Peoples Daily Newspaper, Friday 17, May, 2013 by Peoples Media Limited

www.peoplesdailyng.com

Vol. 10 No. 100

Friday, May 17, 2013

. . . putting the people first

Rajab 8, 1434 AH

N150

FCTA to spend Gunmen bomb 2 N259bn in 7 police stations, months >> 6 bank in Daura >> 2

Emergency rule

Army swoops on insurgents camps  Telecommunications access cut off  ACF warns against civilian casualty  How NASS stopped govs removal By Lawrence Olaoye, Abuja; Mustapha Isah Kwaru, Maiduguri and Muhammad Ibrahim, Kaduna

By Jamila Nuhu Musa

ilitary troops deployed to Borno state yesterday began operation as they swoop on suspected insurgents’ camps in the Sambisa Game Reserve believed to be the training grounds for the militants. This is coming as residents of the state capital, Maiduguri, were plunged into telecommunication blackout as networks of all telecommunication operators were shut down since 10am. Again, the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has cautioned the military against the temptation of deploying heavy handed tactics or measures that will cause increased civilian casualties and bloodshed under the cover of emergency rule. Although it was not clear what caused the telecommunications breakdown, sources said the firms were directed to shut down their Contd on Page 2

Nigeria deports 19,000 illegal immigrants

Borno state Governor, Alhaji Kashim Shettima, test driving one of 1000 tractors ordered for ongoing agricultural transformation programme in the state.

he Minister of Interior, Comrade Abba Moro, yesterday disclosed that over 19,000 illegal immigrants have been deported from the country in the bid by the Federal Government to deal with insurgency in the country. Moro, while speaking in Abuja, said though there is no accurate data on the number of illegal immigrants in the country because of the porous nature of the nation’s borders, the United States Government has offered to help provide surveillance equipment in fighting insurgency. According to him, during the 27th session of the Leadership Forum organised by the Nigerian Newsworld magazine in Abuja recently, “19,000 illegal immigrants have been sent out of the country by the appropriate authorities under the ministry.

Nigeria’s new debt profile hits N8trn — DMO

Contd on Page 2

>> 5

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PEOPLES DAILY, THURSDAY, MAY 16, 2013

CONTENTS News

2-10

Editorial

Op.Ed

Letters

Opinion

Metro

16-18

Business

19-22

Stockwatch S/Report Islam Int’l

23 24-25 26 27-30

Strange World 31

How Nigerians can benefit from PIB through local content, Page 4

Revue

32-33

Feature

34-35

Digest

Politics

37-40

Sports

41-45

Leisure

Columnist

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Army swoops on insurgents camps Contd from Page 1 services, apparently to make it impossible for the insurgents to communicate with one another throughout the period the military operations will last. Our correspondent gathered that Sambisa Game Reserve, which cuts across Damboa, Bama and Gwoza local government areas of the state, serve as the major hide-out of the insurgents conducting combat training. Sources said the forest is suspected to be harbouring over 80 percent of all the militants in the state because of its position as their major operational base. Details of the operation was not immediately available as spokesman of the Joint Military Task Force, (JTF) could not be reached at press time. The troops, who reportedly raided the forest in the early hours, according to a source in the military, did not face any resistance as the some of the militants were said to have retreated to another of their camps considered safer. Over 50 assorted vehicles, which were allegedly snatched by the insurgents at gun points, were reportedly recovered in the abandoned camp. Over 500 policemen attached to the Counter-Terrorism Squad (CTS), were deployed to the state yesterday.

ACF cautions against civilian casualty Reacting to the declaration of emergency in Adamawa, Bornio and Yobe states yesterday, the ACF counseled the soldiers deployed to involve the local populace in their operational plans in order to minimize collateral civilian

suffering. The Forum in communiqué issued after an emergency meeting held in Kaduna and signed by its Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Fati Ibrahim, warned that the it will send a team that will observe and monitor the prosecution of the military campaign under the new state of emergency. "ACF takes notice of the proclamation of the state of emergency in Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states by the Federal Government on the grounds that attacks and killings by insurgents and other terrorist groups require more massive military response. "The meeting was concerned that the President appears to invest more faith in a military solution even where evidence from our experiences so far bears no such optimism. It is the hope of the ACF therefore that the Federal Government does not consider the increased military deployments as a superior option or alternative to the slower and more tedious path of dialogue, negotiation and conciliation. "Given the dismal history of peace-making campaigns by the military all over the world, dispatching battalion after battalion to the field in the hope of combating insurgents or terrorists sounds naïve. The ACF calls on the military to avoid the temptation of deploying heavy handed tactics or adopt measures that will cause increased civilian casualties and bloodshed under the cover of emergency rule. "They are well advised to involve the local populace in their operational plans in order to

minimize collateral civilian suffering. Even so, under the circumstances, ACF will raise a team that will observe and monitor the prosecution of the military campaign under the new state of emergency. The team will collect information and evidence from the field and determine if at all times, the military campaign is conforming with the published terms of engagement and other human right conventions to which Nigeria is a signatory," the communiqué reads. NASS intervention saved govs job — Spokesman Meanwhile, the House of Representatives yesterday disclosed that it was the intervention of the National Assembly (NASS) that saved the jobs of the three state governors of Adamawa, Borno and Yobe states. Briefing newsmen on what transpired between the Presidency and the Legislature before President Goodluck Jonathan's pronouncement on state of emergency in the three states, Deputy Chairman, House committee on Media and Public Affairs, Rep Victor Oghene, said the declaration of state of emergency was not exclusively done by the President but with the input of the leadership of the National Assembly (NASS) Oghene disclosed that it was the idea of the leadership of the NASS that the whole democratic structures in the states affected by the emergency rule be not collapsed. Thus, it was the intervention of the NASS leadership that preserved the jobs of governors Murtala Nyako,

Ibrahim Gaidam and Kashim Shettima of Adamawa, Borno and Yobe respectively. According to him, the NASS leadership impressed it upon the President that it would send a negative signal if the affected governors and other democratic structures in the state are sent packing. Oghene maintained that the spate of insecurity in the country has been worrisome to the House thus necessitating the summon it issued for the President to appear before it in June last year.

Gunmen bomb 2 police stations, bank in Daura From Lawal Sa'idu Funtua, Katsina

here was reported cases of bomb blast in Daura town in katsina state yesterday. Reports from the town revealed that the blast started at about 10:00 pm yesterday. Sources from the area disclosed that two police stations and a bank in the town were bombed. However, there was no reports of casualty yet as people in the town run for cover to escape the attack. People in Daura town remained indoors to guard against being caught in the cross fire, sources said.

Nigeria deports 19,000 illegal immigrants Contd from Page 1 Although I must tell you that there is no accurate figure of illegal immigrants in our country due to the porous nature of our borders and the wrongful interpretation of the ECOWAS Act.” He added that in respect of the cost of implementation of the surveillance equipment in the nation’s borders, the ministry is in the process of certifying one of those that could be awarded the contract. He disclosed that the cost of the surveillance equipments is in the neighbourhood of $2.6m and it was tendered by a Chinese firm. "But that money may drastically reduce as the United States Government is also in touch with us in fighting terror and the US government has offered to provide some surveillance equipment which we will deploy to the borders." Speaking on the persistent issue of prison congestion, which has posed danger to the prison’s service, the minister explained that if the National Assembly accepts the ministry request to change some sections of the Prison Act, the problem of congestion would reduce substantially. He also said the prison service has been able to reform some of the inmates in spite of the enormous challenges the authorities have

been facing. The Minister said "The resurgence of insurgents has led to some jail breaks in the country. But efforts have been made to deal with the problem. As I speak with you now, about 50 inmates are attending the National Open University, 90 are writing WAEC, 690 would be rehabilitated after serving their terms, 109 have been trained in vocational skills while 145 have trade-tested in artisanship." Speaking on the reported clash between men of the Civil Defence Corps and the police, Moro said that

the Presidency has intervened in the matter. "It is unfortunate that the Civil Defence and the Police should clash in the first place. For whatever reason that that incident occurred, it is very unfortunate. But Mr. President has intervened and we have all agreed that such a thing should not happen again." Moro expressed regret over the unending clashes involving Fulani herdsmen and farmers in Benue and other states of the federation and said the government is planning to create "separate routes and grazing

grounds for Fulani herdsmen. If they keep to that, I hope that would stem the tide." He also disclosed that the government has finalized plans to construct 227 fire service stations across the country and equip them with modern firefighting equipment in order to meet the needs of Nigerians. On the issue of female prisoners, he said though “in the prisons, a criminal is a criminal irrespective of gender,” some considerations are accorded pregnant women and nursing mothers to safeguard them.

Imoke: South-South governors support state of emergency

eader of the South-South Governors Forum, Governor, Liyel Imoke, yesterday said that governors of the region are in support of the action taken by President Goodluck Jonathan on the declaration of emergency in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe states in the wake of spiralling security challenges in the country. Gov. Imoke who was at the Presidential Villa to invite the president on to visit his state to commission some projects, also

said that the south-south governors, who had earlier met to endorse the president's transformation agenda, added that they also advocated for enlarged support for his declaration of state of emergency. Observing that the President's move was appropriate and deserved commendation, he debunked speculations that Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) was opposed to the move as he announced that the Forum didn't meet anywhere to discuss that.

"The South-South Governors Forum endorsed the state of emergency by Mr. President and we asked him to be firmed on security, he is enjoying popular support of the security adviser and the National security Council on the state of emergency. "His actions are positive, the democratic institutions are still in place and I think is very significant and commendable, I think is for us now to throw our support behind the President, encourage him in dealing with this insurgency and ensure those states are returned to normalcy.

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

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INEC offers to sell used laptops, webcams to states

L-R: Gombe state Governor, Alhaji Ibrahim Dankwambo, Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Yerima Ngama, and Yobe state Governor Malam Ibrahim Gaidam, during the National Economic Council (NEC) meeting, yesterday at the State House, in Abuja. Photo Joe Oroye

Union threatens to shut down Nigeria's airspace From Suleiman Idris, Lagos

hree unions in the aviation industry, Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria( ATSSSAN), National Union of Air Transport Employees ( NUATE), and the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE), have threatened to shut down the Nigerian airspace from Monday , May 20, 2013 , over failure by the management of the Nigeria Sirspace Management Agency ( NAMA) to address issues bordering on new salary scale . The threat by the unions to shut down the airspace is coming on the heels of the expiration of the 14 days ultimatum issued to the management of NAMA on the vexed issue . The 14 days ultimatum expires Monday, May 20, 2013. In a bulletin by the unions to the workers signed by Comrade Olayinka Abioye , for ATSSSAN, Comrade Aba Ocheme , for NAAPE, and Comrade Odinika Igbokwe for NUATE, they advised the workers to immediately embark on strike until all issues raised with the management of NAMA are resolved. The union leaders also expressed bitterness over the refusal of NAMA management to invite them for dialogue since the ultimatum was issued, even as they raised concerns over the non payment of thirteen months arears that have accrued over the new salary scale. The unions on May, 6, 2013 wrote a letter to the managing director of NAMA, Engineer, Nnamdi Udoh to immediately resolve all issues raised by the workers.

Al-Makura suspends varsity VC, management G

overnor Umaru AlMakura of Nasarawa state on Thursday suspended the Vice Chancellor of the state university, Keffi, Prof. Shamsudeen Amali. A statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Hajiya Zainab Abdulmumin, said the governor also directed the management of the university to proceed on a 6month compulsory leave. The governor, however, approved the replacement of Amali

by Prof. Aminu Mukailu, a former Vice Chancellor of Kaduna State University, on interim basis. The state's Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Innocent Lagi, said the decision to suspend the management of the institution was reached at the meeting of the State Executive Council. He said the council deliberated on the recommendations of a visitation panel set up in January by the government before taking the decision.

Nigeria records 110 million clinical malaria cases annually From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

igeria is said to record between 70 - 110 million clinical cases of malaria per year. The Permanent Secretary of the Kaduna State Ministry of Health, Dr. Paul M. Dogo, disclosed this at the presentation of 2013 Annual Operational Plan for Malaria Control in Kaduna State. Dogo who was represented at the presentation by the Director of Public Health in the Kaduna State Ministry of Health, Dr. Ado Zakari Mohammed said malaria is a major cause of mobility and mortality in Nigeria. "There are 70-110 million clinical cases of the disease in the country per year. It accounts for about 60% of all outpatient attendances and 30% of all hospital admissions with annual deaths of children under five years estimated to be around 300,000". Dogo also added that 30% of

childhood deaths and 11% of maternal deaths are caused by malaria. According to him, malaria is caused by four species of parasites belonging to the genus Plasmodium - Plasmodium ovale, Plasmodium malariae, Plasmodium vivax and Plasmodium falciparum. "Of these four species of plasmodium, Plasmodium faciparum causes the most severe malaria illness and death throughout the world (WHO 1998). Plasmodium faciparum is known to be the most devastating in Nigeria. “However, there is fifth specie known as Plasmodium Knowlesi that has been known to cause malaria in human. The transmission of the parasite is facilitated through the bite of an infected female anopheles mosquito. It is most intense in the raining season when increase in prevalence is observed."

Lagi said an independent committee was constituted to further look into the recommendations of the panel. He said Prof. Mukailu would oversee the activities of the institution, pending the outcome of the independent committee's assignment. Al-Makura had in January, inaugurated a visitation panel to look into the activities of the stateowned tertiary institutions, to reposition them for better performance.

ather than allow its huge investments in 78,701 laptops and webcams used for past elections to go down the drain, INEC is offering to sell the equipment to state governments. The state governments are, however, demanding for between 10 per cent and 25 per cent discount on the asking price. Addressing newsmen on the outcome of the monthly National Economic Council (NEC) meeting in Abuja yesterday, Edo's Gov. Adam Oshiomhole said the council discussed and supported INEC's proposal to sell the laptops to the state governments. He said the council agreed that INEC should give discount of 25 per cent on the used laptops and webcams and 10 per cent on the new ones. “We also discussed the offer by the INEC to dispose of 78,701 laptops and webcams to states. “INEC has surplus machines and I think they are updating their system and they thought rather than waste this huge number, they offered to sell them to states and we are all in agreement that they would be useful to have these machines distributed to our various secondary schools across the country. “They are in two categories. Some are described as 'very good' and some are fairly used and NEC agreed that we should ask INEC to grant us 25 per cent discount in respect of the fairly used and 10 per cent on the new ones.”

