrested are not prosecuted, other criminals would be encouraged to commit more crimes, urging traditional, religious and community leaders to sensitise their followers on the need to avoid misconceptions about polio eradication.

Speaking on the issue, Senators Ayogu Eze and Barnabas Giemade, commended the security and traditional institutions in Kano for arresting and prosecuting the culprits. They called for the prosecution of the journalist that allegedly incited the attack for unprofessional conduct.

In a similar development, senate also passed a resolution

urging federal government to urgently fund the activities of Nigeria's extended continental shelf project, which was sponsored

by Emmanuel Bwacha.

The senate urged federal government to source for the funding of the project outside the normal budgetary allocation, adding that as an alternative, the government can set up an independent technical body to handle the project.

According to Bwacha, the motion is aimed at gaining additional maritime territory of up to 140,000sq km for Nigeria.

The Federal Government donated the sum of N1 million each to the 10 members of the slain health workers’ families, and N200,000 each for the seven injured victims. The Chairman of Dangote group of Companies, Alhaji Aliko Dangote donated N500,000 each to the bereaved families and N250,000 each to the injured victims.

Similarly, Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso during a meeting with family members of the victims held at the Government House announced the donation of N500,000 each to the slain family members with an additional N250,000 to those who sustained injuries, adding that the gesture was to enable them cushion the effect of the painful experience.

The Federal Government donation to the families of the victims was made by a delegation led by the Minister of State for Health, Ali Pate, who was accompanied by five Northern Emirs on a condolence visit and were received in audience by the Acting State Governor, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje on behalf of Governor Kwankwaso.

The Minister of Health told Ganduje that they were in Kano to condole with the Government, people of Kano, as well as family

members of the affected health workers, describing the incident as unfortunate and barbaric.

Despite the prevailing circumstances, we won’t be deterred by this evil act and that is why we are praying to the Almighty Allah to touch the heart of the perpetrators to have a change of mind, Pate said.

He said the Federal Government’s contribution should not be regarded as compensation, as human lives cannot be quantified in monetary terms, adding that it is merely an assistance, considered necessary for now.

The Acting Governor, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, while receiving the Federal Government cheque, admitted that the attack on the health workers, who were on vaccination exercise against polio in the state came at a time when Kano was almost achieving the desired goal on the immunization exercise.

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

PAGE 3

FG dismisses US threat to boycott Nigerian oil …as FG, states, LG share N575, 464bn

By Abdulwahab Isa

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he Federal Government said it is adequately prepared to tackle the eventuality that may arise from the decision of the United States government to halt dependence on oil exporting countries by 2015.

It explained that the

establishment of the Excess Crude Account (ECA) is purposely designed to take care of such eventualities, including a possible slowdown in the sale or export of crude oil by Nigeria.

The Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Lawan Yerima Ngama, made government’s position known yesterday in Abuja

while fielding questions from media representatives at the end of Federation Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC) meeting.

While admitting that, the threat by the US government not to import crude oil from Nigeria will have adverse impact on the economy, he said: “We don’t normally spend all our income.

That is why we do not really spend all that we earn. We have taken the slight slowdown out of the budget", he said.

Meanwhile the N575,464 billion was approved yesterday for distribution amongst the three tiers of government for the month of January, 2013.

Speaking yesterday, the

Accountant General of the Federation (AGF) Mr. Jonah Otunla, said total distributable revenue for the month of January which included the costs of collection to both the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS 4 %) and the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS 7 %) amounted to N575.4 billion.

Gunmen kill one, injure two in Yola From Umar Dankano, Yola

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Kano state Governor, Engr. Rabi'u Musa Kwankwaso, and Emir of Kano, Alhaji Ado Bayero, during the governor's visit to the emir, yesterday in London.

Customs burst employment syndicate

By Isa Abdulwahab

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he authorities at Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) have burst a network syndicates specialising in defrauding unsuspecting persons of huge sums of money purportedly for job placement with the service.

The syndicates allegedly use fake custom's website and facebook and have defrauded many people in the process.

Parading the suspects yesterday at the headquarters of the Nigerian Customs Service in

Abuja, Comptroller General of Customs, Abdullahi Dikko Inde, attributed the crack of the syndicate to the adoption of forensic experts aided by experts from Canada and United States.

Inde who was represented by Assistant Comptroller General, Tahir Musa, said the manager of a colluding commercial bank with four staff were arrested for connivance with the suspects and failure to discharge their obligations of ‘Know Your Customer’ (KYC).

“The investigations revealed that the designing and operations of ‘nigeriacustomsservice’, ‘nigeriacustomsservice.info’ and many facebook accounts of the Comptroller General of Customs were masterminded by the principal suspect, known as Umoh Moses or Prince Moses. He was arrested alongside with Obinwane Donatus, Abua Steve and Duru Chidi.

The suspects, he said operated a company known as BIIS at No.110 Tetlow Road Owerri Imo state, and it operated a commercial

bank account name “Customs Wuse” in Aba, Abia state which they used to defraud job seekers.

He said that five laptops, five mobile phone sets and one Central Processing Unit were retrieved from the suspects for further forensic analysis to determine the extent of their involvement in the crime.

Similarly, the service also paraded two corps members – Sanusi Abubakar and Hassan Nura Maiyaki from Sokoto in Abuja the point of collecting N400,000 for two customs recruitment letters.

N170m contract fraud: Ogbulafor Al-Mizan Editor arrested again From Nasiru Mu'azu Isa, Kaduna open vans and jeeps carrying to file no case submission sophisticated weapons and in

By Sunday Ejike Benjamin

F

ormer national chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Prince Vincent Ogbulafor, has said he will file a "no case submission" in response to the 17-count charge, bordering on his alleged involvement in a N170 million contract fraud slammed against him by the Federal Government.

The counsel representing the former PDP boss, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama who disclosed this yesterday shortly after the prosecution closed its case against him and two other accused

persons, told the court that: "The 1st accused person (Ogbulafor) will file a no case submission before the next adjourned date".

The trial judge, Justice Ishaq Bello adjourned the matter to February 28, 2013 for parties to adopt written addresses in respect of the no case submission.

Ogbulafor, who was Minister of Special Duties along with Emeka Ebilah and Jude Nwokoro are being prosecuted by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) for an alleged conspiracy and award of fictitious contracts to the tune of N170 million.

S

ix weeks after the release of Musa Muhammad Awwal, the Editor of Al-Mizan and a reporter of the paper by the State Security Services (SSS), he was rearrested yesterday by the security outfit.

Awwal and his reporter were arrested late last year and were released early January after spending eight days with the security operatives in an unknown destination.

Information gathered from his family members who witnessed the incident said, the Joint Task Force (JTF) and men of the SSS arrived the residence around 3:30 am yesterday in several Hilux

larger numbers than before.

According to the family source, those who arrested him said his arrest was subject to instruction given them from Abuja. Adding that his cell phone, and computer were immediately seized after subjecting his residence to thorough search before whisking him away without a warrant of arrest again to an unknown destination.

A release signed and issued by the Editor-in-Chief of Al-Mizan Ibrahim Musa, said: “We hereby call for the immediate and unconditional release of Musa Muhhammad Awwal whose arrest has violated due process and individual human rights”.

he popular Jimeta Shopping Complex in Yola, Adamawa state was thrown into confusion yesterday evening as unknown gunmen attacked and killed one person, leaving two others injured and hospitalised at the Yola Specialist Hospital.

Checks revealed that prior the attack; the victim has engaged in a phone conversation with some people and seemed to be waiting for them to show up. Not long afterwards, three people wearing gowns stormed the scene, one of them brought out a gun from inside his gown and shot the victim three times killing him while two others at the scene sustained injuries.

A witness said after the killing, the assailants crossed to the other side of the road where they had parked their car, entered the car and fled.

Jonathan blames S/West ACN for marginalisation in govt

By Lawrence Oloye

P

resident Goodluck Jonathan, yesterday, blamed the leadership of the opposition’s Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) for the region’s perceived marginalization in his government.

Speaking with newsmen yesterday at the venue the a forum organised by the South-west Board of Trustees (BoT), Jonathan’s Special Adviser on Public Affairs, Dr. Doyin Okupe, said his boss has taken notice of the allegations of marginalisation against the region and has set in motion machineries for the redress.

Okupe said the region missed its opportunity in government when members of the House of Representatives from the region chose to jettison the candidate presented by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the position of the Speaker because of vendetta.

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PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY, 15, 2013

Security challenges part of democracy-CAS From Mustapha Isah Kwaru, Maiduguri

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R-L: President Goodluck Jonathan and outgoing Tanzanian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Ambassador Musya Mangachi, during the envoy farewell visit to the President, yesterday at the State House, in Abuja.

Photo: Joe Oroye

Demolition commences in Mararaba Monday – Al-Makura

By Umar Muhammad Puma

A

s from Monday next week, all Illegal structures in Mararaba along the AbujaKeffi dual carriage way in Nasarawa state will be demolished.

Governor Umaru Tanko AlMakura stated this yesterday when he paid a working visit to the Nasarawa State Urban Development Board (NUDB), Karu local government secretariat and the Nasarawa Geographic Information System (NAGIS). He also said the state will same day

start the enforcement of new development control policy in the state.

“We are calling on those trading by the side of the road that have caused gridlock and traffic congestion to quickly get them out of the way because from Monday, we will ensure that traffic is allowed to move smoothly, this is why we are coming back to the site of construction of Karu-Panda Road to reduce the congestion on the road.

“I am here to give you the support and morale because you are going to work for 24 hours to

ensure that our new land reform policy becomes successful, so that very soon there will be no difference between the environment situation in Abuja and ours,” Al-Makura said.

Responding to lamentation by the acting Zonal Manager of NUDB, Sunday Auta that hoodlums prevented them from enforcing environmental laws, the governor said: “Very soon we are going to face lots of challenges of sanitising the development pattern of the Greater Karu Area, part of our promise when we came in is to ensure that all

development are in consonant with the best practices. What is more important is that we are a neighbour to the FCT, it we look at the nature of development of FCT, you will notice the adherent to best practice is total, we cannot afford to be a slum, by next week we will begin the full implementation of our land reforms. There would be a lot of demolitions that would involve a lot of sanitisation that would involve lots of review of how documents of lands are processed to have the synergy like the FCT, he said.

World Bank understudies Nigeria’s universal health coverage

By A’isha Biola Raji

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he World Bank has udrestudied Nigeria among 22 other countries for thier universal health coverage.

The Bank yesterday, unveiled 22 case studies of countries that have significantly expanded access to health care in the last decade, with the aim of helping the listed countries make more informed

health policy and programme choices.

In a statement signed by Obadiah Thombet, Chief Communications Officer, World Bank Nigeria Country Office, the study which focused on Ondo state is titled: “Toward Synergy and Collaboration to Expand the Supply of and Strengthen Primary Health Care in Nigeria’s Federal Context, with Special Reference to Ondo

State”.

The study has come at a period when, a growing number of countries are challenged with the responsibility of providing universal health coverage (UHC) for their citizens.

The researchers looked systematically at countries’ experiences with a set of parameters related to achieving UHC, including designing and managing benefits

packages, expanding coverage to the poorest and excluded populations, providing quality care, and health financing.

The 22 countries studied included Argentina, Brazil, Chile, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ethiopia, Georgia, Guatemala, India, Indonesia, Jamaica, Kenya, Kyrgyz Republic, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Philippines, Thailand, Tunisia, Turkey and Vietnam.

Don’t cover up corruption, says Obasanjo From Osaigbovo Iguobaro, Benin

F

ormer President, Olusegun Obasanjo yesterday criticised leaders for attempting to cover up issues of corruption.

The former president stated this yesterday in Government House, Benin shortly after a courtesy call on Governor Adams

Oshiomwhole.

Obasanjo was in Benin to deliver the first memorial lecture in honour of late chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Dr. Abel Guobadia organised by the Women’s Health and Action Research Centre (WHARC).

He described the late Guobadia as the “unsung Nigerian who was pivotal to our

today’s democracy”.

On the issue of corruption and security, he said;:“How many times are you going to flog this horse, I have the flogged the horse of corruption, I have flogged it internally, externally, I flogged it every day, some people go along with me, they agree that it is a problem that we have to face squarely, some people abuse me, some people do all sorts of things but the point is that

when you have a problem and you attempt to cover it, you are not solving the problem if anything, you are complicating the problem.

Governor Adams Oshiomhole who described the guest lecturer as a distinguished statesman, tasked INEC under the leadership of Prof.

Attihuru Jega to provide a level praying ground that would give political office seekers equal opportunities.

he Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Alex Badeh, said yesterday that the current security challenges posed by the Boko Haram insurgency and other militant groups in the country are a clear manifestation of democracy.

According to Badeh, insecurity cannot be separated from democracy, as the system gives people the right to express themselves and that Boko Haram sect had only resolved to exercise such rights through violence.

The CAS, who disclosed this when he paid a courtesy call to Governor Kashim Shettima of Borno state at the Government House, Maiduguri, said he was in the state for a familialisation tour of air force formations, to ascertain the performance of the personnel in tackling the persistent activities of the insurgents.

Stating that such crises were also experienced in the developed democracies, the air force chief noted, that very soon the situation will be a thing of the past.

Responding Governor Shettima said that the state has experienced difficult moments in its history and that the worse is over.

He explained that Borno is currently at the verge of restoration of peace, attributing the root cause of the insecurity to poverty and unemployment.

Daily Times: Court to hear Anosike’s application over recycling charges From Ayodele Samuel, Lagos

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federal High Court in Lagos has fixed March 4, 2013 to hear applications brought by the Anosike brothers and Folio Communications Limited over what they say is the recycling of charges in different courts against them.

The case was fixed for hearing yesterday but could not hold due to the absence of the trial judge, Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke.

When the case came up earlier, counsel to the Anosike’s, Morrison Quakers, had raised preliminary objections challenging the service of the charge. He said the charge on which the prosecution sought to arraign his clients was not served on them and therefore argued that non service of the charge disqualified the court from assuming jurisdiction on the case.

But the prosecutor, Ernest Ezebilo had said the defense was duly served contrary to their claim. He told the court that a copy of the proof of service was in the court’s file. Justice Chukwujekwu had adjourned the case for the hearing of the applications.

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

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scarcity Ooni visits Kano emir in London Fuel hits Benue

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was contributing to the crisis.

He commended the outgoing ambassador for bringing the two countries closer during his five-year tenure, citing the on-going construction of a cement plant in Tanzania by Alhaji Aliko Dangote as reward for his work.

Earlier, Mr. Msuya Mangachi commended

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government cannot fund the commercial activities of the maritime industry.

He called on the indigenes of Kogi state and other investors to exploit the huge potentials of inland waterways as it would reduce the incidence of mass poverty and unemployment.

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commander, noted that the maritime sector is so strategic for the transformation agenda of the government to be ignored.

He noted that some early explorers like Columbus were solely financed by faith-based organisations saying that only

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he commander, Nigeria Navy Ship, Lugard Lokoja, Kogi state, Commodore Timothy Dakwat, has described private sector involvement in the maritime industry as a catalyst for the

creation of wealth and prosperity for the country.

Dakwat stated this yesterday in Lokoja when he paid familiarisation visit to some federal establishments in the state.

The naval boss who recently resumed duty as the

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From Sam Egwu, Lokoja

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"Nigeria's wonderful and consistent foreign policy'" adding that, "Nigeria is a friend and brother in deed".

He said his country's economic diplomacy had been successful, with the on-going construction of a 2.5m metric tonne per year cement plant by Alhaji Aliko Dangote, and the opening of branches of some of Nigerian banks in Tanzania.

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yesterday.

"African countries must work together for the overall benefit of the continent, and we believe we can play a positive role in strengthening Africa", he said.

President Jonathan said Nigeria was concerned about peace and stability in the continent, adding that the proliferation of small arms

Navy calls for private sector investment in maritime ○

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resident Goodluck Jonathan has said Nigeria strongly believes in the unity of African nations, and will continue to work with all countries in the continent to enable mutually beneficial relationships.

President Jonathan was speaking to the outgoing Tanzanian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Msuya W. Mangachi, at the State House ○

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Jonathan reiterates belief in African unity

By Abdulrahman Abdulraheem

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he Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade Olubuse returned to Ibadan, yesterday after a one-week stay in London where he had paid a sympathy visit to the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Ado Bayero, currently recuperating in the United Kingdom following the bloody attack on his entourage by some gunmen believed to be

remarked that the colloquium was packaged to exhibit the indigenous talents inherent in the works of King Sunny Ade spanning almost five decades.

In an interview with newsmen, King Sunny Ade expressed delight for his being considered for honour by the authorities of the nation's premier university "even though, prophets are rarely honoured at home."

Ibadan, the Ooni expressed delight that the Emir of Kano is in stable health just as he spoke extensively on the humble beginning of King Sunny Ade as a musician in the early sixties.

He later led a prayer session for King Sunny Ade and wished the frontline musician greater successes in his chosen career.

Also speaking at the occasion, one of the organizers of the event, Prince Tunde Odunlade

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members of the Boko Haram sect.

Oba Sijuwade was the special guest of honour at a personality colloquium organised by the Institute of African Studies, University of Ibadan for the renowned Nigerian juju musician, King Sunny Ade. Addressing the crème de la crème of the society in attendance at the colloquium held inside the Conference Centre of the University of

From Inumidun Ojelade, Ibadan

INTERVIEW

'FG should introduce finger prints strategy in tackling insecurity'

KANNYWOOD

Arewa studios and a man's effort in reinvigorating youths

FEATURE

CO VER COVER Super Eagles: End of a dawn?

Ho w How indecent dressing denig denigrrates society

INTERVIEW I do the chores because my maid attends classes, says former SA to Al-makura

From Uche Nnorom, Makurdi

F

uel scarcity has hit Makurdi, the Benue state capital as independent marketers are at daggers drawn with the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) over the pricing of petrol.

Our correspondent observed that while DPR insists that independent marketers must sell petrol at N97.00 as approved by government, the marketers adamantly refused to adhere to this directive, contending that they source the product on their own and as such selling at that price would mean doing so at a loss.

Deputy Manager, DPR Benue state, Engr.

Mohammed Abdulrahaman said the independent marketers do not have any excuse selling at N97.00 because government pays for Petroleum Equalisation Fund for transportation of the product.

He warned that DPR would not hesitate to close down any petrol station found selling above the approved pump price.

However, Benue state chairman, Petrol Monitoring Team, Mr. Ekpe Ogbu explained that the action of DPR did not receive the blessing of independent marketers hence their refusal to dispense fuel to motorists.

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PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

Estranged couple reconcile before court on Valentine's Day

A

n estranged couple, who have been living apart for seven years, yesterday abandoned their marriage dissolution bid and made peace before an Ikeja High Court.

Olorunloba Ogundipe and his hitherto separated wife, Tinuade, reconciled their differences before Justice Joseph Oyewole on St. Valentine's Day. Tinuade, 44, a civil servant, had sought to divorce her husband of 18 years, over alleged adultery on the man's part.

The petitioner, who resides at No. 2, Olu Akinde Ave., Akinde Estate, Alakuko, had claimed that Olorunloba, 51, was having an illicit affair with a banker.

However, in the spirit of St. Valentine Day celebration yesterday, the mother of three filed a notice of discontinuance of the case, saying that she had made peace with her husband.

She urged the court to grant the application.

Dismissing the suit, Justice Oyewole commended the couple for its decision.

"You have made my Valentine's Day special; it is a big plus to this court," the judge said. (NAN)

NPC selects 40, 680 households for 2013 demographic survey

By Tobias Lengnan Dapam

I

n its determination to collate data on health and other human demographics in the country, the National Population Commission (NPC) has disclosed that it has randomly selected 40,680 households in all the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), for this year's National Demographic Health Survey (NDHS).

The chairman of the Commission, Eze Festus Odimegwu, who was represented by the Chairman Technical Management Team, Festus Uzo, made the disclosure yesterday at the headquarters of the commission in Abuja, during a press conference on the 2013 NDHS. Odimegwu said only women within the ages of 15-49 years and men within the same age bracket will be interviewed within the selected households.

"They will answer questions on infant/child mortality at the national level and among urban and rural population. Another aspect is on the reproductive health of women and attitude of both men and women as regards to HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted diseases (STD) among others", Odimegwu said.

He revealed that the field work would take place for about four months starting from 15th February, 2013, with a take off in six zonal centers which include: South-west - Lagos; South-east - Imo; South-south - Akwa Ibom; Northcentral- Nasarawa/FCT; North-east Gombe; and North-west - Jigawa, adding that other states will start on the 24th February, 2013.

L-R: Surveyor General of the Federation, Prof. Peter Nwilo, Minister of State for Works, Ambassador Bashir Yuguda, and President, Surveyors Council of Nigeria (SURCON), Surveyor Agunbiade Ademola, during induction ceremony of new surveyors, yesterday in Abuja.

Photo: Justin Imo-Owo

Corps members protest nonpayment of allowances, block Lafia-Akwanga road From Ali Abare Abubakar Lafia

A

ngry members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) 'Batch B' in Nasarawa state, yesterday, staged a protest to express their grievance over the nonpayment of four months allowances by the state government.

The corps members who were billed to pass out yesterday, however stormed the state Ministry of Education along Jos road in their numbers to register their discontent with the officials there, after which they spilled onto the expressway passing through Lafia, disrupting traffic flow for over two hours, leaving commuters plying the road stranded.

One of the protesting youths, Ikechukwu Ezenwa, told our correspondent that instead of being part of the Passing-OutParade slated for Thursday, they were at the Ministry of Education to protest the nonpayment of their allowances, after serving for 12 months in public primary and secondary schools, which he said were their areas of primary assignment.

He disclosed that members were being owed N4000. 00 monthly allowances for four months, alleging that there were corps members who had not received payment since the beginning of the exercise.

Ezenwa stated that the corps members rejected the plea by the ministry officials to take part in the passing out parade,

promising to pay them the outstanding allowances even after their passing out.

When contacted over the matter, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry, Hajiya Zainab Abdulmumini, confirmed the nonpayment of the allowances, adding that it has been the practice to pay them on a quarterly basis, adding that the ministry had paid about 1200 corps members serving under it for the last eight months.

She explained that crisis began when the state NYSC office posted additional 303 new corps members to the ministry in January this year, a month to their passing out and the ministry was supposed to pay

their outstanding allowances for the year.

Hajiya Zainab told our correspondent that based on the total number of corps members serving under her ministry, a request for the sum of N23 million was sent to the state government, to enable the ministry off set all outstanding allowances owed the corps members.

Meanwhile, a government source who spoke to our reporter on the issue, under condition of anonymity, alleged that the state government is dragging its feet on the payment of the allowances because "it has uncovered a fraud involving the officials of the ministries of Education, Finance and officials of the state office of the

NYSC".

He explained that when the request for the sum of N23 million was forwarded to Governor Umaru Tanko Al-makura, the governor immediately suspected foul play as according to the source, "usually N6 million was being paid monthly and the outstanding allowances is for only two months".

The source added that though the governor has okayed the payment of the allowances immediately to the protesting corps members, investigations into the matter has commenced, with instructions to the effect that new corps members serving in the state would henceforth be required to open a bank account where their allowances would be paid directly.

…as 48 corps members repeat service year in Oyo From Inumidun Ojelade, Ibadan

N

o fewer than 48 youth corps members are to receive sanctions including outright repeat of service year and extension of service for various offences committed during the 2012 Batch 'B' service.

Giving the indication in

Ibadan yesterday at the passing out parade of the corps members, Mr. Olanipekun Alao, the state coordinator of NYSC said some of the offences were dereliction of duty, absenteeism and abandonment of duty post.

Alao however said the sanctions for the offenders were subject to ratification by the NYSC headquarters.

On the other hand, the coordinator

announced that 21 other corps members who excelled in their areas of primary assignment were rewarded.

Alao said three of those that excelled would be decorated with the state government award, four with NYSC Governing Board Award and 14 would be presented with the state coordinator's commendation certificates.

NHIS assures stakeholders of quality health care services From Uche Nnorom, Makurdi

T

he National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), has assured of its commitment to achieving easy access to quality health care services to all Nigerians and

residents by 2015.

North-central coordinator, NHIS, Alhaji Attahiru Ibrahim who gave the assurance yesterday in Makurdi during a one-day forum fin federal ministries, departments and agencies, said it is in pursuit of this objective that the management

of the scheme recently launched two programmes - the Community Based Social Insurance programme, (CBSIP) and Voluntary Contribution Health Insurance Programme, (VCHIP) aimed at reaching the generality of Nigerians.

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

PAGE 7

Ekiti varsity students shut down Ilorin college over seized results From Olanrewaju Lawal, Ilorin

H

undreds of College of Education Ilorin(COED) students yesterday staged a peaceful rally over their seized results due to the inability of the College to settle its debt worth N35 million with Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti.

The students carrying different placards with inscriptions such as “we paid our

school feels, where is our results”, “General Public come and rescue us from Acting Provost”, among others, alleged that their affiliated Institution has refused to release their results until all the outstanding debt were paid.

All the roads linking the college were closed with bonfire in front of institution while the school gate was locked.

The affected students include

• Provost owes varsity N138m

first set of regular degree holder(undergraduate) and regular NCE of the college who were not mobilised to the National Youth Service Corps(NYSC) Speaking with Journalists during the protest, a leader of the students, Comrade Ibrahim AbdulAkeem disclosed that COED Ilorin owes Ekiti State University

over N138 million and the University has vowed not to release their results.

He said that as at December 2011, the College owed Ekiti State University N35,104,450 but the debt accumulated .

AbdulAkeem also disclosed that while students were paying N63 ,000, COED Ilorin was

R-L: Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshall A.S Baden, and Acting Comptroller General of Immigration, Alhaji Rilwan Bala Musa, during Comptroller General's visit Chief of Air Staff, yesterday in Abuja.

Jonathan thanks Nigerians for prayers

By Abdulrahman Abdulraheem

P

Photo: Mahmud Isa

MDGs, stakeholders to brainstorm on post 2015

By Adeola Tukuru

A

s part of its efforts to develop an inclusive post2015 development agenda, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Millennium Development Goals, Dr Precious Kalamba Gbeneol has announced that her office is organising a stakeholders’ consultative forum in collaboration with the United Nations system in Nigeria.

The stakeholders’ meeting holding in Abuja, would be chaired by Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim,

while a keynote address would be delivered by Dr. Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, Coordinating Minister of the economy and Member, United Nations High Level Panel of Eminent Persons on the Post2015 Development Agenda.

The consultative forum is in response to the demand by the United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon from member countries to aggregate their development aspirations into national frameworks that would feed into a global Post-2015 Development Agenda.

It is expected that the outcome of the forum would form the

ABU appoints new public affairs boss

By Maryam Garba Hassan

T

he Vice-Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University Zaria. Professor Abdullahi Mustapha, has approved the appointment of Dr. Ismaila Shehu of Political Science Department as Head of the Institution’s Public Affairs Department (PAD).

A statement issued yesterday by the Media Adviser to the Vicechancellor, Waziri Isa Gwantu, said the newly coined and expanded department was formerly known as Information and Protocol unit of the University.

According to the statement, Shehu, who until his appointment was a lecturer at the Political Science Department of the University, was born on October8, 1963 in Zaria City,Kaduna State.

remitting about N28,000 to the University for almost 537 students which amounted to N17 million.

The students gave the management till 6pm of Friday February15, 2013 to settle with Ekiti State University or face the wrath of the students.

While contacted on phone, the Public Relation Officer (PRO) of the college, Mallam Abdulwaheed Ayeila said the protest was caused by internal crisis the college has with the Acting Provost of the Institution.

He attended L.E.A. Primary school, Zaria where he finished in 1977 and proceeded to Government Secondary School Zaria in 1978 and graduated in 1982, the statement added.

The new Head of Public Affairs Department obtained his B.A. (Hons.) in English, MSC, International studies and Ph.D. in Political Science from the Ahmadu Bello University in 1984, 1997 and 2008 respectively.

The statement added that Shehu, a veteran broadcaster, joined the services of Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) Kaduna as a reporter in 1988 and rose to the position of Editor/ Current Affairs Office in 2004, after serving as Deputy Chief Press Secretary to Vice- President Atiku Abubakar from 20012003.

aspiration of Nigerians for incorporation into the inclusive Post-2015 Development Agenda of the UN. Participants would also be required to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the MDGs framework in Nigeria while recommending proven methods to accelerate progress against the MDGs, ensure a participatory approach in the discussions leading to the formulation of Nigeria’s position in Post-MDGs Development Agenda and formulate a widely

accepted Post-2015 Development Agenda that would form Nigeria’s policy thrust for a PostMDGs planning framework.

The forum is designed to involve sub-national structures while placing a premium on themes that have direct relevance to economic, social and environmental development.

Attention would be paid to emerging challenges like peace and security, natural disasters, economic instability and regionalism.

FCT Muslim Pilgrims’ Board gets new boss

By Maryam Garba Hassan

T

he Acting Director of the FCT Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board, Alhaji Surajo Ado Faskari, has been relieved of his appointment following the irregularities recorded at the board during last year’ Hajj operations.

This was disclosed yesterday in Abuja by the Special Adviser to the FCT Minister of State on Area Councils and Muslim Pilgrims Affairs, Alhaji Ibraheem Aminu Ibraheem.

According to him, the decision to remove the former acting director was taken after a careful study of the FCT report of the 2012 Hajj operation where it was discovered that the performance of the former boss fell short of the administration’s expectations.

Ibraheem stressed that the board’s handling of the

Maharram’ issue that affected some female intending pilgrims as well as processing of visas for the pilgrims was very poor and left a lot to be desired,adding that these factors among others as well as the late release of Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) to intending pilgrims made last year’s hajj a horrifying experience for pilgrims from the FCT. He said in view of this, the administration has approved the appointment of Hajiya Fatima Gumi as the new Acting Director, adding that Hajiya Fatima is expected to bring her competence and years of experience to bear in ensuring a hitch-free hajj operation this year.

Ibraheem further revealed that the FCT administration has set up machinery in motion for early commencement of preparations for the 2013 exercise.

resident Goodluck Jonathan has expressed gratitude to Nigerians for praying for the nation.

President Jonathan was speaking at the Basilica of Grace, Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, at the beginning of Lent, the forty-day fasting and prayer by Christendom.

“I want to thank all Nigerians for praying steadfastly for the nation. Indeed, your prayers continue to help us in our efforts to make this nation a better place, and I urge you to continue’, he stated.

President Jonathan, accompanied by his wife, Dame Patience Jonathan and his mother, Madam Eunice Jonathan, said Lent is important because it helps Christians to reflect on their lives and seek God through active sacrifice of fasting and prayers.

Earlier, the Primate of the Anglican Church, Most Reverend Nicholas Okoh, said every Christian should take Lent seriously, because of the virtues of humility, sacrifice and love for others which the exercise teaches.

Lent: Interior minister urges Christians to emulate Christ

By Tobias Lengnan Dapam

T

he Minister of Interior, Comrade Abba Moro has tasked Christians in the country to emulate the virtues of the Jesus Christ, as they observe the penitential period of lent known for fasting and abstinence from certain luxuries.