Pension fraud: Court to rule on application to quash charges non declaration of a sum of N250 June 20 million deposited in a bank account By Sunday Ejike Benjamin

Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has slated June 20, 2013 to rule on an application to quash the charges preferred against the convicted former Director of the Police Pension Office, John Yakubu Yusufu. Yusufu has asked the court in the application, to quash the 4count charge preferred against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). He was earlier convicted by an Abuja High Court sitting before the suspended Justice Mohammed Talba. He pleaded guilty to the theft of billions of naira belonging to police pensioners, but the court, upon a plea bargain arraignment by the EFCC, asked him to pay N750,000 as fine for pleading guilty to three count charges, Before Justice Bello, Yusufu is being tried again by the EFCC, for allegedly concealing his interest in SY-A Global Company Limited and

which were not contained in his asset declaration form. Yusufu wants the court to quash the charge against him on the ground that it is similar to the one on which he was tried and convicted by Justice Talba on January 28, 2013. Arguing the application yesterday, his lawyer, T. B. Maiyaki contended that his client's application is hinged, among others, on the ground that he had been tried and convicted on similar charge. Lead prosecution lawyer, Rotimi Jacobs (SAN), urged the court to dismiss the application for lacking in merit, contending that the application was intended to mislead the court. Jacobs argued that the present charge does not amount to double jeopardy. "They are quite different. Section 309 of the Penal Code borders on criminal misappropriation, while Section 27(3) of the EFCC Establishment Act which the current charge is hinged, borders on failure to disclose asset," Jacobs said.

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

How Nigerians can benefit from PIB through local content By Abdulkadir Isa

or Nigerians and the local economy to benefit from the multi-billion dollar investments expected after the pending passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB), Nigerians must prepare themselves by embracing the development of the Nigerian Content policy, the Executive Secretary, Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, Ernest Nwapa, said. Mr. Nwapa, who was speaking on Tuesday at the panel session organized by the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN) at the just concluded Offshore Technology Conference in Houston Texas, United States, said there was an urgent need to expand discussions around the proposed legislation beyond the fiscal terms. Warning that failure to sufficiently domicile the service and manufacturing ends of industry operations, he said investments that would flow into the country may be diverted abroad through overseas procurement of equipment used for operations and remuneration of expatriate personnel that would be deployed to work on the projects. "It is expected that when PIB is passed, it would result in massive investment flows, and those investments will yield revenue for Nigeria. But what we are looking for is a kind of impact that can give us employment on top of the revenue scale," Mr. Nwapa said. "That type of impact would only come from the investments that result in domiciliation. It is a good thing we have had a three-years head-start in the implementation of the Local Content Act, which has enabled us create some capacities in Nigeria such that as the PIB is being passed and investments are coming, we would then have jobs arising from the investments being executed locally." The Executive Secretary also canvassed for industry support for the Board's initiatives, especially the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industrial Park Scheme and the establishment of a new pipe mill to support the existing SCC Mill in Abuja, pointing out that when the initiatives are successful, Nigerians would reap immense benefits from the PIB, as more industry activities would be domiciled. He underlined the importance of getting the investments in-country, pointing out that though the country needs to increase its revenue intake from oil production, the real endgame for it is to ensure that when it is getting revenues, there are Nigerians to work. "Government agencies can only employ a few thousands, but the real employment can come from commercial activities that would arise

An Oil rig from our preparedness to expand operations," he said. On the relationship between the Nigerian Content Act and the PIB, the Executive Secretary said there was an urgent need for the big multinationals and other companies operating in Nigeria to encourage the establishment of facilities where components of industry equipment could be manufactured locally, adding that local manufacturing holds the key to creating jobs in the oil and gas industry. "The responsibility of the Nigeria

Content Development and Monitoring Board is to work with the industry to drive the establishment of these manufacturing facilities and that is why the government is pushing for the launching of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industrial Park Scheme equipment used in the industry. The big manufacturers would come to the park and select a local partner that would manufacture their components," he said. He assured that the Board would use the Nigerian Content Fund to create industrial parks close to the

Senate President, David Mark

Speaker Aminu Tambuwal

oil fields and get original equipment manufacturers to mentor small and medium scale enterprises to manufacture components of their equipment. At the PETAN OTC panel session, which had its theme as "Post PIB Regime: Challenges and Opportunities for Investment in the Nigerian Oil and Gas industry", stakeholders agreed on the need to ensure that the PIB, which is presently on the floor of the National Assembly, is passed speedily. Source: Premium Times

Mrs. Deiziani Allison-Madueke

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

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Reps call for arrest of southern Kaduna killers By Umar Muhammad Puma, Abuja & Mohammad Ibrahim, Kaduna

…As police plan aerial survey

he House of Representatives yesterday called for the arrest of the killers of about 15 people in Zangon village in the southern part of Kaduna on Tuesday. In a motion under the matters of urgent national importance moved by Rep Simon Yakubu (PDP, Kaduna), the House called on security agencies to ensure the arrest of the killers, urging the National Emergency

Management Agency (NEMA) to urgently provide relief materials for the victims. Yakuba had informed the House that there has been incessant attacks by armed men in the southern part of Kaduna which resulted in the loss of many lives and property, expressing concern at the way people are killed by gunmen in the area without any concrete action being taken

“Tuesday’s incident left many people injured with monumental destruction of property, while a number of people were displaced and others are still missing. In adopting the motion, the House observed a minute silence in honour of those killed during the incident.” Following the incessant attacks by unknown gunmen in Southern Kaduna, the State Commissioner of Police, Olufemi

Adenaike yesterday said the command would embark on aerial patrol with helicopter so as to stop the gunmen from killing innocent people. According to him, all arrangement have been completed for that operation and that he hope it will help stop the killings happening there. Speaking to newsmen at the Police headquarters, the Commissioner said the command

was doing everything possible to stop the gunmen from having a field day. “ We have already deployed more troops to that area to add to the number of policemen and soldiers already stationed there. Equally we are going to have helicopter patrol there so that whenever they (gunmen) are going to attack they will see them and inform the ground troops to move. “Inspector General of Police has promised to send us a helicopter.

FG disburses funds to states affected by 2011 postelection violence

L-R: Vice-President Mohammed Namadi Sambo, in a handshake with Jigawa state Deputy Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Mahmud Gumel, during a meeting with state governors affected by 2011 post-election violence and civil disturbance, yesterday at the State House, in Abuja. Photo: Joe Oroye

DMO gives new debt profile of N8trn

arely twenty four hours after the Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Yarima Ngama gave the debt profile of the country as N6 trillion, a new figure of N8.07 trillion, being the total foreign and domestic debt of the country as at 2011 emerged yesterday. This was the outcome of the National Economic Council (NEC) meeting presided over by Vice President Muhammad Namadi Sambo. The council also deliberated on concessionary facilities from international organisations to states and local governments, auction of direct data capture (DDC) used by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to states and the Minna national discourse on corruption. The Director-General of the Debt Management Office (DMO), Dr Abraham Nwankwo, gave the new figure at a press briefing at the close of the NEC meeting yesterday, giving a breakdown of N6.85 trillion as being for domestic stock while N1.217 trillion was for external stock. Assuring that there is no cause for alarm, Dr Nwankwo

said “all States and FCT are within the liquidity solvency as well as the sustainability thresholds” explaining in statistical terms that the “consolidated public Debt/Gross Domestic Product (GDP) Ratio stands at 21.5% as against the standard threshold of 40%.’ Earlier when Nwankwo made a presentation to the council “he highlighted the gains recorded by his office on public debt management including the successful completion of debt data reconstruction (DDR) exercise in all the 36 States and the FCT last December.” A post-council talking point indicated that “the Council commended the DMO for the detailed information in the report and advised the State Governments to strengthen the State DMO offices to facilitate timely and accurate update of debt information.” On the proposed international funding for infrastructure development to the federal and state governments, the council established a sub-committee to

be headed by Gombe State Governor, Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo. Members include governors of Benue, Anambra, Bauchi, Kaduna, Delta, Ondo, each of who represent each of the six geo-political zones. Other members are the ministers of Finance, National Planning, the Chief Economic Adviser to the President and Special Adviser to the President on Economic Matters. The concessionary facilities being offered to both Federal and State Government by different international funding agencies are intended to fund high impact projects in such vital areas as infrastructure, housing, water supply, erosion control and employment generation. Dankwambo explained that “the establishment of a NEC subcommittee is to follow-up and work with interested states towards a better harmonization and coordination of the processes to enhance easier and quicker draw down.” On the sale of the DDC machines to states, Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State

said council discussed the offer by INEC to dispose 78,701 laptops to states, adding that the computers, some good, some fairly used, will be distributed to secondary schools across the country. He said council “agreed that States are going to buy the machines and INEC should give discount of 25% for the old machines and 10% for the new ones, pointing out that “further negotiation on the mode of payment will be finalized by the committee with INEC.” He said: “Council further discussed and supported INEC’s proposal at the last NEC to selloff a total of 78,701 excess laptops and webcams to the States for distribution to Secondary Schools for the promotion of computer literacy. On the Minna national discourse on corruption, Niger State Deputy Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Musa Ibeto said: “the Council was briefed and presented with a report of the National Seminar on Corruption which was held in Minna, Niger State in collaboration with the National Planning Commission.

he Federal Government has disbursed the sum of N5,747 billion to the eight states affected by the 2011 postelection violence and civil disturbances. Vice President Mohammed Namadi Sambo, who made the disbursement yesterday at the State House, Abuja, said that, “it is with deepest sense of sorrow that President Goodluck Jonathan and indeed the entire government and people of Nigeria remain deeply pained by the violent acts and civil disturbances which necessitated today’s event.” Sambo regretted that after the transparent efforts that produced the election that was universally acknowledged as being highly successful, the national joy was marred by sporadic acts of violence and civil disturbance in some parts of the country. He however, restated that the programmes of the administration are on course and no amount of crisis or violence will pose a challenge to the resolve to deliver on government’s promises as well as ensure the safety and security of all citizens. He said, “President Jonathan in his magnanimity has graciously approved the disbursement of financial assistance to the victims of the 2011 post-election violence” after a painstaking process of assessments, verification and collaboration between the Federal Government and the concerned States. Sambo commended the panel of Investigation on the 2011 Election Violence and Civil Disturbances, chaired by Hon. (Dr) Sheik Ahmed Lemu and Justice Samson O. Uwaifo as Vice Chairman, for showing great courage, dedication and sound judgement, which has helped the country at a very trying time. Responding on behalf of the beneficiary states, the Governor of Bauchi State, Isah Yuguda, expressed appreciation to President Jonathan for the assistance and assured that justice and equity would be done to the funds.

PAGE 6

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

Christmas Day bombing: Kabiru Sokoto plans no-case submission By Sunday Ejike Benjamin & Etuka Sunday

…As Amnesty committee denies meeting him

uspected member of the Boko Haram sect, Kabiru Umar (Kabiru Sokoto) standing trial before a Federal High Court in Abuja for allegedly masterminding the Christmas Day bombing of St. Theresa Catholic Church Madalla, Niger state yesterday gave indication for a nocase submission on the two-count charge preferred against him by the Federal Government. The indication came after the prosecution closed its case in the trial after calling six witnesses. Before announcing the closure of

its case, prosecution counsel, Mrs.ChiomaUnuegbu called three witnesses, who had their identity hidden and identified only as officials of the State Security Service (SSS). The witnesses who wore masks to conceal their identity for security reason, told the court how they obtained statement from the accused person, who spoke to his interrogators in Hausa. One of the witnesses was also an official who translated the accused person's statement into English language. They referred to some portions of

the statement, where Umar allegedly gave an idea of how the sect operates. In a particular instance, Umar said, in the statement that he learnt that the group's commanding body , the Shurah is concerned with planning and strategizing for the sect's operations, while the other members are involved in the execution of the plans well-being of other members. At the conclusion of the prosecution's case, defence lawyer, Hassan Lukman sought a fresh date for the defence to make a no-case

submission. He said the defence would contend that no shred of evidence by the prosecution linked the accused to the alleged offence. The trial Judge, Justice AdemolaAdeniyi who granted the defence's request, adjourned to June 7, 2013 for adoption of parties' written submissions in respect of the no-case submission. Umar was arraigned on April 19, 2013 on a two-count charge bordering on acts of terrorism. He is accused of withholding information on the plan to bomb on

St.Theresa Church. Meanwhile, the Presidential Committee on Dialogue and Peaceful Resolution of Security Challenges in the North yesterday stated that it visited Kuje Prison and met with officials and those detained, but at no point did the committee report that it met with Kabiru Sokoto or held any discussions with him. The Committee in a statement said that, "the Chairman had an interactive session with some members of the press but he did not make any such claim and really had no reason to do so as the Committee does not consider Kabiru Sokoto a sufficiently significant figure in the hierarchy of Ahlul Sunnah Lil Da'awa Wal Jihad, to warrant such a special attention to him." The committee therefore refuted the claim, describing it as a "deliberate act of mischief or sabotage, intended to discredit the work of the Committee, so called on the media and well-meaning individuals to collaborate with the Committee in ensuring the peace, stability and progress of the country.

2013 budget: Reps approve N259bn for FCT By Umar Muhammad Puma

T L-R: Chairman, Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Barrister Ekpo Nta, the Commission Secretary, Mr. Elvis Oglafa, and Akwa Ibom state Governor, Obong Godswill Akpabio, during the ICPC interaction with the governor, yesterday in Abuja. Photo: Justin Imo-Owo

Achebe: Transition c'ttee releases burial arrangement By Mohammed Kandi

he Chairman, National Transition Committee responsible for the burial of late Prof. Chinua Achebe, Prof. Uzodima Nwala, yesterday said all arrangements have been concluded for funeral of the departed poet and literary genius. Nwala who described late Achebe as "prolific writer who used his pen wisely" to project the ideas and values of his country positively world over, informed that the remains of the "versifier" would be laid to final rest on Sunday, May 26th. Speaking at a press briefing yesterday in Abuja, Nwala said the funeral rites which will last a week will commence on Sunday, May 19 and run

through Sunday May 26. According to him, President Goodluck Jonathan, state governors, diplomats and international literary dignitaries from all over the world will be in attendance. Details of the programme showed that Sunday, May 19, will be a day of prayers and religious worship to at the National Christian Centre, Abuja which will run concurrently in other centres across the country and abroad. According to Nwala, Monday, May 20, will feature a symposium by the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) at the International Conference Centre, Abuja. According to Nwala, "the day will also showcase tributes

and a number of cultural troupes drawn from different parts of the country at the same venue." He said body of the deceased will arrive the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on May 21, where reception will be organized before the body departs for Enugu, "where it will be welcomed by south-eastern governors, led by Governor Peter Obi of Anambra state." He said, "it is also expected to proceed to the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) for academic procession and ceremony. Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo will on the same day observe what the committee referred to as Ohanaeze Night of Mourning and Ikoro Salute, in honour of late Achebe at its secretariat in

Enugu." "Achebe's remains will leave Enugu for Awka, Anambra State, Wednesday, May 22 for the commencement of a celebration of life ceremony in which all state governors and federal ministers are expected to participate at the Alex Ekwueme Staduim," Prof. Nwala said. "The funeral will climax with the interment of the professor, fondly called Iroko on May 23, after a church service at St. Philips Anglican Church, Ogidi." Meanwhile, the Anambra state Governor, Dr. Peter Obi, described the late Achebe as "true nationalist who deserves a state burial." Governor Obi said the deceased was Africa's best writer and Ambassador to his country, praying that God grants him eternal rest.

he House of Representatives yesterday passed the sum of N259 billion as statutory revenue for the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) in 2013. Speaker Aminu Waziri Tambuwal who presided over the sitting of the House after desolving it to Committee of Supply, undertook its clause by clause deliberation with members. The passage came after what the House described as satisfactory explanations of all items in the initial proposed budget by FCDA officials. Deputy Chairman House Committee on FCT Raphael Nnana Igbokwue led debate on the Bill. He briefed his colleagues on work done so far by his committee since the budget scaled Second Reading in late April. A breakdown of the budget indicates a sum of N160,467,449,402 representing 60 per cent as capital budget. The FCDA officials led by its Permanent Secretary, John Obinna Chukwu, had appeared before the House Committee on FCT, May 3, 2013 for the budget defence. Igbokwue also informed the House that 18.5 per cent and 21.5 per cent of the budget would be for personnel and overhead costs respectively. These included N522 million for FCT Urban Affairs, N4.3 billion for Public Buildings and Engineering Services gulping N52.9 billion.