The Minister in a statement issued by his Special Assistant, Media, George Udoh, said Christian communities the world over acknowledge the traditional purpose of lent as a period of preparation of the believers – through prayer, penance repentance, alms giving and self denial towards the commemoration of the holy week.

The Minister therefore implored Christians to pray for the growth, development, security and the well being of the nation as they observe the Lenten season.

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PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

L-R: Ag. General Secretary, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Chris Uyot, erstwhile General Secretary, NLC, Comrade John Odah, Deputy President, NLC, Comrade Kiri Mohammed, and NLC President, Comrade Abdulwahed Omar, singing solidarity song at the Labour House on the day Odah was reinstated as General Secretary after a consent judgment by the National Industrial Court.

Nasarawa State Governor, Alhaji Umaru Tanko Al-Makura (2nd left) with Chairman, Ceezali Construction Company, after inspecting the road project on Tuesday.

A shop displaying valentine gifts on Palm Avenue, Mushin in Lagos yesterday.

L-R: Director General, National Teachers Institute (NTI), Dr. Ladan Aminu Sharehu, and Minister of State for Education, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, during the submission of report of the Ministerial Review Committee on Strengthening of Mathematics and Science Education, by the committee chairman to the minister, yesterday in Abuja.

Photo: Justin Imo-Owo

Youths and fire fighters battling to put off fire at a building, yesterday at the Federal Low Cost Estate, in Gombe metropolis.

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

PAGE 9

Reps to compel NNPC to remit withheld funds

By Umar Muhammad Puma

T

he House of Representatives Committee on Finance has declared that the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) will be legally compelled to remit its four years withheld independent revenue accruing to the Federal Government to the Consolidated Revenue Fund.

To this end, the lawmakers have directed the NNPC to give express access to the Accountant General of the Federation (AGF) to scrutinize its records on internally generated revenue (IGR) from 2009 to 2012.

The oil giant made N2 trillion in 2009 as its internally generated revenue while it realized N2.1 trillion in 2010. It also generated N1.9 trillion in 2011 and as at July 2012, it had generated N259 billion.

However, against the provisions of the Fiscal a Responsibility Act, 2007, the Corporation remitted nothing to the CRF. According to its Group Managing Director, Andrew Yakubu who appeared before the House Finance Committee yesterday, the non-remittance was a function of the organization’s operation at loss.

Yakubu said the Corporation was operating on its own account but forced by circumstances to operate in a challenging business environment.

“For instance, we have to buy crude at commercial rates but have to sell at regulated prices.

As such, it is difficult to generate profit and that is why we have difficulties in remitting to the CRF. “Also, the cost of generating

that IGR is more than the IGR because we spend more to produce the products from where we generate the profits as we incur additional cost to produce those products; we lost nothing less than N600million per week to vandalism, and that is also beyond our control”.

He also expressed regret that the issue of subsidy was contributory to the inability of the corporation to meet up with its CRF obligations.

“With this, there is no business that can generate profit in such a hostile environment,” he said.

Yakubu added that as the supplier of last resort, the position of the Corporation became more dicey as it was left as the only supplier of petrol while the fuel subsidy crisis lasted last year.

The lawmakers however said it was unacceptable for the NNPC

he Northern States Governors Forum (NSGF) has enjoined Christian faithful to conduct themselves very well during the Lenten season which began Wednesday in order to maximize the spiritual and physical benefits in it.

Chairman of the forum and

meagre resources.

Chairman of the state SUBEB, Malam Abdulkarim Muhammed Abdullahi, sounded the warning yesterday, while delivering a speech at a one-day meeting with the Heads of Section from the finance and accounts/audit department of LGEAs/DAEAs, which held at the PTA House in Lafia.

While acknowledging that the meeting was timely, considering

the myriad of problems confronting the Board and teachers in the state, Malam Abdulkarim warned that he will not fold his arms while unpatriotic elements siphon much needed funds to deny the people of quality education.

He stated that with the new template set by the Board, participants at the meeting would be frequently subjected to a series of tests, to ascertain their

culpability or otherwise, stressing that the Board would not hesitate to sanction anyone found wanting.

Malam Abdulkarim lamented the trend where employees who died or have left the service are still included in the payment schedules of the Board, just as he decried the disparity in the salaries of teachers on the same Grade Level and the lack of proper record keeping.

to claim that it has been operating at a loss despite being protected by the government.

According to the Committee, the NNPC erred when it flouted the FRA, 2007 by failing to remit government’s part of the IGR to the CRF. “Operating at a loss is not an issue; you generated some money

Northern govs task Christians on Lenten

T

Nasarawa SUBEB to rout fraudsters From Ali Abare Abubakar, Lafia

T

he Nasarawa State Universal Basic Education Board, has said it is poised to purge the system of fraudsters at the local government/ development areas education authorities who connive with some staff of the board and Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, to defraud the education sub-sector of its the

and the law is clear on what belongs to you and to the other but you chose to ignore it and refused to remit the Federal government’s dues”.

The NNPC was given till February 25 to report back after the AGF might have checked its records for the period under review.

Governor of Niger State, Dr Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu made the call in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Danladi Ndayebo.

The forum identified good intention, prayers and firmness of purpose in the pursuit of good deeds as conditions for reaping the benefits of the holy season.

The statement emphasized the need for the faithful to fast, pray and abstain from heavy meals and other bad habits as well as give alms during the Lenten period.

It urged them to accord it all the necessary attention by being proactive in decisions and actions that would ensure their full participation in the fast.

“The Ash Wednesday which signifies the commencement of the 40-day Lenten season is characterized by penance, reflection and fasting which prepares Christian faithful for Christ’s resurrection on Easter Sunday and should therefore be taken very seriously by all Christians,” the statement said.

The forum urged Christian clergy to educate their congregations on what is expected of Christians during the holy season to earn God’s blessings.

Don’t misinterprete Valentine, cleric urges Nigerians

By Albert Akota

T

Sokoto state Deputy Governor, Alhaji Muktari Shagari, and the state Governor, Alhaji Aliyu Magatakarda Wammako, inspecting MaikukudiSauropod road, on Wednesday at Silame local government area of Sokoto state.

NSCDC academy to commence ICT training

By Tobias Lengnan Dapam

T

he Nigeria security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), has revealed plans to embrace Information and Communicationss Technology in order to stamp out insecurity.

A statement issued yesterday by its Academy’s spokesperson at Sauka, Abuja, Mrs. Esther Eziashi, on behalf of the provost, Julius Oniboye, stated that ICT

would help the corps to cope with the various security challenges in the country.

It said that the corps, had already commenced training of over 200 officers and men in partnership with Information and Communication Technology (ICT) providers in the country.

Oniboye said that the ICT training programme billed to commence on Monday Feburary 18, 2013, would be conducted annually and in batches.

According to the provost, “the Corps is out to explore all the dimensions in a manner that assembles all the building blocks from all quarters at the least possible time and by way of examining current technologies that will help them tackle current challenges and institute the best ways not only by acquiring such technologies but also sharing them among the security community”.

On his part, the Commandant

General, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Prof. Ade Abolurin who was represented by the deputy commandantGeneral Administration, Sadiq Bello, noted that modern warfare requires IT for success.

He said that in comparison with the past, when warfare was still in medieval ages, results were attained without ICT, but today, without ICT, it would be mere suicide.

he Resident Pastor of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) Mpape branch, Rev Anthony Tede, has urged citizens to use the Valentine celebration to promote peace irrespective of their religion.

He made this appeal while speaking with our reporter in Abuja. According to Tede, Nigerians should not misinterprete Valentine’s Day as love should be unconditional and be shown optimally to one and other for the interest of the country.

“Valentine is about caring for those who are sick and showing love to less privileged ... I pray that the celebration will be the beginning of healing for those who are sick in our society and the world at large.

“Our parents also have big roles to play as we mark the celebration by monitoring who their children associate with...” he advised.

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PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

Kwara promotes 12000 teachers From Olanrewaju Lawal, Ilorin

K

wara State Governor Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed has approved the promotion of over 12,000 Primary and Secondary School Teachers in the State.

The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Media and Communication, Dr Muideen

Akorede who stated this in a statement issued on Wednesday said that a total of 10,046 primary school teachers and 2,105 secondary school teachers benefited from the promotion exercise.

The statement also disclosed that civil servants due for the next tranche of promotions are writing the qualification examinations prelude to the oral interviews.

Governor Ahmed said the teachers were promoted to motivate them to higher performance as well as boost their economic welfare with enhanced pay.

The statement pledged the government's commitment to the enhancement of the civil servants' conditions of service in line with Performance Contracting and urged the newly-promoted teachers to

reciprocate the gesture by redoubling their efforts in providing qualitative education to their students.

In their reaction to the promotion, the Nigeria Union of Teachers(NUT) in a statement signed by its Kwara State Chairman, Alhaji Farouq Akanbi and Assistant General Secretary, Chief Wale Oyeniyi described Governor Ahmed's gesture as a humane posture as it would boost the morale of the teachers.

L-R: Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke, Minister of Aviation, Princess Stella Odua, Minister of State for FCT, Oloye Olajimoke Akinjide, Special Adviser to the President on Ethics and Value, Mrs. Sarah Jibrin, Minister of State for Power, Mrs. Zainab Kuchi, Minister of Environment, Mrs. Hadiza Mailafiya, Minister of Housing, Ms. Amal Pepple, Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Zainab Maina, and Minister of Education, Professor Rukayyatu Ahmed Rufa'i, during President Goodluck Jonathan's interactive dinner with female ministers and special advisers, on Wednesday night, in Abuja.

Photo: Mahmud Isa

UNN to host Oxford's pharmaceutical firm From Suleiman Idris, Lagos

T

he International Centre for Biotechnology Research and Training at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka is set to benefit from the establishment of a nonprofit pharmaceutical manufacturing plant to produce patented drugs from Oxford University.

The proposed pharmaceutical

plant is one of several initiatives aimed at giving the UNESCO Category 2 centre for biotechnology a strong footing.

Director of Basic Sciences and Engineering of UNESCO, Professor Maciej Nalecz, who spoke on"Biotechnology: Prospects and Challenges in Africa", said the Oxford University has a company operational in the UK, which would want a branch in Africa

purely for developmental reasons.

"They would like to help Africa develop faster, so, it is nothing about business or making money or whatsoever", he said.

Prof. Nalecz urged the creation of a culture of inter-disciplinary science as a basic requirement for advocacy and popularisation of biotechnology which he claims, was being threatened by a rising brain drain.

NLC shaped my approach to governance-Oshiomhole

By Osaigbovo Iguobaro, Benin

E

do State Governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole said his approach to governance was enriched and shaped by his experiences as President of the Nigeria Labour Congress ( NLC).

Oshiomhole disclosed this while playing host to the leadership of the NLC led by its President, Abdulwaheed Omar who visited him in Government House Wednesday.

From Sam Egwu, Lokoja

C

ivil Servants in Kogi State are soon to join the National Health Insurance Scheme as it has been described as a veritable platform to providing quality services to employees.

Kogi State Governor, Capt.

Idris Wada stated this when he received the Technical Committee Report for the

The governor recalled the contribution of the NLC and TUC during his campaigns, explaining that his victory in the April 14, 2012 governorship election was victory for the NLC and TUC. "I have always said that what I brought on board was a collective effort", Governor Oshiomhokle said, adding that NLC would be proud of his achievements in Edo State at the end of the tenure of his

administration.

While commending the NLC for backing him and for being the defender of the right of Nigerians, the governor urged the NLC to continue in that light.

The NLC President, Comrade Abdulwaheed, had told the governor that they were in Benin to congratulate him on his victory during last April governorship election and to confer with him on issues of mutual interests.

He said a Ministerial RoundTable in 2007 under the auspices of UNESCO had identified the declining interest and enrolment of young people into science, mathematics and engineering faculties, especially women, as the main challenge for science and technology at a time of increasing need for them.

He warned that "failure to meet this challenge of capacity, will result in insufficient number of scientists, continued brain drain, skills shortages and ongoing impact on development, especially for developing and least-developed countries."

UNN Vice Chancellor, Prof Bartho Okolo said the university was glad for the collaboration that has enabled the Centre come under the umbrella of UNESCO, adding the it would further the internalisation drive of the University and its quest to become a global centre of excellence.

Kogi workers to join NHIS soon enrolment of Kogi State workers into the National Health Insurance Scheme.

The governor described the health need of its workers as a factor to improved productivity, said a detailed study of the report with the view to implementing the scheme would be carried out.

Represented by his Deputy,

Yomi Awoniyi the NHIS he disclosed, would enable the workers to access effective health care through efficient payment of Kogi State workers.

Submitting the report, Kogi State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Idris Omede called for adequate sensitization, enactment of Health Insurance

Scheme Act in the State, and the establishment of an Implementation Committee.

In their separate speeches, Moses Atakpa, Kogi State Head of Service and Comrade James Odaudu, the State NLC Chairman, described the scheme as laudable for increased productivity.

NIMET to begin predictionof rains by zones

By Ibrahim Kabiru Sule

T

he Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NIMET) has said that it is collaborating with states and local government councils across the country in order to start a zonal presentation of its seasonal rainfall prediction to ease understanding at the grassroots.

The agency disclosed that, in view of the last year's flood disaster that affected most states in the federation, the Minister of Aviation has directed the agency to quickly begin to reach out to the communities so as to forestall the recurrence of such disaster.

Director General of the agency, Anthony Anuforom stated this to newsmen during the opening of the 3-day National Conference that herald the presentation of this year's rainfall prediction in Abuja Wednesday, saying that where possible such information would be translated into vernaculars so that people at the grassroots would have better understanding.

Anuforom then recalled that the 2012 flood disaster has "appeared to have taken people unawares despite warnings issued earlier by NIMET on the likelihood of flooding in different parts of the country".

"We have therefore organised this conference as part of 2013 rainfall prediction, so as to avoid the hazards associated with severe weather ", he said.

Speaking,the minister of Aviation, Stella Oduah, expressed dismay over the floods which called for taking "proactive measures and well-coordinated collaboration among stakeholders in both government and private sectors for more effective utilization of NIMET's early warning information."

Oduah added that the application of weather information for planning has effect on sectors like agriculture, water resources and aviation .

NHRC faults beggars' remand in prison

By Sunday Ejike Benjamin

T

he National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has said that the remand in Kirikiri and Badagary prisons of 39 beggars by the Lagos State Special offences court for street begging is wrong and promised to review some of the laws that tend to negate peoples fundamental human rights.

The Executive Secretary of the Commission, Prof. Bem Angwe said this while reacting to the imprisonment of the beggars, decried the action of the Lagos State government , adding that the National Human Rights Commission Amendment Act 2010 has empowered the commission to undertake review of bills before States' Houses of Assembly and National Assembly as well as existing laws that were not in tandem with human rights principles both at the state and national levels.

PAGE 11

PEOPLES DAILY,FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

Save for your child's education…start today

A

lthough the cry of a baby at delivery gives joy, it reminds you of your responsibility as a parent to provide basic necessity such as food, shelter, security and above all, education.

Financial planners say if you do not want your children to be predestined to a life of debt, you then have to get on with savings for them from the day they are born.

However, for you to achieve this target there are various bank products that offer good interest on savings and other benefits that you can choose.

You start with kid's account for instance, Early Savers account offered by Access Bank, Hi Fi Young Savers account by First Bank among others.

Opening a bank account for your child is a high point for both

the parent and the child. Early Savers teaches your child about saving and gets you thinking about your child's financial future. Early Savers is a be-spoke savings account for children below 9 years of age. This includes unborn children, in which case the parents are noted as primary account holders with responsibility for jointly running such accounts until their children become adults and can solely operate their own accounts.

Children also receive rewards every month when money is deposited into this account and when they reach specific milestones in the life of the account.

The Access Early Savers account encourages financial inclusion and financial literacy as children grow into responsible adults.

Other banks that have products specifically for education include First City Monument Bank (FCMB), Fidelity Bank, Guarantee Trust Bank, Stanbic IBTC, Sterling Bank, Union Bank and United Bank for Africa (UBA).

You can save with Sterling Bank, Union Bank and GTB because they have the best product for education.

For instance, Sterling Bank Education Plan Account is targeted at students with minimum opening balance of N10,000, minimum daily balance of N10,000 and N1,00,000 for automatic qualification for insurance cover.

It offers 1 percent interest rate above prevailing savings interest rate and additional interest rate of 2 percent above savings rate, making a total of 5.50 percent.

Apart from high interest rate, the product offers insurance cover up to N2, 000,000 for payment of child's school fees in case of permanent disability or death.

One of the Union Bank's education educational savings accounts is targeted at children

between the ages of 0 - 19 years.

It offers interest rate of 1.5 percent above the prevailing savings rate, which is about 3.5 percent.

Its opening balance is N 1000 with an agreed lump sum up to maturity, which will determine the monthly contributions.

How do you measure financial progress?

W

e are all at different places when it comes to financial progress.

Indeed, some of us may not even measure progress the same way.

Just as being "rich" means different things to different people, the way you measure financial progress might vary from the way your neighbour measures it. But it is important to understand how you feel about your finances, and be prepared to measure your progress in a way that works for you. Here are some suggestions of how to do it: Net Worth One way to keep track of your financial progress is to track the way that your net worth grows.

Your net worth represents the total value of your assets after your liabilities have been subtracted out. This can be a good way to keep track of how close you are to reaching a financial goal, since you can see results as you reduce liabilities and increase your assets.

Income Some people measure their financial progress by how much money they make. If they can increase their income a little bit each year, they feel as though they are making good financial progress. This does not mean that you have to get a raise from your 9 to 5 job every year; rather, you

can work to cultivate additional income streams (from a side business, dividend investments, a web site, or royalties) to help you meet your income goals.

Debt reduction For those who are in a great deal of debt, financial progress can be measured by debt reduction.

Being in debt can be a rather

discouraging thing, so being able to pay it down can be a big help.

Choose a method of debt reduction that works for you (the debt snowball is one of the most popular), and set to work. As you pay down your debt especially when you pay off a loan you will feel a sense of accomplishment and wellbeing.

Size of your nest egg Some people are not as concerned with what is going on now as they are with what is likely to happen in the future. If you are building towards a certain goal, the size of your retirement account can be a great indicator of where you are at financially. As you set more money aside, and as your nest egg grows, you can measure your financial progress and how close you are to your retirement goal.

Comparing yourself to others Of course, one of the age-old measures of financial progress is still how you stack up, in terms of

possessions, to people you associate with. While this is not the best way to gauge your financial progress, it is difficult not to look at what others have (or appear to have) and use that as a measure of ourselves. Unfortunately, measuring your financial progress by how much stuff you have compared to someone else is a short road to ruin. This is especially true if you are basing your estimation of what someone else has by stuff without knowledge of his or her finances.

You could be simply racing your neighbour to see who can rack up the most debt, and that doesn't help anyone.

Take a few minutes to think about what defines financial progress for you, and sort out your financial priorities.

Once you have a better idea of what financial progress means for you, you can begin to set solid goals to help you see the progress that helps you on the road to financial freedom.

following: · How much does this cost? · What are the fees charged against the investment? What does each fee pay for? · Which fees are optional?

What do they pay for? · What are the surrender (or early withdraw) penalties? This should always be revealed. · What are the fee ranges?

Many variable annuity contracts allow providers to modify their fees in the future. According to the experts, most annuities with guaranteed living benefits have maximum rates, but many can rise to whatever the rate is at the time the triggering event, which typically invokes a step-up provision, occurs.

How do you get paid?

I have heard that insurance companies offer many series (or share classes) of the same annuity chassis, based on the

surrender-charge schedule selected. Can you please walk me through my options here? You might not want this much detail. Then again, if you are buying an annuity, you just might want this much detail, not to mention a second opinion.

I understand that it only makes sense to pay for a guarantee on a portfolio or collection of subaccounts that need protection. Can you confirm that this variable annuity allows for ample risk exposure? In other words, can I allocate 60 percent or 80 percent or 100 percent to equities? According to one expert, no variable annuity issued today allows 100 percent allocation to equities when a guaranteed living benefit is chosen. ( S o u r c e : www.moneyning.com)

A

What to ask before buying annuity

The most important quality for an investor is temperament, not intellect...

You need a temperament that neither derives great pleasure from being with the crowd or against the crowd.

CEO B. Adedipe Associates to find out what questions to ask before buying an annuity.

Here, they tell that, before you get pitched into an annuity, arm yourself with the following list of questions to ask the person doing the selling. (The following applies mostly to variable annuities with guaranteed living benefits, but some apply for fixed annuities also.)

Suitability Is this right for me? How does this product fit my needs and objectives?

Often agents sell the sizzle before the steak. Consider, for instance, this pitch for a fixed index annuity that appeared on an online discussion group: "Get a 5 percent bonus on the initial premium; Get an additional 25percent bonus added to the income rider to boost your income amount; liquidity for nursing

salesman is somewhere at this very moment posting an outrageous claim about an annuity that "has some awesome benefits for you!"

I know because I see those statements regularly.

And somewhere in this country, a 65year-old widow is being asked to put her life savings into an annuity. I know because it happened to a relative of mine.

An annuity is an insurance product that pays out income, and can be used as part of a retirement strategy.

So, I spoke with some experts including Emeka Ohanyere, a finance professor at the Lagos State University; Biodun Adedipe, a chartered financial analyst and

Quote

care and terminal illness; guaranteed death benefit; guaranteed no loss; 10 percent free withdrawal through year 10 then 100 percent; seven fixed payment options guaranteed for life; and you get all that with only a 10-year surrender schedule."

Now, all that might be true.

Then again given the comments on the discussion group from actuaries and others, it's possible those claims stretch the truth.

Some critics say selling annuities this way is really the equivalent of handing out prescriptions in the absence of a diagnosis. It should be the other way around first the diagnosis, then the prescription said Biodun Adedipe of Sensible Financial Planning, a financial advisory firm.

Costs With annuities with guaranteed living benefits, ask the

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

PAGE 12

EDIT ORIAL EDITORIAL

O

FG, clear the air on Third Mainland Bridge's safety

f late, safety concerns have been raised over the Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos, Nigeria's commercial capital, built

by Julius Berger Nigeria Plc and commissioned by President Ibrahim Babangida in 1990. This is coming barely a month after the government carried out repairs on the bridge. Measuring about 11.8 km in length, it is the longest bridge in Africa. It is called 'Third Mainland Bridge' because it is one of three bridges connecting Lagos Island to the mainland, the other two being the Eko and Carter bridges.

Third Mainland Bridge starts from Oworonshoki which is linked to the Apapa-Oshodi expressway and Lagos-Ibadan expressway, and ends at the Adeniji Adele Interchange on Lagos Island. There is also a link midway through the bridge that leads to Herbert Macaulay Way in Yaba. Following persistent complaints by commuters between the island and mainland that the bridge had begun to vibrate, it was shut down several times for repairs to be carried out.

Last July, the Lagos state government undertook repair works on five expansion joints on the Oworonsoki end of the bridge and three on the island end.

However, remedial work on ailing portions of the bridge had barely

been finished in January, 2013, when further safety concerns were raised.

This time, the complaint was that the bridge had developed cracks, but, of course, this has been denied by the Federal Ministry of Works in Abuja.

Dispelling fears over the bridge's

“

The Federal Government must do its part by maintaining the facility regularly. After all, it owns the bridge and the other Trunk A bridges at Onitsha, Lokoja and Jebba which themselves are in dire need of repairs safety, the minister, Mr. Mike Onolememen, assures that the Federal Government is committed to proactive steps to ensure that the bridge is kept in good condition. He admitted that serious steel casing corrosion has occurred, but pointed out that there is no problem with the pile bearing capacity of the bridge.

He maintained that the structural integrity of the bridge was not in any

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”

doubt, something confirmed by tests run by "reputable engineering companies". Srtill, the ministry is not taking the assurance for granted and, therefore, it is ensuring continuous routine maintenance work is done. He advised the general public to ignore fear mongers as "the Third Mainland Bridge is not in any way defective", saying that he drove his car on the bridge twice on different days last week. "Road users are advised to continue using the bridge".

The assurances and confidencebuilding speech of the minister, notwithstanding, we at Peoples Daily call for a thorough assessment and due diligence appraisal of the bridge, which is a very critical national edifice. This is especially so considering the volume of traffic between Victoria Island and Lagos Mainland on a daily, indeed hourly basis.

We commend the proactive steps always taken by the Lagos state government which hosts the bridge to ensure the safety of Nigerians.

However, dwindling funds and competing demands mean that it cannot always do that. The Federal Government must do its part by maintaining the facility regularly.

After all, it owns the bridge and the other Trunk A bridges at Onitsha, Lokoja and Jebba which themselves are in dire need of repairs.

OUR PEOPLE

OUR VISION

CHAIRMAN MALAM WADA MAIDA, OON, FNGE DIRECTOR/ EDITOR-IN-CHIEF RUFA’I IBRAHIM EDITOR, DAILY ABDULAZEEZ ABDULLAHI

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MANAGER, ADMINISTRATION HASSAN HAMMANYAJI

HEAD, LAGOS BUREAU ADESOJI OYINLOLA

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PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

By Victor Ehikhamenor

L

ately, I have been drawn into the affairs of the Vatican like a flirtatious butterfly to sweet smelling nectar. I have been submerged into the traditions of men with long, black, red sometimes white gowns and red caps. They were the cardinals that would select the next pope. The entire holy shenanigan had been sometimes confusing because we were told that electing a new pope is not political, but a spiritual matter. But when I started hearing words like "vote" and "election" the political fire inside me started bringing out smoke from my ears.

First, white smoke, then as I get warmed up real good and looked at the history behind the selection of past pontiffs, the smoke turned black. But I plugged my ears and held my breath to let me see if the eggs laid by chicken will hatch snake or if the mature cassava will yield a harvest of yams, this is a spiritual matter, remember. An unusual thing has to happen like having a black pope. I was waiting to see if the cardinals would pick Francis Arinze as the new papal.

One side of my head said "a black papal?" I said why not, this is a spiritual matter. After that last thought, I started dreaming. Pope Francis Arinze, I don't see any reason why he could not be the Pope. He has been a Vatican insider since 1985 and has held key positions and was very close to the late Pope John Paul. He shared some of the last pope's ideology and he is not afraid to say his mind. He denounced the social decadence and moral depravity inherent in America society when he had the opportunity in 2003.

PAGE 13

Black smoke for a black pope?

He is a great "uniter" or a unifier, someone who had no qualms with Moslems. He had arranged for the pope to visit a mosque, a gargantuan feat in modern day history. His resume is flawless. I kept dreaming. After all, Africa has more than 150 million Catholics and Nigeria (his home country) has about 19 million, not counting those in my village. Yes, while Catholic population is dipping in Europe and going up in smoke in North America, it is growing rapidly in Africa. I couldn't see any reason why the cardinals should not let an African be a pope. Not only is the church growing there but also Africa is the major supplier of priests to the rest of the world. No one wants to be a priest in America or Europe anymore.

I kept dreaming. The other cardinals will see Francis as a man of high moral and spiritual standard because no African priest was named among the paedophilic priests that rocked America recently. He would bring revival to the dwindling popularity of Catholicism.

Why not Francis Arinze, after all, for the past 1,500 years, all the popes had been white. Since the church preaches equality for all men (and women) it will be spiritually right to have a black pope, I thought. The newspaper analyses were encouraging.

Television reviews and interviews were pointing favourably to uncle Francis. I kept dreaming but more with trepidation now.

I quickly moved beyond the papal election and went straight

to post election celebration in my dream. If Francis becomes the pope we would have street-closing parties. There would be atilogwu in the Vatican, up wine would flow ceaselessly like River Niger. If they allowed us, we would bring egungun and do the magic dance for the white world to see. Loud speakers from the back of pickups would blast non-stop gospel highlife music.

We are Nigerians and we celebrate in grand style. We would wear the best clothes money can buy. Lace from Liverpool, adire from Oshogbo. Cupion, Aso-oke, we would show them what it is to have colour. We would distribute gifts like plastic plates, buckets, fans, asuebi, T-shirts, tea mugs, African prints with Francis Arinze's picture and full name plastered all over the gift items in circular format.

Onitsha women union would dance round the streets of Rome and be drunk with the Holy Spirit in celebration.

Italy would see what they have never seen before, yes; we would spray dollars, pound sterling and Euros. The slow procession of the cardinals would be hastened, and the old cardinals (those 80 years and above) that cannot walk would find themselves on the shoulders of young, strong priests from Onitsha diocese. African drums would deafen the ears of nature.

The emirs of Kano, Katsina and Zaria would send their long pipe players. Talking drums and oriki masters would flow from the Alaafin of Oyo and Oni of Ife's palaces. Oba of Benin would send

the best red regalia, adorned with ivories and coral beads never before worn by a pope. Men would bring goat and cow meat. Women would cook jollof rice and fufu. The aroma of egusi and Ogbono soup would harass the Roman air and wake up Julius Caesar.

But one side of my head was telling me enisuru! What if the cardinals do not see beyond Cardinal Francis Arinze's skin colour? What if they see him as coloured instead of a man with colourful personality, what if they treat him the way other black immigrants are treated everyday in the corporate western world, where a school dropout lords it over a PhD holder?What if they don't see him as a qualified cardinal who is different from the broom pushing and high-rise window cleaning black man?

What if they think all he is good for is just the Prefect of Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments?

Now my mind was racing.

Questions were jamming questions like a multiple car crash during rush hour. What in God's name actually goes on inside the Conclave? Has there ever been fair play whenever those Roman doors are closed? Does a black man have a voice in the midst of so many white men behind closed door? Will they ask Francis to close his eyes for prayer, while the rest are willing and dealing with eyes wide open? Will a few minority cardinals rule over million African Catholics, if it happened, can we call that apartheid or neocolonization?

When I saw the smoke rising from the chimney, my heart pounded, I could not tell black smoke from white smoke. I waited for the balls of the Sistine Chapel's bell to clank and herald Francis Arinze, but silence banged my ears like a judge's gavel. Today destiny caught me unawares, but God had a better sense of humour.

I was driving past the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception along Michigan Avenue in Washington DC, when I heard the insistent clanking of their bells. The sound was riotous. It continued like an ancient Roman bedlam.

Something must have happened when I was not paying attention.

The Pope, oh my God! I quickly tuned to the WTOP news station on my car radio. But it was commercial. Damn American commercials! I became frantic and called my brother at home and asked if there has been a new pope."You haven't heard?" he asked quizzically. My next question was: "Is he black?" And he shot back as if he had been rehearsing the answer all day.

"You must be dreamin, boy, black pope in Rome ke?" Yes, I have been dreaming. I was hoping that when the white billows of smoke floated heaven ward, it would herald a black pontiff.

Mr. Ehikhamenor first published this piece in April 2005. It is reproduced again to give meaning to the currency of the theme in the light of the justannounced resignation of Pope Benedict XIV.

NASS, Presidency and 2013 budget delay

By Michael Jegede

W

hen, on October 10, 2012, President Goodluck Jonathan presented the 2013 budget to a joint session of the National Assembly (NASS), Nigerians had thought that we have moved from the era when the passage and signing of budgets were delayed due to late presentation by the President.

In fact, this time President Goodluck Jonathan received accolades from Nigerians who believed 'fresh air' was beginning to blow their way. They had expected the federal lawmakers to follow suit in ensuring quick passage of the budget bill.

Interestingly, the legislators did not disappoint as they worked round the clock to ensure that the 2013 appropriation bill was passed on December 20, 2012, with an addition of about N63 billion to the N4.924 trillion proposed by the Presidency.

However, almost two months after the passage of the 2013 budget by the parliamentarians, it is still awaiting the assent of Jonathan, which is necessary for it to have the force of law, except if NASS decides to force his hand. This delay in the signing of the 2013 appropriation bill into law, according to reports, may be due

to disagreements between the Presidency and NASS on the oil benchmark, constituency projects and zero allocation for the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Another reason that may have been holding back the president from signing the budget is said to be the additional N63 billion added to it by NASS. The president appears not to be comfortable with the increase made by the lawmakers. All that, according to Presidency source, may delay the signing of the budget till next month.

The source was quoted as

saying that, "the president is worried over the oil benchmark approved by the National Assembly which is $4 ($79-$75) more than what the president thinks is realistic. The president believes that with the uncertainty in the oil market, a fall will push the nation into a serious economic situation and may cause undue hardship and stress in the economy. The president is also worried that the zero allocation to the SEC will adversely affect that all important sector of the economy. He is not happy that the National Assembly is not

“

Continued delay in the signing of the 2013 budget will not augur well for us. The Presidency must not allow this to get to a level where lawmakers will have to take the option of overriding his veto on the budget, as some members are already threatening to do

considering the institution but has gone for ego trip of getting at an individual. He is also concerned about the constituency projects injected by the lawmakers in the budget as it is capable of eroding the functions of the executive."

In its editorial of January 31, 2013, "The National Assembly has failed the nation", The punch said "the legislators allegedly enhanced their overhead cost by N93 billion, subsumed in a dubious constituency projects sub-head."

Reacting to the punch publication, Senate Leader, Victor NdomaEgba, said: "I am alarmed that a major newspaper like that would come out with an editorial based on completely wrong assumptions.

The constitution gives Mr. President the powers to propose and gives the National Assembly the power to appropriate. What does that mean? It means that the power of appropriation resides with the National Assembly. Those who say we adjust and we pad are in other words suggesting that we should just rubber stamp whatever the President brings..."

In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), a former federal lawmaker, Senator Olorunnimbe Mamora, noted that the discord between the executive and the legislative arms of government on the budget is not abnormal.

Himself one-time

Speaker of Lagos State House of Assembly, he said it is only when the disagreement was allowed to drag to a point where the economy and the people are negatively affected that it becomes a serious problem.

Advising both parties to come to an amicable resolution of the grey areas in the appropriation bill in the interest of the citizens, the former Deputy Senate Minority Leader said: "The president should not expect a garbage-in-garbageout thing; the lawmakers have a right to amend, adjust and tinker with the bill in the interest of development. Of course this will naturally result in some disagreements but I think what both parties should do is to find a way around ironing out the disagreements. The president should not dictate to legislators what should be in the budget and vice versa".

I think what is important for the two parties to come a compromise as fast as possible.

Continued delay in the signing of the 2013 budget will not augur well for us. The Presidency must not allow this to get to a level where lawmakers will have to take the option of overriding his veto on the budget, as some members are already threatening to do.

Michael Jegede is Abuja based media practitioner.

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

PAGE 14

Hail, the African champions!

By Boniface Chizea

W

e congratulate Nigerians for this epoch making victory which the Super Eagles have recorded at the just concluded African Cup of Nations tournament. It is also in order to extend special congratulations to Mr. President, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan for this victory which has happened under his watch as we pray for more Good luck for the Nation as he pursues his transformation agenda. We wish him well and wish to observe that it is morning yet on creation day and that the stone which the builders malign and impugn will

by His grace become the cornerstone. Amen.

This victory is of such a gargantuan proportion because it has taken 19 years for the Cup of Nations to berth on these shores again. Nigeria had, until now, recorded 16 appearances at the AFCON and won the cup on only two occasions. The first was in 1980 when as a host the country won the cup for the first time, the second was in Tunisia in 1994 which eventually led to the country's first appearance at the World Cup. And therefore the Country with this win has now won the cup for the third time.

What makes this victory sweet and most delectable is that the Nigerian squad was rank outsiders upon the commencement of the tournament on January 19, 2013.

Nobody gave Nigeria any chance in this tournament but after three weeks of drama, goals; by the way Nigeria scored 11 goals during the tournament and conceded four and quite some referee error particularly by referees from North Africa and a dramatic closing ceremony, the Super Eagles were crowned African Champions for the next two years. What a relief; it is about time for a change for some good news rather the unfortunate incidences of insecurity to be coming out of this country

during which I managed the Super to watch some of E a g l e s the matches outplayed The particularly the Elephants of one against the Peoples Daily welcomes your letters, opinion articles, text Cote d'Ivoire. It Cote d' Ivoire and messages and ‘pictures of yesteryears.’ All written was not against the finals contributions should be concise. Word limits: Letters - 150 the run of play. a g a i n s t words, Articles 750 words.

Please include your name and This match was Burkina Faso. a valid location. Letters to the Editor should be addressed rightly dubbed Let me say that to: the final before if one does not the final and as have a healthy Nigeria scaled heart one is The Editor, through this advised to avoid Peoples Daily, 1st Floor Peace Plaza, hurdle they watching the 35 Ajose Adeogun Street, Utako, Abuja. b e c a m e matches but to Email: opinion@peoplesdaily-online.com automatic simply wait for SMS: 07037756364 favourites to win the results. And the trophy. to worsen During the Semi tension the Super Eagles did not make things wished they could have avoided if final match against the Eagles of easy going for any patriotic they the team came top of the Mali the momentum which the Nigerian who cared about seeing group. This manner of qualifying team gathered during its victory the country win. At the group did not give much confidence to against Cote d'Ivoire was too much stage when they led by one goal most compatriots particularly the that the Malian became a push they refused or rather were unable Nigerian Football Federation big over. They were humiliated with to score again and this happened shots which precipitated the a margin of four goals to one. And in the first two matches against problem with Keshi which from then on cautiously every Burkina Faso and the reigning eventually resulted in the rumour one suddenly expected the Super champions the Chipolopolo of of his purported resignation after Eagles to carry the day barring any unforeseen development as Zambia and there were also the cup had been won.

Cote d'Ivoire was the rank with football it is not over until it suspense soaked moments with goals coming at times when it was favourite to win the cup is really over. considering the team's pedigree The Super Eagles carried the difficult to be hopeful.

In the first match against and the number and calibre of day with a slim margin of one goal.

Burkina Faso we led until the last players it paraded. The Elephants But this was a match that the minute of extra time before they of Cote d'Ivoire it must be recalled Super Eagles could have won by a got an equalizer which was quite parades amongst its players the much wider margin considering heart rending. At the second current African player of the year, the run of play and particularly match against Zambia the Super Yaya Toure. And going by FIFA the number of scoring chances Eagles led by a goal until towards ranking the team is ranked 22 in which were not converted during the last five minutes when a the world ahead of any other the game and this brought the difficult to rationalize penalty was African country. It was therefore issue of juju or black magic in awarded by the Egyptian referee, not surprising that not many African football to the fore. It was Grisha Ghead for what at best was people gave the Super Eagles a dog's reported that the Burkina Faso team had a juju man amongst its a doubtful foul committed by Efe chance against the team.

Keshi was correct when he supporters who was on open Ambrose outside the penalty box.

With the match against Ethiopia observed that not more than 20 display! Surprisingly there is wide which the Super Eagles needed to per cent of Nigerians gave the held belief in sub-Saharan Africa win to guarantee a place at the team a chance against Cote that magic could influence the knock out stage, Victor Moses d'Ivoire. Some of us did so based on outcome of football matches; that came to the rescue as he earned our patriotic wish. But the Super the performance of players could two vital penalty kicks for Nigeria Eagles demonstrated the resilient be enhanced by the use of charms, which he also promptly converted. and never say die Nigerian spirit juju or muti. As a result before This was how Nigeria managed by putting up such a superlative embarking on major tournament to qualify for the knock-out stages, performance that confounded some players and sometimes team setting up an encounter with Cote most naysayers by defeating the officials consult witchdoctors and d'Ivoire which most compatriots favourites. And that was a match spiritualists.

WRITE TO US

In 2012, Ghana's former coach, Goran Stevanovic attributed the failure of Ghana at the tournament to witchcraft accusations which undermined team spirit. In spite of the litany of missed opportunities which the Super Eagles recorded during the final match, it remains a fact that they did not lose the match and in spite of the claim of the potency of African magic, no African country has so far been able to win the world cup!

Watching the Super Eagles play is not for the faint hearted. A number of deaths were reported of fans suddenly collapsing and being pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital. A 65 year old retired banker, Mr Felix Bassey was reported to have collapsed while watching the final match in Lagos and upon being rushed to EKO Hospital, where incidentally his wife works as a matron, he was pronounced dead.

Then my wife startled me out my sleep to alert me of the breaking news that Keshi had resigned his appointment as the national coach. Though it must be admitted here that Keshi alluded to this in his several press conferences and it could also account for his sing song complaint about foreign coaches whom he referred to as mercenaries not being better than indigenous coaches and in fact it is on record that he dedicated the victory of the Super Eagles to all indigenous coaches reminding all concerned that they are not necessarily inferior to foreign coaches.

Keshi needs the Super Eagles just as the Super Eagles need him now to continue with the excellent rebuilding job he has started. There are not many African countries that will give him the chance he has got now to make a name. We wish the Super Eagles well as we expect them to sustain and build on this sterling performance during the Confederation Cup next June in Brazil where they will square up against the best football nations of the world.

Dr. Boniface Chizea is MD/ CEO, BIC Consulting, P.O. Box 56270, Falomo, Ikoyi, Lagos

Super Eagles, Odemwingie and President Jonathan

By Abiola Olaifa

I

t was highly comforting to see Nigeria's senior football team win the prestigious African Cup of Nations 2013. What a great way to begin the year and to see Nigerians with a reason to smiletogether as one after a long time.

The victory is a huge achievement for Nigeria after what seems to be a disaster-soaked year 2012 with the many horrible incidents ranging from suicide attacks, kidnapping, plane crashes, road accidents, flood, hunger, riots, betrayals, deaths and many more.The win was a soothing relieve, the smile and comments from every Nigerian showed how starved Nigerians are of good news and a much needed better-life. The expression of joy and wild jubilation over the win by Nigerians at home and all over the world is an indication of the scarcity of events that makes Nigerians smile.

Coach Stephen Keshi has proved his critiques wrong, many do not believe in his abilities when Afcon tournament started, his was

a case of another sad story turned good from Nigeria. Most of the players in the team were little known, a few still playing in the local league, a very rear occurrence in the super eagle's team of old, mostly made up of foreign based players. Perhaps one of the biggest discovery is Sunday Mba, currently playing for Warri Wolves, a domestic Nigerian team, he scored the magical trophywinning goal.

It is important for the Super Eagles of Nigeria to build on this success and integrate a long time plan in order to achieve more for the future. With a little more efforts, team spirit and positive attitude, the Super Eagles can be a team hard to beat by any team of the world.

Peter Odemwingie is a prolific footballer for Nigeria, currently plying his trade for West Bromwich Albion, a football Premier League club in Great Britain.

Odemwingie's first mistake was his overreaction and twitter banter to his exclusion from Nigeria's team list to the 2013

Afcon in South Africa, he showed a high level of immaturity and arrogance to the team coach and other football decision makers, as much as the whole world can see his frustrations, it is without a high level of condemnation from his fans on how he handled the situation.

Apart from that, he is not the only top flight player excluded from the list, the likes of Oba Martins and Taiye Taiwo were excluded as well and none of them took to twitter.

Odemwingie has since shown remorse for his immature actions.

The second mistake by Odemwingie was driving down to QPR in a bid to force through a deadline-day transfer. This is the most ridiculous thing any player can do and Odemwingie has since apologised for this silly mistake.

However, this would not go well in the minds of West Bromwich supporters who have always adored him and his expertise in the round leather game. I am very worried for Odemwingie, as he has laid a precedence that will take a while to erase from the mind of West Bromwich supporters and the

English press. Get in the bad book in Britain and you are sure of a frustrating experience in the league.

Mario Balotelli's experience in the UK was a typical example, he made a couple of incoherent decisions and he had a big share of bad press. In England you need to behave yourself and play to the rule, else you have yourself to blame. Though Odemwingie has since apologised for his silly mistake and West Bromwich FC has since announced that they have disciplined him internally as necessary without given any specifics. However, Odemwingie needs to make up his mind and not take to heart if made a laughing stock in England.

President Jonathan was so much impressed by the Super Eagles' victory that he called the team to give them his words of inspiration. This is a good thing to do; it shows how much Nigerian's need something to smile about.

Nigerians have had to survive the torment of a very ash and unfriendly economy for decades.

All that seems to filter out and about the country are series of bad

reports ranging from corruption in high places to poverty, kidnapping, murder and many more. The win by the Super Eagles team is a way to show to the international world that Nigeria can do better and all thanks to the current Super Eagles team and management who have achieved this for the nation.

It is, therefore, important for President Jonathan and his government to build on this remarkable achievement by the Super Eagles after decades of failure to set up the right structures for sports and other sectors of the economy. Nigerians need more reasons to smile. It is not enough for the president to be happy about the Super Eagles' great achievement.

We want a nation that works because we know that together we can achieve more victories. Bravo to Coach Keshi and all his crew who have done the country proud this time. We look forward to more trophies. The World Cup, here we come.

Abiola Olaifa is reachable on www.abiolaolaifa.com

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

PAGE 15

The Yoruba and their self-marginalisation

By Dele Agekameh

A

side from the fractionalization of the PDP in the South-West, which has affected the fortunes of the zone, Yoruba leaders and elders appear to be staunchly divided among themselves At a press conference in Ibadan last Wednesday, Yoruba elders, under the aegis of Yoruba Unity Forum, YUF, accused President Goodluck Jonathan of favouring other sections of the country to the detriment of the South-West geopolitical zone in the appointment of top government officials.

According to the group, the marginalisation of the zone in the current political equilibrium, particularly in the distribution of political positions, "is an attempt to excise the zone out of the federation". The elders alleged that the President's pattern of appointments, with no consideration for the Yoruba, suggested that Jonathan did not appreciate the contribution the Yoruba people made to his emergence as the president in the 2011 general election.

Olu Falae, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, who spoke on behalf of the group, said the Yoruba were sidetracked in the appointment and control of the apex political offices. He gave a rundown of such plum appointments as that of the President; Vice-President; Senate President, Speaker, House of Representatives; Chief Justice of the Federation, Deputy Senate President, Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives; acting President, Court of Appeal; Secretary to the Government of the Federation; Chief of Staff to the President; Office of the National Security Adviser; and Head of Service of the Federation. He noted

By Raphael Eneh

G

overnor Sullivan Chime of Enugu State, who for five months was out of circulation on health grounds, has now proved to be a far better handler of human and public relations than his aides paid from the public treasury to manage his reputation. On Monday, February 13, Chime addressed the press at Government House in Enugu where he disclosed that he was until February 9 in London for treatment of nose cancer. The governor left the state on September 14 and spent a whole 140 days abroad, the longest period he has ever been out of Enugu. During this period, his aides, including the Commissioner for Information and the chief press secretary, fiercely maintained in public declarations that Chime was hale and hearty and was merely enjoying his accumulated leave in an undisclosed location.

The propaganda by the governor's aides was plain unintelligent. Propaganda can be effective only when it has a considerable element of credibility.

The essence of propaganda is to influence the audience, and the audience can be influenced only when the message is believable.

How these aides expected the highly intelligent people of Enugu State

that none of these offices was being occupied by a Yoruba person and that the absence of Yoruba in the current power equation, had adversely affected the zone.

Falae went further to justify the need for the President to redress these anomalies. He said, "In the days of the late President Umar Yar'Adua administration when he was incapacitated by illness and there was reluctance to make Jonathan acting President, it was predominantly Yoruba activists who led the march on the National Assembly to force our lawmakers to pronounce Jonathan acting President. When he chose to run for the presidency, he got the enthusiastic endorsement of many Yoruba progressives, especially the leadership of Yoruba Unity Forum‌" While Falae was lamenting the marginalisation of the Yoruba in Ibadan, simultaneously on the same day, leaders of the South-West states converged on Osogbo, the capital of Osun State, at the opening ceremony of the regional Grassroots Business and Investments Forum christened EXPO 2013. There, the leaders called on all the governments and people to join hands in building a prosperous zone. Prince Bola Ajibola, a former Attorney General of the Federation, who was chairman at the ceremony, said political tendencies should be deemphasized in plotting the road to the future. He said the achievements of governors in the zone in the recent time were good enough to attract investments to their states.

The two governors in attendance - Rauf Aregbesola of Osun State and Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo - toed the same lines. Of particular reference was the view canvassed by Ajimobi that the issue at stake transcends party

politics. According to him, "This is not about party politics. It is about governance. It is about the region.

Each of the states has an area of strength. What we need is to develop areas of comparative advantage for the overall interest of our people."

Ajimobi enumerated the benefits accruable from regional integration to include "consensusbased decision-making processes, elimination of conflict and unhealthy rivalry, holistic articulation and effective mobilisation of varieties of resources, and the utilisation of community resources to facilitate optimal delineation of development roles among the integrating units."

Looking at the current political dispensation in the country as it relates to the sharing of political offices, one cannot but agree with the views and fears expressed by Falae. It is apparent that the Yoruba has lost out in the political calculations of the current rulers in the country. But the reasons may not be far-fetched. In the first instance, the PDP, the ruling party at the centre, was overwhelmingly humiliated in the last general election held in 2011. The loss of the party, no doubt, was due to the desire for change by the people of the South-West who were obviously fed up with the misrule, brigandage and shenanigans of the leaders of the PDP in the zone between 2003 and 2011.

That era witnessed a free-forall 'buffet' on the common wealth of the zone by those in power without any appreciable thing to show for the depletion of the resources at their disposal. As it is always canvassed under democratic rule, the only legitimate weapon available for a traumatized people is to use their voting power to right whatever

perceived wrong wrought on them. And this was exactly what happened at the 2011 election.

That election saw the PDP losing its grips on such states in the SouthWest as Oyo and Ogun. Before then, Osun and Ekiti States had also slipped away from the dominant PDP. By the loss of almost all the states of the South-West to the opposition Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN, with the exception of Ondo State, which is currently under the control of the Labour Party, it was clear that the people had resoundingly rejected the PDP. Perhaps, in simple terms, this was a matter of choice of which party the zone wanted to entrust its destiny. Today, the price the zone has to pay for that decision is its obvious marginalisation by the party at the centre in the scheme of things. This situation is buoyed by the intractable internal wrangling that has pervaded and further decimated the ranks of the PDP leadership in the zone.

Anywhere you turn; there are several factions and groups within the party contesting for the control of power. To put it succinctly, the party is at 'war' with itself in the zone.

Of course, the other political zones have reaped bountifully from the burgeoning confusion in the zone with the attendant collateral damage. It is astonishing to note that the leaders of the PDP in the zone do not only quarrel among themselves, they also use the schism among them to run down their members when it comes to political patronage at the centre.

Not only this. When it comes to the matter of appointments to choice political offices, the zone has never presented a common front. All manners of interplay of forces, ranging from the sublime to the ridiculous, are brought to the fore

whenever the opportunity to present a qualified and capable individual for appointive office at the centre, comes up. The consequence of this and many others is the glaring maginalisation of the zone in the scheme of things.

Aside from the fractionalization of the PDP in the South-West, which has affected the fortunes of the zone, Yoruba leaders and elders appear to be staunchly divided among themselves. For quite some time now, the zone has witnessed the formation of several groups with each group jostling for the control of the zone. And there is no need to start mentioning names here. The effect is that this also has an overbearing implication on the fortunes of the zone. This stems from the fact that members of these pluralistic groups are, in many instances, fighting for individual spoils rather than regional or group interests, as the case may be.

Therefore, the irony inherent in what took place simultaneously last week, in both Ibadan and Oshogbo, which is less than one hour drive in-between, is a sort of self-manipulation of a people by the people themselves. Otherwise, how do you explain the staging of a strategic economic summit that is targeted at the development of a region in one part of it, and another gathering on the present and future of the same region on the same day and perhaps, the same time elsewhere within the zone? If not self- marginalisation, what else?

At any rate, there is the need for Yoruba leaders and elders of the zone to go back to the drawing board and fashion out new strategies to realize the aspirations of the zone.

A starting point is the bond of unity which must exist among them!

Dele Agekameh is on www.Facebook.com

Lessons of Chime's health saga and, indeed, enlightened Nigerians of the 21st century to accept this hogwash of an explanation will never cease to beat our imagination. If they had come out clean by telling the public that the governor had an ailment and was responding very well to treatment, the rumour mill would not have been abuzz with such reports as that he had died in an Indian hospital of diseases ranging from aids to liver scoliosis and from mental ill health to heart failure. There would not have been so much tension in the land. Countless civil society organizations would not have risen up, in alliance with the mass of the people, in a ferocious fight against the state government then led by the Acting Governor, Sunday Onyebuchi.

Gov Chime is right in giving credit to his deputy for holding the forte firmly during the long period of absence. As the governor recounted before the media in his first public appearance after his return, things were moving very well while he was in London principally because the deputy governor and the rest of the cabinet ensured that workers' salaries were paid promptly, just like contractors who were working on different

projects throughout the period.

The government machinery operated as though the governor was in the state in flesh and blood.

To be fair to Chime, he has a record of service delivery. If this well established record is not known to every Nigerian, it is simply because the government does not spend resources recklessly on propaganda. At a time many governors are busy spending fortunes on self-aggrandizement and self-hero worshipping-all in the name of publicity for the stateGov Chime would rather expend the resources on infrastructure provision and enhancing the people's living standards. There is no person who can visit Enugu city in particular without being impressed with not just the immensity of basic social facilities but also the quality. He has done pretty well.

Still, I was one of the civil activists who strongly campaigned for his removal by the state House of Assembly.

The 1999 Constitution mandates every state legislature to remove the state governor if he is considered unfit or unsuitable to continue in office on health grounds, for instance.

Convinced that Chime had become

incapacitated by a serious illness which his aides were hoarding from the public because of their private gains at our expense, civil society organizations, led by Save Enugu Group, moved for his impeachment. We were driven purely by our love for the state and the need to uphold the Constitution.

There was an unmistakable vacuum in the state leadership. It is to this day difficult to understand why aides of the state governor should treat our citizens in a democracy with so much contempt by telling us that it was proper for the governor to be away from Nigeria on mere holidays for close to half a year. The explanation that the governor was entitled to so-called accumulated leave was revoltingly insulting. To be sure, if they had been honest enough to admit that Chime was ill and was receiving adequate treatment, we would have understood. After all, the civil society is not composed of savages and sadists. As Governor Chime spoke frankly and honestly at the press conference, providing important details of his traumatic experience, the atmosphere was full of sympathy and empathy. It was a moving account which the media faithfully reported.

Talking with the benefit of hindsight, it is certain that if the Acting Governor, Mr. Onyebuchi, and the Speaker of the state legislature, Anselm Odo, had cooperated with us, the Chime administration would have been history by now. We were working with most people who matter in Enugu, including Chief Enechi Onyia, SAN, who hails from the same place as Chime. Despite the acute and sustained pressure on him, Deputy Governor Onyebuchi remained uncritically loyal to his boss, forcing the frustrated chairman of one of our member NGOs to declare him "unambitious" while referring to Speaker Odo as "awfully timid to do the right thing".

The major lesson of the communication mismanagement of the Chime saga is that men and women in the corridors of power should not treat the citizens in a democracy with contempt by engaging in black propaganda, that is, the kind of propaganda which ironically ends up making the target become resentful of both the message and the messenger.

Dr. Ralph Eneh is a member of Save Enugu Group

PAGE 16

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

Water supply to be disrupted at the weekend, says FCTA

By Josephine Ella Ejeh

W

A vulcanizer taking his breakfast, at Apo mechanic village, in Abuja.

Photo: Justin Imo-Owo

Maitama District Hospital commissions mammography machine, ENT unit

By Josephine Ella Ejeh

W

ith the commissioning yesterday of a Mammography machine and Ear, Nose and Throat/audiology (ENT) Unit , Maitama District Hospital is to commence treatment of cancer patients and management of basic ENT pathologies.

The Secretary, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Health and Human Services Secretariat, Dr. Demola Onakomaiya said while commissioning the facilities that the mammography machine is an important tool in the prevention and management of breast cancer in women.

“Worldwide breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. It is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity in women more evident in subSaharan Africa.

“The mammogram machine enables early detection and treatment of

breast cancer thereby reducing the burden of this deadly disease in our community, “ he said.

He emphasised that early detection of the disease is the cornerstone of breast cancer control as when detected early and adequate diagnosis and treatment are provided, there is a good chance that breast cancer can be cured.

According to him, “ENT as it is commonly called is a very important aspect of medical practise worldwide accounting for more than 35 per cent of all out patient consultation”.

He said the FCT administration acquired the basic facilities the first of its kind in any public hospital in Nigeria , for this, which include an audiometer, otoacoustic emission machine for neonatal hearing screening.

The neonatal screening, he added “is a foundation laying for the proposed commencement of primary ear care/prevention of

deafness program in FCT and this will be another first if implemented not only in Nigeria but in the West Africa sub region.

Furthermore, the unit is also capable of management of basic nasal and voice pathologies with the use of endoscopes especially the endoscopic sinus surgeries”.

Dr. Onakomaiya, therefore urged residents to take full advantage of the commissioned equipment to better their health, advising women particularly that when they are between the age of 40 and above, they should go for mammography screening.

The secretary also urged the various health care professionals that would handle the equipment to make the best use of them.

While reiterating the commitment of the FCT administration towards ensuring best practices in health care services as obtains in developed world, he assured that efforts towards this would

not be relented.

In her address, the Medical Director of Maitama District Hospital, Dr. Sikirat Adetoun Sotimehin said with the new facilities, the hospital would now be able to save lives that would otherwise have been lost and correct anomalies that they would have referred to more specialised centres.

“The creation of the audioacoustic unit is another landmark achievement for Maitama hospital. With the audiometer machine, we can now screen newborn babies and detect hearing difficulties early enough to enable us intervene and do something before it is too late.

“Maitama hospital can now offer diagnostic and screening services to all women above the age of 40. This will certainly translate to a reduction in morbidity and mortality from the scourge of breast cancer in the FCT as malignancy can be detected early enough and appropriate action taken in good time”, she said.

FCTA inaugurates implementation committee on Apo Resettlement Scheme

By Etuka Sunday

T

he Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Olajumoke Akinjide has inaugurated an implementation committee to end the lingering problems affecting the Apo resettlement scheme.

The committee which was inaugurated yesterday in her office was given the mandate to fully implement the

recommendations of the earlier committee report submitted to the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) on the 13th December, 2012.

Speaking, Olajumoke Akinjide said in order to achieve an acceptable and reliable implementation; serious commitment would be required therefore charged the members of the committee to use their wealth of experience to deliver the task.

She reiterated the

Administration’s commitment in proffering lasting solution to the problems that have hindered the success of the scheme for so long, adding that for the administration to realise its dream of a functional and befitting cityscape in line with the master plan provisions of Abuja there was need to pay greater attention to the Apo resettlement scheme.

She drew the attention of the committee to the peculiar nature of the Garki Resettlement which

has lingered since 2007 and has defied several solutions therefore advised that careful and innovative strategy must be employed that respects the dignity of the community.

Responding, the Chairman of the committee, Alhaji Yusuf Tsaiyabu thanked the FCTA for the confidence on him and the committee to deliver and pledged the committee’s readiness to deliver on the set terms of reference.

ater supply to the entire Federal Capital City will be disrupted as from Friday 15th-Sunday 17th February, 2013, a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Federal Capital Territory(FCT) Minister, Muhammad Hazat Sule said yesterday.

The statement said the disruption in the water supply is as a result of cross connection of Phases III & IV to the existing Phases I & II Water Treatment Plants at the Lower Usuma Dam, Abuja.

“Residents of the Federal Capital City are hereby advised to store water that will last for that period; assuring that normal water supply will be restored by Sunday 17th February 2013.

“The Administration is therefore pleading for understanding from the good people of Abuja as it regrets the inconveniences this disruption may cause,” it read in part.

The cross connection of these Phases of Water Treatment Plants, according to the statement has become necessary to improve on the water supply into entire 250 square of the Federal Capital City.

FCTA Archives to present awards to winners of essay competition

By Etuka Sunday

P

lans have been concluded by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) through its Archives and History Bureau, to present awards to the winners of last year’s “FCT Minister’s Essay Competition” organised for both junior and senior Secondary Schools students within the capital city.

The competition which was organised to “encourage the younger generation of Nigerians who are future leaders to know the importance and imbibe the culture of records management and Archives Administration” was also to engage the young ones in intellectual activities and research.

Speaking, the director, FCT Archives and History Bureau, Mr. Nnodim Charles said that the prizes ought to have been presented to the participants especially the winners of the competition at the both categories last year but was shifted to this year for the students to resume their studies before they could be presented.

Mr. Nnodim gave the essay topics for the junior category thus: “What I know about Abuja” and “The people of Abuja” and gave the topics for senior category as “Abuja: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow” and Abuja: The Capital of our Dream.”

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

PAGE 17

Man remanded for allegedly absconding with church fund T he Police in Nasarawa state has arraigned one Jerry Nguebo, 30, before a Mararaba Upper Area Court for alleged criminal breach of trust and cheating.

Police Prosecutor, Samuel Okoro told the court that the accused converted N388,000 belonging to the Saint Peter’s Catholic Church, to his personal use.

Okoro said that one Ambali Isa gave the accused the money

sometime in August 2012 to open a new account in the name of Saint Peter’s Catholic Church, Auta Balaifi, in Nasarawa state.

He alleged that after collecting the money, the accused converted it to his personal use and absconded to an unknown destination.

Okoro said that after a manhunt the police found the accused and arrested him.

He said the offences of criminal breach of trust and

cheating contravened the provisions of Sections 312 and 322 of the Penal Code, but the accused pleaded not guilty.

Mr Vincent Gwahemba, the presiding Judge, granted the accused bail in the sum of N500,000 with one surety in like sum.

Gwahemba said the accused was granted bail, based on the fact that the prosecutor did not object to his application.

Gwahemba said the surety

must be a responsible person and must be resident within the court’s jurisdiction.

He ordered that the surety must deposit two passport photographs with the registrar of the court and must have a landed property.