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PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

GOVERNMENT OF NASARAWA STATE PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT

1. The public is hereby informed that His Excellency, Umaru Tanko Al-makura, Governor of Nasarawa State in-Council, and Visitor to the Nasarawa State University, Keffi, acting on the powers conferred on him by the extant Laws, has directed that the management of the University should proceed on a 6-month compulsory leave with immediate effect. 2. Consequent upon this development, His Excellency, the Governor has approved the contracting of Professor Aminu Mikailu to act as Vice-Chancellor of the Nasarawa State University, Keffi for a period of six (6) months. This arrangement also takes immediate effect. ZAINAB T. ABDULMUMIN Secretary to the State Government. 16th May, 2013.

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

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R-L: Speaker, House of Representatives, Hon. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, receiving blood pressure check-up by President, Nigeria Medical Association, Dr. Osahon Enabulele, during a visit by the latter to the speaker, yesterday at the National Assembly, in Abuja.

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

L-R: Minister of National Planning Commission, Dr. Shamsudeen Usman, Gombe state Governor, Alhaji Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo, and Edo state Governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, jointly briefing journalists on the outcome of the National Economic Council (NEC) meeting, yesterday at the State House, in Abuja. Photo: Joe Oroye

L-R: Chief Host, AVM Mohammed Audu Bida (rtd), representative of former Military President, General Ibrahim Babangida, Alhaji Abdullahi Ma,aji, the Author of the books, Hajiya Khadijat Abdullahi Iya, her husband, Alhaji Abdullahi Iya, representative of the wife of Vice-President, Mrs. Hauwa Philip Aduda , and Niger state Commissioner of Women Affairs, Hajiya Hassana Adamu, during a public presentation of two books yesterday in Abuja. Photo: Justin Imo-Owo

Members of the Anti-Corruption Network staging a peaceful protest on the high rate of corruption in Nigeria, yesterday in Central Area of Abuja. Photo: Justin Imo-Owo

L-R: Registrar, Federal Polytechnic Bauchi, Alhaji Labaran Ibrahim, Chairman of the governing council of the Polytechnic, Alhaji Adamu Ahmed, Emir of Bauchi, Alhaji Rilwanu Adamu, and Rector, Dr. Shuaibu Musa, during a visit by members of the polytechnic governing council to the Emir, yesterday in Bauchi. Photo: NAN

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PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

Is paying off your mortgage early costing you money?

frequent question that pops into people's minds is whether they are throwing money away by paying off their mortgage instead of investing that sum. In reality, that's the last thing you should think about. Here's why: The 1.5% difference Sure, the return of the stock market is higher than the interests one pays on mortgages, but is your money really earning the return of the market? Instead of just focusing on what your money could do if you invest that sum in the S&P 500 index, you should really be thinking about the returns of all your assets as a whole because that's the true yield you are getting. This includes the equity in your home, all your savings accounts that are barely earning any interests, the bonds you own, and finally, the stocks that you have in your portfolios. But even if you forget about

all that and just think of your investment portfolio, the results could surprise you. Say you get a 6% return, with taxes factored in; it would really be more like a 5% gain assuming you will have some long and short term gains as well as taxes on dividends. On the other hand, your 4.5% 30-year fixed rate mortgage is more like a 3.5% loan with taxes. Hurray you say, because you are still

making 1.5% more when you invest the money. But hold on a second. A 1.5% difference on even N10,000, an amount you could likely come up with to either invest or pay off your mortgage, is just N150 a year. A whole year! I can save that much more just by cooking at home three more times, or by buying less coffee outside. Think of these factors instead Now, N150 every year for

30 years is very good money, but as we all know, a 6% return isn't a guarantee for everybody. Add the stress that people put onto themselves when they are leveraging, and N150 seems like a ridiculously small amount to be paying for the additional stress. Instead of the additional money you are getting, think of the other advantages of not paying off your mortgage:

MONEY TIP

house is by far the largest purchase most individuals will ever make in their life, so it should warrant an equivalent amount of thought and planning. As the old axiom goes, the three most important things about buying a house are .location, location, location.. It is better to buy a smaller house in a better neighbourhood than to buy a larger house in a less desirable neighbourhood. Similar to buying a car, you need to first figure out your needs, both immediate and long term. Are you planning a large family or do you already have children? Do you spend a lot of time indoors, do you entertain frequently and do you look forward to enjoying a large backyard with landscaping and gardening? You also have flexibility in how you finance a house similar to other loans, shopping around for the best mortgage rate may be tedious but can save you thousands or tens of thousands over the long term. The best strategy is to shop around with banks first to get the best rate and terms and help you feel comfortable with your budget and price range, then arrange a guaranteed preapproval to not only make the house shopping process simpler, but to also streamline the financing that will come after you've chosen your home.

Quote "No matter how hard you hug your money, it never hugs back." - Quoted in P.S. I Love You, compiled by H. Jackson Brown, Jr.

Liquidity your investments are more liquid than money tied up in home equity. Depending on how stable your income is, not paying off your mortgage could actually be the more conservative choice. Asset Allocation - Are your real estate assets at a level that you would like? Remember to factor in just the equity that you've built, as any mortgages or loans that you owe is debt that needs to be repaid. Once you have the answer to this question, then you can easily figure out whether you should pay off your mortgages. Freedom - this is a very personal question. My wife feels very strongly that we should pay off our mortgages early because she feels much more secure when she is debt free, even if she has the same amount of money in the stock market. I lean towards that side as well, though not nearly as extreme. For us, being debt free will probably lead us to live a healthier and happier life. But it might not be the same for you, as some people will feel more secure when they have a large balance in their portfolio. So really, there is no right answer. Do what make sense for your situation and what feels comfortable to you and don't worry too much about wasting money either way.

Reasons why renting is not "throwing money away"

ne of the many hallmarks of adulthood is buying a home of your own. And if you listen to experts (or even your know-it-all aunt), you'll never find a better time to buy than right now - while the real estate market is still in recovery. But just because buying a house makes perfect sense on paper doesn't mean it's the right decision for you. Here are four excellent reasons to continue to rent - and to ignore the experts who tell you you're wasting your money: o Location, location, location There's a reason why these are the three most important factors in real estate - generally, the closer a home is to attractive amenities, the more expensive it will be. In many cities, that means the affordable homes are either in the suburbs or require extensive renovation. So, if living in the heart of the city and being able to walk to local shops is important to you, then you're probably going to prefer to rent. Considering the fact that you have to be happy in your neighborhood, as well as your dwelling, this is an excellent reason to forgo home ownership for the time being. o More cash flow The fact of the matter is that you can often rent more home than you could buy with the

same money, not to mention the amount of cash you need to have saved up for the down payment, closing costs, and ongoing maintenance issues. If you're hoping to keep your cash available for a potential business, for ongoing education, or to weather an upcoming career change, then it makes sense to live in a rental so that your money isn't tied up when you need it. o A focus on simplicity Stuff tends to expand to the space allotted for it. If you prefer to live a modest and simple life, renting a smaller place than you could afford to own is a great idea. Not only does this force you to think harder about your consumption because you simply don't have the square footage available for every gadget and gizmo that marketers want you to buy, but it also allows you to simplify your financial life. You'll be able to only worry about one housing payment per month - rent - and send all the money you save into investments or retirement. It's a win-win. o Mobility It's a mistake to buy any home that you don't (or can't) plan to live in for at least five years - and this is particularly true since the housing crash. And while some renters know for a fact that their

lives will be up in the air because of potential relocation or other changes, others may simply feel uncomfortable setting down roots just now. There's absolutely nothing wrong with wanting the sense of freedom and mobility that renting provides. Buying a house shouldn't just be an economic decision - it should also feel right for where you are in your life.

The bottom line Home ownership isn't the right decision for everyone, which is why it can be frustrating to hear people describe renting as "throwing money away." Whether you rent, own, or are looking to buy, the important thing is to make your decisions based on what's best for you and your situation, rather than on generic advice.

Share your Money Tip: do you have a business/money idea, and you want to share it with our dear readers? Then, send it to: ikabirsule@gmail.com or (text it to 08091904890)

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

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EDIT ORIAL EDITORIAL

NUC, 'illegal' varsities and urgent challenges

startling news emanated from the Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the National Universities Commission (NUC) on Wednesday. Over 40 universities branded as illegal by ICPC and NUC were reportedly discovered in various parts of the country in one fell swoop. Clutching a warrant obatained from an Abuja High Court, the ICPCand NUC commenced the closure of the said illegal universities. This is even as ICPC launched a crack down on other such institutions, as well as trying to effect the arrest and prosecution of their operators nation wide. In fact, acording to the anti - graft commission, a whopping 67 of such unapproved varsities have been operating across Nigeria in recent times. Disclosing this to newsmen on Wednesday, chairman of the ICPC, Mr. Ekpo Nta, stated that the action was taken as part of the series of measures meant to deal with the worrisome trend of mushrooming tertiary institutions in Nigeria. He implied that more of such actions are to follow in the weeks and months ahead. Many Nigerians will no doubt appreciate this proactive action by the authorities. This is more so as no nation could afford to let unregistered institutions have a free rein under its nose. Some illegal schools are well known to indulge in all manner of

shady deals, including examination malpractice, and fleecing of unsuspecting innocent students under the pretext of satisfying their craving for certificates. To that extent, we fully appreciate the efforts to sanitize the system with a view to weeding out the bad eggs. At the same time it must be pointed out that the ongoing campaign, as laudable as it may

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as long as there is a yawning gap between the demand for university education and supply, desperation is bound to lead to all sorts of illegalities, including the operation of unregistered institutions be, is merely a symptom of an endemic malaise. At the root of the whole problem is the acute shortage of space for talented and highly qualified scholars who are desperate to further their education, only to discover to their utmost dissapointment that there is no place for them in the existing universities, no matter how they shine in tertiary examinations. It would be recalled that only recently over one million Nigerian youths sat for JAMB examination but only a negligible

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number of them were selected. And this, needless to say, is the sorry situation that confronts millions of our youths every year. None of us need to be a rocket scientist to appreciate the level of frustration that envelopes those Nigerians who are denied admission into higher institutions, even after they have performed well in examinations. Against this backdrop, few are surprised that illegal universities are flourishing everywhere in Nigeria. As pointed out earlier, NUC's effort to close illegal universities is commendable. Even then, this is no more than scratching the problem on the surface. The point must be noted that as long as there is a yawning gap between the demand for university education and supply, desperation is bound to lead to all sorts of illegalities, including the operation of unregistered institutions. Government must therefore, as a matter of urgency, address this critical situation without further delay. It is well known that many of those illegal institutions charge outrageous fees, yet thousands of people still flock to them out of sheer desperation. This, it goes without saying, is the root of the problem. None of us need to be a rocket scientist to know that for so long as government fails to address this national emergency, for so long shall we be stuck with the national embarrasement called illegal universities.

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PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

PAGE 13

Declaration of state of emergency: Nigeria in the abyss By Francis Amadiegwu

ll Hail President Chief Dr. Goodluck Ebele Azikiwe Jonathan, GCFR, GCON? No way! His declaration of a state of emergency in the northern states of Adamawa, Borno and Yobe is a depiction of his weakness and bizarre demonstration of frustration. What did he expect? In my opinion, he has misruled the nation and or acquiesced to its misrule by his co-travelers. Our military and security forces are oriented only in doing dirty jobs for the ruling elite, not in defence of the populace. Although he has the constitutional powers to so act, but by so doing, he has missed the mark, convoluted the facts and swept the problem under a carpet that has stunk for years. He ought to have declared a State of Anesthesia in the whole nation, given the state of dysfunction and political calamity the people are subjected to. In tackling the nation's ills, Nigeria is only but a shackled giant. The country is far worse today than when he took office. Boko Haram's activities and

other unchecked terrorist and criminal activities in the nation are the manifestations of inexplicably extreme level of poverty and unemployment. Mahatma Gandhi, the immortal nationalist and founder of modern India, admonishes us that "Poverty is the worst form of violence" According to the 19th century English historian, Henry Thomas Buckle, "Society prepares the crime; the criminal commits it." Don't get me wrong, I am opposed to all the carnage perpetrated everyday by Boko Haram and others. But we are only responding to the consequences and not the causes of the malaise. We are likely to

get stuck in the vicious cycle of treating the outcome, and that would be too little, too late. You can avoid reality, but you cannot avoid the consequences of avoiding reality. The apparent incurable ineptitude of the nation's presiding officer makes me want to regret the battle my comrades and I fought to defeat Olu??gun Mathew Okiki?la Ar?mu ?basanj?'s Tenure Elongation (Third Term) scheme in 2006. Wish we had failed because what seemed like our triumph over the dictator gave rise to the emergence of the present crop of leaders we now have. The nation has fallen from the proverbial

frying pan to fire. Even Obasanjo himself now laments foisting Goodluck Jonathan onto the presidency. Like the Americans say, be careful of what you ask for, you might just get it. I'm not impressed by his political crocodile tears. Are other states safer? Is the nation itself safe? There's murderous kidnapping and armed robbery everywhere. In the Southeast, for example, people are dying of hunger; most of the youth are unemployed; the sick have no access to medical care. Citizens of the second richest nation in south Saharan Africa live in squalor and unmitigated hopelessness. The gulf between the haves and have-nots is unprecedented. I honestly think the entire nation needs a state of emergency otherwise things will get worse before they get better, if at all.

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With the way things are, Goodluck has become bad luck for the nation. Let us endure as and go to sleep for the remaining twenty-four months by which time it would be undeniable even to him, that he is not cut out for the job

If he wants to be taken seriously, let him confess that the job he was appointed to by the Supreme Court, is really too rigorous and too complicated for him, and honorably resign. As a matter of fact, I make bold to predict that as far as the present administration is concerned, an efficacious cure to our ills is inconceivable. How could the sick baby get better when she still daily ingests the poison that sickened her, and in larger doses than before? With the way things are, Goodluck has become bad luck for the nation. Let us endure as and go to sleep for the remaining twenty-four months by which time it would be undeniable even to him, that he is not cut out for the job. And then, he better not, dare Nigerians with any talk of wanting to be declared "President" again in 2015. That would seem like a threat to me. Please hurry up and go home so that the rest of us may wake up form this nightmare. We'd forgive him because he's a good guy who knows not what he's doing. But please let him go home in 2015. Otherwise we might as well sing the nation's Nunc dimittis. Francis Amadiegwu is a former member, House of Representatives

Kingsley Kuku and his co-apostles of anarchy By Uche Igwe

upporters of the president have warned repeatedly that they cannot guarantee peace in the Niger Delta if their kinsman, Goodluck Jonathan, is not elected. Major highlights in the verbal missiles were the ones thrown by the Special Adviser to President Jonathan on Amnesty Mr. Kingsley Kuku during a forum in Washington, D.C., recently. In many ways the speech of Mr. Kuku, to an extent, did not surprise me. The prayer of an average public office holder is the maintenance of the status quo as this could guarantee continued stay in office, at least in principle. If the office he currently occupies is 'lucrative', as many have opined, it will only be natural for him to ask for more, like the proverbial Oliver Twist. I can also imagine that he means well for his boss and wants to be seen as loyal. However wittingly or unwittingly that speech has raised the antennae of many of Nigerians at home and abroad, who have begun to give his comments closer scrutiny and a more nuanced interpretation. That speech may end up hurting the person who he travelled all the way to D.C. to try to assist. Let me touch on four areas of immediate concern. First is to quickly declare without equivocation that I am a Niger Deltan, broadly speaking. I may not have an oil well in my backyard but at least my state is oil-producing, as covered in the

Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Act. I think it is wrong to portray the president as a regional player. That is exactly what Mr. Kuku's speech has inadvertently done. I support President Jonathan in delivering dividends of democracy to all parts of Nigeria and expecting to be elected by all of us. If he underperforms, it weakens our morale-period. We know that no one region can elect him alone, at least going by the stipulations of the constitution, no matter how much we love him. So we need each other now more than ever before. Related to this is the fact that the message was delivered to the sensitive and sometimes nosy Washington, D.C., audience. As if that was not enough, after a few days, another self-proclaimed supporter of Jonathan echoed the same message as if they were playing out a well-rehearsed drama. For all intents and purposes, such statements corroborate the predictions made by the former ambassador in his book. Another aspect of the concern relates to the position of Mr. Kuku himself. The Niger Delta amnesty program is a very sensitive one. Whenever anyone from that office speaks, the person should expect to be taken seriously. From the declaration of amnesty by President YarArdua, the ex-combatants dropped all their weapons and embraced amnesty. The federal office that Mr. Kuku coordinates was commissioned to carry out a comprehensive demobilisation, demilitarisation and

reintegration programme. That means that theoretically speaking, neither miltants nor stockpiles of weapons of any kind should exist anywhere in the Niger Delta. Most of the fighters should have been trained or are currently undergoing training and so will be expected to reintegrate into the society as normal, law-abiding citizens. If this is the case then who are the people that Mr. Kuku is referring to? Many people are now struggling between what they consider the original goals of the amnesty program and the speculations that it will be converted into a private army of some sort. We do not need any war or drums of war-what we need is fiscal federalism that will allow us to control our resources and develop our region. The third point is the timing of these comments vis-Ă -vis the ongoing considerations of extending amnesty to Boko Haram insurgents. Such a comment is capable of upsetting the momentum gathered in discussions about peace in the northern region. So what is the meaning of amnesty? Is Mr Kuku trying to fly a kite or are there things the Nigerian public need to know? On what basis can we convince the insurgents in the north to drop their weapons and embrace peace? What if others begin to see the statement as an inspiration to start making preparations for an imaginary war? Those who have examined the Niger Delta militancy and the insurgency of Boko Haram insist that the two are

fundamentally different. Do we now want to start equating them? The mere flash of Niger Delta militants on one side and Boko Haram on the other is too frightening to contemplate, and any statement that seeks to insinuate this is not in our best interest as a nation. Almost two years to 2015, there is no need to get into a panic mood. What is the desperation about? Good governance and public service. Really? Even at that are we to prepare for elections or to prepare for war? I insist that President Goodluck Jonathan's action or inaction about very sensitive issues that border on Nigeria will be what we credit him for. Comments like those credited to Hon. Kuku and the flip-flopping, allegedly-repentant militant Asari Dokubo will heat up the system unnecessarily, portray Mr President in bad light and complicate what is clearly a challenging situation. Worse still, it could precipitate anarchy and pave the way for the military to confiscate the democratic space and plunder our polity. Closely linked to the second thought but of far greater worry, is the rising suspicion amongst Nigerians today of the President's amnesty programme. The Kuku and Asari comments, and the repeated threats to unleash the nation's allegedly disarmed and 'amnetised' militants, who are now being trained and retrained and sustained under a national amnesty programme funded

with federal revenue, on Nigerians and the Federal Republic of Nigeria should one individual not be re-elected as president of the nation come 2015 now renders the entire amnesty programme as implemented by Mr. President suspect. Many discerning minds are now beginning to question the true motive of this government's amnesty programme, and justifiably so. Nigerians are already asking very pertinent questions. Questions such as: are these repentant militants truly repentant and changed in their ways? Is their allegiance truly for the Nigerian nation now or to some ethnicity or individuals somewhere out there? If the amnesty programme, as it is being executed, is as successful as we are made to believe, then these repentant militants should by now be as civilly innocent as the rest of us having been fully disarmed, demilitarised and reorientated. And so who are Mr. Kuku and his co-travellers referring to? The federal government must get the chief implementer of the amnesty programme to not only explain their utterances but also provide the answers to all of these questions! Indeed, it is time for a comprehensive review of the amnesty programme to ensure that we are not made to perceive that there is a hidden agenda against the generality of Nigerians or threat to the sovereignty of this nation! Uche Igwe is on www.twitter.com

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

PAGE 14

Nigeria's First Ladies at war By Sola odunfa

fierce war is raging in Nigeria, and I do not mean the one declared by militant Islamist group Boko Haram. It is the "battle of the first ladies" - being fought with political and legal weapons in defence of egos. Ex-First Lady Turai Yar'Adua is fighting to retain prime land allocated to her in the capital, Abuja, when she was president of the African First Ladies Peace Mission (AFLPM). The property was taken from her after the death of President Umaru Yar'Adua in 2010 and given to the current First Lady, Patience Jonathan, in her capacity as the new AFLPM head. African leaders, nearly all of whom are men, have the African Union (AU) headquarters - a stunning building funded by the Chinese in Ethiopia's capital, Addis Ababa. So, in these days of women empowerment, no-one can fault their spouses for setting up the AFLPM. By Adekoya Boladale Those insurgents and terrorists who take delight in killing our security operatives, whoever they may be, wherever they may go, we will hunt them down, we will fish them out, and we will bring them to justice … we will do more, we will gun them down.

ho could have believed the above statement was made by President Goodluck Ebele Azikiwe Jonathan, I mean the same man from Otuoke village in Bayelsa State, the one many Nigerians have come to believe lost his tongue and will from birth. But believe it or not this is real; it is not one of those Nollywood movies having Jide Kosoko or Justus Esiri play the role of the president. The Nigerian president was raging fire and brimstone against terrorists and insurgents who for a while now have taken over the presiding affair of most Northern states. Dressed in the usual Niger Delta attire but this time with a round black suede cap to match it up, the lecturerturned-president started the speech on a pitch-dragging note, a voice introduction used only by people who fight to gain confidence and will. Along the line he was fully blended into the speech but still found it hard to make eye contact with the camera. The tone of seriousness and anger however took over the last five paragraphs and he ended on a very good note. Some critics and analysts believe this sudden confidence can only be informed by inspiration. Some believe it

a nonSome critics governmental may argue organisation, that such a the Women and facility should Peoples Daily welcomes your letters, opinion articles, text Youth be within the messages and ‘pictures of yesteryears.’ All written Empowerment AU complex in contributions should be concise. Word limits: Letters - 150 Foundation Addis Ababa, (WYEF), which words, Articles - 750 words. Please include your name and but that would she had not show that a valid location. Letters to the Editor should be addressed launched. As Africa's first to: far as they are ladies are concerned, it independent of The Editor, was never their Peoples Daily, 1st Floor Peace Plaza, meant to be the husbands.To 35 Ajose Adeogun Street, Utako, Abuja. headquarters of the delight of Email: opinion@peoplesdaily-online.com the AFLPM - an the Nigerian SMS: 08134607052 organisation government launched more Abuja was than a decade therefore Vice-President Goodluck ago. chosen as the AFLPM Jonathan, who wielded no Not so, said her successor. headquarters, as no other power. Eventually, Mr Her spokesman said the country made a bid to host it. property was originally Mrs Yar'Adua was known in Yar'Adua died and Mr Jonathan became president. allocated to Mrs Yar'Adua as Nigeria as a very tough Power shifted. president of AFLPM, but was woman who saw her union That saw the natural later reviewed in favour of with the president to include a abdication of Mrs Yar'Adua and WYEF and the decision by the unity of office. Many insiders the enthronement of First Lady authorities to re-allocate it to described her as the alternate Patience Jonathan. The battle the AFLPM was the only president, more so when Mr for the choice piece of land in "appropriate logical action". Yar'Adua fell ill and was Abuja started. Goodluck Jonathan and his admitted to hospital in Saudi Ex-First Lady Yar'Adua's wife come from southern Arabia in 2009. lawyers said that the land in Nigeria, the Yar'Aduas from At the time, Mrs Jonathan question was allocated to her for the north. Mrs Yar'Adua took was the unobtrusive wife of

WRITE TO US

the Federal Capital Territory Administration to court to reclaim the land. She won earlier this month. The court ruled there was no evidence to show that the land had been originally allocated to the AFLPM, as claimed by the justice minister. The government responded by saying that it would appeal against the ruling. Every Nigerian knows that the battle is not one for the courts. Even the court had advised the two parties to settle the matter amicably. We lay men say that courts deal with the law and politicians in power make the law. As it is in Nigeria so it is in every other African country. Come to think of it, there are scores of properties in the choicest parts of Abuja available for allocation. I wish I knew what is driving the battle over this one. So far, other African first ladies have not intervened. I think they should launch a mission to resolve this dispute, if indeed their objective is to promote peace across the continent. Sola Odunfa is a former Lagos-based correspondent of BBC's rested Focus on Africa programme.

The new Goodluck Jonathan was a result of the reoccurring outburst by the international community over his action-less threats and counter threats against various attacks. To others it was simply one out of the numerous gifts of the president hiding within but programmed only to unveil at the extreme end of situations, in other word something similar to a ‘last source’. Above all, whatever might have gingered this hidden side of President Jonathan is worth praising, even if it is the local ‘paraga’ I will advise the president include its intake in every meal, in fact it would be more effective if it takes the place of water. The president has taken a bold long-awaited step towards curbing terrorism in the country and restoring law and order, but he shouldn’t stop there. The security sector is not the only area of our nationhood that requires state of

emergency. In 2007, the late President Musa Yar’adua who Jonathan shared a joint ticket with then gave to all Nigerians in the full glare of the world his words to declare a state of emergency in the power sector. I want to believe as President Jonathan said in his remembrance speech for the late president, that the then 7 point agenda was a blueprint for the transformation agenda. It’s been six years after that promise was made and not even a partial emergency rule has been declared in the power sector, a sector which has continuously brought ridicule and shame upon our national image both home and abroad. The economy sector too deserves an urgent emergency rule. There have been talks and campaigns on macro and micro economy system been used, the minister for finance Dr. Ngozi Okonjo Iweala alongside her

“

counterpart the governor of the central bank Sanusi Lamido Sanusi have been on various platforms to explain the growth of our economy and forecast robust future output but to an average Nigerian these are mere ‘wall street’ statements if it doesn’t translate to massive employment, reduction in the price of vegetable and onions in the market. If the prices of rice and beans continue to soar higher than wages and salaries, then it is all hoaxes. Nigerians deserve results after long years of grammatical bombardment and intellectual masturbation; the citizens have been too patient and don’t deserve to be taken through another season of ‘inhouse’ employment system which has graciously opened doors to job scams and fraud. Our sovereignty is being threatened by terrorists and

Our sovereignty is being threatened by terrorists and insurgents but also the future and continuous existence of the country is under siege by corruption. The so much glorified anti-graft agencies have suddenly embarked on sound sleep. Political office holders no longer have the fear of being caught in the act rather they see looting of public funds as part of their job description

insurgents but also the future and continuous existence of the country is under siege by corruption. The so much glorified anti-graft agencies have suddenly embarked on sound sleep. Political office holders no longer have the fear of being caught in the act rather they see looting of public funds as part of their job description. The confidence of the public must be restored not just in politicians alone but core war against misappropriation in every area of our nation’s life. We require emergency rule, not one led by soldiers and men in ‘Khaki’ but one chaired by men and women of unquestionable character rather than political affiliates who now chair our anti-graft agencies. The president has set the ball of war against terrorism rolling; the next few days will truly prove if Dr. Jonathan has it in him, the confidence to rule Nigeria. Would he have the will to see the fight to the very end or would he chicken out in the heat of the raging war? These are questions even Reuben Abati and Doyin Okupe don’t have answers to. While the new war for peace begins up North let our new president ensure the safety of innocent men and women who may come in the line of fire. Another episode of Baga would only make mockery of this declaration. Adekoya Boladale, a political scientist, wrote via adekoyaboladale@gmail.com