The Judge warned that the accused would be remanded in prison if he failed to meet the bail conditions, and adjourned hearing in the case to February 28, 2013. (NAN)

L-R: Minister of State for Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Oloye Olajumoke Akinjide, Chairman, Ministerial Committee on Implementation of the Apo Resettlement Scheme,Yusuf Tsaiyabu, and a committee member, Ibrahim Tukur, during the inauguration of the Implementation Committee, yesterday in Abuja.

Photo: Mahmud Isa

Man held for posting nude picture on internet

A

n Abuja Senior Magistrates Court has granted bail in the sum of N200,000 to a civil servant, David Zapk, in a case of alleged defamation of character.

Zapk, 25, of Jabi Masallaci, Life Camp, Abuja, was accused of having caused harm to the reputation of one Favour Amadi, of the same address.

The Senior Magistrate, Mr Abdullahi Illelah, in granting Zapk

bail, also ordered that he must produce two reliable sureties.

Illelah also ordered that the sureties must have a means of livelihood and must reside within the jurisdiction of the court.

He adjourned the case to the February 25, 2013 for hearing.

Earlier, the Police Prosecutor, Mr Simon Emmanuel, had told the court that the matter was reported to the Life Camp police station by Amadi on February 11,

2013.

Emmanuel said that on the same date, the accused dishonestly pasted her pictures, which he took without her consent on the Internet.

He said that the pictures portrayed the complainant nude on the global Internet Facebook.

According to him, the pictures were seen on the net by her parents and friends who called her, blaming her for displaying

indecent pictures on the Internet.

Emmanuel said during investigation, the pictures were allegedly found in the accused’s phone.

He said that the offence is contrary to the provisions of Sections 392 and 394 of the Penal Code.

The accused, however, pleaded not guilty to the twocount charge of defamation of character. (NAN)

N69.1m scam: Absence of former NAN director of accounts stalls arraignment

T

he arraignment of a former Director of Accounts of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Joe Okhiku, over alleged misappropriation of N69.1 million was stalled on Thursday was stalled at an Abuja High Court.

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) was supposed to have arraigned

Okhiku on an 11-count charge bordering on misappropriation of public funds, while he acted as managing director of the agency.

At the resumed proceeding, Mr Davidson Alegwe, counsel to the suspect, told the court that his client was absent because of injuries he (Okhiku) sustained from a car accident.

Alegwe further said that the suspect was currently hospitalised

at the Asokoro General Hospital, Abuja.

“My lord, with me is the medical report from the hospital to buttress our claims. My lord, the suspect cannot wait to clear his good name from the allegations brought against him. We, therefore, seek the indulgence of the court to adjourn the matter to give time to my client to get well,’’ he said.

The ICPC counsel, Mrs Peace Arocha, did not oppose the oral application for adjournment but urged the court to verify the authenticity of Alegwe’s claim.

The ICPC said that the suspect’s action was contrary to and punishable under the ICPC Act of 2000.

Justice Ishaq Bello reserved March 28 for the arraignment of the suspect. (NAN)

INSIDE FCT COURTS Civil servant arraigned for declaring N421m assets

A

civil servant, Rabiu Aliyu, on Wednesday appeared before the code of conduct tribunal in Abuja for allegedly declaring assets worth N421 million that cannot be attributed to his emoluments.

Aliyu, a Deputy Director in the Kano state Audit Department, is also accused of engaging in the management and running of a private consultancy firm and owning a fleet of properties.

According to the tribunal, the alleged offences are punishable under the Code of Conduct Bureau and Tribunal Act. The prosecution counsel, Mr Simon Egede, told the tribunal that Aliyu was being investigated on a two-count charge following a petition against him by an association of bureau-de-change owners.

Aliyu was said to have won an election to serve as an official of the Bureau-de-Change Owners Association.

The prosecution’s statement of claims against the defendant alleged as follows: “That you, Rabiu Aliyu, being a public officer, in the rank of a deputy director in the Kano State Audit Department, on form CCB1, wherein you admitted to owning assets worth over N421million.

“That these properties are not fairly attributable to your salaries and allowances as a public officer and thereby committed an offence contrary to section 15(3) of the Code of Conduct Bureau and Tribunal Act. “That, you, Rabiu Aliyu, being a public officer, in or about 20092011, engaged in the management and running of a private consultancy business, thereby committing an offence contrary to Section 15(3)of the Tribunal Act’’.

The accused was first charged to Court on September 27, 2012.

At the resumed hearing of the matter on Wednesday, counsel to the accused, Abdulhameed Mohammed, brought a preliminary objection challenging the jurisdiction of the tribunal to try his client in Abuja.

Mohammed argued that the Code of Conduct Tribunal lacked the territorial jurisdiction to try his client since the offence he allegedly committed took place in Kano.

The defence counsel also said that the purported proof of evidence could not sustain the two-count charge against the accused and urged the tribunal to quash the case and discharge his client.

The tribunal Chairman, Justice Danladi Umar, after hearing both sides in the matter, adjourned the case to March 6, 2013 for continuation of hearing.

(NAN)

PAGE 18

PEOPLES DAILY, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2013

FCTA solicits for partnership with security officers

FCTA denies N5bn budget for prostitutes, destitute rehab

By Sunday Etuka

By Josephine Ella Ejeh

T

he Federal Capital T e r r i t o r y Administration (FCTA) at the weekend solicited for collaboration with Senior Military contingents from Jaji, who were on study tour in to move the capital city ahead.

Speaking, through the Permanent Secretary, Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Engr. Ishmila Adamu, the FCT Minister Senator Bala Mohammed told the Armed Forces Command and Staff College Senior Course 35 Participants which paid him a courtesy call that the vision of his administration was to build a capital city that would rank among the best 20 capital cities in the world by the year 2020.

He, therefore asked the contingents to look for possible ways of helping the administration in achieving that goal.

Senator Mohammed said that the security agents have been working tirelessly to ensure that there is peace in FCT, adding that the administration has partnered with the House Committee on FCT to host a security summit where stakeholders were brought together to brainstorm and evolve ways of reinforcing the progress being made so far to combat crime and terrorism in the FCT. He listed rapid population growth due to the influx of people to the FCT, hawking, abuse of the master plan, environmental problems, stemming high rent, unemployment and resettlement of original inhabitants to make way for new development as some of the prevailing issues but however said that steps have been taken in that regard.

He added that FCTA was in constant collaboration with stakeholders, especially security Agencies, National Assembly and residents to evolve measures for effective maintenance of law and order in the territory.

Speaking to newsmen after the visit, the leader of team, Air Mashal Gambo Mohammed Ilyasu said the visit was a yearly exercise to expose the student especially the foreign ones to the environment.

According to him, the theme of the tour which was National Integration for Improved National Security was apt since it is on record that a thousand people come to Abuja on daily basis but only 200 return leaving 800.

This, according him, may pose serious security challenges as he promised to submit the recommendations of the tour to FCTA for possible implementation.

T

he Federal Capital T e r r i t o r y Administration has dismissed media reports last week alleging that it proposed the sum of N5billion for rehabilitation of prostitutes and destitute in Abuja in its 2013 budgetary proposals.

“We wish to point out that

rehabilitation of destitute and commercial sex workers (prostitutes) is part of the schedule of the Social Development Secretariat of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA).

However, the empirical truth is that the entire budget of the Social Development Secretariat for the 2013 fiscal year is N4.7billion only.

Out of this amount, the sum of N931.3 million is for Personnel cost; N1.6billion for overhead expenditure and N2.2billion for Capital expenditure. The sum of N150million only out of this amount is for evacuation and rehabilitation of destitute, prostitutes (commercial sex workers) and other vulnerable persons,” it explained in a statement by the Special Assistant

A middle-aged man hawking baskets in Nyanya market recently.

to the FCT Minister, Mr. Nosike Ogbuenyi.

It further explained that t he mandate of the Secretariat goes far beyond the task of rehabilitating prostitutes, beggars, hawkers and other groups of destitute in the FCT as it encompasses improvement of the economic well-being of FCT residents through the implementation of initiatives that

Photo: Justin Imo-Owo

Community demands for hospital , other facilities

T

he Etsu of Gbaupe Community in the Federal Capital Territory(FCT), Mr Danjuma Gajere has appealed to the Federal Government to establish a hospital in the community to boost health care delivery.

Gajere told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja that lack of basic health care facility in the community affected the wellbeing of the people.

NAN reports that Gbaupe is a suburb located in Kuje Area Council of the FCT. The Etsu said lack of adequate health care facility was affecting the

community negatively, with no access to the treatment of sicknesses and diseases.

According to him, the only available health care centre in the community has just two rooms and three community health workers, established in the third republic.

He, therefore, called on government to intervene by providing a hospital, to enable the community to access health, especially ante-natal services and others.

“The only health centre we have is the one provided by the administration of the third

republic, the more reason we call on government to build a hospital for us.

“Whenever we are faced with health challenges, we often go to private hospitals in Lugbe, which most times are difficult for us, due to the high cost of transportation.

“Women go to private hospitals in Gwagwalada for ante-natal, because there are no adequate workers to cater for residents of the community, sometimes they are not available,” he said.

He decried lack of ante-natal services, access roads, potable water and electricity in the community, saying it disconnected the people

from the rest of the world.

He said lack of such facilities hindered the residents from being part of government programmes aimed at improving their lives and engendering good health care practice.

He said although the residents of the community always complied with the immunisation plus days, more was needed to be done to eradicate polio and address the malaria scourge.

He, however, commended efforts being made by the community to sensitise one another in Gbagyi dialect to health practices. (NAN)

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PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

BUSINESS

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

Email: aminuimam@yahoo.co.uk

PAGE 19

INSIDE

- Pg 20

AFCON win presents Nigeria N20bn business opportunities

Mob: 08033644990

S/Africa displaces Nigeria as investment destination – Report

By Abdulwahab Isa with agency report report by independent consulting and accounting firm- Grant Thornton South Africa said the country was ahead of Nigeria in terms of potential investment destinations.

According to the results for 2012, South Africa was also the only African country to be ranked in the top 15 emerging economies worldwide, the firm said.

There were significant benefits that continued to attract investors to South Africa despite recent events in the mining sector, it added.

“Although recent events in the mining sector have hurt our country’s reputation as a destination of choice for foreign direct investment (FDI), there are significant benefits that continue to attract investors,” Grant Thornton South Africa chairman Deepak Nagar said.

The Grant Thornton emerging markets opportunity index brings together a number of key indicators, incorporating the firm’s International Business Report (IBR) data with the emerging markets research from the World Bank, International Monetary Fund (IMF) and UN Human Development Report.

South Africa climbed one place to 14th in terms of global rankings in the Emerging Economies survey, maintaining its position as the highest ranked

A

African economy, ahead of Nigeria, which climbed nine places to 17th place.

Some of the indicators incorporated as indicators to rank the 27 largest emerging economies, in terms of their potential for business investment, are population, and economy size, wealth, involvement in world trade and levels of development.

The survey highlighted that inflows of FDI into the country’s local economy have been volatile over the past decade.

FDI peaked at US$9.0 billion in 2008 before the financial

crisis struck, recovering to US$6.0 billion in 2011. Inflows over the first half of 2012 were down 44% compared with the same period in 2011.

South Africa’s banking sector has long been rated among the top 10 globally and its financial system, one of the most developed on the continent, continues to grow.

Another key attraction for international investors, according to the survey, is South Africa’s strategic geographic location, acting as the gateway to Africa. The country also offers world-class ICT and transport

D

order to maintain its leading ranking in the years to come”.

When looking at other countries ranked in the survey, mainland China remains way out in front at the head of the emerging economies index, by virtue of its strong economic growth rates and large consumer market. India ranked in second place.

Egypt (which came 22nd) and Algeria (which came 26th) were the only other two African countries ranked in the index.

The IBR is a survey of both listed and privately held businesses. The data for this release are drawn from interviews conducted between May and September 2012 with over 6,000 businesses from all industry sectors.

NDE trains 50 vulnerable persons in Jigawa

T

L-R: Director Business Development, Stauart Poder, Deputy Director PIND, Sam Daibo, and Director Crown Agents Nigeria, Dr. Mark Abani, during the capacity building for Local Empowerment CAPABLE Roundtable discussion, yesterday in Abuja.

Photo: Joe Oroye

NACCIMA applauds FG’s new policy thrust on private sector driven economy irector-General, Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Dr John Osemede has commended Federal Government’s decision to put the private sector in the forefront of economic rebirth.

Osemede, at a News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) forum in Lagos yesterday said the Federal Government had announced to make private sector driven economy a policy thrust at the flag-off of activities for the centenary celebration.

NAN reports that Nigeria is celebrating the centenary anniversary of the amalgamation of its Northern and Southern Protectorates by the British colonisers in 1914.

The Federal Government has commenced activities to mark the amalgamation exercise which happened 100 years ago. The celebration will culminate in 2014.

infrastructure, boosted by investment ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. According to the report, a forecast of 2013 revealed that 71% of local businesses expect an increase in revenue over the next 12 months.

In terms of international expansion by South Africa business owners, 80% of South African businesses are looking to other parts of Africa for investment.

However, since Nigeria improved its ranking by nine places since the last survey, South Africa will need to improve its competitive edge “in

The NACCIMA boss lauded the Federal Government’s decision, saying that it was a proactive attempt to bring about sustainable development in the economy.

“We had a meeting with Mr President and he disclosed the decision to relax and allow the private sector take over the key sectors of the economy,” he said.

Osemede said that a private sector-led economy would accelerate improvement in key areas of the economy with the “constructive engagement“ of the

Federal Government.

“We have challenged the Federal Government to allow us to be in the forefront of improving on our power generation, revival of refineries and infrastructural development.

“The private sector can adequately address unemployment, pipeline vandalism and other economic plagues confronting us as a nation.

“These are economic areas of activity that less government involvement will save it money to

carry out its other obligations,” Osemede said.

He said putting in place necessary guidelines and processes to position the private sector to take over economic renaissance of the country was sacrosanct.

According to him, reforms are necessary to hasten social service delivery, banking sector revitalisation, resurgence of industries, reduction of importation and unlimited employment opportunities for the masses.

“Public sector - driven economy has been the cause of the downward trend in the growth of our economy,” he said. (NAN)

Management Tip of the Day

W

Revise and edit your writing project

hen it comes to writing projects, finishing your first draft is only half the battle. Then you need to revise and edit. Revising is a reconsideration of what you’re saying as a whole, and where you’re saying it. As a reviser,

you’re asking questions such as: Have I been utterly truthful?

Have I said all that I need to say?

Have I been appropriately diplomatic and fair? Do that first. Then move on to editing, which is more a matter of finetuning sentences and

paragraphs. As you read through, ask yourself: Can I save some words here? Is there a better way of phrasing this idea? The key is to allow ample time to do both.

Source: Harvard Business Review

he National Directorate of Employment (NDE) in Jigawa has commenced the training of 50 vulnerable persons on skills acquisition, the Director in the state, Malam Muhammad Sambo, has said.

Sambo told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) yesterday in Dutse that the group would be trained under NDE’s Vocational Skills Development Scheme (VSDS).

He said that the training was designed to assist youths, women and the vulnerable persons in the state to engage in activities that would improve their lives.

The director explained that during the three months programme, participants would be exposed to tailoring, knitting, shoe, pomade, soap and beadsmaking and curry processing.

Sambo said N2,000 would be given to each of the trainees as monthly allowances while N1.5 million would be disbursed to them as resettlement packages at the end of the programme.

One of the participants, Malam Bilyaminu Umar, 25, a cripple, said he enrolled in the programme as a cobbler in training.

Umar told NAN that the training would help him in seeking means of livelihood rather than begging on the streets.

He commended the Federal Government for the initiative and called on other wellmeaning Nigerians to help the vulnerable.

Also speaking, a widow, Mrs Rabi Ismail, who enrolled as a trainee in knitting, said the programme would assist her in sending her six children to school. (NAN)

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PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

NDIC and depositors of failed banks: Between facts and obscurantism

By Hassan Bashi

T

he raving of dethroned king against the reigning monarch is as valid as the ranting of a soccer spectator against the judgement of an officiating referee—it is usually, if not always, dismissed with just a single wave of a hand. Instead, the concern of any dispassionate observer should be on how far the officiating referee has been abiding by the set rules of the game. This may be obvious and simple, but it is harder when obscurantists are at work, bent on employing sophistry to cloud the facts with the sole aim of manipulating our independent judgements.

There is nothing soothing to a depositor of a failed bank than to guarantee payment of his or her hard earned money trapped in the affected bank. And, banking procedure or procedures, are not as simple as reminding the akara seller she owed you some uncollected change when you bought some bean cake from her the other day. It is a meticulous exercise of examination and crossexamination of books and records, often going back many years to determine the integrity of data and transactions. So, while Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation—the officiating referee in the failed bank liquidation and resolution game— is busy sanitizing the muddled waters brought about by deliberate weak governance and insider abuses of some bank managers; how fair is it for some so-called stakeholders in the banking sector of the economy to conclave and accuse the NDIC of incompetency?

But, the 582,204 Nigerian depositors who were paid cumulatively the sum of N6.6 billion out of the total insured deposit of N17.8 billion of the 48 deposit money banks (DMBs) inliquidation since 1994 will testify to the contrary. With these huge number of Nigerians depositors around or their families to bear witness one needs not to engage the likes of the Chairman of Independent Shareholders Association of Nigeria (SAN), Mr. Sunny Nwosu, or his co-traveller, Mr. Boniface Okezie, who were recently quoted by Daily Champion newspaper to have accused the NDIC of “woeful performance”.

However, their outpouring criticisms smacks of a typical Nigerian geo-ethnic chauvinist who perpetually leaves in denial of the facts on ground to satisfy his bruised ego. They employed pure sophistry and obscurantism to cloud the facts. Only a critic with some score to settle can deny the landmark achievements of the NDIC on its strategic mandate of deposit protection and its continued efforts towards the much needed orderly resolution of failed insured institutions and contribution towards the safety,

MD/CEO NDIC, Alhaji Umaru Ibrahim soundness and stability of the nation’s precarious financial system. For this reason, I felt duty bound, as a player in the financial sector and concerned with what is happening in my country, to bring out the facts and fellow Nigerians are the best judges. The beauty of these facts is that, they are not just limited to numerical figures but involve depositors, alive who have benefitted— directly or indirectly—from the efforts of the NDIC in resolving the problems they were thrown into by selfish bank managers. And, true professionals, not self-styled, should avail themselves with these facts which are readily available in the NDIC’s website, and research publications already in the public domain.

In the area of bank liquidation, which is one of the key functions of the corporation involving realization of assets from debt recovery and sale of physical assets of closed banks, the NDIC had realised a cumulative sum of N19.5 billion which was appropriated to various claimants of 45 closed DMBs as at December 30, 2012. In a similar exercise, the sum of N1.98 billion was realised in respect of the 103 closed MFBs during the same period. The Corporation had also raked in N24.68 billion out of N178.92 billion debts owed the closed 45 DMBs and N42.63 million recovered from the 103 closed MFBs in-liquidation as at December 2012. From these proceeds, the corporation had paid N83.45 billion as liquidation dividend to depositors whose claims were in excess of the insured sums and N1.122 billion to 421 creditors of closed DMBs.

That was not all, fourteen (14) of the thirty-four (34) which were liquidated banks prior to 2006 bank consolidation regime had declared 100 percent over and above their insured deposits (liquidation dividend), indicating that all their depositors and creditors had fully received all their claims. The 14 odd affected banks are ABC Merchant Bank Ltd, Alpha Merchant Bank Plc, Amicable Bank of Nigeria Plc, Commercial Trust Bank, Continental Merchant Bank Ltd and Co-operative and Commerce Bank. The rest are ICON (Ltd) Merchant Bankers, Ivory Merchant Bank, Kapital Merchant Bank, Merchant Bank of Africa, Nigeria Merchant Bank Plc, Pan African Bank Ltd, Premier Commercial Bank Ltd

and Rims Merchant Bank Ltd. Therefore, it amounts to sheer naivety for anyone to accuse the NDIC of being not proactive towards the payment of guaranteed sums to depositors of the failed banks. After all, the NDIC Act requires the corporation to effect the payment of insured sums to depositors of any failed bank within 90 days of the revocation of the bank’s operating licence by the CBN. It is on record for who cares to monitor that NDIC has been able to keep pace with this provision, in fact sometimes beating the deadline.

Delays only arise if the affected banks challenge the CBN in courts over the revocation of their licences.

Bulk of depositors who have not claimed their deposits are usually those who have since abandoned their accounts even before the liquidation of the banks, which is a phenomenon called: Dormant Accounts. Should anyone blame the Corporation for the attitude of such depositors who in any case, often, have very small balances not exceeding N5,000.00.

Another demonstration of its pro-activeness which Nigerian will not easily forget was the establishment of three bridge banks namely: Mainstreet Bank Limited, Keystone Bank Limited and Enterprise Bank Limited on August 5, 2012 to assume the assets and liabilities of the defunct Afribank, BankPHB and Spring Bank respectively. The three (3) defunct banks had failed to pass the CBN/NDIC joint stress test conducted on the 24 DMBs in August 2009 consequent upon which the CBN revoked their banking licences. According to the NDIC: ‘’the bridge bank option was adopted in the interest of depositors and to prevent outright liquidation, which would have had dire consequences for depositors, employees of these banks and thus undermine public confidence in the banking system’’. It is instructive to state that the NDIC’s intervention

“

But, the 582,204 Nigerian depositors who were paid cumulatively the sum of N6.6 billion out of the total insured deposit of N17.8 billion of the 48 deposit money banks (DMBs) in-liquidation since 1994 will testify to the contrary.

facilitated the take-over of the assets and assumption of their liabilities by the three new (bridge) banks. In addition, it safeguarded the banks’ total deposit liabilities of N809.4 billion and 6,667 jobs in the affected banks.

It is laughable to accuse NDIC management of inability to separate itself from the CBN or Federal Ministry of Finance. How can that be possible? Are the accusers not aware of the ownership structure of the NDIC? What manner of stakeholders are they in the financial sector of the Nigerian economy if they don’t know that NDIC ownership structure is 60 percent CBN and 40 percent Federal Ministry of Finance? Is that the practice worldwide to isolate the deposit insurance bodies from the central banks?

Collaboration between these three critical arms of the Financial Sector of the economy is not only desirable but imperative if they are to perform their functions of oversight over the nation’s economy in general and the baking sub-sector in particular. All the achievements of the NDIC we mentioned above in paying out depositor insured funds are as a result of close collaboration with the CBN. Furthermore, stakeholders in the banking sector can bear witness to the innovative posture of the NDIC in resolution of the failed bank institutions. For instance, following the successful conduct of the outright liquidation of the 35 banks that failed pre-consolidation (19942003), the NDIC adopted the novel initiative of Purchase & Assumption (P&A) in 2006 to resolve the failure of thirteen (13) banks that could not meet the CBN N25 billion minimum capital requirements for DMBs. My search shows as at December 31, 2011 P&A arrangement had been concluded for eleven (11) banks.

But, it could be quite understandable, why the so called representatives of Shareholders Association directed their hostility to NDIC instead of blaming their past bank management’s recklessness and irresponsible behaviours, which resulted in the demise of their banks. I will only advise them to eschew bitterness and face the reality of the market and contribute to the strengthening of corporate governance in the entities in which they invested. They should stop chasing shadows.

NDIC’s MD/CEO, Alhaji Umaru Ibrahim, the veiled target of the accusers’ missiles is just an officiating referee in this game with set of rules; the ranting of a spectator far withdrawn from the arena can not change the rules of the game.

Hassan contributed this piece from Abuja and can be reached via 080275889900 or bash7474@gmail.com

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

PAGE 22

Checking Nigeria’s rising debt profile N

By Femi Ige

igeria became free from the yoke of the debt owed to the Paris Club of creditors about seven years ago when the country negotiated a 30-billionU.S.-dollar debt buyback.

Experts are, however, worried that not long after the debt buyback; the nation's domestic and foreign debt has continued to rise.

Statistics obtained from the Debt Management Office showed that the country's debt rose from 36.45 billion U.S. dollars in March 2011 to 44.28 billion U.S. dollars as at March 2012.

The domestic debt component stood at 38.37 billion dollars, while the external debt stood at 5.91billion dollars.

The CBN Governor, Malam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, recently expressed concern about Nigeria's debt profile, saying that if efforts were not made to check the rising debt profile, it would hamper the country’s development.

He expressed the concern on Dec. 18, 2012, while speaking at the Honourary International Investment Council Conference in London, The CBN governor noted that the country was borrowing more money today at a higher interest rate.

However, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Coordinating Minister for the Economy and Minister of Finance, stoutly defended the government's borrowing.

Okonjo-Iweala, who as the country's Finance Minister under former President Olusegun Obasanjo negotiated the debt buyback, defended the borrowing plan when she appeared before the House of Representatives' Committee on Aid, Loans and Debt Management.

She allayed the growing fears that Nigeria was returning to the old era of debt buildup, few years after its exit from the burden of the Paris Club.

She stressed that the country's debt to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) ratio would remain at a sustainable level of about 18.87 per cent, even with new loans.

Okonjo-Iweala explained that the loans were necessary to stimulate the growth of the Nigerian economy, adding that the loans were

D-G Debt Management Office, Dr. Abraham Nwankwo also negotiated with multilateral institutions on highly concessionary terms.

The minister said that having been involved in the struggle to secure Nigeria's freedom from the Paris Club's debt burden; it would be unthinkable for her to lead an economic management team that would drag Nigeria back to era of debt burdens.

Nevertheless, Mr. Muda Yusuf, the DirectorGeneral, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), said that the nation's domestic debt stock was more disturbing than its external debt.

He, nonetheless, stressed that the government might find it difficult to execute projects if tangible efforts were not made to check the country's rising debt. He argued that the increase in the domestic debt would particularly make it difficult for the private sector to access credit to import raw materials.

Besides, Yusuf stressed that the cost of servicing the country's debt was too high, even when some sectors of the economy were not properly funded.

“The rate at which the Federal Government is borrowing is high; no country can develop with high interest rates on loans," he said.

However, Mr. Wole Olowu, the General Manager of True Bond Microfinance Bank, advised the government to rationalise its structures, stressing that some government agencies were performing the same functions.

He also urged the government to tackle the problem of ghost workers in the public service, in order to reduce its recurrent expenditure. ``The government is

losing a lot of money through this medium and the money can be used to finance some vital sectors of the economy," he added.

Olowu also advised the government to tackle the problems of corruption, particularly those relating to inflated contracts.

All the same, Dr Kazeem Bello, Senior Lecturer, Department of Economics, University of Lagos, insisted that excessive borrowing would impede national development, while inflicting poverty on the citizens.

He advised the government to drastically reduce its recurrent expenditure to enable it to save funds to execute capital projects.

“Corruption constitutes a prime impediment to our national development; it is the main cause of our rising debt profile and budget deficit over the years,'' he said.

As part of efforts to address the situation, experts urge the government to set up an effective debt monitoring team to tackle leakages and corruption, while dealing with the challenge of ghost workers in the public sector.

They also underscore the need for strict budget implementation, so as to ensure that funds meant for specific programmes and projects are not diverted for different purposes.

The experts also stress the need to stimulate the real and agricultural sectors to boost the production of goods, services and agricultural produce for domestic consumption and for exports.

“The strengthening of the sectors will help efforts to reduce borrowing, thereby checking the country's rising debt profile,'' some of them add.

(Source: NAN)

PEOSPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

Report as at Thursday, February 14, 2013

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PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

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PAGE 25

North’s 9 million almajirai receive lifechanging training in skills

By Zubairu Idris, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

A

vailable statistics indicate that there are more than 10 million Nigerian children with no access to formal education.

The data also reveal that out of this number, more than nine million are the Almajiri in the northern part of the country.

The word Almajiri is coined from the Arabic word Al-Muhajirin, which means a migrant in search of knowledge or a drifting proponent of Islamic knowledge From all indications, however, the Katsina State Government is poised to provide functional and qualitative education to the Almajirai (the plural form of Almajiri) who attend Quranic schools across the state.

The government and

other stakeholders in the state are of the opinion that the Almajiri Islamic Schools, popularly called makarantun allo or tsangaya schools, should be modernised.

This is because the pupils of these schools are only taught how to read and memorise the Quran at a very tender age.

Records have it that in the past, most of the children in the northern part of the country attended such schools before enrolling in formal schools.

However, Malam Ma’aruf Ahmad, a Quranic school teacher in Kankia, headquarters of Kankia Local Government Area, said that most parents sent their children to the Quranic schools without making adequate provisions for their feeding and clothing.

He stressed that the pupils were, therefore,

Minister of Youth Development, Alhaji Inuwa Abdulkadir

compelled to beg for alms in order to survive.

“We don’t ask parents to pay school fees or money for their children’s feeding; our reward is from the Almighty Allah,’’ he said.

Besides, Ahmad said that the teachers of tsangaya schools were not paid any salary or allowance, adding: “Nevertheless, they sacrifice their time and energy in teaching and inculcating moral values to their students.’’

A census conducted by Katsina State Government in 2012 showed that there were 8,365 Quranic schools, with a population of 460, 212 pupils.

The survey also revealed that these schools had 22,572 teachers.

Last year, the state government initiated a pilot programme, aimed at preventing the pupils (Almajirai) of some selected schools from begging for

alms, by providing food for them and training them in vocation skills.

Gov. Ibrahim Shema, who launched the programme on July 20, 2012, at Mallam Abdullahi Bello School in Daura, tagged the scheme Katsina Allo Model Schools Programme.

Under the programme, two Quranic schools were

selected from each of the 33 local government areas of the state, while four schools were selected from Katsina Local Government Area.

The governor said that the government would feed the students in all the selected schools every day, adding that the government had also approved some stipend for the teachers and cooks.

“

We don’t ask parents to pay school fees or money for their children’s feeding; our reward is from the Almighty Allah Shema said that the government also approved the purchase of uniforms for the students, as well as machines for their training in various vocational skills.

He stressed that the programme was designed to make the students selfreliant, while preventing them from begging to eke a living.

The tools supplied to the schools include sewing machines, laundry equipment, cap-making materials and barbing equipment.

Commenting on the programme, Malam Lawal Gambarawa, the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Governor on Almajiri Affairs, said that the programme had started yielding positive results.

He said that no fewer than 17,000 Almajirai in the 70 selected schools had stopped street or house-tohouse begging, following the introduction of the programme in their schools.

He also said that 3,860 bags of grains such as maize, guinea-corn, beans and millet, as well as 700 gallons of cooking oil and some bags of sugar were

distributed to the schools.

Gambarawa, however, stressed that the programme would be extended to more schools as adequate provisions were made for the programme in the 2013 budget.

He appealed to parents, wealthy individuals and non-governmental o r g a n i s a t i o n s t o complement the government’s efforts in addressing the menace of street begging in the state.

Malam Lamis Farin-yaro, a teacher in one the beneficiary schools in Katsina, commended the state government for introducing the programme.