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

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Jonathan/Amaechi volte-face: Widening the gulf By Theophilus Ilevbare

he “cold war” between Governor Chibuike Amaechi of Rivers State and President Goodluck Jonathan that has inundated the media apparently began with Governor Amaechi's rather unsavoury remarks against the President and reached a crescendo with his remarks on the East/West Road under the supervision of the Niger Delta Affairs Ministry. Since then, these remarks have gone beyond mere superficiality to reveal the inner mind of Governor Amaechi. We live in times where a democratic government behave like a tyrannical military regime. There are bound to be face-offs, but to allow it descend into political witch-hunt is a sure recipe for anarchy. Amaechi believes he is being persecuted for speaking truth to power on vexed issues of excess crude account, sovereign wealth fund, true federalism, fuel subsidy removal and disapproval for the spendthrift that has depleted Nigeria’s foreign reserve. I do not sympathise with him on his travails. My brief here is to make a case for the practice and adherence to the tenets of true democracy. The clandestine plans to impeach him is nothing short of despotism. For the continuous survival of our democracy, it must be roundly condemned. Amaechi and Jonathan are from PDP, same party that has

institutionalised corruption and entrench impunity in the country. A lacked of internal democracy in the party has resulted in the roforofo fight between the pair. Amaechi’s sins would have been less grievous if he wasn’t the chairman of the NGF. President Jonathan’s aides believe he should have used his position to rally support for policies and initiatives of the president rather than turning it to an opposition platform. He has done nothing to suggest he is working against Jonathan's 2015 re-election bid. The presidency is set to bully Amaechi to either tow the line of Jonathan's 2015 aspiration or face the music of refusal. His modest performance in Rivers state puts him head and shoulders above other PDP governors. Over the years, the governor has built a well recognised political structure that will make it a herculean task to unseat him. Doyin Okupe, in response to the ‘persecution’ of Amaechi was quoted as saying there must not be opposition within a party. It would have made more sense if he told us how Amaechi’s actions summed up to disrespect or contempt for the highest office in the land. Such ideological differences are meant to deepen democracy and governance. Special Adviser to the President on Political Matters, Ahmed Gulak, questioned the rationale behind Amaechi’s spat with Jonathan, insinuating it is to trumpet his own presidential

ambition. Gulak stopped short of telling us when Amaechi declared for the 2015 presidential race. He posited that Amaechi’s tenure has come to an end so he must hand it over. To him, he is ineligible to run for re-election. In the same vein, Gulak can douse much of the heat in the polity by advising President Jonathan at the expiration of his Frankeinstein administration not to run for a second term in 2015. There are some two million votes at stake in Rivers state. In the 2011 presidential votes cast for the PDP, Rivers votes dwarfed the combined votes of Bayelsa, Edo and Cross Rivers state. The thinking of the Jonathan backers is, if the President must win elections come 2015, the state must be firmly under the control of a loyal PDP governor. Hence, the reason for the surreptitious impeachment moves. The ruling party cannot discountenance the role Rivers played in the emergence of Jonathan during the 2011 elections neither can they discount the fact that votes from Rivers state effectively swung the victory from the SouthSouth in Jonathan’s favour. Governor Amaechi's tenure as NGF Chairman ends in May, and he plans to seek re-election in spite of his present troubles. Already, the Northern Governors’ Forum had resolved to vote for Amaechi to ensure the NGF is strong enough to prevent manipulation by the

President. Meanwhile, the President has held meetings with PDP-GF, to intimate them of his anointed choice of Governor Ibrahim Shema of Katsina state. The infamous role the First Lady, Patience Jonathan, has played in the crisis has inflamed rumours that she is pushing for Nyesom Wike as governor in 2015. Meantime, she is preoccupied, along with other aides in hushing dissenting voices to Jonathan’s pesky 2015 ambition. The buck stops with PDP. That the National Leadership of the party has left such a crisis to linger leaves much to be desired. The ruling party is a house in perpetual disarray. The Nation it has governed for the past 14 years fair no less. The chairman, Bamanga Tukur has pitched his tent with the President. Scratching beyond the surface of this squabble is the Minister of State for Education, Nyesom Wike, President Jonathan’s puppeteer. He contributed immensely in the post election battle that ensured Amaechi reclaimed his mandate. But now, he has exploited his closeness with the First Lady to trigger the roforofo fight. It’s a battle between Jonathan and Amaechi, instigated by Wike. And there is the First Lady, Patience Jonathan, sandwiched somewhere in-between. The thinking of the presidency is that the NGF “now behaves like an opposition

party to the federal government”. This much was contained in a letter that Chief Edwin Clark, widely regarded as the President’s ‘godfather,’ had allegedly written to members of the NGF. Amaechi is believed to be "eyeing" a shot at the Presidency. He has given credence to this by responding to virtually all national issues particularly those that affect the President. It has been misinterpreted as an indication of his Presidential ambition. As the election of a new NGF chairman draws near, Mr. Jonathan through the instrumentality of the state will pile trouble on Amaechi. These shenanigans are needless if the president can sleep with his two eyes closed since the PDP-GF was formed as the PDP Chairman, Bamanga Tukur told Nigerians. The gulf between President Jonathan and Amaechi is widened by the deepening political crisis. If it snowballs to chaos, it can be used to discredit the governor, setting the tone for impeachment. As the federal government continues the rabid dismembering of Amaechi’s political apparatus across the state, it remains to be seen, how long it will take for the gulf between Amaechi and Jonathan to become wide enough before a successful political incision can be made. Theophilus Ilevbare is reachable via theophilus@ilevbare.com

Boko Haram: Spend those trillions on education By Pat Utomi

s Albert Einsten once said: “We can not solve our problems with the same level of thinking that created them”. The challenge of terrorism and ostensibly faith and cult based intolerance, partly manifested in the Boko Haram insurgency, that we face in Nigeria was created at the level of ignorance. I have heard truly scholarly discussions and even in the last month at the CVL Faith and tolerance conference, the Chaplain of the University of Lagos House of Assembly spoke passionately about Islam as a religion of peace and one not opposed to Western education. That being the case the only solution is to fight ignorance with knowledge. The top commanders of Boko Haram are not doing anything new. They do not believe that Boko or Book is Haram. If they really did would they be using Western weapons to fight? Would they be using Western media such as YouTube and other social media to communicate with journalists? Of course not. Malam Shekau was almost

caught last year when he visited his wife in Kano and he escaped with the aid of a fast car, another fruit of Western Education. Thus it is safe to say that he and his top commanders are not against Western Education. Besides some of the leaders of the group are known to be University graduates. It would seem that they are revolutionaries in Boko Haram, whose goal is to overthrow the current establishment in Northern Nigeria just like their compatriots did in Somalia and their strategy in doing that is to take advantage of the massive illiteracy that is the bane of the Northern population. This is no new strategy. Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge did the same thing in Cambodia. They killed the educated and targeted centers of learning for the same reason that totalitarians have been doing for millennia-the educated are more likely to rebel against tyranny! So rather than spend trillions on security, the Federal Government has to look beyond the immediate and have a long term strategy to starve organized terrorist

groups of the oxygen that feeds their fire. We must begin to educate the masses of the North so that they value their lives. Education increases their level of consciousness and when a man has a heightened level of consciousness he is no longer easily susceptible to manipulation using primordial sentiments. Education also expands the scope of how they can earn income and get to a level of self fulfilment that cannot make them available for ideologues fighting different agenda. But it should not be in the North alone. Similar levels of low literacy in parts of the south are also sources of the state of insecurity in the South East and South South. This is why I have offered a liberal perspective on Paulo Friers’s Pedagogy of the oppressed. The pedagogy of the Determined, which I have proposed, takes a community based entrepreneurial approach to activist learning that can transform and empower in a short period of time. Last year, the government used the same argument that previous administration used which is that the funds meant to subsidize fuel is not getting

to its intended target which is the poor. So instead of subsidizing fuel, Nigeria has been subsidizing corruption. Sound logic on the face of it. So now let us flip this. Rather than subsidizing fuel (or corruption) I am not too sure that the government will face too much resistance if it says that it will henceforth subsidize education. With half of the money that we are currently spending subsidizing fuel Nigeria can offer free and qualitative education up to secondary school level, using social enterprises, faith based agencies to complement and compete with direct government funding of educational institutions. This is the type of long term strategy that will defeat the menace of terrorism as well as increase our Gross Domestic Product because an educated people produce more, have less children and are more healthy. There is no easy fix to fighting terrorism. Ask the Middle East, ask Somalia, ask Afghanistan. To defeat terrorism, you must look much farther ahead than the terrorists. You must target the intending terrorist in a policy of catch them young. Rather

than fighting terrorism with trillions of Naira spent on security we are feeding it by causing deep hatred in the hearts of the people of certain parts of Northern Nigeria for the military. Right now many of these people cannot decide who they hate most between Boko Haram and the Joint Military Task Force (JTF). Instead we must spend trillions on education and education will do what guns and bombs cannot do-make people value their life too much to be fodder for terrorism. It is fitting to conclude with a word on values over faith. Years ago a much respected moslem friend told me a true story of a great moslem cleric who visited the United States. Struck by the values of the people he met, he lamented the paradox of leaving a moslem country where the people do not behave like moslems and coming to this non-moslem country where they behave like moslems. What has gone awry in Nigeria is not a faith dispute but a crisis of values. And the insurgency can be curbed with education laced with the right values. Prof. Pat Utomi writes from Lagos

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Parks, Gardens within 8,000 square kilometers won’t get title document, says FCT minister By Adeola Tukuru

he FCT Administration has said that it would not release any title document on any Park and Garden within the 8,000 square kilometers of the Federal Capital Territory. The FCT Minister, Senator Bala Mohammed revealed this while receiving the 17 Member delegation of the Indian Defence College that were in Abuja on a study tour of Nigeria. The Minister revealed that all Certificates of Occupancy meant for the Parks and Garden in the Territory are domiciled in the

Department of Parks and Recreation in the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council. Senator Mohammed reiterated that no title document on any of the Gardens would be released to the Park Operators because such areas are only being sub-leased and would be taken back at the expiration of the lease period depending on activity on such areas. According to him, the activity on such Parks determines the lease period, which is being graduated between 5 and 35 years that is the maximum.

Senator Mohammed disclosed that since inception, the FCT Administration has been able to develop 30 percent of the Federal Capital City comprising of 250 square kilometers. “Accordingly, the FCT Administration has out of 79 Districts of the Federal Capital City developed 11 with 68 districts still undeveloped,” he stressed. The Minister noted that India and Nigeria have similarities especially on their demographic challenges, which authorities in the FCT Administration is determined to turn into its utmost advantage.

He lauded the sound diplomatic relations established between Nigeria and India including their economic ties, which both nations have exploited to the benefit of the duo nations. The leader of delegation of the Indian National Defence College, Air Vice Marshal IP Vipin appreciated the warn reception accorded his team. AVM Vipin who praised the rapid development being witnessed in Abuja within the short time of its conception, remarked that India and Nigeria have long standing history and would work to strengthen it.

Teachers demonstrating simple teaching methods during training exercise recently in kwali, Abuja.

Group lauds FCT minster over Land Swap Programme By Adeola Tukuru

he National Coordinator of Kasuwa da Kasuwa, Hajiya Halimatu B. Jumare has commended the FCT Minister for introducing the land swap system, saying the programme is the much needed key to unlock Abuja’s development. In an interview with newsmen in Abuja, Hajiya Jumare stated that if Abuja were to be left to develop through the normal process of contract awards in districts via Government’s budgetary provision, then the territory would certainly face population crisis because, according to her, the rate at which the population of Abuja is growing has become alarming. She said that it is only through land swap that more districts can be opened and people can build legitimate houses where they can live and develop Abuja according to the master plan.

Hajiya Jumare stated that rather than be criticised, the Minister should be given commendation and encouragement for bringing this innovation to bail Abuja from its problems including the hitherto intractable resettlement and

compensation problems. According to the vocal woman activist who is a notable grassroots politician in Abuja, the land swap initiative is an idea that is far ahead based on Nigeria’s contemporary level of development. She called upon the Minister to continue with

the programme, not minding what some people who are motivated by partisan interest may be doing. According to her, the critics of land swap are opposing the system, not because of genuine reasons but because of political factors.

50,000 FCT farmers registered for second phase of GES

he Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has registered 50,000 farmers for the second phase of the Growth Enhancement Support (GES) scheme. The FCT GES Coordinator, Mr Ovurevu Ademoh, made this known in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja. Ademoh said that the Federal Government was still carrying out some publicity to reach more farmers, while the registration was still on-going. The coordinator, however, said that poor services from the mobile networks was a major challenge. He said: ‘’You know the way Nigerian mobile networks are, even those of us in urban areas do not enjoy good network all the time. “We also encountered this problem last year; sometimes we will ask the farmers to go and come back the following day. But we are working to tackle the challenge.” Ademoh explained that in the 2013 GES scheme, farmers were not delayed for more than seven minutes at the redemption centres. He said that if a farmer had mobile network issue, the redemption officer would help him contact the company in charge of the e-wallet and he would be able to receive his inputs. NAN reports that the GES is the flagship programme under the Federal Government’s Agricultural Transformation Agenda. It is an innovative scheme, which seeks to remove the difficulties usually associated with the distribution of fertiliser and seeds to farmers. The scheme’s approach is to target beneficiaries through the use of an electronic system known as e-Wallet and also to engage the private sector in the delivery of inputs to farmers. The conditions for the e-Wallet stipulate that a farmer registered under the scheme pays 50 per cent of the cost of inputs, while the federal and state governments pay 25 per cent each. (NAN)

Waste: Mararaba residents demand refuse receptacle

ome residents of Mararaba in Nasarawa State have appealed to the state government to provide refuse receptacle in the area. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports of heaps of waste along the Abuja/Keffi Federal Highway constitutes an eyesore and a threat to the health of the people. The residents told NAN that the situation was caused by the lack of refuse bins to dump waste generated from homes and

market places. Mrs Habiba Ibrahim. a resident, told NAN that if refuse receptacles were provided the issue of indiscriminate waste dumping would have been controlled. “People are compelled to dump waste on the road because there is nothing they can do since everywhere is filled up with houses.” In his contribution, Mr Aba Aba, a resident, said that management of waste was a

major challenge in the area. Aba said that Nasarawa as the nearest state to Abuja, should also be kept clean as the FCT. “It seems that waste management is seen by the government as a burden rather too heavy to be handled. “These are ways of inviting diseases like cholera, measles and other diseases associated with unclean environment. “The outbreak of any disease be it in urban cities or rural areas today is characterised by the lifestyle of

people living in such area. “We, Nigerians are not conscious of our environment and as such, our health is easily affected. In her contribution, Miss Inikpi Iyeema, called for the placement of refuse bins along the road to poor waste disposal and poor sanitation attitude exhibited by many Nigerians. Such a measure, the residents, said would make it easier for the people and the government to control indiscriminate waste dumping. (NAN)

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US, Nigeria pact to curb HIV/AIDS in FCT By Usman Shuaibu

he Institute of Human Virology in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in collaboration with the United State government through the Centre for Diseases Control as well as the FCT Health and Human Services Secretariat has organized a workshop for health Care Professionals on the HIV/AIDS Prevention. Speaking to Peoples Daily at the workshop in Gwagwalada, the Regional Associate Director of the Institute of Human Virology, Dr. Oche Yusuf, said that the aims of the workshop was to empower the Health Professional to know the basic things about HIV/AIDS with the special emphasis on the prevention of modern child transmission. He called on the federal and state governments to focus on the development needs of health facilities to enable the medical doctors, community health workers and nurses to render more services for the people in the country. He further urged government to provide enough fund for hospitals in the country to encourage the health professionals to continue to combat against HIV/AIDS pandemic. Yusuf advised the medial doctors as well s community health workers to deem it necessary to acquire basic knowledge on how to manage HIV/ AIDS prevention.