Farin-yaro, who claimed that his school had about 350 students, said that the students had stopped street begging since the government-sponsored feeding programme was introduced.

Saminu Muhammad, a student in one of the schools, confirmed that meals were provided for them thrice a day, adding that they had since stopped begging.

However, Malam Suleiman Abubakar, a teacher in one of the beneficiary schools in Kankia, appealed to the government to sustain and expand the programme so as to enable more children to benefit.

Alhaji Lawal Charanchi, a member of the committee managing the Katsina Allo Model Schools Programme, noted that the health of the students had improved since government started feeding them.

Almajirai eating food given by sympathisers

“Even the teachers attributed most of the students’ health problems to malnutrition, and this is now being taken care of by the government,’’ he added.

He said that plans were also underway to provide mobile health services to the Almajirai across the state.

Alhaji Muhammad

“

Alhaji Muhammad Zango, another committee member, said that the vocational training provided for the Almajirai had also started yielding fruits, adding that assessments revealed that some of them had been earning income from their trades

Zango, another committee member, said that the vocational training provided for the Almajirai had also started yielding fruits, adding that assessments revealed that some of them had been earning income from their trades.

Observers commend the Katsina State Government for its interest in promoting the wellbeing of the Almajirai, saying that the project will go a long way in transforming the society.

They, however, urge the government to tackle problems facing the tsangaya schools such as inadequate public conveniences, water scarcity, insufficient accommodation and inadequate classrooms.

They urge the government to sustain the programme and widen its scope to cover all the Almajirai in the state.

(NANFeatures)

Director General National Directorate of Employment, Abubakar Mohammed

PAGE 26

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

The people of truth... the Allah fearing (III) A

llah says: “It is not righteousness that ye turn your faces towards east or West; but it is righteousness- to believe In Allah and the Last Day, and the angels, and the Book, and the Messengers; to spend of your possession, out of love for it, for your kin, for orphans, for the needy, for the wayfarer, for those who ask, and for the ransom of slaves; to be steadfast In prayer, and practice regular charity; to fulfil the contracts which ye have made; and to be firm and patient, In pain (or suffering) and adversity, and throughout all periods of panic. such are the people of truth, the Allah fearing.” [al-Baqarah: 177] In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful. All Praise is due to Allah! We praise Him and we seek help from Him. We ask forgiveness from Him. We repent to Him; and we seek refuge in Him from our evils and bad deeds. Anyone who is guided by Allah, is indeed guided; and anyone who has been left astray, will find no one to guide him. I bear witness that there is no deity worthy of worship but Allah, the Only One without any partner; and I bear witness that Muhammad is His servant and final messenger to mankind. May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon His last and final Apostle, his Household, his companions and all his followers until the end of time.

Today, by the leave of Allah, we will be analyzing some aspects of financial administration on individual basis. This principle of the golden verse has gone further to teach us not only how to make wealth, but also how to distribute it. We can as well understand clearly, as we read further that what you have is not without the full control of the Sustainer; Allah!

He has ultimate dominion and control over our public, family and private possessions and affairs. There is no moment that any of His creation is out of His control or predestination regarding all utterances and actions! A slave has no personal possession; whatever he has, is for his master!

In Islam, similarly, money making is not a free for all enterprise or without legislation.

There are no-go areas, notwithstanding the profitableness and profitability, inherent. Therefore, it is not allowed in Islam to start anything without mastering the rulings of the Shari'ah regarding it. If it is one of those permissible, then one can begin, otherwise, a new venture will be the only option.

Correspondingly, when the fortunes are clutched, dispensing them are also covered by the Shari'ah. Few are mentioned here, pertaining to the individual dispensation. In fact, there is not a second or a dime which is absolutely free for anybody in his entire life time, to do whatever he wishes with it! Accordingly, the following avenues of wealth administration are not exhausted nor limited as the only outlets.

Allah says; “It is not righteousness that ye

turn your faces towards east or explains further in seven short West; but it is righteousness...to verses, Allah says: spend of your possession, out of “So He who gives (in charity) love for it, for your kin, for orphans, and fears (Allah). And (in all for the needy, for the wayfarer, for sincerity) testifies to the best. We those who ask, and for the ransom of slaves...” [alBaqarah: 177] Allah has r i g h t l y described man

By Husain Zakariyya as a being with Yawale exceedingly passionate for love of wealth. +234-8052952900 (sms only) He says: “And islamexplained35@yahoo.com ye love wealth with inordinate love!” [al-Fajr: 20] will indeed make smooth for Him And: “And violent is He In His the path to bliss. But He who is a love of wealth.” [al-Adiyaat: 8] greedy miser and thinks Himself But man, despite his inherent self-sufficient, And gives the lie to instinct of love for wealth, Allah the best,-We will indeed make has commanded him to spend his smooth for Him the path to misery; possession for His sake. Such Nor will His wealth profit Him when obedience serves as a right He falls headlong (into the Pit).” [alindicator for being subservient to Lail: 5-11] Allah, with unquestionable iman.

Be informed that possession

further to enumerate the categories of the needy and the indigents; He says: “And They feed, for the love of Allah, the indigent, the orphan, and the captive,Saying),"We feed you for the sake of Allah alone: no reward do we desire from you, nor thanks.” [alInsaan: 8-9] Allah, the Exalted concludes in this verse that righteousness is far from those who do not spend out of love of whatever they spend, and for the sake of Allah, forever! He says: “By no means shall ye attain righteousness unless ye give (freely) of that which ye love; and whatever ye give, of a truth Allah knoweth it well.” [aal-Imraan: 92] The Apostle of Allah (SAW)

The Ansar of Madinah, practically exhibited such enviable traits when the Muhajirun from Makkah met them in their city, weary, tired and haggard. They shared all their possessions equally with their Muhajirun who left behind all their wealth for the love of Allah and His Apostle. He says: “But those who before them, had homes (in Medina) and had adopted the Faith,- Show their affection to such as came to them for refuge, and entertain no desire In their hearts for things given to the (latter), but give them preference over themselves, even though poverty was their (own lot). and those saved from the covetousness of their own souls,- They are the ones that achieve prosperity.” [alHashr: 9] By the time one achieves complete freedom from the trammels of avariciousness, graspingness and cupidity, such a person is surely counted amongst the luckiest endangered species of upright believers.

In another Sura, the Qur'an

was reported by Abu Hurairah (RD) to have said, "The best charity is when give it away while you are healthy and thrifty, hoping to get richer and fearful of poverty"[Agreed] Therefore, give out only those things you value, cherish and love! Never give out rubbishes and junks while showing love and adoration for Allah. Allah is good and pure, and does not accept from anyone, but what is pure and wholesome only!

The most preferred to receive your present, alms or gift are your kindred. These are people whom you have blood ties with from either paternal or maternal sides.

Such group has more rights than anyone else to one's charity or gift!

The secret and essence is that when you give out especially charity to an ordinary, or even unknown needy, it is simply a charity with one advantage but, when you give it to someone related to you, it has double vantage; the status of charity, and the nurturing and fostering relationship which had already

ISLAM EXPLAINED

rendered in this instance means any type of wealth and its various classifications and varieties; anything can be grouped as wealth. However, if anyone gives out something, it must be valuable and useful. One should not give out alms or gift of unwanted thing and yearn for recompense from Allah. The Qur'an says:"... to spend of your possession, out of love for it..."

Thus, it must be from what you cherish, value and treasure, and for the sake of Allah! Allah has warned those who give out garbage and rubbish. He warns: “O ye who believe! give of the good things which ye have (honourably) earned, and of the Fruits of the earth which we have produced for you, and do not Even aim at getting anything which is bad, In order that out of it ye may give away something, when ye yourselves would not receive it except with closed eyes. and know that Allah is free of all wants, and worthy of all praise.” [al-Baqarah: 267] In another instance, Allah goes

existed. Such charities solidify the blood bonds and ties to a level better and higher, maturing into more love, respect and adorations!

In many chapters of the Qur'an, Allah has ordained the treatment of relatives with dignity, respect and preference over and above anyone else! Read further, the following verses: 2: 83, 4: 8, and 36, 8: 41, 16: 90, 17: 26, 24: 22, 30: 38, 42: 23, and 59: 7.

The next category enumerated in the verse comprises of the following: "... for orphans, for the needy, for the wayfarer, for those who ask, and for the ransom of slaves..."

Allah has, in order of preference, lined up the people to be helped and assisted financially or morally should the circumstances arise. The second in the sequence is the orphan. But, who is rightly an orphan? The West defines an orphan as someone whose ''one parent is dead or unknown or has abandoned and failed to provide for the child and the other parent is also unknown or has abandoned and failed to provide for the child.'' It goes further to say, '' In common usage, only a child who has lost both parents, and has not been adopted is called an orphan. Such a child must be under the age of 18, or 22, if in full-time education by day at a recognised school or college'' In Islam, the definition is different. The Shari'ah defines an orphan as any child whose father has died and the child has not reached the age of understanding or marriage. Such children can be correctly classified as a yatim or an orphan. That means, a minor whose mother died, cannot be classified as an orphan from the human race. But a baby animal that lost its mother by whatever way and manner including slaughtering, such a poor animal is an orphan.

It should be comprehended here that it is not by reason of mere stating that Allah itemized these people in this order, but for their actual need, and their rescue. Another very important, but tacit lesson herein is that the script is not imploring, but, a command whenever the situation arises. In an authentic tradition narrated by Abu Hurayrah (RD) the Messenger (SAW) said, "The best house among the Muslims is one which contains an orphan who is well treated, and the worst house among the Muslims is one which contains an orphan who is badly treated."[ Al-Tirmidhi Hadith No. 4973] Orphans in Islam, no doubt occupy very important position, and with significant soft spot before Allah. When in sha Allah, an appropriate time comes up enabling us to discuss this as a topic, we will try to be just and fair to it.

The next category to assist is "... for the wayfarer...", ibn alsabeel. By Allah's grace, when next Friday comes, we will take off from it; until then!

Wassalamu Alaikum!

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Schoolboy, 12, hanged himself in bedroom after mother confiscated his mobile phone

A

popular 12-year-old schoolboy nicknamed 'little Superman' was found hanging in his bedroom by his brother after his mother confiscated his mobile phone, an inquest heard today.

Cain Westcarr, of Gloucester, had spent two days arguing with his mother Veronica Lee, and was discovered just 40 minutes after saying he was going to his room to listen to music.

Beaufort School student Cain was later pronounced dead at Gloucestershire Royal Hospital, but the inquest heard his act may have been a cry for help and he had not intended to take his life.

The coroner said it was a tragic case and children sometimes don't understand the consequences of their actions. Miss Lee had taken his phone from him one morning in June last year at their home.

She tearfully told the inquest: 'I don't think he actua l l y w a n t e d t o k i l l himself. I don't think he wanted to live the life he had any more but I don't think he wanted to die. I think it was a cry for help.'

Detective Sergeant Mark Steinhouse, of Gloucestershire Police, said there were no suspicious circumstances and explained that Miss Lee had told his colleagues of the incident with the phone.

'It was officers at the hospital who spoke to Veronica and they relayed back to myself at the address as to where the phone was,' Detective Sergeant Steinhouse told Gloucestershire Coroners' Court.

'We recovered the phone and had (it) examined and didn't find anything on there of any relevance.'

The hearing was also

read extracts of Cain's school report, which praised the youngster for being a 'well respected and popular pupil' who was 'respectful' and an 'avid reader'.

The inquest heard evidence from Jackie Geatches, a family support worker at St Paul's Primary School, who knew Cain and his siblings.

Assistant Deputy Coroner Tom Osborne asked her: 'In an incident which must happen probably hundreds and thousands of times every day throughout the country, a parent takes the mobile phone away for a short period or even if it's only until such time as you've cleaned and tidied your room or until you've done your homework, how would Cain react to that?'

She replied: 'He probably would have been angry with his mum for taking it and perhaps sulked about it.'

Describing how she heard the news of Cain's death, Mrs Geatches said: 'I didn't believe it at first when I heard. For one minute I don't believe Cain wanted to take his life.

'I actually think he wanted to inflict pain upon himself. That's how I interpret it. He wanted to see how much pain he could stand and unfortunately it ended in his death.'

A post-mortem examination found Cain had died from hanging. The coroner recorded a verdict of accidental death and said he could not be satisfied that Cain had intended to take his own life.

'I hear that he is a young man with attitude, not a bad thing,' Mr Osborne said. 'In my

own school reports I can remember people saying "attitude retarding progress" and it didn't seem to do me any harm.

'Part of that was mum taking his phone away from him in order to tidy his room or do something he needed to do.'

Mr Osborne said he did not think Cain understood that 'if you are dead today, you are dead tomorrow'.

He added: 'They (some children) don't realise, perhaps sometimes it's not a question of re-booting the computer and they all come back to life.

'He obviously wanted to inflict pain upon himself or

indeed pain upon his mother...

"I'll show you" sort of attitude... "you've taken my phone away".

Education: Cain had attended Beaufort School in Gloucester and was described as a 'well respected' pupil 'I think if one considers the nature of this young man and the nature of his personality, I think it is more than likely than not this was a cry for help or a cry of punishment to his mum or to scare people and so led to an unfortunate turn of events.'

Mr Osborne urged Miss Lee to remember the good things in Cain's life and not the tragedy of his death.

'All I would say to you Veronica, as his mum, is that

while Cain may have been a difficult lad during his 12 years, I am sure there were many moments during his life where he brought great joy, fun and everything else you do in your family,' he said.

'What I would urge you and the rest of your family to do is when you wake up tomorrow morning and remember Cain, remember those occasions rather than the circumstances resulting in his death.

'If you want to remember him, go back to that school report because there is a lot there you and your family can be mightily proud of.' Miss Lee did not wish to comment as she left the hearing.

Tragic schoolboy: Cain Westcarr, of Gloucester, had spent two days arguing with his mother Veronica Lee, and was discovered just 40 minutes after saying he was going to his room to listen to music

Man 73, robbed bank because he wanted to go back to prison- FBI

A

Walter Unbehaun, seen here in an undated security photo.

fter spending most of his adult life behind bars, 73year-old Walter Unbehaun decided to rob another bank in hopes of getting caught. He felt more comfortable in prison, court documents allege, and wanted to spend his final years there.

So the balding, gray-haired South Carolina man leaned on a cane as he walked into a bank in suburban Chicago over the weekend and used a novel stickup line: He had just six months to live, so he had nothing left to lose, according to a federal complaint citing his post-arrest interrogation.

Unbehaun also allegedly lifted his coat to show a teller a silver revolver shoved into his waistband.

Investigators say Unbehaun, of Rock Hill, S.C., walked out of the Harris Bank in Niles on

Saturday with $4,178 in his pockets. He wore no disguises, so law enforcement quickly tracked him down using surveillancecamera photos of him holding up the bank, the complaint said.

When authorities stopped Unbehaun on Sunday outside a motel room where he was staying, he immediately threw down his cane and surrendered, saying he knew they were there because he robbed a bank the day before, according to the complaint filed in U.S. District Court in Chicago.

Unbehaun told investigators hours after his arrest that he had spent most of his adult life in prison and "felt more comfortable in prison than out."

"He wanted to do something that would guarantee that he would spend the rest of his life in prison, and he knew that robbing

a bank with a loaded gun would accomplish that," according to the complaint, signed by FBI agent Chad Piontek.

Contacted on Tuesday, Unbehaun's defense attorney, Richard McLeese, declined comment.

Unbehaun's most recent stint behind bars ended in 2011, when he was released after serving 10 years for a 1998 bank robbery.

His Illinois record alone includes multiple other felonies dating back decades.

Unbehaun made an initial court appearance Monday in Chicago and was ordered to remain in jail pending further court procedures. No additional hearing dates were set.

If he is eventually convicted on the new bank robbery charge, he could be sent to prison for up to 20 years.

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PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013 With Tobias Lengnan Dapam 07036990957

Valentine’s day experience

V

alentine experience has its surprises and its fun.

Many people experience it differently, but this is my story.

I am a young working class woman who has a man that she is madly in love with. I wish I could say that I had all the money to play around with but alas, this is not the case. I love my job but the pay isn't exactly paying my bills. My man, amazing as he is, supplements most of the time and I feel guilty about it. So I told myself that 2013 is a new year, and so I must give my baby a Valentine to remember. If only I knew that the surprise backfired.

I started planning for Valentine since 3rd January. I figured that if I started early, I would have my plan in place to give him a mind blasting valentine. I had gotten the lingerie, bought the rose petals, even gotten him a gift too. I'm sure by now you'd be thinking 'What more is left?', well a lot I'd say. I needed to plan the surprise so that Rochas (who is my man by the way) wouldn't find out. He is a very suspicious man and I knew that he suspected my plans so I had to be careful.

On that fateful day, to throw him off track, I sent balloons cakes and flowers to his office. I had paid attention to details, the balloons and flowers were to be delivered to his office and a super enormous card which would sing when it is opened will also be delivered. While this was been delivered, I would get to his place earlier than usual to set the stage for an uber-romantic dinner.

At about 12:00 noon, I made the call to set my plans in

motion. I smiled to myself wondering at what his expression would be when he got the delivery. During that time, I rushed back to the house which is not too far from my office. I put the house together, decorated the bedroom in anticipation for tonight's 'business', set the CD to the right track so that all I needed to do was press play.

The rose petals, scented candles and everything else was in place too. I smiled as I surveyed my work and rushed

back to the office. I was going to leave early to pick up the meals (no time to cook) and freshen up in time for Rochas' return. Sadly, that was the day that I now had extra work. Just when I thought that my plans were ruined, Rochas called to say that he would be late at the office.

I hurried with my work and got to the house, fuming and praying that my plans will still go according to plan. I wondered, though how long it would take for Rochas to come home. Luckily I had extra candles so if he

decided to come home by 12 am, I was ready for him! I got to the front of the door and heard music. Shit! Someone was in the house. I pushed the door open and walked into the house and the music I had set was playing. I made my way to the dinning and the food was set. I looked at the nylon of Chinese in my hands and wondered if somehow, the food that transmitted itself to the table. With trepidation in my heart, I made my way to the bedroom and opened the door.

On the bed was the most

alluring display of flowers but no one was in sight. I was seriously worried. All this was more than what I planned. I turned sharply and bumped smack into Rochas.

'Jeez Rochas, you scared me' I said. He didn't say anything but smiled and led me to the table.

'Oh well' I thought to myself,' so much for planning a surprise.

We made our way to the dinning and settled on to eat.

'Did you get my package?' I asked 'Yes,I did. In fact it came when I was in the meeting with Mr. Greustcher and Mr. Schnieder.

Luckily, they smiled at me and didnt fire me.'

'Sorry,' I apologized and just then the doorbell rang. I went to get it and it turned out to be a delivery addressed to me. I wondered why a package for me will be delivered to Rochas' place since I didn't put his address and my delivery address. I sat down and began to open the package and in it was the prettiest little red velvet box. My eyes grew wide and I noticed Rochas get on his knees and start to mumble some words. I cant remember half of what he said, all I know was that I was screaming my lungs out.

So that was how the surprise I planned became the surprise for me. I'm not saying you shouldn't plan a valentine surprise but make sure that you don't get your man fired (like I almost did) . Also ensure that your man isn't planning a surprise that turns out to be bigger than yours. Enjoy your valentine celebration. pulse.com

Nigeria music full of repetition- Charisty Kwambe

A

buja upcoming artist, Christy Kwambe has said that music in the country is beclouded by repetition.

Christy who disclosed this to our reporter in Abuja, added that it is high time musicians in the country work on lyrics that will be devoid of repetition.

She regretted that music in the country is losing its essence of revamping the woes of the society to concentrate on issues that that has no relevance to the society.

"We are moving backward musically in the country.

Long before now, certain musicians who set the stage for the young ones were concentrating on societal issues. And at that time, their lyrics are devoid of repetition.

They take their time to produce music for the sake of what they will accrue from the sale of the album and not the impact that the music will make" she said.

The lab scientist turned gospel artist further called on musicians in the country to go back to the drawing board and be serious with music hat will help them and the present

..as Em, lashes at rhythmic gospel dancers

J

Charisty Kwambe

-town based multi-talented artist, Emmanuella Ma'andik, popularly known as Em, has lashed at rhythmic gospel dancers in the country, whom she said only show-case their dancing steps instead of dancing to the Lord.

The artist who is vast in all the genre of music said there is difference between dancing for the sake of dancing and dancing in worship, adding that gospel musicians in the country have failed woefully in praises and worship.

She called on them to create nexus between their music and worship. (It is unfortunate that we are experience this kind of situation ion so many churches today. Places of worship have become party halls and totally deviated from worship.

"In most cases, they play noisy music and invent dancing steps to show their self instead of their spirituality", she said.

Em

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

PAGE 33

12 Institutions to host 2face's Campus Connect

C

ampus connect has shortlisted 12 higher institutions of learning for the 2face and friends tour 2013, Pulse.com has said.

The 12 schools included; University of Lagos (UNILAG), University of Benin (UNIBEN), University of Ibadan (UI), University of Calabar (UNICAL) and University of Ilorin (UNILORIN).

Others are University of Jos (UNIJOS), Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), University of Abuja (UNIABUJA), University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT), Lagos State University (LASU), Benue State University (BSU) and Institute of Management and Technology, Enugu (IMT).

A posse of stars are expected to perform alongside 2face in the musicfest, with notable names including Olamide, Dammy Krane, Rocksteady, Sheyi Shay, Durella, Capital FEMI, Harrysong, Sound Sultan, Crystals, Basket Mouth, Timi Dakolo and many others.

Four slots are still up for grabs as the voting which has been fierce will close on February 20 by 10pm.

Campus Connect was launch aid to aid 2face reestablish a connection with his teeming campus fans. It is a production of Now Muzik Encore/Hypertek in partnership with Soundcity.

Beyonce reveals secret of confidence

B

eyonce is often called Queen Bey and for good reason too, according to her

fans.

Hollywood reporter revealed that her confidence on stage is what a lot of her fans have come to admire and respect.

However, being in the spotlight comes with its disadvantages as people have cause to say nasty things about celebrities. Beyonce on the other hand does not react to the harsh hurtful comments and people wonder how she manages to stay so strong in the face of such mixed stories about her.

She reveals to Vouge Magazine recently on how she handles such criticism.

In her words regarding several nasty comments about her pregnancy, she said, "That was very odd. Who even thinks that? Like who would make that up? You can't take it too seriously."

According to the interview, Beyonce said she does not usually get herself invo

2face

Berlin 2013: Participant, Doha Film Institute launches $100 m film fund

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articipant Media and the Doha Film Institute are teaming on a $100 million film fund that will turn out 12 to 16 features, Hollywood reporter has said.

It also said as part of the deal, the Los Angeles-based participant will open a Middle Eastern office to be based out of DFI's Qatar headquarter, adding that DFI and Participant will create an Arabic version of TakePart.com, Participant's

on-line division and social action network.

The film fund was announced at the Berlin International Film Festival by Jim Berk and DFI CEO Abdulaziz Al-Khater.

Participant has had a high profile at the festival, where Promised Land, which it cofinanced, made its international premiere.

Participant also used the festival to announce a New Latin American film

Participants at 2013 Berlin Film Conference

initiative.

"We are excited about working with DFI to create a transformational partnership for both parties. This new relationship provides us with a partner whose goals of international expansion and desire to co-finance a diverse slate of films that entertain, enlighten and engage with global audiences are in total alignment with our own longterm business strategies. It also gives us the ability to extend

the audience for our sociallyrelevant storytelling to the Middle East, and to mine new sources of compelling content for our digital and TV platforms," Berk said.

Al-Khater, added that "We are delighted to partner with Participant Media, a company that aims to finance and produce films that are both commercially successful and socially relevant - a vision that is very much shared at DFI. We are confident that this collaboration will be a catalyst for greater crossc u l t u r a l appreciation as we embark on a diverse and exciting set of projects.

T h e partnership gives us the opportunity to reach and i n s p i r e b r o a d e r audiences, and expand our platforms for t h e development, promotion and distribution of compelling storytelling."

Beyonce

'American Idol's' Stefano Langone gives Valentine to fans, makes single free

V

alentine's day is the most romantic day of the year, and what better way to tell that special someone you care than with flowers and a love song from one of our favorite American Idol vocalists, Stefano Langone.

Hollywood reporter said that the season 10 alum is asking fans to say "Yes to Love" by making his current single of the same name available as a free download through a special promotion with 1-800flowers.

The ballad, written and produced

by Tim James and Antonina Armato, will be available through Feb. 16 on the website.

Stefano Langone

PAGE 34

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

What kind of pope do Roman Catholics need?

ANALYSIS

By Cristina LH Traina

P

ope Benedict XVI's impending resignation has already fuelled all the usual speculation about candidates for his successor, accompanied by profiles, photos and odds of election. Behind the hoopla is the question, what sort of leader will really be best for the Church?

Benedict's own admission that an elderly man cannot undertake the globe-trotting that effective relations require suggests that as a rule, a younger, healthier leader would be a wise choice. But the Church also faces the question what style of leadership would be most fruitful.

Despite the vision of Vatican Council II, which recommended collegial authority and granted the laity almost complete province over action in the world, Pope John Paul II's and Pope Benedict XVI's pontificates have echoed an ultramontane, top-down model in which the authority of the pope supersedes that of the bishops, individually or in national organisations.

Vatican I ratified the ultramontane model in an era in which the Roman Catholic Church felt besieged on all sides. The Church had just lost the Papal States and suffered long periods of anticlericalism and persecution in Europe. The Council responded by absolutising the popes' control over the one thing left to them: the Church. Over the next 50 years, popes declared a single standard of orthodoxy (the works of Thomas Aquinas) and published - and enforced - laundry lists of anathematised philosophical and political beliefs.

In earlier periods, strong central control could not be realised so easily in practice, except in cases like the Inquisition in which civil power could be conscripted. But when travel took place on foot, by horse, or by sailing ship, and all communications were carried by letter, people had to choose carefully what information to send up and down the chain of the hierarchy. Practices varied, and many "irregularities" simply went uncommented.

Flash forward to the present day, and ultramontanism becomes a little less forgiving. Photos, news reports and blog posts make their way across oceans in seconds or less. Not only does Rome have theoretical authority over every Catholic person and organisation, it has actual access to real-time information about them.

This is not to belittle the silencings, excommunications, and even executions of earlier eras, or to overlook the inefficient contemporary Vatican bureaucracy, in which branches famously work at cross purposes. But strong central control combined with instant communication from every layer of the church in every corner of the world creates unprecedented

Pope Benedict XVI micro-managerial possibilities.

Cue the debate over the next pope. So-called "conservative" Catholics will be cheering for a candidate who continues Benedict's line of strong Catholic identity.

Conservatives, so the stereotype goes, will want a firm hand guiding a centralised, top-down hierarchy capable of overseeing of theology and charitable work all over the world.

The ultramontane trend confirmed at Vatican I, and alive and well in the CEO model of the papacy, is their ideal.

In contrast, conventional wisdom says that so-called "liberal" Catholics will be hoping for a candidate who, like John XXIII 50 years ago, might surprise the world by changing direction. Liberals will want a decentralised, participatory structure that places most power in the hands of national bishops' conferences, in collaboration with the laity. On this view, popes are good for inspiration, pastoral care and ecumenical diplomacy but too far removed from the local details of daily life to rule sensitively on regional questions.

Recent events seem to reinforce

these stereotypes. Liberal Catholics took it amiss when the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (CDF) undertook a comprehensive review of the Leadership Conference of Women Religious, the largest organisation of Catholic women major superiors. The CDF judged that rampant "radical feminism", dissent and collaboration with questionable social justice organisations needed correction, and it appointed Seattle Archbishop Peter Sartain to oversee the "renewal" of the organisation.

Liberals viewed this as an attempt to silence the most educated and independent branch of American women religious.

Conservatives held up the smaller Council of Major Superiors of Women Religious, which was not investigated, as an example of fidelity and obedience.

Similarly, when Benedict blocked Lesley Anne Knight's run for a second term as director of the Catholic umbrella organisation Caritas Internationalis and issued his motu proprio on preserving the Catholic identity of Catholic charities, liberals fretted over Catholic groups' losses of funds and of opportunities for collaboration with independent non-

“

profits. Conservatives, on the other hand, heralded the increased oversight as an overdue means of ensuring the purity of Catholic teaching and of income streams.

The important exception seems to be the clerical sex abuse crisis. Here organs associated with American liberal Catholicism - Voice of the Faithful, The Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests, Call to Action, BishopAccountability.org, the National Catholic Reporter and others have echoed conservatives in demanding authoritative, decisive action from the Vatican against bishops who facilitated and hid priestly sexual abuse. Catholics in Ireland and much of Europe, not to mention other parts of the world, have joined them in this demand.

And here's the contradiction.

Catholics may not be able to have their cake and eat it too. Some conservative laypeople have laid aside ultramontanism to join the liberal demand for clerical accountability to laypeople, and liberals have joined the conservative chorus requesting action from Rome. Only a tough, centralised hierarchy that monitors all of its outposts carefully can take the strong

Cue the debate over the next pope. Socalled "conservative" Catholics will be cheering for a candidate who continues Benedict's line of strong Catholic identity.

action against bishops that liberal Catholics seek. A truly collegial model perhaps a federation of strong national churches with a single spiritual leader, as in the Anglican Communion - would yield more adaptability at the local level but would not have the central power to depose transgressing bishops.

Thus liberal Catholics face a quandary. A pope strong and authoritative enough to purge transgressing bishops is likely to use his power as well to purge liberal theologians, nuns and clergy. A pope who opts for a collegial style more in keeping with Vatican Council II's precedent will have to rely on his fellow bishops to monitor each other, something they have so far shown little willingness to do.

Conservatives face a similar quandary. What will ensure that the strong hierarchy they envision protects laypeople from clerical transgressions?

There is a third option, of course. If the Catholic Church had structures of accountability that operated from below rather than from above, it would not need to rely on benevolent ultramontanism to get rid of destructive bishops. The next pope could undermine the Vatican's managerial authority even more radically by insisting that bishops share power collegially with priests, vowed religious and laypeople, and by instituting term limits for bishops like those observed by many Protestant communions. Benedict XVI's resignation could be the precedent.

Stranger things have happened.

Source: Aljazeera.com

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

PAGE 35

Protecting Nigerian consumers from substandard goods, services

A consumer going through some products in a super market

By Chijioke Okoronkwo

A

rguably, safeguarding the right of the citizenry against substandard products is the primary motive behind the government's establishment of standards' control agencies.

The government's action is, perhaps, informed by media reports indicating that the production of substandard products have led to the deprivation of the consumer's rights and the death of several persons.

Rights activists also argue that consumer rights are important aspects of human rights, which are aimed at protecting the people's right to have access to quality goods and services.

They say that the public awareness of consumer rights will invariably save consumers from aberrations such as outright deception, unfair trade practices and deceptive advertising, among others.

It is, therefore, not surprising when the former Director-General of the Consumer Protection Council (CPC), Mrs Ifeyinwa Umenyi, described consumers as a fundamental part of the nation's body polity and economy.