Lecturer tasks FG on school facilities By Usman Shuaibu

lecturer with the College of Education Zuba in Gwagwalada Area Council,FCT, Mr. Abdullah Suleiman, has called on the government to equip the institutions of higher learning with the facilities to arrest pending issues affecting the educational institutions in the country. He also called on the government to pay the salaries of the teachers at as when due to enable them to do their work well. Suleiman, who made the call in an interview with Peoples Daily during the annual national conference in Zuba, urged government to gear towards the implementation of education policies all the times for the benefit of educationists in the country. He also pleaded with the government to allocate enough fund to educational sector to enable its carry out the roles effectively. He appealed to the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to organise workshops for the teachers to update the knowledge. Ibrahim who is a member of the FCT College of Education Academic Staff Union (COEASU) Zuba chapter, advised teachers to further their education to acquire more knowledge and warned students against examination malpractices.

Katsina state Governor, Alhaji Ibrahim Shehu Shema and Akwa Ibom state Governor, Obong Godswill Akpabio, Presidential posters pasted yesterday in many part of Area 1, in Abuja. Photo: Justin Imo-Owo

Hospital director decries inadequate health workers, bed space

he Chief Medical Director (CMD), Bwari General Hospital, Dr Aloysius Ebedi, FCT, has complained about the inadequate bed spaces and health workers in the hospital, describing the situation as worrisome. The CMD told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Abuja that shortage of such and other amenities posed serious threat to the delivery of healthcare services in the hospital. According to him, it is expedient for the FCT administration to provide an enabling environment for the provision of adequate healthcare. Ebedi added that efforts should be put in place to promote sustainable healthcare services. “Our facilities are being over stretched by the influx of people from surrounding states to access free medication for children below five years and pregnant women in the hospital.” He said that the hospital often relied on generator to run its operations, adding that the issue of bed space had become a “war” because of increasing number of patients. Ebedi, therefore, called for more wards and beds to allow for more patients on admission. On free treatment of children from five years and

below, including pregnant women, the CMD called on the neighbouring states to emulate the FCT administration by giving their residents free medication. He said that if states could provide free medical care to the children and pregnant women, it would go a long way in reducing maternal mortality rate. “Our hospital provides all the necessary assistance and help to pregnant women and this has been the reason parents keep trooping in to Bwari hospital for medical attention,” Ebedi said. The CMD said that it would be easier for the hospital if the surrounding states could compliment its efforts by providing free medical care to, at least, their pregnant women and children from five years and below. “This will go a long way to reduce the burden in our hospitals, especially Bwari General Hospital, which shares border with Kaduna and Niger states,’’ he said. Ebedi urged Bwari residents, especially the pregnant women and children, to sleep under insecticide-treated mosquito nets to avoid malaria. He cautioned the people to always keep their environment clean, adding that filthy and dirty environment bred mosquitoes and many other

things that could cause serious illnesses.(NAN) Bwari General Hospital, FCT, has complained about the inadequate bed spaces and health workers in the hospital, describing the situation as worrisome. The CMD told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Abuja that shortage of such and other amenities posed serious threat to the delivery of healthcare services in the hospital. According to him, it is expedient for the FCT administration to provide an enabling environment for the provision of adequate healthcare. Ebedi added that efforts should be put in place to promote sustainable healthcare services. “Our facilities are being over stretched by the influx of people from surrounding states to access free medication for children below five years and pregnant women in the hospital.” He said that the hospital often relied on generator to run its operations, adding that the issue of bed space had become a “war” because of increasing number of patients. Ebedi, therefore, called for more wards and beds to allow for more patients on admission. On free treatment of children from five years and below,

including pregnant women, the CMD called on the neighbouring states to emulate the FCT administration by giving their residents free medication. He said that if states could provide free medical care to the children and pregnant women, it would go a long way in reducing maternal mortality rate. “Our hospital provides all the necessary assistance and help to pregnant women and this has been the reason parents keep trooping in to Bwari hospital for medical attention,” Ebedi said. The CMD said that it would be easier for the hospital if the surrounding states could compliment its efforts by providing free medical care to, at least, their pregnant women and children from five years and below. “This will go a long way to reduce the burden in our hospitals, especially Bwari General Hospital, which shares border with Kaduna and Niger states,’’ he said. Ebedi urged Bwari residents, especially the pregnant women and children, to sleep under insecticide-treated mosquito nets to avoid malaria. He cautioned the people to always keep their environment clean, adding that filthy and dirty environment bred mosquitoes and many other things that could cause serious illnesses. (NAN)

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

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Police arraign 3 men over fuel hawking

Traditional dancers entertaining guests at a function, yesterday in Garki, Abuja.

Photo: Justin Imo-Owo

INSIDE FCT COURTS

Beggar bags 5 weeks imprisonment for criminal trespass, theft

Grade Two Area Court in Kado, Abuja, yesterday sentenced one Sani Abubakar to five weeks in prison after he pleaded guilty to a twocount charge of criminal trespass and theft. The presiding officer, Malam Ahmed Ado, gave the convict an option to pay N2,000 in fine. “I will not do it again. It is because I don’t have clothes; that was why I

committed such an offence,’’ the convict said. The police prosecutor, Sgt. Simon Ibrahim, had asked that the convict be tried summarily under Section 157 Sub-Section 1 of the Criminal Procedure Code. Section 157 (1) states that an accused person’s admission “shall be recorded as nearly as possible in the words used by him’’ if he admits that he has committed the offence

of which he is accused. It states further that “if the accused shows no sufficient cause why he should not be convicted, the court may convict him accordingly and in that case it shall not be necessary to frame a normal charge.’’ The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Abubakar, a 20year-old beggar, at Wuse Market in Abuja, was tried on a two-count

charge of criminal trespass and theft. Ibrahim had earlier told the court that one Christian Augustine lodged the report against the convict at Utako Police Station on May 10. He said the convict had gone into Augustine’s premises at 5, Bukar Dapcharima Close in Utako where he stole some clothes on May 9,2013 . Abubakar, who admitted that the clothes he was wearing were some of the ones he stole, pleaded for leniency. (NAN)

Man in court over criminal breach of trust, cheating

he police yesterday arraigned a 30-year-old man, Ekenne Mmama, of Kurudu village, Abuja, in an Abuja Magistrates’ Court for alleged criminal breach of trust and cheating. The Prosecutor, Danjuma Etubi, told the court that on Dec. 4, 2012, Chinedu Onahi of Beside City Rock, Mararaba, Nasarawa State, petitioned the AIG, Zone 7, on the matter. Etubi said that the accused

person fraudulently collected N2.2 million from the complainant under the guise that he would sell a car to him. He said that the accused claimed he had a Toyota Camry 2008 model coming into the country from Germany and promised that he would hand it over to him immediately he received it. The prosecutor added that the complainant sensed a foul play when the accused failed to deliver the car to him or return his money

after several months of waiting. He said that the offence contravened sections 312 and 322 of the Penal Code. However, the accused pleaded not guilty to the charges. The Counsel to the accused, Willy Aduku, prayed the court to grant his client bail, saying Section 36 (5) of the 1999 Constitution stipulates that an accused person is presumed innocent until otherwise proven. Aduku said if the bail was

granted, his client would not jump bail or interfere with police investigation. In his ruling, the Magistrate, Emmanuel Iyana, granted the accused bail in the sum of N500,000 and a surety in like sum. Iyanna said that the surety must have a reliable and fixed address, and should reside within the jurisdiction of the court. He adjourned the matter to June 4, 2013 for further hearing. (NAN)

Commercial driver docked over accident

he police yesterday arraigned before a Wuse Zone 2 Senior Magistrates Court a commercial bus driver, Frank Ezeani, of Maza Maza, Lagos. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Ezeani was arraigned for allegedly causing a car accident. Police prosecutor Paul Anigbo told the court that on March 30, Ezeani drove a Toyota bus with

registration number LND 851 XA along Umaru Yar’Adua Way without due care and attention. Anigbo said that in the process, the accused ran into a Toyota Corolla vehicle with registration number CA 937 AKD, driven by Raphael Iroh of FBN Life Assurance Ltd. He said the collision caused severe damage to Iroh’s vehicle that was beyond repairs. The prosecutor said the offence

contravened the provisions of Section 29 (1) CAP 548 of the Road Traffic Act. Section 29 (1) of the Act states that a person who drives a motor vehicle on a highway without due care and attention is guilty of an offence. It states further that such a person is liable, on conviction, to a fine of N100. The Act further stated that in the case of a second conviction, the

person is liable to a fine of N200 or six months imprisonment or both. Ezeani, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge. Senior magistrate Tony Ubani granted him bail in the sum of N200,000 with a surety in like sum. Ubani said the surety must reside within the court’s jurisdiction and adjourned the case to May 27,2013 for hearing. (NAN)

he police yesterday arraigned three men before an Abuja Senior Magistrates Court for allegedly hawking fuel along FCT roads. The men are: Suleiman Abubakar, Garba Ibrahim and Hassan Garba, all of no traceable addresses. The prosecutor, Mr Mohammed Ahmed, told the court that Insp. Orlando Magnus and his team from Maitama Police Station arrested the trio at Banex Plaza area hawking fuel on the road. He said the act constituted public nuisance and that the offence contravened provisions of Section 183 of the Penal Code. Section 183 of the code states that a person is guilty of public nuisance when he/she causes danger to persons who dwell or occupy property in the vicinity who may have occasion to use any public right. Ahmed, Ibrahim and Garba, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge. The Senior Magistrate, Mr Christopher Oba, granted each of them bail in the sum of N100,000 with a surety each in like sum. Oba said the surety should have a reasonable means of livelihood with a traceable address within the jurisdiction of the court. He adjourned the case to May 20,2013 for hearing. (NAN)

Man, 30, remanded for alleged stealing of computers

n Abuja Chief Magistrates Court on Tuesday ordered one Aghimen Denis, 30, to be remanded in police custody for alleged stealing of three computers from Reynolds Construction Company (RCC), Abuja. Denis, who is an employee of the company, is standing trial for theft before the court, presided over by Chief Magistrate Fati Tafida. Police prosecutor Phillip Apollos told the court that Afolabi Olumayowa of RCC, Jabi, Abuja, reported the matter at the Life Camp Police Station on May 10. Apollos said the accused jumped into the company’s premises, broke into an office and stole three laptop computers valued at N380,000 on April 30. He said Denis was captured by CCTV cameras mounted in the company premises for security purpose. He said that seven of the cameras mounted at the premises captured the image of the accused person. The accused pleaded not guilty to the charges The prosecutor urged the court not to grant the accused bail, saying the matter was still under investigation. Chief Magistrate Tafida ordered that Denis be remanded in police custody and adjourned the case to May 20,2013 for further hearing. (NAN)

BUSINESS

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

Email: aminuimam@yahoo.co.uk

Mob: 08033644990

PAGE 19

INSIDE

- Pg 22

NIPOST reformation best for efficient service delivery, says Post Master-General

‘350,000 firms don’t pay tax in Nigeria’ – Ngama By Abdulwahab Isa

o fewer than 35,000 firms are said to be evading tax payment in Nigeria, a scenario government said yesterday stalled her r e s p o n s i b i l i t y of providing basic amenities. Consequently, it said plans are underway to introduce Epayment to capture more companies and individuals in to government tax net. Minister of state for finance, Dr Yerima Lawan Ngama made the startling revelation yesterday in Abuja while presenting a keynote address at a workshop of the African Tax Forum organized by the Federal Inland Revenue Services (FIRS). Presently, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) is the agency of government using Epayment for its Duty collection. The Minster said government may consider adopting similar approach for tax payment.

SMEDAN, CAC to partner on registration of SMEs From Ayodele Samuel, Lagos

he Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency (SMEDAN) is to partner with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) to register Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) at subsidised rates, Mr. Olusola Dawodu, a Senior Enterprise Officer with SMEDAN South -West zone, said yesterday in Lagos. “SMEDAN is working on plans along with the CAC to assist small business owners to register their businesses at faster and subsidised rates,” he said. “The idea is borne out of the fact that most business owners shy away from the rigorous process of registering their business. “There will be a platform where CAC officials will have a desk in SMEDAN to attend to members of our association and groups and make the process hitch-free and less stressful”, he stated. Dawodu said that the platform was to increase the productivity of the small businesses, especially those in the manufacturing sector. He said that this would also reduce the challenge of poor database of SMEs across the country. Dawodu urged aspiring business owners and those who were running unregistered businesses to approach SMEDAN for pre-registration as the takeoff of the platform would be announced soon.

Ngama regretted that government was losing large chunk of money through nonremittances of taxes and emphasized drastic step needed to be taken if the economy is to

…. FG may introduce e-payment for tax collection move forward. Dr. Ngama disclosed that the fall out of tax evasion is the high cost of doing business

in Nigeria. He said the implication of not paying taxes is robbing government of opportunity

L-R: Chairman, Board of Directors, Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), and Chancellor of Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), Dr. Hassan Adamu, discussing with ESUT ViceChancellor, Prof. Cyprain Onyeji, during the 15th Convocation ceremony of the university, recently in Enugu.

of providing infrastructural facilities such as electricity, good roads, water while it has also added to high cost of doing business in Nigeria. Apart from the high incidence of tax evasion, the minister stated that compare to the size of Nigeria, the quantum of taxes collected is nothing to write home about. The situation, he said was caused by the large size of the informal sector within the Nigerian economy. Dr. Ngama lamented that despite the fact the Nigeria is the number one fastest growing economy in Africa and the fifth in the world, 54 percent of business activities in Nigeria are taking place in the informal sector while the figure has reduced to 40 percent at the present. Unlike in Ghana which collects 21 percent of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as taxes, the minister said it is only 7 percent GDP in Nigeria. Describing the situation as unacceptable, Dr Ngama said the government would do all things possible to bring a larger part of the informal sector into the tax net with a view to raking more taxes.

FG approves new strategy to manage nation’s debt By Abdulwahab Isa or purposes of prudent management of external and domestic debts, the Federal Government has devised a new structure—Medium Term Debt Management Strategy (MTDs) (2012-2015), through which it hopes to achieve a balance in public debt portfolio management . Under the new MTDs structure, already approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) on Wednesday, it seeks an optimal mix between domestic and external borrowing with a view to arriving at a more balanced public debt portfolio in the ratio of 60: 40 for domestic and external debt respectively. Shedding more light on the workings of MTDs at an interactive session with the media yesterday in Abuja, Director-General of the Debt Management Office (DMO), Dr. Abraham Nwankwo described it

a novel effort by government to reduce rate of growth in public debt in general and domestic debt in particular to ensure debt sustainability. The DG disclosed that Nigeria’s current debt profile stands at $6.67 billion (external debt) and N6.5 trillion (domestic debt) respectively. According to him, the domestic debt, which makes up debts owed local contractors, including bonds issued by government to raise money, has lately attracted public concern for fear it could get off the threshold of sustainability. Nwankwo said the main objective of the MTDs is to develop a strategy that would meet the financing needs of government at minimum cost, maintain risk at a prudent level and support the development of the market. A main component of the new MTD, he said, is the creation

of a ‘seeking fund’, which is purposely created as pool fund to redeem mature debt obligations. The DMO said, “Now that this strategy has been achieved, for every year based on maturity profile, we will be able to advise government how much to provide in the budget cumulatively to be able to address each and every debt when it thus matured”. Asked to give a figure of how much government was providing as initial seed money in the sinking fund, Nwankwo responded it would be difficult putting a figure, noting: “There is no one single figure we can give now, but now that a structure has been approved , the amount to be kept on sinking fund will based on based on the debt profile each year and it will be determined based on loan by loan basis. “The important thing is that, government has established the

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sinking fund”, explained DMO DG. He said government was putting machinery in place for debt sustainability explaining that debts should be measured in accordance with assets they procured. ”When we are talking of debt sustainability, we should be relating the debt stock with the stock of capital assets that had been created over the years using these borrowed resources. It’s in that regard that going forward; the posture will be targeted at specific a project; which is why even if we are going to borrow externally from the international capital market by issuing Eurobond, this could be used in financing power sector development”. He said all borrowings by government including domestic borrowings were contracted within the context of the appropriation Act noting that the country operates a robust frame work for accountability. Amongst the benefits of new debts strategy include ability to reduce the amount on debt service on optimal mix between the relatively more expensive domestic debt and less expensive external debt. At present, the difference between the domestic and external average cost of borrowing is about 8 percent per annum, he disclosed.