Apparently aware of such viewpoints, the Federal Government has been resolute in its decision to protect Nigerian consumers from substandard products and services.

As part of efforts to protect Nigerian consumers from inferior goods and services, the Federal Government established the CPC in 1992 and empowered it to look after the interests of consumers.

The CPC, which commenced operations in 1999, has since been striving to fulfil the mandate via varying

strategies.

For instance, the council's officials recently carried out several market raids, routine market inspections, goods' confiscation, while prosecuting marketers of some substandard wares; all in an effort to uphold the consumers' rights.

The high-point of the exercise, which took place late last year, was the confiscation of some sub-standard medical equipment hidden in a residential area in Karu, FCT. Speaking on that particular raid, Umenyi said that the council officials seized solo-shot syringes packed in 310 cartons that had been exposed to sun, rain, dust and other participles.

She said that the purity of the products, which were largely used at the primary health care level for immunisation, was seriously in doubt.

In one of her final engagements before she left the council, Umenyi urged consumers to be vigilant when making purchases, adding that they should always report the circulation of suspicious products to the council.

Besides, Mr Sham Kolo, CPC's Head of Surveillance and Enforcement, said that a bakery was sealed for using fake labels.

He added that the bakery also operated under unhygienic conditions. ``The environment is too dirty for such business and they are using two labels and packages, which belong to other popular brands, to sell their products. ``They are giving misleading information to the public and from our surveillance; we discovered that most of their products go to schools,'' he said.

During the same exercise, the council also sealed a bakery in Dutse-Alhaji, a suburb of Abuja, and an NNPC franchise outlet at Jiwa, near Deidei, in the FCT for alleged inappropriate transactions.

Kolo alleged that the fuel station usually dispensed 17.8 litres of fuel anytime a customer bought 20 litres of fuel, adding that its customers were thereby short changed.

He claimed that the only fuel pump at the station that was somewhat normal was not used in selling fuel to customers.

However, the station's Manager, Mr Sam Odo, claimed that he was not aware of the development. ``We have an engineer who sets the pump; so, I don't know anything about it,'' he said.

A taxi-driver, Mr Sunday

“

Kolo alleged that the fuel station usually dispensed 17.8 litres of fuel anytime a customer bought 20 litres of fuel, adding that its customers were thereby short changed.

Okafor, said that although he bought petrol at the station on a daily basis, he never noticed the alleged aberration.

As part of efforts to create public awareness and educate the public on how to detect inappropriate transactions, the CPC recently launched the Products and Services Listing and Monitoring Programme (ProServe) to check the prevalence of substandard products and services.

Speaking at the programme's inauguration in Abuja, Umenyi said that the absence of a databank for products and services was being exploited by some dubious businessmen.

She said that ProServe was designed to protect consumers, while ensuring that they were well-informed about the various products available to them.

Umenyi said that this had become necessary because manufacturers and service providers were more concerned about their commercial messages rather than the education of consumers. ``ProServe is, therefore, designed to introduce a listing regime that will require all genuine manufacturers and certified service providers in all sectors of the economy to enlist their products and services for proper monitoring,'' she said.

Applauding the initiative, the First Lady, Mrs Patience Jonathan, said that ProServe was a quality-control mechanism designed to eliminate counterfeiting by some ``getrich-quick'' businessmen.

Represented by Mrs Zainab Maina, the Minister of Women Affairs, Jonathan noted that any infringement on the rights of consumers would affect the general welfare of Nigerians and the economy. ``Consumers should also ensure that the products and services they purchase are listed with ProServe,'' she said.

Commending the council's effort, Chief Anyim Pius Anyim, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), said that countries which wanted their products to compete in the global market must necessarily measure up to the set standards.

The SGS, who was represented by Dr Henry Akpan, the Permanent Secretary, Office of the SGF, said that ProServe was a laudable project, as it dealt with information on goods and services.

Anyim noted that the Federal Government was worried about the influx of substandard products into the Nigerian market and was eager to check the situation.

Sharing similar sentiments, Dr Olusegun Aganga, the Minister of Trade and Investment, said that the programme would instill consumers' confidence in local goods.

The minister stressed that such confidence would boost the citizens' patronage of local products, while creating jobs.

Besides, consumers deserved to have access to the necessary information about the products they were buying, he added.

As part of strategies put in place to protect consumers' rights, the council has also urged operators of supermarkets to establish complaints redress desks in their shops to handle customers' grievances.

Nevertheless, observers are of the view that the council is not proactive enough in its crusade against substandard products and services in the country.

They urge the new DirectorGeneral of the CPC, Mr Emmanuel Amlai, to initiate a sustained enlightenment of consumers so as to enable them to identify substandard products on time.

Source: NAN

PAGE 36

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

Oscar Pistorius on murder charge 'after shooting girlfriend'

By Vince Soodin and Jack Losh

H

istory-Making Olympian Oscar Pistorius has been charged with murder after reportedly shooting his girlfriend dead having mistakenly thought she was a burglar.

The 26-year-old South African the first Paralympian to appear at the Olympics - is accused of shooting Reeva Steenkamp, 30, in the head, chest and arm at 4am (2am UK time) today.

There were suggestions that model Steenkamp was gunned down as she attempted to play a Valentine's Day surprise on her athlete lover.

But police said there had been previous incidents at the address described as "allegations of a domestic nature". Brigadier Denise Beukes said police were "very surprised" by the burglar suggestion.

Dressed in a grey hooded jacket, tracksuit trousers and trainers, Pistorius walked with head bowed from the Boschkop police station this morning, before he was taken to Pretoria's Mamelodi Day Hospital in a police convoy.

He will remain in custody over night and is due to appear before a court tomorrow at 9am (7am GMT) - not today as originally expected.

A police spokeswoman added that police will oppose bail "based on the evidence that is currently being gathered."

Pistorius is known as the Blade Runner because of the groundbreaking prosthetics he uses for racing.

He made history at London

Charged Oscar Pistorius leaving the Boschkop police station, east of Pretoria this morning 2012 when he became the first amputee sprinter to compete in the Olympics, running in the 400m and 4x400m relay.

The Johannesburg-born athlete was born without fibulas in his legs and had the limbs amputated below the knee when he was 11 months old.

According to Talk Radio 702 host Kribani Pillay in Johannesburg, Pistorius told police that he thought the woman was an intruder.

The area around Pistorius' home

Romance Oscar Pistorius and Reeva Steenkamp in Johannesburg last November

was "teeming" with emergency services, media and onlookers, Miss Pillay added.

A 9mm pistol was recovered.

According to unconfirmed reports four shots were fired.

A police spokesperson described Pistorius as "traumatised after losing someone close to him".

Yesterday, Miss Steenkamp fatefully posted a tweet about Valentine's Day, writing: "What do you have up your sleeve for your love tomorrow???"

The last tweet she posted on her Twitter account read "I'm there like a bear!!! Yayyyy!!!! X" after a friend invited her round for afternoon tea and cupcakes.

Tweet ... Miss Steenkamp posted this message on her Twitter account yesterday Police spokesman Katlego Mogale said: "Paramedics declared the woman dead on the scene and police proceeded with their investigation.

"The woman sustained wounds to her head and the upper body."

He said police were called following a shooting at a townhouse complex in the Silverlakes district,

adding: "When police arrived they found the paramedics attending to the woman.

"The paramedics declared the woman dead on the scene and police proceeded with their investigation of the scene."

The woman's body has reportedly been removed from the scene. Pistorius has since undergone blood, alcohol and forensic tests.

In an interview last summer, it was revealed that Pistorius slept with a revolver and machine gun in his bedroom at the bachelor pad, as well as a baseball bat and cricket bat.

After being held at the Boschkop police station, Pistorius was taken by high-speed convoy for a medical examination at the Mamelodi Day Clinic on the eastern outskirts of Pretoria, according to local reports.

There, hospital staff took blood samples, tested under nails and looked for scratches and bruises, a police spokeswoman said.

Outside his home earlier today, Miss Steenkamp's friend Mashadi Motsogi broke down in tears and revealed she only heard the tragic

Hero ... former South African President Nelson Mandela with Pistorius

news via Twitter.

She said: "It was only on my way to campus when I saw journalists come in front of the estate, when I realised that it might be true, that she might be dead.

"I know Oscar stays here. When I called here, he did not reply. He did not answer my call."

She described Miss Steenkamp as a "friendly person, always willing to help other people" and said she looked to the model for advice.

"I have lost a friend," she said, telling reporters Miss Steenkamp's death In a secure complex did not make sense.

"Look, security here is safe. We moved to this area for security reasons. It does not make sense to me that my friend was shot, mistaken for an intruder."

Entertainment show Tropika Island of Treasure, which stars Miss Steenkamp and was due to be broadcast this weekend, has posted a tribute to her on its website.

It said: "We are deeply saddened and extend our condolences to Reeva's family and friends."

Miss Steenkamp grew up in Port Elizabeth, where she studied law, but later moved to Johannesburg after signing a deal with cosmetics company Avon.

She went on to model for FHM and feature in various advertising campaigns.

The Cape Town-born model described herself as someone who has "a passion for cars and cooking and prefers to read a book on her off days and spend quality time with friends and family".

Her former headmaster Greg Stokell described her as popular a "vibrant, friendly, diligent, and motivated student who was popular with and respected by staff and peers alike."

He added: "The St Dominic's Priory school community in Port Elizabeth is both shocked and saddened by Reeva Steenkamp's sudden and tragic death."

Source: TheSun.co.uk

Groundbreaker ... Pistorius is known as the Blade Runner

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

PAGE 37

Why we’ve not convened PDP NEC, by Olisa Metuh INTERVIEW Chief Olisa Metu, the National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in this interaction with newsmen speaks extensively on the opposition merger, how the crisis in the party was resolved and the real reasons why the party’s National Executive Council (NEC)’s meeting. Lawrence Olaoye was there. Excerpts:

H

ow does the PDP feel about the formation of the All Progressives Alliance (APC) by the opposition parties in the country?

We are happy with the plans of the opposition parties to merge; we welcome it, we think it is a good development. In a democracy it would lead to an opportunity for Nigerians to witness a vibrant opposition if they will come together without problems. We wish them the best but we want them to focus solely on issues; no propaganda; no campaign of deceit; no insults, no misinformation to the public. As long as they play it according to the rules of the game, Nigerians would be better for it. The idea of democracy is that there should be a party in power; there should be an opposition that should be vibrant but that would tackle the party in power only on issues, policy and programmes. As long as they bring up policies and programmes for us to debate on, we would very much take them. But a word of caution, in the attempt to be big, they would now understand what it means to run a big party. We would witness their conventions, we would witness their congresses; we would witness their primaries and they would understand that it is not easy to handle a big party the way PDP is doing. They would have their teething problems. We wish them well. We already know that there are inherent problems, we wish them well. We are not dwelling on it. As a decent party we do not want to dwell on it; we do not want to make noise about their own problems. We hope they get it right for the interest of our democracy.

Your Chairman said the merger inspires your party, in which area will it actually inspire the party? Can we now say it is well now with the PDP? There are insinuations that the NWC is afraid to call the NEC meeting because members could turn the table against the NWC, how do you react to

these?

The National Chairman did not say that the merger would inspire the party to get it right. He said it would inspire the party for us to keep doing it well and get it better.

We already have it right and the chairman is correct and the promises of the party upon the conclusion of the merger would enable the PDP elected and appointed officials to continue to work harder for the interest of Nigerians. Because it means that we are going to be challenged on our programmes, our policies, our achievements and that the people in the office would have to be accountable fully to Nigerians.

On the issue of NEC of the party, we have a few challenges; it happens in every company; every association, every political party, even in families. This party is one; we are totally committed to the ideals and programmes of the party under the able leadership of the National Chairman, Dr. Bamanga Tukur. We are working committee members, the governors do not have any problem with the party as Governor Rotimi Amaechi, Chairman Governor’s Forum, said and showed in his reception of the National Chairman on Friday.

We would like the public not to focus on our challenges which we have gotten over; but to focus rather on the programs, the policies of the National chairman. We have seen how vibrant the party has become; we have seen that the National

Chief Olisa Metu Chairman is defining that the party must get involved in governance; we have seen the National Chairman stepping up discipline; we have seen his program of three Rs. The Nass passed the budget 2013 and has not been signed by the President; we have it on good authority that the NWC would be meeting with the leadership of the Nass on the budget. How true is this?

Well, it is not true that the NWC is going to meet with the leadership of the National Assembly on the issue of the budget. It is true that there is a meeting in line with the quarterly meeting that we usually have with the leadership of the National Assembly and the executive to discuss matters affecting the well being of the country. But we are not meeting on the basis of the budget. We believe as a party, that the National Assembly has the right to pass budget and participate on the issue of bringing

“

It is only the problem of unity amongst the members that we have. The people have the out of power in the state long time; I believe our stakeholders and members in Anambra are tired of being outside state government

the budget about. We believe that having been elected to do this duty, they have taken time and it took them many months to do this program and that they have come out with a very good budget. But the President has mandate given to him by the entire country to ensure that whatever budget that comes on board would satisfy the yearnings of the people. He must take time to look at this budget. If there are grey areas, we must allow both bodies, the executive and the legislature, opportunities to iron it out without creating tension. The PDP believes strongly that the President and the Nass are completely performing their duties in the ways they have been handling the budget and we hope that within the shortest time the budget would have been signed for complete implementation.

You said you’re not meeting with National Assembly leadership on the budget, what if the issue of the budget comes up in the course of your interaction?

Like I said earlier, let me stress that we are not meeting with the leadership of the National Assembly on the budget. It is not part of our meeting, if in the course of our meeting the matter comes up, we will address it but that is not the purpose of the meeting. The PDP has complete confidence in the President as the leader of the party that if there are grey areas he would be able to resolve it with the National Assembly in the shortest possible time. If the party’s attention is needed, if we have been alerted that there is problem, then the party would get involved. For

now I want you to know on good authority that neither the legislature nor the executive had alerted the party leadership that they are having problems on the issue of the budget. We are completely unaware of such.

On the issue of the National Executive Committee (NEC) I concede that the constitution stated that we should be meeting four times in a year, but events of the recent past, we are supposed to hold this meeting late last year but couldn’t hold on the account of the vacancy in the Board of Trustees Chairmanship. The Board of Trustees has since constituted a committee to handle it and we hope that in the next two to three weeks we would have a new BoT chairman. Upon the election of the BoT chairman, the party will proceed to have a national caucus and then the NEC meeting. We would have our NEC meeting peacefully and there would not be any problem in the party. The PDP is bigger than any issue and our challenges are behind us. The President got involved in ensuring that there is complete peace amongst the ranks of the party.

What constitutional roles does the Chairman of BoT have to play in convening the NEC? With our constitution and convention, before we have the NEC meeting, we usually have a BoT meeting and we have the national caucus. In the last NEC meeting, we did not have any vacancy in the BoT chairman.

The NEC meeting was to receive the resignation of the former BoT Chairman and we have never had any NEC since then.

When the 10 members of the NWC decided to rescind decision on Adamawa Exco and the Chairman said he felt betrayed. Did you betray the Chairman? Is Orji Uzor Kalu a member of the PDP? On the issue what happened, it is basically improper for me to start mentioning something that happened in the past and something that the party has resolved. But I must state here publicly that as a member of an elected NWC, I completely loyal to the constitution of the PDP to which I swore at the convention.

We rare completely loyal to the constitution of the party, that is the first obligation that we have.

If a matter has been resolved at the highest level of the party, it would be improper for any individual at this time that there is peace to mention or try to bring it about. That matter is gone and I will not wish to comment on it.

Contiuned on page 39

PAGE 38

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

Gombe LG poll: CPC, others sue GOSIEC From David Hassan, Gombe

T

L-R: Former Chairman, House Committee on Subsidy Regime, Hon. Faruk Lawan, discussing with Chairman, House Committee on Defence, Hon. Bashir Adamu, during the plenary session, on Wednesday at the National Assembly, in Abuja. Photo: Mahmud Isa

Borno CPC yet to join APC at local level From Mustapha Isah Kwaru, Maiduguri

T

he Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), yesterday said is yet to merge with other opposition parties to dissolve into the newly formed All Progressive Alliance, (APC) at the local level in Borno state.

The party said even though it supported the merger of four opposition parties to form the APC, merger talks have not begun at the state level, acting Chairman of the party in the state, Ibrahim El-Zubairu, said this in a statement issued to newsmen.

El-Zubairu said he was yet to get any directive from the national headquarters of the CPC and therefore the party is still an independent opposition party in Borno state

which is led by the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP).

The acting chairman was debunking a statement made by Alhaji Lawan Ngalbia, the factional leader of the CPC in the state, who had earlier stated that the party had formed a committee of eminent members to enter into discussion with other parties involved in the merger at the state level.

"We are calling on all our supporters and the opposition involved in the merger to completely disregard the announcement or any group claiming to act as members of any committee of the CPC on the merger," he warned.

The CPC boss continued "The details and strategies of the merger have not yet been discussed by the various parties with their

teeming members across the country. It is our conclusion that the formation of such a committee without formal briefing and directive on the details of the merger from our party headquarters is not only an act of political desperation, but also an organized attempt to cause unnecessarily disarray", the statement concluded.

Meanwhile, the pioneer Chairman of CPC in the state, Comrade Zannah Shettima, has expressed confidence in the Governor Kashim Shettima's zeal to unify all members of the opposition participating in the merger deal.

Comrade Shettima, who spoke to newsmen, expressed optimism that the APC will have a solid foundation due to the governor's agenda of offering equal treatment for all.

Dankwambo partners CBN on education From David Hassan, Gombe

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overnor Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo has indicated interest to partner with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) especially in the areas that would promote the development of education sector in the state.

According to the governor who spoke when the CBN Governor, Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, paid him a courtesy visit in Gombe, said education remains the first, second and third priority of his administration because it is the backbone of development in every society.

Dankwambo stated that there were many other areas by which the state and the CBN could partner for the development of the state adding that there can’t be a society with flair for development that could fail to accord education top priority.

He urged the apex bank to accord maximum support to the new Emir of Dukku in Gombe State, Alhaji Haruna Rasheed, who until his selection as Emir was a staff of the CBN stressing that the new Emir would surely need the support of the bank towards the development of Dukku LGA and by extension, the whole state.

Earlier, the CBN governor who was accompanied by two of his deputies, Tunde Lemo and Suleiman Barau and some controllers said he was in the state to thank the governor for approving the selection of his friend as the Emir of Dukku.

He then commended the Dankwambo administration for transforming the state in

less than two years through the construction of 78 roads across the state and a carried out erosion control to make the state safer from flood.

He described the new Emir as a great asset to Dukku and indeed the state as he would play a very important role towards achieving enormous development for Dukku and the state in general.

Labour urges FG to compensate families of slain health workers

T

he Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) yesterday urged the Federal Government to compensate the families of the health workers slain in Kano on Feb. 9. adequately The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the nine female workers on a polio immunisation exercise were killed in separate attacks by gunmen, suspected to be members of the Islamic Boko Haram.

The attack which left four other health workers injured was condemned by the House of Representatives which noted that the health workers were doing the

vaccination to protect the lives of Nigerian children from polio.

The House of Representatives had on Feb. 12, urged the Federal Government to compensate the families of the workers.

The President of the NLC, Mr Abdulwahed Omar, told NAN in a telephone interview that it was pertinent for the Federal Government to give adequate compensation to the families of the health workers.

"Though the workers were in the service of Kano State Government but they were carrying out humanitarian service. They should be well compensated,'' Omar said.

(NAN)

he Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) has led a coalition of other political parties in Gombe state in suing the Gombe State Independent Electoral Commission (GOSIEC) for charging fees for nomination forms before participating in the forthcoming Local Government Elections billed to hold soon.

The CPC Chairman, Audu Baba Kwami, told newsmen that they have filed a suit at the Gombe State High Court in protest against the various sums of money charged as fees for nomination forms for candidates vying for the three political offices in the local governments in the forth coming polls in the state.

According to him, “We consider that uncalled for, unconstitutional and we are challenging that decision. We have filed a matter on that and we are waiting for the date of mention for hearing”.

Baba who is also a lawyer argued that the law passed by the State House of Assembly over the nomination fee must conform with the provision the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria if not, it becomes null and void adding.

“The law of the state must be subject to the laws of the country, that is our position”, he stressed.

He added “We, the coalition and the leadership of the CPC are taking the responsibility because we represent the people more so; they gave us only six days to pay that huge sum of N500, 000.00 for Chairman, N250, 000.00 for Deputy Chairman and N150, 000.00 for councilors”.

He explained that the petition is seeking the court to declare as illegal the payment of the nomination fee charged by GOSIEC adding that they want the elections nullified even before going to the polls.

He explained further that even though election matters would go to the election petition tribunal, he however argued that once the fees were declared illegal, it means the elections would be illegal.

When asked why some of his party contestants paid the fee, he said they had to do that in protest because if they don’t do that, they would have no grounds for the protest especially after the election. He retorted that they can not protest against an election in which they have not participated.

Zamfara Speaker tasks indigenous contractors on quality service

T

he Speaker, Zamfara House of Assembly, Alhaji Sanusi Rikiji, yesterday urged indigenous construction companies to improve the quality of their services while handling government jobs or face sanctions.

Rikiji made the appeal at Gwalli village, Gummi Local Government Area, while inspecting the state government's roads covering Kebbe junction to Gwalli and Fass village. ``If our home based companies can provide quality service in the construction of roads and bridges, the state government will not invite foreign companies for the same project," he stated.

The speaker stated that in spite of the huge amount of money Nigerian government spent for the construction of roads and bridges, most of the companies handling the contracts were foreign. ``The only way our home made companies can be developed is for us to patronise and encourage them.''

Rikiji added that the state legislators carried out oversight functions of all government projects to make sure that public funds were spent according to the needs of the people. (NAN)

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

PAGE 39

Niger Assembly confirms 9 commissioners From Iliya Garba, Minna

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he Niger State House of Assembly has confirmed 9 commissioners as nominated by the state governor, Dr. Muazu Babangida Aliyu.

Six of the nominees including the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Daniel Sheshere, the state Head of Service (HOS) Ahmed Matene, Honourable Umar Nasko, and Permanent Secretary ministry of Finance, Mahmud Kpako Bello, were asked to take a bow before the lawmakers to grab express confirmation.

Other nominees that were drilled by the lawmakers included the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Professor Mohammed Yahaya Kuta, Joshua Bawa who was until now the Director General of MDGs in the state, Abdullahi Mamman, Barrister Abbas Bello and Mohammed Bashir Nuhu.

The Speaker, Alhaji Adamu Usman, who spoke to journalists shortly after the confirmation exercise said the injection of the new Commissioners would reinvigorate the Aliyu led administration.

Usman said the Assembly was working in partnership with other arms of government towards enhancing the overall speedy development of the state. While congratulating the appointees, teh Speaker advised them to give their best in their service to the state, adding that the lawmakers are confident that they will not disappoint the governor.

He explained that much was expected of the new commissioners that will soon be assigned portfolios, adding that "In the year 2013 if you tie it with the budget that has been passed, the people of the state should expect lots of development".

L-R: National Chairman, Democratic Peoples Party (DPP), Major- General Bashir Sali Magashi (rtd), DPP Chieftain, Lt-General Jeremiah Useni, former DPP Delta state governorship candidate, Sir Great Ogboru, and Vice-Chairman, Senate Committee on Marine Transport, Senator Akpor Pius Ewherido, during DPP National Executive Council meeting, on Wednesday in Abuja.

Photo: Justin Imo-Owo

Drama at Yola High court over PDP chairmanship seat From Umar Dankano,Yola

A

ppearance of two different lawyers claiming to be representing People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Adamawa state stalled court proceeding at a Yola High Court in a case over Madagali local government polls resulting to swiftly adjournment.

Reports indicated that the political battle between the deputy governor and the Speaker of the state Assembly over the control of

Madagali local government is yet to be over as one of the PDP local government aspirants had rushed to court seeking nullification of the election of the ‘Speaker’s political son’, Mr James Abawa Watharda.

Mr Maina Ularamu, the deputy governor’s backed aspirant, had filed a suit at the state High Court sitting in Yola seeking nullification of the election and nomination of Watharda as Madagali local government council chairman.

The plaintiff, Maina Waramu,

through his counsel A.C Ozioko, instituted the case before Justice Ambrose Mamadi of a High court in Yola alleging that the defendant, James Watharda, has alternated PDP nomination forms using 10th October 2012,while the genuine date for the party primaries was on 12th 0ctober 2012.

The plaintiff added that the defendant allegedly obtained a forged letter signed by the sacked National PDP secretary,Prince Olagunsaye Onyilola to pave his way for the victory of the

chairmanship of PDP,Madagali local government area.

The court proceedings could not hold yesterday as two different counsels appeared from both the factions of the Kugama and Madaki led PDP claiming to be genuine counsels of the party.

Ahmed Isa appeared for Madaki led PDP while Ayo Akam appeared for Kugama led faction and ADSIEC just as Barrister Udo emphatically claimed to be the only lawyer detailed by the commission to stand on its behalf.

Why we’ve not convened PDP NEC, by Olisa Metuh Contiuned from page 37 I think the issue of Kalu is for the local government, the state to handle and the zone before it comes to national. As at today, Monday 11 February, we’ve not had any official communication from any organ of the party on this issue. I’m aware that the entire Abia state Exco paid a courtesy call on the National Chairman and the working committee and stated that they were not ready to receive the former governor back into the party. However Nigerians are aware that there has been a controversy one month ago on whether he indeed entered the party or not. I read in the papers; I would not reach a decision on what I read in the papers and I don’t think the party is being run by what we read in the papers.

If the President (Goodluck Jonathan) decides to run, does the party consider giving him an automatic ticket?

The best think to say would have been no comment but in our practice of transparency, I can tell you that under the constitution of

this party and the way we run our programmes, we are going to have primaries in 2015. We are completely unaware of any move to change the constitution of the party. The constitution that we have that was passed at the last National Convention provides that we must have state and national convention.

At some time, do you consider the amendment of PDP constitution before 2015?

A constitution can be amended at any time if the members decide to do so or when the situation arises.

I’m just telling you what the law is as at now. Even the constitution of the country is being amended, the constitution of the party can be amended if they decide to.

You will notice that in line with my avouched commitment to be transparent in enlightening the public about the affairs of the party especially through this office. I would not want the interview to end by dwelling on the inadequacies of my party, I would like highlight that this is only national party we have in this country today that believes in the

unity of the country ; it is important to say that no single person owns the PDP; PDP does not belong to any tribe, any religion, any individual. The party is bigger than anybody; it is bigger than any division and differences that exist in the present Nigeria. This is the party that believes in complete unity of Nigeria; that makes Nigeria one and stable for a long time to come; this is the party that has saved our democracy. This party has stabilized the economy of this country amidst global financial meltdown. We have a growth rate of 7-9 percent of economy; it is commendable; it is among the best in the world. We know that people expected a lot from the PDP government, yes, we have not done as much as we planned to do. The global financial meltdown is part of the reasons.

On the issue of corruption, the PDP is the only party in Nigeria addressing corruption. We are the only party that exposed corrupt practices among our members, even our leaders and people that are related or children of our leaders. There is no other party in

this country that accepted that there is corruption among their members. Even when people that are in the House of Assembly and their Speaker have something to do with corruption, their party keeps mute and they cover them.

Does it mean that it is only the corrupt people that enter the PDP? No. We know that corruption is endemic among the various sectors of this country.

However President Goodluck Jonathan has decided to increase the bite against corruption by being very transparent at exposing people who are close to him involved in corruption. We expect other parties, whether they have merged or about to merge to start this fight against corruption.

We want people to note that the PDP has been fighting for the unity of this country. This party ha enthroned democracy.

The President has ensured the conduct of the free and fair elections in this country; that is a major achievement. In the next two to four months, if they are lucky and there is another national party, you will have another body to

write about their problems. What we have gone through in the past twelve years, another party would go through same.

How prepared is the PDP to prosecute election in Anambra state by 2014?

Anambra is PDP; it has always been PDP. It is only the problem of unity amongst the members that we have. The people have the out of power in the state long time; I believe our stakeholders and members in Anambra are tired of being outside state government. They are ready to embrace peace and they are now working with each other. Once there is peace in the PDP in Anambra, there is no gang-up of parties, no merger of opposition can stop the PDP from winning the governorship election in Anambra state in 2014. As one of the leaders of the party from Anambra, I quietly engaged in various meetings to ensure that there is peace in Anambra and the leader of the party in Anambra, the Minister of Aviation, has been very matured in handling the affairs of the party in the state.

PAGE 40

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

Succeeding as a female journalist is tough-Kaltume Shall Kaltume Abdullahi Shall is a seasoned journalist and principal officer with the marketing department of the Bauchi State Television and the Chairperson, National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) Bauchi state Chapter. In this interview with Ahmed Kaigam, she spoke about her experience in journalism, her plans for NAWOJ in Bauchi among others. Excerpts: Tell us about yourself? am Kaltumi Abdullahi Shall. I work with the Bauchi State Television as a presenter and I have been working with the station for sixteen years now. I rose to become the head of presentation and presently I am in the marketing department as principal officer.

What informed your decision to become a journalist?

I have been dreaming of becoming a journalist since I was a child. After my Primary education, my father enrolled me in an Arabic secondary school, to be precise, Women Arabic Teachers’ College, Alkaleri in Bauchi State. I protested the decision because it was not what I wanted as my dream was to go to a western school and later become a newscaster.

Despite my protest, my father insisted I go to the Arabic school and since I had no option, I had to obey my father’s instructions. After my secondary school, I proceeded to the University of Jos to study diploma in Mass Communication to enable me fulfill my dream, and luckily enough, when I graduated from the university, I was employed by the Bauchi State owned Television as a presenter where I rose to my present position.

What is your perception of the lifestyle of women journalists?

Once you introduce yourself as a journalist in a public place, people regard you as someone who is over exposed because they feel you are wayward and sometimes when you are in a relationship, men avoid making commitment. I agree women journalists are exposed but not the way people wrongly perceive them.

With 16 years of experience, how do you overcome those challenges?

Actually it is not always easy in the beginning as female journalist getting a husband is very difficult because you need to get somebody that knows the implications of the job or somebody who is in the same profession as you, because you can be called upon to work at any time of the day even if you have children. If your partner does not

I

Kaltume Abdullahi Shall appreciate or tolerate your job certainly, there is going be a problem. As a mother you have to take care of your children and your job is waiting for you also, so you must have a husband that understands to be able to surmount the challenges that are enormous.

What advice would you give to young female journalists in Nigeria?

I will advise them to strive hard to see that they contribute to the development of the country and to attain a certain position in their career because things have changed and people must work hard to

attain certain positions.

You were recently elected as the chairperson of Bauchi State Chapter of NAWOJ. What are your plans for the union?

Well, we have outlined many plans during my campaign. We pledged to form elders forum where veteran journalists, senior journalists and present leaders of the association in the state, will meet to discuss the way forward and make consultations. I believe by this, we will tap their vast experience and knowledge.

That plan is in the pipeline and we will soon inaugurate

“

We pledged to form elders forum where veteran journalists, senior journalists and present leaders of the association in the state, will meet to discuss the way forward and make consultations. I believe by this, we will tap their vast experience and knowledge

members of the forum. We are also focusing our attention on girl child education in the state by way of educating, sensitising and enlightening parents on the need for the girl child, especially in the northern part of the country to be educated because we believe in women education and we are beneficiaries of girl child education so, we will not sit down and watch our girls hawk on the streets. There is a saying that “if you educate a woman, you educate all”. We will also focus on immunisation and the need to accept immunisation programme in our communities.

On the issue of polio, we will collaborate with the stakeholders to see how we can enlighten the general public, especially our women on the need to allow their children to receive immunization. You can see that I have a lot of plans before my tenure expires.

The issue of hawking among girls is becoming a menace in the society, especially in this part of the country. As a stakeholder what is your take on that?

Yes, we are going to embark

on proper girl child education in collaboration with the ministry of education in the state to see how we can assist parents and guardians of those girls because most of them tell you that they cannot afford school fees which means that they don’t send their children to school. So we decided with those in the sector to see how parents can be assisted to send their children to school instead of hawking on the streets. We will try to see that we sensitise parents on how we can bring up those girls properly and we have started working on that.

Your leadership has started paying courtesy visits to traditional rulers, organisations and ministries in the state. What do want to archive?

Actually we have started with visitation and the essence was to get the association familiar with the stakeholders in the state and to see how we can collaborate and help each other. The visit gives us the opportunity to see how we will forge ahead.

We are deliberating with the ministry of education on the girl child education, and we have been able to come up with the issue of training our female journalists to be computer literate. This will soon take off because we are now in a global village where the internet has made things a lot easier, and if you are not computer literate you may find yourself incompetent.

Any appeal to government, parents and stakeholders?

Yes in our visitations, wherever we go our emphasis was on girl child education and we have been calling on the government to assist towards that direction and we feel as journalists, we have access to all stakeholders in the state because of the nature of our job ,so we feel we should go closer to the government and see how we can improve on the education of girl child and as the mouth piece of the public, we hear from the public and take it to government, we get from government and take it to the general public and parents should endeavour to listen to our enlightenment campaigns coming soon because girl child education has a lot of advantages to both parents and children.

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

PAGE 41

‘Big Boss’ Keshi fails backroom staff

S

uper Eagles backroom staff are disappointed coach Stephen Keshi has not fought for them after they missed out on the government’s largesse.

Keshi, his assistant coaches and players were rewarded by Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan with national honours and plots of land in Abuja for winning the 2013 AFCON. But the backroom staff like equipment manager, security

and medical staff attached to the team were only given N2 million each.

The Eagles will this week be in Delta and Akwa Ibom States for special victory receptions by the respective state governments without most of these shattered backroom staff.

One of the backroom staff told a wire service that: “We worked hard for this team, but when it came to reaping the reward of our

hard work, we were virtually left out.

“Keshi has still not deemed it fit to make it known to the Presidency that he did not win this trophy only with his coaches and players, but some of us who had to work round the clock to ensure everything was in place for the team.

“Do you know that in 2005, when Samson Siasia led Nigeria

By Patrick Andrew

V

exed issues which had prompted the sudden resignation of the Head Coach of the Super Eagles, Stephen Keshi, some 24 hours after winning the AFCON trophy, will be ironed out when the executive committee of the NFF meet with the coach within the next few days.

Albeit Keshi had been persuaded by the leadership of the National Assembly and the Sports Minister to rescind his decision, the football federation has insisted that it remains in the dark about the ‘issues’ Keshi had adduced as reasons for his resignation.

Accordingly, the board plans a session where Keshi will be allowed to bare his heart on the grievances that had prompted his resignation and the subsequent bad blood it generated against the leadership of the football federation.

Emeka Inyama, Chairman of the NFF Media Sub-committee, disclosed yesterday while reiterating that Keshi had not formally intimated the football federation with complaints of any form either while in Nigeria or in South Africa.

“There are no issues. We don’t

NFF plans crucial meeting over Keshi’s grievances know what issues people are talking about because as I speak with you now, Keshi has not presented any complaint, whether written or verbal, to us.

“We remain the biggest supporters of Keshi because we

...To name new coach for Super Falcons, technical director soon

T

he NFF will within the next couple of days named a new Super Falcons as it gets set to kick-start fresh programme of regeneration of senior women national team players.

Also, the file of the long awaited technical director for the football federation will be re-opened and efforts make to close the deal on that without further delay.

Emeka Inyama, the spokesman of the board of the NFF, dropped the hint yesterday stressing that the federation was working to empanel a new technical crew for the Super Falcons.

“A new technical crew will be put in place to overhaul the team and prepare for the qualifying series for the 2015 FIFA Women Cup finals, which will take place in Canada,” he said.

...Clears Obuh’s salary arrears

T

he 13 months salary arrears owed the technical crew of the Flying Eagles may have been cleared yesterday.

The Spokesman of the board of the NFF hinted yesterday that the football federation was to pay the arrears before the close of work yesterday.

However, John Obuh and his assistants declined to confirm the development but admitted that the federation had promised to ‘do something’ following his repeated complaint over their indebtedness to the crew.

However, Inyama said he was not in the know of the similar issue with the Super sand Eagles who have not been paid their allowances since year’s FIFA World Cup fiesta. The team lost in the quarterfinals.

availed him all that he requested for including making provisions for top grade friendly matches.

We were in shock when the matter of his resignation was reported in the media because we were never previous presented with any complaint,” he said.

Peoples Daily Sports recalls that Keshi had allegedly to say that his decision to opt out of the saddle of the Eagles’ helmsman was necessitated by the insensitivity of the NFF, their interference a n d overbearing influence on his job. “ T o start with, the NFF employed Stephen K e s h i , raised his s a l a r y from the recommended N3m to N 5 m monthly, created the enabling environment to succeed: through

motivation and incentives,” he said fair-weather friends only ceased the occasion of the victory and alleged issues to deny the NFF due recognition.

Further, Inyama said yesterday that football federation was embarrassed by the development and remained in shock since it neither knew the reasons nor had been offered the needed opportunity to address matter of Keshi’s grievances before it became an issue.

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THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. PASTOR PETER OLATUNBOSUN 2. PASTOR MRS. FAVOUR OLATUNBOSUN 3. PASTOR JOHNSON OLONADE MEMBER AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO PROPAGATE THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: BASIRU OLUMUYIWA 08062073630, 0802127262

to win the AYC, his backroom staff were left out by the government, but he was prompt to point out this omission to President Olusegun Obasanjo and they were each given 500,000 Naira, just like other members of the squad?”

Another backroom staff added: “This was a person who was known to fight for others when he was skipper of the national team.

That was why he got the nickname ‘Big Boss’. But this is not the case now. “If anybody could convince the President to consider us, that person would be Keshi because he now has direct access to Jonathan.”

President general of the Nigerian Supporters Club Rafiu Ladipo received a standing ovation on Wednesday when he pointed out that the Eagles backroom staff were overlooked by President Jonathan.

It was further gathered that while Keshi has failed to get his staff to be better appreciated, skipper Joseph Yobo has done everything to make sure that is not the case where he is in a position to do so.

Yobo made sure each squad member received $2,500 from the $100,000 Rivers State Governor Rotimi Ameachi donated to the team after they were forced to a 1-1 draw in their opening group game against Burkina Faso.

He has also maintained he will do same with other donations received from telecommunications tycoon Michael Adenuja, business mongul Aliko Dangote among others.

DR Congo bids to host Afcon 2019

T

he Democratic Republic of Congo has put forward its candidacy to stage the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, the country’s sports minister Baudouin Banza Mukalay Nsungu revealed on yesterday.

“The DR Congo is an applicant for the candidates (to host) the 2019 AFCON tournament,” Banza Mukalay said.

“I put the dossier into the hands of the Fecofa (Congolese football federation), which has already passed it onto Caf (the Confederation of African Football).

We await the specifications, which we will fill calmly,” added the sports minister.

The competition would effectively be held at two venues, in the Congolese capital Kinshasa and the southeastern city of Lumbumbashi.

However, Banza Mukalay also said that a stadium in the western city of Matadi would also be ready for the 2019 showpiece, while Kisangani could also stage matches.

PAGE 44

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

Super Eagles and hypocrisy of celebration

F

ailure is an orphan. Oh, how true! In case anyone was in doubt, the frenzy with which everyone suddenly identified with the Super Eagles leaves no option for second-guessing. The African champions hitherto Super Chickens are suddenly the toasts of the same corporate interests that had kept their distance from the team as they would leeches.

And the passionate soccer fans?

Oh, as passionate as ever. Theirs is understandable: they want the best, are willing to commit their all to the glory of the team. They neither travel at state expense nor enjoy estacodes. So, when they choose to heckle the team for perceived non-performance, who can fault them?

Sure, this must remind one of the first two matches when the Eagles struggled to blend and gel.

Expectedly, the passionate fans seethed and reeled in anger. They were justified especially Eagles

having missed the immediate past tournament and therefore had denied them the joy and excitement of the fiesta in Gabon/Equatorial Guinea.

Then came the threats to the Stephen Keshi. Of course, who else but the same NFF technical committee infamous for midwifing failures yet remained blinded to its shortfalls. Imagine!

The same elements that had spurned the rebuilding efforts of Keshi while mouthing support went a step further to dictate who should or shouldn't play, what pattern and formation Keshi should adopt to tackle each opponents. You just wonder, whose prerogative?

They seldom missed the opportunity to stretch their advisory role to ridiculous degree.

That's its stock in trade. They did it to Samson Siasia but refused to share in the woes they created for him, instead booted him out. Ask Eucharia Uche, whom they hobnobbed with only to disown when things went

awry. What about Edat Egan, Peter Dedevbo etc. It's a dirge they love droning out to victims.

Is it only the technical committee that merits the tag of fair-weather friends? No. What role did the National Sports Commission (NSC) really play?

None, to be precise. In fact, none was expected, perhaps the usual browbeating of officials.

That takes one to the matter of Keshi's resignation and the sudden display of the spirit of Daniel? He comes to Zion by resolving the embarrassment of the nation stands to suffer were Keshi allowed to bow out even as the dust of his AFCON still hovers in the air. But pray! Who first muted the idea of sacking Keshi to the NFF? Of course, our Honourable Minister of Sports. Yes, the same fellow that led the charge to appease Keshi and negotiate his turnaround.

Yes, the same fellow that led the Eagles with pomp and pageantry to present the covetous AFCON trophy Mr President while

WATCH DOG

consciously smirking at the NFF officials, whose shine he took away with aristocratic disdain.

Anyone with half a logical mind could perceive the air with which the NFF was disdainfully relegated to ignominy. Not a word of commendation by Mr President for its efforts to prepare the team for success!

Well, whatever the football federation got from the supervisory commission, it may be deserved considering the naivety of its leadership: The lack of credibility, vision and seeming want of direction in objective, focus and planning.

Just anyone with the pretense of authority could cow the NFF leadership and management into submission. The reasons remain as clear and palpable as the air: any

By Patrick Andrew

owoidoho_ng35@yahoo.com beggar is a servant. And the NFF despite being a goldmine with products that could be world class brand lying idle even as they wallow in ignominious poverty and always going cap in hand to the government for aid.

Beyond this, the executive committee of the NFF is a mixbag of confusion, strange bedfellows, with no-love-lost for each other. And there are cleavages: Aminu Maigari's loyalists, Chris Green's advocates, elements aggrieved

by the ouster of Victor Baribote, those that saw the hands of Maigari and clique in the removal of clout less Baribote. The state FAs chairmen, who want relevance and see it in aligning with whichever side offers their desire, the fate of the game notwithstanding.

Never forget the Sani Lulu Man Fridays, who while dining with the board harbour no little bile against the members for plotting the disgraceful exit of their man.

They reel with laughter for every false steps and smirk behind Maigari yet applaud and egg him on into the cesspool of administrative miasma. And what blind moves have been made. This column will disclose some subsequently.

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PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

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THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED MINISTRY HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION WITH THE CORPRATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT OF 1990 THE TRUSTEES ARE 1.PASTOR MOSES UMOLE 2.PASTOR MRS. DORATHY UMOLE 3.ELDER JOSEPH ACHIMUGU 4.MR. CHISOM ELIYIAJU 5.MR. ELIJAH JOHN 6.MR. OBIORA ODUDU 7.MRS. SUZAN ORUCHE 8.MRS. OBIANGELI ODIELI AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1.TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST. 2.TO REACHOUT TO THE LESS PRIVILEDGE. ANY OBJECTIONS TO THE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSIONS’ WUSE ZONE 5, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SINED: SECRETARY

PUBLIC NOTICE

GREAT NIGERIA YOUTHS FOR PEACE INITIATIVES THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED INITIATIVES HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION WITH THE CORPRATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT OF 1990 THE TRUSTEES ARE 1.ALHAJI SAMBO LAWAL -CHAIRMAN 2.APOSTLE (DR) ABRAHAM EZAZA -SECRETARY 3.MR. AUGUSTINE OGBONNA 4.MR. USMAN JOHN GBAYA AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1.TO COME TOGETHER AND MOBILIZE THE ENTIRE NIGERIAN YOUTHS TO EMBRACE PEACE FOR NATIONAL UNITY AND STABILITY OF NIGERIA. 2.TO CONTINUALLY PROMOTE NATIONAL PROGRAMS FOR THE EDUCATION, EMPOWERMENT AND ADVANCEMENT OF THE NIGERIAN YOUTHS BOTH SKILLED AND THE UNSKILLED IN THE SOCIETY. 3.TO ENCOURAGE THE NIGERIA YOUTHS TO WORK HARD AND LIVE TOGETHER IN LOVE AND UNITY THEREBY PROMOTING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND HARMONIOUS RELATIONSHIP ACROSS THE COUNTRY. ANY OBJECTIONS TO THE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSIONS’ WUSE ZONE 5, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SINED: PRECIOUS OREVA-OGHENE OKORO OPTIMA CHAMBERS, SUITE 210, HIS GLORY PLAZA, OFF ADETOKUNBO ADEMOLA CRESCENT, WUSE 2, ABUJA. 08037159423, 08098150952

LECAL NOTICE GOMBE STATE NOTICE

IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE PROBATE DIVISION, GOMBE, GOMBE STATE WHEREAS the person/persons whose name is set out in the first column here under died in testate on the date and at the place stated in the column.

AND WHEREAS the person/persons whose address and claimed relationship to the deceased person/persons is set out in the second column hereunder has applied to “High Court of Justice, Gombe for grant” LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION” of the property/ies of the said deceased NOTICE is hereby given that “LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION” will be granted to such person/persons unless NOTICE TO PROHIBIT the grant thereof is filed in the probate Registry High Court of Justice, Gombe within twenty one (21) days of publication of this notice.

SCHEDULE DECEASED APPLICANTS FOR GRANT 1.Ladi Yusuf Shu’aibu of Ministry Isa Ezra Yunusa of Kalmai Quarters of Education Gombe, who died on the The Son of the deceased.

3rd January, 2013.at Gombe Billiri.

2.Ya’u Yusuf of Upper Benue Mohammed Ya’u and Alhaji Auwal Ya’u River Basin Authority of Dadin Kowa of Dadin Kowa. who died on the The Sons of the deceased.

18th July, 2007 at Dadin Kowa.

3.Adamu Ali of PHCN Rahanatu Adamu and Umaru Adamu of Transmission Station Gombe, Checheniya Quarters Gombe. who died on the 6th June, 2012 The Widow and Son of the deceased.

4.Musa Kish of N.P.F Nasarawa Felicia Ibrahim of ECWA Goodnews State Command, who Died on Church Kumo Akko LGA. The Sister of the 18th January, 2009 the deceased. at Nasarawa.

DATED AT GOMBE THIS 11TH DAY OF FEBRUARY, 2013.

PROBATE REGISTRY, HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE, GOMBE, GOMBE STATE.

Signed:- Moh’d Auwal Haruna Esq CHIEF REGISTRAR HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE, GOMBE

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION WITH THE CORPRATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT OF 1990 THE TRUSTEES ARE 1.MARCUS EDIBOGI AKOR 2.ESTHER UNE THOMAS 3.MICHAEL AKOR 4.ODHO OKENYODO DIEGO 5.BASHIRU WILLIAMS AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1.TO ENLIGHTEN THE YOUTH ON HOW TO DEVELOP THEIR TALENTS. ANY OBJECTIONS TO THE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSIONS’ WUSE ZONE 5, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

CHANGE OF NAME I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ALIYU MAIGARI, NOW WISHED TO BE ADDRESSED AS SULEMAN BAPPAH. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. DARAZO L.G., BAUCHI AND GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTICE.

CHANGE OF NAME

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ASSEMBLY HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION WITH THE CORPRATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT OF 1990 THE TRUSTEES ARE 1.REV. DENNIS AZANO WILLIAMS 2.REV. MRS. MARY MADINA WILLIAMS 3.COL. MORRIS OKORO IDEH (RTD.) 4.PROF. GREG AVWIRI 5.EVANG. MUSA MOSES 6.MRS. JANET EKHATOR 7.PROF. CHINEDU CHRIS CHUKUEGGU AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1.TO PREACH THE GOSPEL. ANY OBJECTIONS TO THE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSIONS’ WUSE ZONE 5, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

SINED: BARR. H. M. ELECHI 08063289831

SINED: SECRETARY

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

FIRE OF LIBERTY CHRISTIAN MINISTRY

SUSTAINABLE LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED MINISTRY HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION WITH THE CORPRATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT OF 1990 THE TRUSTEES ARE 1.PASTOR BABATUNDE ADEWEMIMO -PRESIDENT 2.MRS. OLAKUNBI YUSUF -MEMBER 3.DEMOLA SALAMI ESQ. -LEGAL ADVISER 4.ISAC AKINBINU -MEMBER AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1.TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST ALL OVER THE WORLD. 2.TO LEAD PEOPLE TO CHRIST AND FOR THEIR SALVATION. ANY OBJECTIONS TO THE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSIONS’ WUSE ZONE 5, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SINED: BARR. CHINEDU AMANAMBA 0803875286, 08098919318

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION WITH THE CORPRATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT OF 1990 THE TRUSTEES ARE 1.PROF. BABATUNDE IPAYE (CHAIRMAN) 2.DR. PHILIP POWELL-DAVIES (ADVISER) 3.DR. PEJU ESIMAI (ADVISER) 4.MR. AKINWUMI OLADAPO OKE (CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER) 5.DR. YETUNDE FOLASADE OKE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1.TO OWN AND OPERATE A CENTRE FOR SUSTAINABLE LEADERSHIP THAT WILL OFFER SUSTAINABLE LEADERSHIP TRAINING AND RESEARCH. 2.HOSTING OF LEADERSHIP EVENTS, CONFERENCES AND SOCIAL ADVOCACY PROGRAMMES. 3.PROMOTE SUSTAINABLE LEADERSHIP AND INNOVATION IN PUBLIC AND PRIVATE INSTITUTIONS. 4.PROMOTE SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP DEVELOPMENT AND RESEARCH. ANY OBJECTIONS TO THE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSIONS’ WUSE ZONE 5, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SINED: U.K. AGBANYIM & ASSOCIATES. 07060853027

PUBLIC NOTICE

CHANGE OF NAME

OMUO YOUTH FORUM OMUO-EKITI

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MAIUNGUWA HAMMAYO, NOW WISHED TO BE ADDRESSED AS UMAR ALIYU YERIMA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. DARAZO L.G., BAUCHI AND GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTICE.

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FORUM HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION WITH THE CORPRATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT OF 1990 THE TRUSTEES ARE 1.SOLOMON OGUNBUSOLA 2.DR. GBENGA JEGEDE 3.MR. AKINWUMI CHARLES ADEMOLA AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1.TO PROMOTE UNITY AMONG THE OMUO YOUTHS. ANY OBJECTIONS TO THE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSIONS’ WUSE ZONE 5, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SINED: BARR. IWUAGWU NNAMDI

CHANGE OF NAME I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS. FATIMA YAKUBU BALARABE, NOW WISHED TO BE ADDRESSED AS MRS. FATIMA LAWAN ADAMU ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. BAUCHI L.G.A. AND GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTICE.

CHANGE OF NAME I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS DAYYANA GIJINA, NOW WISHED TO BE ADDRESSED AS MUHAMMAD ABDULLAHI D..

ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. ITAS GADU L.G., BAUCHI AND GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTICE.

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

PAGE 43

CHANGE OF NAME

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS. BAMIRE VICTORIA FUNSHO, NOW WISHED TO BE ADDRESSED AS MRS. OMONIYI VICTORIA FUNSHO ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. OSUN STATE, ODO OTIN L.G.A. AND GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTICE.

YOUTHS FOR CHANGE CLUB

GREAT NIGERIA PATRIOTIC AND DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE

LOSS OF DOCUMENT THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THE LOSS OF ORIGINAL OFFER LETTER WITH PLOT NO 2891, WITH OLD FILE NO: IM 2196 AND NEW FILE NO IM43080 MEASURING 1,250SQM LOCATED AT JIKOYI VILLAGE EXTENSION LAYOUT ISSUED IN FAVOUR OF DR. THEODORE I. ONYECHE GOT LOST AND WAS DULLY REPORTED TO POLICE STATION . ALL EFFORT TO GET IT BACK HAS PROVED ABORTIVE. IF FOUND, PLEASE RETURN TO THE NEAREST POLICE STATION. AGIS, AMAC FCT AND GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CLUB HAS APPLIED TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. UDOM NGOZI FLORA (MRS) 2. UDOM JANET -PRESIDENT 3. UMMI MOHAMMED 4. MRS AISHA MOHAMMED AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO HELP BUILD RELATIONSHIP AND FOSTER THE ELEMENTS OF LIVING TOGETHER IN THE COMMUNITY THROUGH WORKING TOGETHER AND SUPPORTING EACH OTHER TO DEVELOP SOCIAL SKILL. 2. TO PROMOTE THE CENTER AMONG GROUPS AND ORGANIZATION WITH PARTICULAR FOCUS ON THE RURAL OR URBAN DEPRIVATION. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420,TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET MAITAMA P.M.B 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED INITIATIVE HAS APPLIED TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. OBINNA JOSEPH 2. BAYO OSENI 3. NDUBUISI OGBONNAYA 4. ZAKARIYYA UMAR 5. KOLA SHITTU 6. GABRIEL ERETCHABOR 7. JIDEOFOR AKPA AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO FOSTER AND ENCOURAGE THE BUILDING OF A NIGERIAN SOCIETY ROOTED IN THE FOUNDATION OF FREEDON, EQUALITY, SOLIDARITY, JUSTICE, TOLERANCE, LOVE, PEACE AND UNITY. 2. TO UPHOLD, PROPAGATE AND PREACH AT ALL TIME AND IN ALL PLACES LOVE FOR NIGERIA AND FOR ITS PEOPLE. 3. TO UPHOLD OUR UNITY, DISSEMINATE THE CONCEPT OF ONE INDIVISIBLE NIGERIA, CREATED BY GOD AND ORDAINED TO FULFILL ITS DESTINY AS ONE. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420,TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET MAITAMA P.M.B 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

SIGNED CIGAK ASSOCIATES

SIGNED SECERTARY

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

CATHOLIC INFORMATION APOSTOLATE INITIATIVE

OKUN HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED INITIATIVE HAS APPLIED TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, NO. 1 OF 1999.

THE TRUSTEES ARE : BROTHER CHIKE NWOSU. PRESIDENT SISTER CAROLINE IBETO. SECRETARY BROTHER VINCENT U. NWOSU. TREASURER BROTHER AUGUSTINE OGBONNA. MEMBER AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO DISSEMINATE INFORMATION ABOUT THE CATHOLIC DOCTRINE AND FAITH AMONG CATHOLICS AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC. 2. TO SPREAD THE WORD OF GOD, WITH EMPHASIS ON THE CATHOLIC PERCEPTION, VALUE AND CULTURE. 3. TO REVIVE THE FAITH, REKINDLE FAITH, HOPE AND LOVE AND UNITE EFFORTS OF ALL FAITHFUL FOR THE SALVATION OF SOULS. 4. TO CARRY OUT EVANGELISM FOR THE SPIRITUAL GROWTH, ADVANCEMENTS AND DEEPER APPRECIATION OF THE CHURCH BY THE FAITHFUL. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS APPLICATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, AGUINYI IRONSI CLOSE, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYSOF THIS PUBLICATION.

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. DR ALORI SAMUEL DARE 2. DR. BALASIRE OJO 3. PHARM. AIYEGBAJEJE JOHN 4. HON JUSTICE OLOWOSEGUN JOHN 5. MRS. OJUEKAIYE COMFORT 6. ENGR. ELEFIN EMMANUEL 7. MR ROTIMI TOLUHI 8. MR KINRINOLA EMMANUEL 9. ENGR. OLORUNNAIYE ZACCHEUS AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1.TO PROVIDE FREE MEDICAL SERVICES TO THE PEOPLE OF OKUNLAND. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420,TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET MAITAMA P.M.B 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

PRAISE THE LORD CHRISTIAN CENTRE THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CENTRE HAS APPLIED TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. PASTOR SAMMY ANTAI 2. PASTOR BRIDGET ANTAI 3. MRS PEACE ONYEGBUNA 4. PASTOR GIDEON ANAETO 5. PASTOR NAPOLEON AGBAIDU AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST ALL OVER THE WORLD. 2. TO ESTABLISH LOCAL BRANCHES FOR THE PROPAGATION OF THE GOSPEL WORLDWIDE. 3. TO ORGANISE OUTREACH, CRUSADES, SEMINARS, WORKSHOP AND REVIVAL SERVICES FOR THE WORK OF THE GOSPEL. 4. TO WIN SOULS FOR THE KINGDOM OF GOD. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420,TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET MAITAMA P.M.B 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

SIGNED BARR. (MRS) ALMA NNEBE.

SIGNED ELIM LEGAL CONSULT OLOWONONI EMMANUEL 08036396978

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

D’ANGELS MOTORCYCLE CLUB OF NIGERIA

HAND OF GOD CHARITY FOUNDATION

FRIENDS OF HUMANITY AND EDUCATION FOUNDATION

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. MR INNOCENT OKONKWO 2. MRS CHIKA OKONKWO - CHAIRMAN 3. MISS CHINAECHEREM OKONKWO 4. MR THOMAS OKERE 5. MRS FLORENCE ANUSIOBI 6. MRS CLEMENTINA UDEGBUNAM 7. MRS PATRICIA PETERS - SECRETARY AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO ASSIST WIDOWS IN BUILDING THEIR CAPACITY TO MAKE THEM ECONOMICALLY INDEPENDENT. 2. TO HELP, NUTURE AND DEMONSTRATE AND ASSIST THE ABANDON BABIES, ORPHANGES AND LESS PRIVILEGED. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420,TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET MAITAMA P.M.B 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. ABUBAKAR ASUVA MUSARI - CHAIRMAN 2. YEKINI ISHA OKINO 3. RUFAI SADIQ 4. ISHIAKA MOMOH OBAITOR 5. ABDULGANIU MUSA 6. MASHOOD LAMIDI 7. MOMOHSANNI LAWAL OMEIZA 8. IBRAHIM JIBRIL ADAVIE 9. ABDULHAKEEM ABDULSALAM OSITE - SECRETARY AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO IDENTIFY AND SUPPLY EDUCATIONAL/INSTRUTIONAL MATERIALS TO SCHOOLS. 2. ASSISTING THE LESS PRIVILEGE STUDENTS IN PAYING THEIR SCHOOL FEES AND OTHER LEVIES. 3. ORGANISING AND COORDINATING FORUMS FOR ENLIGTENMENT OF SOCIETY ON IMPORTANCE OF EDUCATION. 4. ORGANISING ROUTINE MAINTENANCE PROGRAMMES FOR HOSPITALS. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420,TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET MAITAMA P.M.B 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CLUB HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANY AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE; 1.NNENNAYA .O. OFFOR 2.JEMINAT AROMIRE OLAWORE 3.UTIBE - ABASI NKANGA 4. JOANN OTARU THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1. TO PROMOTE NETWORKING AMONG FEMALE BIKERS AND WOMEN WHO BELIEVE IN OUR GOALS. 2 .TO EMPOWER WOMEN THROUGH SEMINARS, TRAINING AND EDUCATION. ANY OBJECTION TO THE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED; NNENNAYA .O. OFFOR

SIGNED ATABOH & CO SUITE 212 ANBEEZ PLAZA ZONE 5, WUSE ABUJA 08027439246, 08054492707

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

REHOBOTH FRUITFUL VINE BIBLE MINISTRY

TABERNACLE OF LIFE FOR ALL NATIONS

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED MINISTRY HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT OF 1990 THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. APOSTLE EMMANUEL OKECHUKWU NWACHUKWU 2. EVANGELIST RUTH CHINYERE NWACHUKWU 3. EVANGELIST REAL OGUH 4. BRO. CHUKWUEMEKA GABRIEL CHIKELU 5. DEACONESS JANET ENAIBRE 6. SIS. IRENE ADAKU EGWE 7. BRO. JUDE AUGUSTINE AIMS & OBJECTIVES: 1. TO FULFILL THE GREAT COMMISSION OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST IN THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA AND BEYOND. 2. TO PREACH AND MINISTER THE WORD OF GOD TO PRISON INMATES AND TO RENDER SUCH ASSISTANCE THAT MAY BE NEEDED FOR THE REHABILITATION OF THOSE DISCHARGED INTO SOCIETY WITH A NEW LIFE OF TRANSFORMATION AND REGENERATION. 3. TO CARRY ON PRINTING AND PUBLICATION SERVICES OF PRINTED MATTERS SUCH AS BOOKS, TRACTS, MAGAZINES, LEAFLETS, NEWS BULLETINS, MUSIC AND LITERATURE COMPATIBLES WITH THE PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES OF THE MINISTRY. ANY OBJECTION TO THE REGISTRATION MUST REACH THE REGISTRARGENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 555 NDOLA SQUARE, WUSE ZONE 5, ABUJA, WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: R.O SAMUEL ESQ. 41, PIKE STREET, LAGOS ISLAND, LAGOS.