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

PAGE 20

Licensed Customs Agents’ President alleges godfathers infiltration in election panel

COMPANY NEWS

UAC of Nigeria Plc

AC of Nigeria Plc (UAC), has signed a strategic partnership with Imperial Logistics, a leading international logistics and supply chain arm of the South Africa-based Imperial Holdings Limited. According to the agreement, which has been signed by the two companies, Imperial Logistics is to acquire 49 percent equity in MDS Logistics plc, a whollyowned subsidiary of UAC. UAC retains 51 percent majority stake in MDS Logistics plc. UAC of Nigeria plc is a leading diversified Company with operations in foods, paints, logistics and real estate.

Inlaks Computers Ltd

nlaks Computers Limited, one of the foremost ICT and Infrastructure solutions provider in West African region whose major clients are the financial institutions, is deploying e-banking infrastructure and solution with the highest security features to assist in the transformation of the financial services sector of the Nigerian economy. These e-banking infrastructure and solution are ATMs and Temenos Arc Mobile (mobile banking solution) to enhance better return on investment in the sector. Nautilus Hyosung is the fastest growing ATM brand being distributed and supported by Inlaks Computers in Nigeria with an installed base of 1,200 ATMs at First Bank, Stanbic IBTC, Heritage Bank, Union Bank, KeyStone, Unity Bank and Jaiz Bank.

Unilever Nigeria Plc

s part of its commitment to consumers, Unilever Nigeria Plc, launched Close-Up Fire-freeze in Lagos recently. Being as change oriented as its target market, Close-Up, from the stables of Unilever Nigeria has continually renew the oral care experience by introducing new flavors every now and then. During the launch of CloseUp Fire-freeze, Managing Director, Unilever Nigeria, Thabo Mabe, said “We live in a world where tooth decay affects around 90% of people worldwide, while up to 20% of the world’s adult population suffer severe gum disease.”

From Olawuni Oladapo, Lagos

T L-R: National Deputy President, Nigeria Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO), Chief Ayoola Sadiku, National President, Alhaji Kassim Ibrahim Bataiya, and Executive Secretary, Barr. Emmanuel Hallan Gowon, during a press briefing, yesterday in Apapa, Lagos state.

Skytrax ranking: Nigerian airports will soon top African 10 - FAAN From Suleiman Idris, Lagos

ollowing the latest ranking by Skytrax in its World Best Airports Index, which excluded Nigeria airports among the top ten in Africa, the Federal Government has said the exclusion is understandable because the facilities across the country are currently undergoing massive transformation. The report, which has elicited mixed reactions among stakeholders the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) said is clearly at variance with the reality on ground as most of “our airports, is currently undergoing massive transformation, in terms of infrastructural development

and service delivery.” Spokesperson for FAAN, Mr. Yakubu Dati affirmed that there is no well meaning, regular airport user in the country who will not testify that there is visible and undeniable transformation taking place at Nigerian airports today. He explained that “The airport re-modelling project, which has been acknowledged by aviation stakeholders and respectable public figures as the most ambitious airport development project of the Federal Government after the Aerodrome Development Programme of the mid 1970s, is surely breathing fresh air into Nigerian airports”. “Keen observers have applauded the concerted and

concrete efforts being made by Government to redress the deplorable state of our airports, which has been with us for over 20 years now” he told reporters. Dati reiterated that one of the efforts aims at improving Nigeria airports to be more customers friendly and commercially viable, is the appointment of Mr. George Uriesi, who served as the General Manager of Cape Town International Airport, as the Managing Director of FAAN in 2011. According to him, “With a little patience by the Nigerian public, our airports will begin to compete with those in South Africa on the top ten list of the Skytrax World Best Airports ranking, sooner than later”.

NRC set to increase carriage and freight with new coaches From Suleiman Idris, Lagos

aving completed the rehabilitation of 62 coaches and wagons in its fold with direct labour, the Nigerian Railway Corporation says it will increase the capacity of freight in different part of the country as part of its efforts to increase carriage capacities of its trains. The repairs carried out in the corporation’s Carriage and Wagon Workshops in Enugu and Lagos respectively comprises of 14 coaches, 30 Covered Hopper Wagons (CHWs) for wheat, 17 Container Wagons for cement and one power car all which NRC said have been deployed to districts where they are mostly needed as track rehabilitation is

presently on-going in the Eastern District. ”The 14 coaches are being shared to the existing mass transit trains in Lagos, Offa- Kano passenger train and Lagos – Kano intercity passenger train. To alleviate passenger congestion, a minimum of ten standard class passenger coaches with one air-conditioned passenger coach and a powergenerating car per train is being made available for the commuters in Lagos mass transit trains”, it said. Assistant Director, Public Relations of NRC, Mr. David Ndakotsu told reporters that with the improvement, each of the Lagos mass transit trains will carry about 1, 650 passengers at about 150

passengers per coach. He said they are fitted with improved interior facilities like lightings, fans, seats, and toilets while the Lagos District still maintains its 16 train trips daily Monday to Friday between Iddo-Apapa and Agbado-Ijoko. The 47 wagons on the other hand he disclosed are being deployed to the Corporation’s cement and wheat freight customers, to enhance freight carriage capability. NRC Managing Director, Engr. Adeseyi Sijuwade, also confirmed that the corporation is expecting delivery of two sets of Diesel Multiple Units (DMUs) each with a carrying capacity of 540 passengers and six 68seater air conditioned passenger coaches by the end of the year.

he National President of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), Prince Olayiwola Shittu has questioned the credibility of the election petition panel which was set up by the association to look into complaints emanating from the last western zone chapter elections, saying that they were compromised by powerful elements within the association. The panel’s recommendations were largely upheld by the association’s Board of Trustees (BoT), whose chairman; Chief Henry Njoku last week presided over the association’s leaders’ meeting while the national president was out of the country. At the meeting, the national president was directed to issue certificates to candidates who elections were upheld. Prince Shittu, who spoke on Wednesday at the association’s national secretariat in Lagos, while issuing certificates of office to elected officials of five chapters whose victories were upheld at the recent elections, however warned that the time of godfatherism was over in the association polity. He alleged that some vested interests in the election had infiltrated the election petition panel (headed by Obinna Okenze) and this was why, according to him, the final report that was released by the Board of Trustees of the association last week differs from the election panel report. Speaking further, Shittu said that, “It is not surprising that the final results of the petition panel turned out to be what it is as a result of the fact that we have always subsumed the interest of this association for personal interest, that was what I met three years ago, and unfortunately, it is still rearing its head because some few people who believe they are godfathers and kingmakers would not let go”. “The same people still infiltrated the panel and that was why the report of the panel differs from the report of the overall”, he stressed. He explained that by issuing the certificate of office to the qualified officials, he is merely upholding the final outcome of the decision of the board of trustees on behalf of the association, just as he further clarified that due consultations were made by the board with the national executives in order to arrive at that decision. Shittu however cautioned members of the association to eschew godfatherism in the association’s polity, especially during the forthcoming byelections into chapters under the western zone.

PAGE 21

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

From Ngozi Onyeakusi, Lagos

nderwriting firm, AIICO Insurance Plc is giving motorists in Nigeria the opportunity to choose from a variety of its comprehensive motor insurance policies, while trying to insure their vehicles against accident or theft. The Group Managing Director, AIICO, David Sobanjo said, “We now offer our customers, the choice between AIICO Auto Regular, AIICO Auto Classic or AIICO Auto Royale Deluxe”. Under AIICO Auto Regular, damage to or loss of the vehicle arising from accident (lone or multiple) as well as theft and fire are covered. Should the insured

AIICO Insurance offers motorists insurance options for value vehicle be involved in an accident resulting in bodily injury, AIICO will pay the medical expenses. Also covered, is a towing van, should it be required. In case the insured vehicle is involved in an accident resulting in death or bodily injury to other road users, usually called Third Party in insurance parlance, AIICO will pay as much as N1 million to offset the liability should the

CPC DG assumes duty, declares commitment on consumer protection By Etuka Sunday

he new Director-General of Consumer Protection Council (CPC), Mrs. Dupe Catherine Atoki, has officially assumed duty at the Abuja headquarters of the agency, declaring her commitment towards ensuring adequate protection of the rights of Nigerian consumers. CPC in a statement said the DG, while addressing its management staff, said the organisation must properly project itself as a relevant tool for the economic development of the nation, through the execution of its mandate. While acknowledging the efforts of her predecessors for the achievement made so far, she observed that more of the potentials of the Council should be brought out to further justify its relevance as an organization focusing on the disadvantaged. According to her, “My focal point is to ensure Nigerian consumers are protected, to ensure that the ordinary person on the street knows his/her rights, knows when those rights

are being abused and where to report to when abused. “We have a lot to do in defining our priorities. We can identify areas that affect the generality of the common man. We don’t have the luxury of time. I have four years to spend and by the end, I want to show that the Council is able to deliver appropriately through its mandate,” Mrs. Atoki declared. She said that Nigeria has the “potentials of becoming an industrialized economy, but we cannot if indigenous manufacturers are competing with cheap but sub-standard and fake products”. She called on the Council’s management and its entire workforce to join hands with her in fast-tracking the pace of the organization so that “the mandate given to us becomes more effective.” Mrs. Atoki, whose appointment was made public last week Thursday, is a versatile legal practitioner, who has served and represented Nigeria in various capacities locally and at the international level.

need arise. If the insured vehicle should be involved in an accident resulting in litigation, AIICO will also defray the legal cost and other expenses that may arise from there. To enjoy additional benefits, at extra cost to the customer, he can extend the insurance policy to cover riot, strike and civil commotion, as well as increase the third party property damage limit. AIICO Auto Classic is a policy for vehicles valued at N3 million and above. While damage to or loss of the vehicle arising from accident,

theft or fire are also covered; AIICO will also cater for medical expenses for the occupants of the vehicle, provides towing van when needed and pay as much as N1.5 million to offset Third Party Property Damage should the need arise. The policy also provides Third Party Liability Cover for death or bodily injury and covers personal effects in event of theft, fire or accident. Policy-holders of AIICO Auto Classic will enjoy free riot, strike and civil commotion extension, as well as free tracker to easily locate the vehicle should it be stolen. The AIICO Auto Royale

Deluxe package is perfect for vehicles at N5 million and above, in addition to the benefits under AIICO Auto Classic, this policy provides free Replacement Car and Chauffer for 10 days in case of accident or theft. With this policy, should the insured vehicle be involved in an accident, AIICO Insurance will pay as much as N2 million to offset Third Party Property Damage should the need arises. The policy has also been extended to cover occupants of the vehicle against personal accident, as well as cover for personal effects in the event of theft, fire or accident.

L-R: Head of Nestle Central and West Africa, Etienne Benet, out-going Managing Director/ Chief Executive of Nestle Nigeria Plc, Martin Woolnough, out-going Chairman, Board of Directors of Nestle Nigeria Plc, Chief Olusegun Osunkeye, Legal Manager of Nestle Nigeria Plc, Bode Ayeku, and Head of Finance and Control of Nestle CWA, Frederic Duranton, during the 44th Annual General Meeting of Nestle Nigeria Plc, recently in Lagos. Photo: Olawale Rotimi

Nigerian Business Aviation Conference celebrates successful first event From Suleiman Idris, Lagos

he first ever Nigerian Business Aviation Conference hosted by Evergreen Apple Nigeria (EAN) on Tuesday, 7th May proved to be a resounding success for the organisers, delegates and speakers. Held at the prestigious Wheatbaker Hotel, in Lagos, over one hundred delegates registered to take part and listen to an international speaker and panelist line up. The conference was designed to provide a platform for raising awareness of the growing business aviation industry in Nigeria and hosted by dynamic chair Alasdair Whyte provided attendees with a lively debate discussing a range of topics. The MD/CEO of hosts EAN, Segun Demuren opened the meeting outlining the need for a better understanding of the value of business aviation in Nigeria as an economic driver

MD of EAN, Segun Demuren delivering his speech during the opening of the first Nigerian Business Aviation Conference. for the country and surrounding regions, and its significance in developing international business. The finance session was led by the Managing Director of one of GTBank, Mr. Segun Agbaje, the platinum sponsor of the event, discussed the requirements of the bank when

considering financing aircraft. Character and integrity of the customer is said to be as important as collateral and assets. Agbaje also noted that Nigeria had experienced “high octane growth” in the last few years making it the largest market for business jet purchase

in Africa, even topping South Africa. “We are more used to financing rice and fish so aviation is a good way for us to expand business,” he stated. The delegates also heard from the major OEMs in a panel featuring sales directors from sponsors Gulfstream, Embraer and Dassault alongside representatives of Bombardier and Cessna in the region. All expressed optimism about the future growth of sales in the region, giving at least an eight out of ten when asked where on the scale of sales growth they positioned Nigeria. The panel also suggested that there was a strong market for smaller aircraft in the region with over 50 small airfields available that can be used by the turbo prop and light jet community. The need for aircraft management expertise was highlighted in such a young market. “Don’t learn the hard

way,” said Achuzie Ezenagu, MD of Toucan Aviation a local operator that serves the oil sector. Demuren confirmed that the event had been more successful than he could have hoped for, and will be the first in a series of annual meetings. “Undoubtedly Nigeria is a significant player in the business aviation sector for Africa and will play an important part in the development of the sector in the region. “This conference has demonstrated that whilst we have a lot of opportunity we are still very much in our infancy and must aim to build the infrastructure to support business aviation and the associated framework necessary to create a solid base”, he stated. “Plans are already in motion for the 2014 NBAC event which we anticipate will be bigger and even better,” he said in conclusion.