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED BODY HAS APPLIED TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. PASTOR OGHIADOMHE INOPE INNOCENT 2. OMOROGBE GIFT ESE 3. PROPHETESS PHILOMINA OGHIADOMHE 4. MRS LOUSY MONDAY 5. EDITH IDEMUDIA 6. MR JAMES ADEDEJI 7. MR NWOBI ANTHONY AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST ALL OVER THE WORLD. 2. TO ESTABLISH LOCAL BRANCHES FOR THE PROPAGATION OF THE GOSPEL WORLDWIDE. 3. TO ORGANISE OUTREACH, CRUSADES, SEMINARS, WORKSHOP AND REVIVAL SERVICES FOR THE WORK OF THE GOSPEL. 4. TO WIN SOULS FOR THE KINGDOM OF GOD. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420,TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET MAITAMA P.M.B 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED MIKE ADINYE

SIGNED MIKE ADINYE

SIGNED YAKUBU MADEH ESQ 08036288040

PUBLIC NOTICE

ELDER CITIZENS OF LAGOS INITIATIVE THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED INITIATIVE HAS APPLIED TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.ELDER (CHIEF) ABDULFATAHI OLATUNJI KASUMU 2.CHIEF OLUFEMI BENSON (JP) 3.ELDER PASTOR (DR.) ALBERT OLUFUNSO OWOLABI 4.ELDER (CHIEF) MATHEW AKINWUNMI AYANWALE 5.DR. BOLA ADEYEMI 6.CHIEF TAOHEED AFOLORUNSHO LAWAL 7.ELDER SIMEON OLUSEGUN EKIBAJO 8.ELDER OLUFEMI SIYAN FAWOLE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1.TO SEE TO THE WELFARE AND WELL BEING OF SENIOR CITIZENS OF LAGOS IN PARTICULAR AND NIGERIA AT LARGE. 2.TO EFFECTIVELY REPRESENT THE INTEREST OF OLD PEOPLE IN LAGOS STATE IN OTHER TO ACCESS PRIVILEGES AND RESOURCES PROVIDED FOR SENIOR CITIZEN BY GOVERNMENT AT ALL LEVELS 3.TO UPHOLD AND PROMOTE THE CULTURE AND TRADITIONS OF LAGOS STATE IRRESPECTIVE OF SOCIAL, AND ECONOMIC STATUS. 4.TO BECOME A RECKONED GROUP THAT FACILITATE ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND CIVIC ENGAGEMENT FOR PEACE AND PROGRESS OF LAGOS STATE 5.TO MOBILIZE MIDDLE AGED MEN AND WOMEN OF LAGOS STATE ORIGIN TO CONNECT AND INTERACT. 6.TO ORGANIZE REGULAR MEETINGS AND INTERACTIONS FOR SENIOR CITIZEN IN LAGOS STATE. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420,TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET MAITAMA P.M.B 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED BY KUTI JEREMIAH 08188096451

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

PUBLIC NOTICE

LONE CRUSADERS WORLD OUTREACH MINISTRY THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED MINISTRY HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANY AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE; 1. SUNMONU OLANREWAJU HAKEEM 2. SUNMONU FEYIKEMI MODUPE 3. ABIORO OLUSEUN JAMES THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1.TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST 2.TO MINISTER TO THE NEED OF THE UNDER PRIVELEGED 3.TO SPREAD THE GOSPEL BY PUBLICATION MATERIALS ALL OVER THE WORLD. ANY OBJECTION TO THE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL,CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION,PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT,AGUIYI IRONSI STREET,MAITAMA,ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED THE TRUSTEES

PUBLIC NOTICE ASSOCIATION OF OKPORO-EKE LAYOUT RESIDENTS OF RIVERS STATE THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ASSOCIATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC) ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. SIR FRANK IKELIANI 2. MR ANDREW ESIEDESA 3. DR. CHINYERE NKELE 4. CHIEF INNOCENT NNAEDOZIE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1.TO FOSTER UNITY AND HARMONIOUS LIVING AMONGST MEMBERS OF THE ASSOCIATION 2.TO PROMOTE AND FACILITATE THE WELFARE OF ITS MEMBERS 3.TO PROMOTE INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT WITHIN THE LAYOUT

PAGE 45

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

GATE OF LIGHT EVANGELICAL MINISTRY

GATE OF LIGHT EVANGELICAL MINISTRY

THE ABOVE NAMED ORGANIZATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PROVISIONS OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT CAP C20 LFN 2004.

THE TRUSTEES ARE:1. EVANGELIST PETER OYEYEMI OYENIRAN-CHAIRMAN 2. MR. PHILIP ABIODUN DARAMOLA-DEPUTY CHAIRMAN 3. MRS. DEBORAH ADERONKE OYENIRAN-TREASURER 4. PROF OLADELE OLAYIWOLA-SECRETARY 5. REV. (J.P.) MAMADELO FALOWO-MEMBER THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE:1.TO INSPIRE, EDUCATE, PREACH DELIVERANCE AND TRANSFORM LIVES BY COMMUNICATING GOD’S TRUTH THROUGH EVANGELISM. 2.TO PROPAGATE AND PROMOTE CHRISTIAN CREED, TO TRAIN PEOPLE/GROW LEADERS TO BECOME GREAT MEN AND WOMEN OF GOD. 3.TO ENGAGE IN WELFARE, HUMANITARIAN WORK AND BOOK PUBLICATIONS RELATING TO CHRISTIANITY IN NIGERIA. 4.TO ASSIST IN PROMOTING AND ENGAGING CHRISTIANITY IN COMMUNITIES, VILLAGES AND OTHER RURAL DWELLINGS. 5.TO ASSIST AND ENCOURAGE PERSONS INTERESTED IN MINISTERING GOD’S WORDS,

BY MENTORING THEM. 6.TO ENGAGE IN MISSIONARY OUTREACH TO OTHER NATIONS. 7.TO FOSTER AND ACCELERATE MEASURES, DESIGNED TO FACILITATE THE PROMOTION OF MINISTRATION IN NIGERIA.

THE ABOVE NAMED ORGANIZATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PROVISIONS OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT CAP C20 LFN 2004.

THE TRUSTEES ARE:1. EVANGELIST PETER OYEYEMI OYENIRAN-CHAIRMAN 2. MR. PHILIP ABIODUN DARAMOLA-DEPUTY CHAIRMAN 3. MRS. DEBORAH ADERONKE OYENIRAN-TREASURER 4. PROF OLADELE OLAYIWOLA-SECRETARY 5. REV. (J.P.) MAMADELO FALOWO-MEMBER THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE:1.TO INSPIRE, EDUCATE, PREACH DELIVERANCE AND TRANSFORM LIVES BY COMMUNICATING GOD’S TRUTH THROUGH EVANGELISM. 2.TO PROPAGATE AND PROMOTE CHRISTIAN CREED, TO TRAIN PEOPLE/GROW LEADERS TO BECOME GREAT MEN AND WOMEN OF GOD. 3.TO ENGAGE IN WELFARE, HUMANITARIAN WORK AND BOOK PUBLICATIONS RELATING TO CHRISTIANITY IN NIGERIA. 4.TO ASSIST IN PROMOTING AND ENGAGING CHRISTIANITY IN COMMUNITIES, VILLAGES AND OTHER RURAL DWELLINGS. 5.TO ASSIST AND ENCOURAGE PERSONS INTERESTED IN MINISTERING GOD’S WORDS,

BY MENTORING THEM. 6.TO ENGAGE IN MISSIONARY OUTREACH TO OTHER NATIONS. 7.TO FOSTER AND ACCELERATE MEASURES, DESIGNED TO FACILITATE THE PROMOTION OF MINISTRATION IN NIGERIA.

ANY OBJECTION THERETO SHOULD BE ADDRESSED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA, WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

ANY OBJECTION THERETO SHOULD BE ADDRESSED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA, WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

SIGNED: MRS. BENEDICTA OVOKE SADARE 12B, FAGBA CRESCENT, OFF ACME ROAD, IKEJA.

PUBLIC NOTICE

COVENANT ROCK CHURCH THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CHURCH HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC) ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

SIGNED: MRS. BENEDICTA OVOKE SADARE 12B, FAGBA CRESCENT, OFF ACME ROAD, IKEJA.

PUBLIC NOTICE

OBONGNWAN AGNES DANIEL AKPAN MEMORIAL FOUNDATION

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. EDOZIE ENYINNAYA 2. EKE CHUKWUSOMEBI JIDEOFOR 3. PASTOR. OKECHUKWU OPARAUGO 4. PRINCE CHARLES UZOHO 5. MRS BLESSING OPARAUGO 6. MR HUMPHREY ALOZIE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST AS PRESENTED IN THE HOLY BIBLE

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC) ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. OBONG DANIEL EFFIONG AKPAN 2. DANIEL EKEMINI AKPAN(JR) 3. ESHIET DANIEL AKPAN 4. MAYEN DANIEL AKPAN 5. MFON DANIEL AKPAN AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO HELP D LES PRIVILEDGE.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

SIGNED BY: BARR OBIORA CHINWIKE

SIGNED BY: SECRETARY

SIGNED BY: BARR. O. N. KELVIN ESQ

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

INITIATIVE FOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND RESEARCH

SOLE GROWTH FOUNDATION

INSPIRILOGOS SICKLE CELL PREVENTION FOUNDATION

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED INITIATIVE HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC) ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1) DUO SAMUEL ABUSI 2) VICTORIA BENS 3) ADOKIYE EVANS TOM BRIGGS 4) DIKIBUGERERE DIC WILLIE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO PROMOTE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT THROUGH RESEARCH AND CAPACITY BUILDING ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC) ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. MRS EDEBOR MARTINA SIMI CHAIRMAN 2. MR EDEBOR EGHOSA GODWILL MEMBER 3. MRS OMOLAR ILORI SECRETARY 4. MR OBAFEMI PETER ILORI MEMBER AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO CREATE A NETWORK FOR THE EMPOWERMENT OF INDIVIDUALS. 2. TO PROVIDE TRAINING, SKILLS DEVELOPMENT AND MENTORSHIP IN A VARIETY ON FIELD. 3. TO DEVELOP AND SUPPORT ENTREPRENEURS ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC) ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. IFUEKO FEX OGBOMO, AKA LADY INSPIRITOGOS 2. CHRISTINA OGBOMO OGAJE 3. MRS JOY ISA 4. DR. LUCY IDOKO 5. MR ONCHE R. UGBABE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO EDUCATE THW PUBLIC ON PRESENTATION OF SICKLE CELL AAEMIA. 2. TO RENDER ASSISTANCE AND CARE TO PERSONS WHO HAVE SICKLE CELL ANAEMIA. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

SIGNED BY: SECRETARY.

SIGNED: RUMI & ASSOCIATES 08022551973

SIGNED: SECRETARY

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

BOSAK GRASSROOT EMPOWERMENT INITIATIVE

PRAY FOR ME CHRISTIAN ORGANISATION

GLORY TO GLORY CHRISTIAN CHURCH INTERNATIONAL

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED INITIATIVE HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC) ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.OWOEYE SAMUEL BABALOLA 2.BELLO KOLAWOLE ADEYEMI 3.AISUEBEOGUN ALIU ERNEST 4.BALOGUN BOLAJI AYODELE 5.ORE VICTOR AJILEYE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES TO EMPOWER YOUTHS AT THE GRASSROOT ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ORGANISATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC) ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. ISAAC AYODELE ADELEKE 2. MRS ADEKEMI ADEBOLA ADELEKE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO ORGANISE PRAYERS, CHARITY AND MISSION WORK FOR THE NATION. 2. TO ORGANISE VOCATION TRAINING FOR URCHINS 3. TO ORGANISE PRAYER AND FAMILY CONFERENCE. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CHURCH HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC) ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

SIGNED BY: OBA ONYECHE OHUNENE

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. PASTOR ADENIYI DAVID OYEDIRAN 2. MRS ADETOLA ELIZABETH OYEDIRAN 3. DEACON LUCKY SAIDU GIROH 4. MRS OLUSHOLA ESTHER GIROH AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO RAISE GLORIOUS CHRISTIANS TO FULFILL GOD’S PURPOSE AS COMMANDED IN THE BIBLE. 2. TO ORGANISE CHRISTIAN EDUCATION, WORKSHOP, SEMINAR AND TRAININGS. 3. TO ORGANISE AND FUND MISSION WORK WORLDWIDE. 4. TO SPREAD THE GOODNEWS OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST THROUGH CRUSADES CHARITY WORK & BUILDING GLORIOUS CHURCH WORLDWIDE. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

PAGE 46

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

WORLD HEALTH VISION INITIATIVE NIGERIA

GOLDEN NATION CHRISTIAN CHURCH

ABEOKUTA GRAMMAR SCHOOL OLD BOYS ASSOCIATION 1988-1993 SET

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED INITIATIVE HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC) ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. AKHUEWU GODSTIME CHAIRMAN 2. DR. DANIEL WAGNER SECRETARY 3. DR FABIAN PUEPET TREASURER 4. PHARM. MOHAMMED ALKALI FINANCIAL SEC. 5. BAR. IBRAHIM AZARA P.R.O/LEGAL ADVISER 6. PHARM. EDWIN OBANDE MEMBER 7. DR. ARABI TUKER MEMBER 8. MOHAMMED AZARA AUWAL MEMBER AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO ASSIST THE NEEDY AND ENLIGHTEN THE SOCIETY. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: ISHAKU SHUAIBU ESQ 08062659270

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CHURCH HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC) ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. PASTOR JOSHUA OLUWAFEMI BABAFEMI 2. DEACONESS FLORENCE OLUKUNKE BABAFEMI AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO WIN SOULS FOR CHRIST. 2. TO SPREAD THE WORLD OF GOD. 3. TO GIVE SUPPORT TO MEMBERS. 4. TO RAISE FUND FOR EVANGELISM. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

GEORGE ADAMOLEKUN MINISTRY

LIFE REVIVAL CENTRE

BAKE FOR CHANGE FOUNDATION

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED MINISTRY HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC) ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. PASTOR GEORGE ADAMOLEKUN 2. TAIWO OGUNMILADE 3. BRO. KAYODE JEGEDE 4. BRO. TITILOYE JEJELAIYE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST TO THE GENERALITY OF PEOPLE TO THE END OF THE WORLD. 2. TO PROPAGATE THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST WORLDWIDE AND PREPARE SOULS FOR THE KINGDOM OF GOD. 3. TO TRAIN, ORDAIN GOSPEL MINUISTRIES AND CHHURCH WORKERS AND LICENSE MEMBERS FOR THE WORK OF THE GOSPEL. 4. TO RENDER HELP TO THE FATHERLESS, MOTHERLESS, WIDOWS AND THE LESS PRIVILEGED IN THE SOCIETY. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CENTRE HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC) ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. REV. PRINCE CHIBUZOR 2. REV. MRS FAVOUR CHIBUZOR 3. MR DIKIBUJIRI VINCENT BROWN 4. MRS PRINCESS JOYCE FALANA AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ASSOCIATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC) ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. GBENGA OKURIBIDO PRESIDENT 2. ADEWALE BAKARE SOCIAL SEC. 3. DOSUNMU OLUWASEUN FIN. SEC. 4. REV. DR. WOLE OSUNMAKINDE 5. BOLAJI SHOKUNBI 6. OLUWASEUN FAMUYIWA 8. AKINTAYO ADETOKUNBO EDMUND 9. AYODELE AKINOLA 10. NOSIR SAIDAT OLUWATOSIN SECRETARY AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO FOSTER UNITY AMONG MEMBERS ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: NOSIR SAIDAT OLUWATOSIN (08098112176)

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC) ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: COKER NGOZI OGHOME EGUNJOBI ASHIM CARE UWAJE NKEMDILIM CAY UWAJE KARIN ANNELIE (CHAIRPERSON UWAJE CHRISTOPHER CAROL COKER COKER EMMANUEL OKECHUKWU MOH STEFAINE NKEMJICA ANENE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES TO CREATE AWARENESS AND DIALOGUE WITH CITIZENS & STAKEHOLDERS IN THE PUBLIC & PRIVATE SECTOR, FOCUSED ON THE PLIGHT OF LESS PRIVILEGED CHILDREN, SPECIFICALLY STREET CHILDREN IN NIGERIA. TO ENSURE ACCESS TO EDUCATIONAL & VOCATIONAL TRAINING FACILITIES FOR LESS PRIVILEGED CHILDREN TO EMPOWER LESS PRIVILEGED CHILDREN THROUGH MENTORSHIP, ENTREPRENEURSHIP & NEW EXPERIENCES. TO INSPIRE INDEPENDENCE & SELF SUSTAINABILITY IN THE LIVES OF THE CHILDREN WE WORK WITH. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

SIGNED: SECRETARY

SIGNED: SECRETARY

SIGNED: SECRETARY

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

GREATER VICTORY EVANGELICAL WORDWIDE MINISTRY

PEOPLE PROPHETIC PRAYER MINISTRY

CENTRE FOR CAREER AND HUMAN DEVELOPMENT

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED MINISTRY HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC) ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: EVANG. UCEE ACHUSI PRESIDENT ENGR. FRED UGOCHUKWU MRS. NKIRU OSIELO BARR. EMMANUEL NNAEMEKA OKEAKPU SECRETARY EVANG. MRS. EGOYIBO UCHE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO BRING MEN AND WOMEN OF ALL AGES AND RACES TO A SAVING KNOWLEDGE OF JESUS CHRIST 2. TO RECONCILE PEOPLE TO GOD THROUGH CONCERTED, CONSISTENT AND PROPHETIC PRAYERS 3. TO ENABLE MEN AND WOMEN CAPTURE THEIR HEART DEEPEST PASSIONS AND CONVERT THEM INTO FULFILLING THEIR LIFE ACHIEVEMENTS ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CENTRE HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC) ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

SIGNED: BARR. EMMANUEL NNAEMEKA OKEAKPU 08036258776

SIGNED: OJOBI EDACHE VICTOR 08086315143

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

CONCERN INITIATIVE FOR WIDOWS AND ORPHANS

GILL FOUNDATION

LIVING STARS ASSEMBLY

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED MINISTRY HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC) ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: EVANGELIST BENJAMIN NKEM SOBEREKON SISTER VICTORIA AMAHULE BRO. CHRIS DAMINABO BRO. DAYE GRANVILLE SIS IBIGO DAREGO AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. PROPAGATION OF THE GOSPEL OF SALVATION IN CHRIST JESUS 2. TO TEACH AND ORIENTATE CHRISTIANS FOR HEAVENLY KINGDOM 3. TO PRESENT CHRIST AS LIGHT OF THE WORLD. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: EVANGELIST BENJAMIN SOBEREKON

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED INITIATIVE HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC) ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: PROF. VIOLA ONWURILI ENGR. VINCENT ALAZU ELOY VICE-CHAIRMAN JUSTINA ELOY MRS. DORATHY AKWUGO ISU SECRETARY MRS. GRACE UGO EREGE CHAIRMAN MRS. EDITH EZEONUGO AIMS AND OBJECTIVES TO GIVE CARE FOR THE WIDOWS AND ORPHANS STOPPING THE OPPRESSION OF THE WIDOWS AND ORPHANS ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: BARR. AMINA IBE (HAMDALLA CHAMBERS ABUJA; 08033137990

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC) ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: HENRY GILL GEORGE ANELE STELLA EKEOCHA NWEKE JELVIN SANDRA EJINKONYE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES TO ENHANCE COMMUNITY WELFARE AND SERVICE TO EMPOWER YOUTHS. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

THE TRUSTEES ARE: PROF. ADEGOKE ALFRED ONOJA BENJAMIN ONUH OJOBI LORD FRANCIS OMOHA BLESSING AJUMI AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. PROMOTE CAREER DEVELOPMENT 2. PROPAGATE CAREER EDUCATIONS ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CHURCH HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC) ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: PASTOR OKHIULU OSAMOUYI GENERAL OVERSEER PASTOR OKHIULU NKECHIYE NWANI CHUKWUEMEKA MICHAEL JOSHUA FIDELIS AIMS AND OBJECTIVES TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: BARR. PAUL ABHULIMEN 08037139039

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

Some Interesting Facts •Money isn't made out of paper, it's made out of cotton.

•Montpelier, VT is the only U.S. state capital without a McDonalds.

•More Monopoly money is printed in a year, than real money printed throughout the world.

•More people are killed annually by donkeys than die in air crashes.

•More people use blue toothbrushes, than red ones.

•Mosquitoes have teeth.

•Most Americans' car horns beep in the key of F. •Most cows give more milk when they listen to music.

•Most dust particles in your house are made from dead skin.

•Most lipstick contains fish scales.

•Mr. Rogers is an ordained minister.

•Murphy's Oil Soap is the chemical most commonly used to clean elephants.

•No word in the English language rhymes with month, orange, silver, and purple.

•Non-dairy creamer is flammable.

•Nutmeg is extremely poisonous if injected intravenously •On a Canadian two dollar bill, the flag flying over the Parliament Building looks like an American flag, but is actually the flag that flew over to Dominion of Canada before the Maple Leaf .

•On an American one-dollar bill, there is an owl in the upper left-hand corner of the "1" encased in the "shield" and a spider hidden in the front upper right-hand corner.

•One in every 4 americans has appeared on television.

•One of the reasons marijuana is illegal today is because cotton growers in the 1930's lobbied against hemp farmers -- they saw it as competition. It is not as chemically addictive as is nicotine, alcohol, or caffeine.

•One quarter of the bones in your body, are in your feet.

•Only 55% of all Americans know that the sun is a star.

•Only one person in two billion will live to be 116 or older.

•Only two people signed the Declaration of Independence on July 4th, John Hancock and Charles Thomson. Most of the rest signed on August 2, but the last signature wasn't added until 5 years later.

•Our eyes are always the same size from birth, but our nose and ears never stop growing.

•Over 1000 birds a year die from smashing into windows.

•Owls are one of the only birds who can see the color blue.

PAGE 47

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Glowing tribute: Beth Crook and her incredible 130-year-old light bulb that is still shining Source: Dailymail.co.uk

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2013

QUO TABLE Q UO TE UOT QUO UOTE There is no indigene or settler in Kaduna state. As far as we are concerned, all residents of Kaduna state are indigenes. — Kaduna state governor, Ahaji Muktar Ramalan Yero

SPORTS Taxation: Ignored second LA TEST LATEST

South African Paralympian faces murder charge

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outh African Olympic and Paralympic athlete Oscar Pistorius is facing a murder charge after his girlfriend was shot and killed at his Pretoria home.

His arrest over the death of model Reeva Steenkamp has stunned the country where he is considered a national hero.

Police said a 26-year-old man would appear in court today.

Mr Pistorius, 26, made history in London last year when he became the first doubleamputee track athlete to compete in the Olympic Games.

There is widespread shock and disbelief in South Africa after athlete Oscar Pistorius was arrested over the killing of his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp.

There has been an outpouring of grief for the model, along with many messages of support for the six-time Paralympic champion, who has earned huge public admiration for his long battle to be allowed to compete in the Olympics.

The common thread for many is disbelief - at the implication this has for the athlete's future but also at the tragic end of the celebrity couple's love story.

The pair apparently started dating in November, frequently posted loving messages about each on social network Twitter and was seen at high-profile events arm in arm. On the outside, their relationship seemed perfect.

Police were called to his home in the upmarket Silver Woods gated compound on the outskirts of South Africa's administrative capital in the early hours of Thursday morning.

They found paramedics treating a 29-year-old woman with four gunshot wounds to the head and upper body. She died at the scene, and officers recovered a 9mm pistol.

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fiddle to 'easy' oil money T

he Federal Government earned N2.2 trillion as opposed to N1.9 trillion it targeted in 2009; N2.9 trillion as against N2.5 trillion in 2010; N4.7 trillion in 2011 as opposed to N3.6 trillion and N5 trillion generated in 2012 as opposed to N3.6 trillion.

No, these are not foreign exchange earnings or even the Jonathan administration's spurious borrowings. These are the sums generated by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) in the last five years.

With these figures, borrowing to fund our budget deficits which grew from N161.1billion in the third quarter of 2011 to N459.1 billion in the third quarter 2012 are unjustifiable. Despite claims of deficit reduction by the Finance Minister, the projected deficit for 2013 is N1.039 trillion. When we consider that these deficits further compound our national debt which is around N6.9 trillion ($44 billion) we begin to see where the transformation agenda of this administration is taking Nigeria long term sovereign insolvency!

The FIRS has undergone quiet and true transformation since Mrs. Ifueko Omoigui-Okauru was hired by the Obasanjo administration from the private sector to lead it.

Not only has the FIRS been able to draft an updated legal framework for taxation, it was able to expand our existing tax brackets, introduce re-organization policies and saw to the passage of about 4 Acts, including ones for FIRS Establishment, Value Added Tax Amendment, Companies Income Tax Amendment, and the Petroleum Profit Tax Amendment.

Yet, the N5 trillion record achievement is only a scratch on the surface of Nigeria's tax generation potentials. Nigeria can easily generate taxes equivalent to just the global average of 25% of GDP (which will be in excess of least N10 trillion) if we can get our act together.

Oil taxes revenue contributed N3.2 trillion; representing 64% of the entire 2012 collections as against the 2011 figures of N3 trillion. Interestingly, another major feat of the FIRS has been its ability to bring a significant swathe of the non-oil sector into the tax bracket. The contribution of nonoil taxes increased from N1.5 trillion or 33.65% in 2011 to N1.8 trillion or 36% in 2012, from much lower numbers in 2003.

Why has taxation, which is potentially Nigeria's largest source of revenues, still been neglected in favor of 'cheap' oil money? Is it because of the fear that a tax paying citizenry would not allow their taxes to be looted as happens with oil revenues which are sometimes diverted by officials and spent even before reaching our shores? What is the story of taxation in Nigeria?

In 1943, the Nigerian Federal Inland Revenue Service was carved

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NASIR EL-R UF AI EL-RUF UFAI ON FRID AY FRIDA elrufai@aol.com out of the former Inland Revenue Department (IRD) that covered what was then the Anglophone West Africa (including Ghana, Gambia and Sierra Leone) during the colonial era. In 1958 the Federal Board of Inland Revenue (FBIR) was established under the Income Tax Ordinance of 1958. After various transformations in 1961 and 1993, on 16th April 2007, the FIRS (Establishment) Act 13 of 2007 was passed, and the operational arm of the FBIR, the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) secured its autonomy.

State Assemblies were also expected to pass laws facilitating the autonomy of their Internal Revenue Services. Now 6 years later, only Lagos and Adamawa States have granted their IRS autonomy, while Ogun, Ekiti and Bauchi states are in the process of doing so. A look at how Lagos state utilizes its taxpayer's money underscores the importance of autonomy for state IRS. The FIRS is charged primarily with the responsibility of accessing, collecting and accounting for the various taxes to the governments of the federation. However, many Nigerians have seen this as a big loophole to the Establishment Act, leaving some to wonder why this body that collects public funds is responsible to the government, and not to the people. After the funds are remitted to the federal government, what accountability measures are put in place? How does the average Nigerian who pays his taxes diligently know that his taxes are not just moved into offshore and local accounts that benefit only the corrupt few?

In Price Water House Cooper's (PwC) 2012 ease of paying taxes ranking, Nigeria was ranked 138 out of 183 economies. According to the same report, the average tax compliance time in Nigeria is 936 hours as opposed to a 318 hour benchmark for Sub-Saharan Africa and 186 hours for the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries.

During 2010/2011 period covered by the 2012 study, 33 economies were said to have improved in the ease of tax payments. A common feature amongst these 33 economies was the introduction of electronic systems that make tax compliance easier.

The mistrust in the system is one of the reasons why the country

has not been able to harness the full benefit of taxes compared to other countries. Many people, who pay taxes, do it reluctantly because infrastructure that should be maintained by tax funds suffer neglect; public utilities do not function, educational and health facilities decrepit, and roads are now considered by most as death traps.

In most countries, tax legislation is used to bridge the gap between the rich and the poor, and in 2011, Nigeria assented to the Personal Income Tax (Amendment) Act, 2011 (PITAM 2011) in a bid to move in this direction. The PITAM 2011 consolidated all personal income tax reliefs and allowances into a single Consolidated Tax Relief Allowance (CTRA) of N200,000 or a minimum of 1% of a person's annual gross income, whichever is higher of the two, plus 20% of the individual's annual gross income as CTRA. The remainder of income was liable to Personal Income Tax at an average graduating rate of between 7% and 24% of the individual's annual income; thus, a higher PIT Tax rate is reserved for people earning above N1.6 million and N3.2 million per annum after making provision for CTRA. Ordinarily, this should fulfill the tax objective of income redistribution. The problem was and is that tax evasion or avoidance is done mostly at the top levels of government and amongst the richest in society, year in year out, we hear of tax evasions by government agencies.

Furthermore, our informal is estimated to be at least three times the formal economy, and these incomes are hardly ever captured for taxation.

Tax evasion in the formal sector occurs due to weak enforcement, corruption and impunity. For instance, in the period of 2004 to 2012 alone, the FIRS stated that 100 organizations including MDA's owed N169billion in tax arrears.

This is quite apart from the corruption inherent in normal tax administration and collection. Most tax collectors and officials conspire with tax payers; negotiate some sort of bribe with individuals or companies for a reduction or total avoidance of their tax burdens. The various structures which are required to work together to make tax evasions difficult are not properly coordinated. Enforcement

of tax compliance should be given adequate attention and various government agencies should collaborate to share information to reduce tax evasion or avoidance.

Even for diligent Nigerians who voluntarily go to make tax remittances, they are often met with bureaucracy that leads to time wastage and sharp practices. For instance, you need a Tax Identification Number (TIN) for tax payments, these TIN numbers cannot be generated online, an individual has to go to a tax office, fill a form and wait for paper work before the TIN is generated which would typically take between a day or two. It is also tedious that whenever taxes are paid, the individual has to go to the tax office to collect his tax payment receipts after making payment in banks. A more simplified system needs to be put in place.

Perhaps the biggest problem of Nigeria's tax administration is the absence of a comprehensive tax payer's database. The absence or inefficiency in this area undermines tax systems. The accelerated completion of the National ID project with biometric capture incorporating TINs will go a long way in enhancing tax administration, collection and accountability.

For the FIRS to go beyond its present capacities, it must be free of the present internal conflicts plaguing the system, it must win public confidence by creating an accountability framework, and it must adopt a technology-driven approach as opposed to the largely bureaucratic manual tax administration system currently in place throughout most of the country.

If online accounts, where filing, tax payment, tax records, receipt printing and certificate generation can be done are created for individual tax payers and tied to their TIN numbers for login, would this reduce compliance time and the associated costs? Would this encourage voluntary tax compliance? What about abolition all income taxes and introducing sales taxes at state and LG levels, while raising the VAT rate from 5% to a higher number? These are all policy and fiscal choices that need to be debated and considered going forward.

While our tax fortunes may appear to continue to increase, the reality on ground is that with appropriate policies, technological and operational reforms, collections, expanding the tax bracket and monitoring made more effective, we can raise more revenues than we currently earn from non-renewable natural resources like oil and gas.

The danger, of course, is that like the huge oil revenues and consistent domestic and foreign borrowing by this government, more revenues may only add to the pool of funds from which money is stolen or wasted on non-viable projects that neither create jobs for the millions that are jobless, nor improve the quality of life for Nigerians. We must refocus our energies on citizens' taxation so that accountability demands on our leaders will also intensify.

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