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

PAGE 22

SEC inaugurates disputes resolution committee By Abdulwahab Isa

he Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on Wednesday re-launched its Administrative Proceedings Committee (APC), an in-house mechanism that would ensure speedy adjudication of disputes arisen from securities and stocks

Electricity: Stakeholders brainstorm on new metering code

in the Nigerian capital market. The committee could as well further strengthen confidence and integrity the market. The re-launched APC would be chaired by Director-General, SEC, Arunmah Oteh, and has a retired judge, an academician and a capital market expert as members. At the inauguration of the committee in Abuja, chairman, SEC board, Suleyman Ndanusa said the SEC APC had been in existence but was only being relaunched, after being fine-tuned and restructured for greater effectiveness and efficiency. He said the committee would deal with major grievances by market participants, resolve

serious disputes and issues bordering on civil violation of the securities law and the rules of the commission. “We all know that the principle of fair hearing is vital to any system of justice and the right of the populace. This is what the SEC APC seeks to achieve, among others, giving a fair hearing to a participant suspected of any violation”, he stressed. The committee, which is guided by its rules of procedure contained in Schedule V111 of the SEC rules and regulations is empowered to impose sanctions where infractions of the securities laws and rules and regulations have been found. But it would not deliberate on

criminal violations which are under the jurisdiction of the law enforcement agencies and the office of the attorney a general of the federation. Ndanusa clarified that such suspected criminal violations would be referred by the commission to the appropriate authorities for necessary action. Ndanusa said their inclusion is to boost the quality of the conduct of APC. Members of the committee are also expected to adhere to the highest level of confidentiality, ethics and professionalism in their conduct and are therefore expected to sign up to a code of ethics for APC members. At the inauguration, Aruma

By Etuka Sunday

takeholders from various organisations under the supervision of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) on Wednesday met in Abuja to brainstorm on the modalities that would be employed in the implementation of the new metering code. The stakeholders, which comprises vendors and installers, Electricity Distribution Companies (DISCOs) and financial institutions were to agree on the framework and logistics of implementing the scheme. Speaking during the Stakeholders’ Workshop, the NERC’s Chairman/CEO, Sam Amadi said, “It is a public consultation on metering code. We are about to issue a new standard, a code to regulate metering, in terms of features of capacities in the industry. And our tradition, as a good regulator, we offer the public, stakeholders as well as the operators the opportunity to interact publicly and provide inputs,” he said. Amadi, while speaking on the price tag set by NERC , said “there is a change of cost that BPE approved, and that includes for single meter, two phase meter, smart meter, different degree of smart meters, so what I will say is that in two days’ time, we are going to issue out full statement on this and we are forwarding it to the DISCOs, then the public will know exactly the cost. “But, I think the cost for single phase meter is generally N25, 000, and for three phases is about N50, 000. So there are variations depending on the kind of meter. If you want smart, semi smart meter, they come with added cost,” he said. On metering deficit, he said, the commission has gotten the approval of “BPE to certify about 85 firms to become investors, vendor installers, so we are issuing out order and part of it is that 45 days after the payment is made, the customer is entitled to get meter installed. And after installation, there is a process for repaying that money over a period of time. so that is an interim measures to address the deficit”, he concluded.

Oteh said the committee would serve as the first ‘port of call’ where capital issues can be looked at and if not satisfied they can then be taken to the Investment and Securities Tribunal for judicial proceedings. Oteh was confident that the committee would provide a more efficient resolution of capital market issues especially as it comprises professionals in the market.

NIPOST reformation best for efficient service delivery, says Post MasterGeneral By Chris Alu

L-R: Bauchi state Commissioner for Finance, Malam Mahmoud Maijama'r, and Borno state Commissioner for Finance, Alhaji Yunus Mairami, during the Federation Account Allocation Committee meeting, on Wednesday night in Abuja. Photo: Justin Imo-Owo

Maritime workers laud Jonathan, NIMASA on devt. of maritime sector From Olawuni Oladapo, Lagos

he Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) has commended President Goodluck Jonathan for his contribution to the maritime industry through capacity building of its members. Speaking at a rally organised by the union to thank the President of Nigeria for empowering the youths in the maritime sector in Lagos on Wednesday, President-General, MWUN, Comrade Anthony Nted Emmanuel stressed that the rally was organised to thank the President and that it was not politically- motivated, even as he added that after all, members of the union are also workers in the country. The union also commended the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) for living up to expectation in its social responsibility functions through the Director General, Mr. Patrick Akpobolokemi. Nted stressed that the MWUN

organised the solidarity rally to express its appreciation to Dr Goodluck Jonathan “for his immense contributions to the industry. According to him, the president has empowered dockworkers and seafarers in capacity buildings, which has enlightened members of the union and also created an enabling environment for workers. The President-General, MWUN affirmed that the seafarers department of the union has gained immensely from the Federal Government in the area of training, which he described as a boost to the industry because, according to him, the nation can boast of competent seafarers when compared to Greek and Philippines. He told the mammoth crowd of members of the union that the president’s commitment to the empowerment of seafarers shows a clear indication that he is a comrade. Speaking about the agency

responsible for the interest of the union, Nted noted that since the current Director-General of NIMASA, Mr. Patrick Akpobolokemi came on board, seafarers from the union have been greatly empowered. The MWUN boss also urged the Federal Government to do more to empower the Nigerian youths, even as he appealed to the President to empower NIMASA in order to address the challenges in the maritime industry. The President-General also drew the attention of the Federal Government to compel the Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) to pay the controversial levy to NIMASA, insisting that failure to do so after 21 days will bring about withdrawal of members from all the nation’s ports. He added that the Federal Government should blacklist multinationals that fails to comply with the laws of the land and commended the Nigerian Ports Authority for rendering assistance to the MWUN.

ormer Post Master-General of Nigerian Postal Services (NIPOST), Mr. Nathaniel Zome has commended the reforms undertaken by the Services, saying that it is best done for efficiency and effective service delivery in the country. Zome stated this yesterday at the public presentation of a book on NIPOST titled: ‘’Reforming the Postal Services in Nigeria, the story of the Nigerian Postal service and the journey to nationhood” which was authored by him. According to him, the Post Office has facilitated fast delivery of mails from one point to another at a uniform rate and has also employed over seven million people, with over a hundred million delivery items annually through the Universal Postal Union. He stated that the NIPOST urgently need to do more reformations in order to meet up with the modern day society because it has suffered from inadequate funding and lack internally generated revenue to operate on its own as well as manpower training of its staff. He explained that NIPOST reformation is necessary at this moment because the world is now a global village and needs to catch up with the modern infrastructure, to give the best service to the people. Zome also stated that the reformation is meant to bring effectiveness in the market circle required by customers, in order to satisfy all categories of customers and improved financial viability of the postal enterprise as well as revamping the infrastructure of the Nigerian Postal Service. Award presentation was made to The Senate President David Mark, His Royal Highness Major General Mohammed Sani Sami (RTD) and others.

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

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PAGE 25

Emergency rule: Legislators unburden their minds Since the declaration of a state of emergency by the Federal Government in 3 states last Tuesday, reactions have been pouring in from different quarters across the land. Federal lawmakers from different political parties have also joined the fray, responding either in favour of the emergency rule or against it. Here we present the divergent views of the legislators to President Goodluck Jonathan’s declaration of a state of emergency in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe states. ‘I don’t support it’ – Badamasi Ayuba Danbatta/Makoda…Kano ANPP he fact is that this declaration has been done before in some local governments and nothing has changed. By this new declaration, it is just like giving license to the soldiers to go and humiliate the citizens and to carry out human rights abuses. Honestly, I don’t support it. By giving security responsibilities of governors to the military, the governors will be made to become answerable to unelected officials. This only confirms what people have been saying that the federal government is not serious about the amnesty. Today, one hand is for amnesty, and the other hand is for state of emergency. Solution: I advocate dialogue between Boko Haram and the government.

‘ Troops

should conduct themselves well’

– Mohammed Tahir Monguno (Borno state) ANPP t will obviously affect our people. We are not averse to it but our concern was the likely dissolution of the democratic structures. Now, we are advising that the troops should conduct themselves professionally within the rules of engagement in their

Mohammed Tahir Monguno

assignment.

‘Jonathan did not follow due process’ – Ibrahim Bawa Kamba…Kebbi(Arewa/ Dandi (PDP) ’m not contented with the whole arrangement because of the way he declared it and did not follow due process. He was expected to notify the House. He did it before and nothing happened. I recommend a new committee to be set which will be exclusively composed of religious leaders in the affected areas.

‘... I commend President’ – Bitrus Kaze, Jos South/East Fed Const. Plateau State join many Nigerians in commending Mr. President for eventually mustering the guts to declare emergency rule in certain States where our national territorial integrity is already being compromised by rampaging Islamic terrorists” “The primary purpose of government anywhere in the world is the security and welfare of its citizens. While commending Mr. President’s for again exhibiting constitutional diligence by sparing all democratic structures in the affected States, the recurrent and rather frequent declaration of emergency rule in Nigeria by the Federal

Bitrus Kaze

Government since our return to constitutional democracy in 1999 is however selfindicting” “Under the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended, the State security apparatus including the military, the Police, the State Security Services, the Civil Defence Corps and even the Road Traffic Wardens are entirely federal establishments.- If any tier of government should be blamed more for failing to adequately tackle prolonged security challenges nationwide, it is the federal government” “We on the Plateau understand better that the constitutional appellation of the State Governor as the as Chief Security Officer is simply bogus. President Goodluck Jonathan must go the whole hog and disband the Kabiru Turaki-led Committee on Boko Haram Amnesty, it is no longer tenable. Having declared of emergency rule, “ the prospects for achieving peace by granting amnesty to remorseless and ever rampaging terrorists has been invariably jettisoned” “A band of terrorists who have categorically declined amnesty plans directed at them and who instead are beginning to overrun some parts of the country ought not to and must not be entertained in any form dialogued if the purpose of the emergency rule must be achieved. It’s time for government to call spade by

Abdul Ningi

its name and save millions of taxpayers’ money from being wasted in fruitless endearvour”

‘FG has shown faith with Nigerians’ – Abdul Ningi, Bauchi (PDP) here is no complete solution. There is no one solution. It is a conglomerate of solutions. The Federal government has shown faith with Nigerians with the decision. Nigerians asked for amnesty, we asked for emergency. He has shown faith with the way the emergency was declared with regards to the constitution by no demanding that the political structures be sacked. I was there recently and I can report to you that the governor said that some part of the part had been taken over by these people. They are no longer under the government control. And they have given ultimatum to take some Borno in the next weeks and other nearby states in the next two months. When these people give ultimatum like this, people should take them seriously.

‘We hope it won’t be worse’ – Ali Ndume (Borno state senator) e don’t know the content yet. We know that democratic structures would

National Assembly Complex be maintained. We know that extraordinary measures have to be taken to bring an end to the current situation. I would want to wait until we see the details of the emergency rule before we pass comment. Right now we know that

Ali Ndume

emergency rule has been declared and it is true that extraordinary measures have to be taken. But since the democratic structure is maintained we hope that cases that we have of abuse of human rights and all that would now not be what people would complain about. We hope that this is not going to be like adding salt to injury. We hope that it is part of the extraordinary measures that government has to take in order to bring an end to this problem. Well it is not issue of saying support or not support. Actually, what I know by the emergency rule is that the government has extraordinary measures and that is by taking over the charge of security in the States and LGs involved. Constitutionally, the chief security officer of a State and the local government are the

governor and chairman respectively. But now, the commander-in-chief has taken over direct charge through either his representative or whatever to ensure security in those places. In other words it is like the armed forces taking over from the civil police that are charged with the responsibility. So, we are hoping that this thing is built positively and we hope that whatever the government is doing, bearing in mind that the government of democracy is government of the people and for the people, the people involved and the States involved or the civilians involved are not exposed to further hardship than the one they are going through.

‘Jonathan didn’t act illegally’

– Victor Lar, Plateau state he truth is that the President has not done anything that is not sanctioned by the Constitution. In other words, I’m saying that it is constitutionally provided for him to declare that based on

information available to him. But with the benefit of the hindsight particularly with regards to the experiences from Plateau State, the declaration of State of emergency has not been effective. In the sense that even during the so called declaration, we kept experiencing insurrections and the essence of

“

A state of emergency has been declared but the elected governors and the entire democratic structures are still there. It is not affecting the governance structure in the three states and I believe it is a temporary measure

that declaration is for the President to have the platform to channel resources and deploy security apparatus in a manner that would put the situation under control. I would not want to be pessimistic, but we hope that some of those pitfalls like nonpayment of salary of workers of local governments that we experienced in Plateau State would not be replicated in the three States. Like the nonfunding and assistance of States government with the funds for funding security operations would not be repeated in those other States. Hopefully, we expect that the declaration would bring lasting peace to the affected States. But operational exigencies may crop up which I believe the security personnel on ground should be able to rise up to the occasion.

‘I can’t be opposed to

it’ – Aru Arunsi…Abia (Ohafia Arokchukwu) here’s no way I can be opposed to it. It’s a welcome development. Afterall, he did things differently by protecting the constitution as regards the declaration. Unlike those before him, who declared total emergency because his military background. We will surely uphold the letter anytime it comes to the floor.

‘It is long overdue’ – Uche Ekwunife (Anambra state) It is long overdue. A state of emergency has been declared but the elected governors and the entire democratic structures are still there. It is not affecting the governance structure in the three states and I believe it is a temporary measure and once sanity is restored the soldiers will pull out from the area.

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Islam and the five mysteries (I) A

llah says: “He knows what is hidden and what is open: too high is He for the partners they attribute to Him!” [al-Mu'minun: 92] 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. This week we will start talking on the five mysteries that continue to defy man's modern inventions as to their details therein. Allah, Who is the knower of all the hidden and the apparent, has covered some aspects and sections of His dominions. He has uncovered many aspects of His creations; some without much efforts, while many others with hurdles and exertions. Others were uncovered by time or distance, or both. Some may be without efforts but need time frames or covering of particular distances before they become demystified. These categories of mysteries constitute the major pains which human beings struggle to surmount throughout times and spaces. Indeed, man with the assistance of his own inventions, today is able to discover and uncover many enigmas, conundrums and puzzles which men before him found undiscoverable and mysterious. He is today able to achieve a lot in the areas of mineral resources, agriculture, medicine and human genome, astronomy and sea voyages, as well as plants. But, notwithstanding all the feats and the breakthroughs he was able to record over time, man is still under the domination of his little knowledge, physical impairment and mental disability in disclosing many more mysteries and puzzles to people. He is today, despite all his scientific advancement, under the mercy of his environment. In this write-up, I am not going to talk on environmental, or historical such as the mysterious disappearance of city of Helike and the fall of the Minoans, nor of any scientific feats. I am only going to discuss of those mysteries which Allah has promised to keep them under lock and key; to hide them from full grasp of any of His creations! These mysteries will not and cannot be demystified by anybody or any yet to be invented scientific equipment. Allah says: “With Him are the

keys of the Unseen, the treasures reserves some to His Majesty. In that none knoweth but He. He this article I will discuss five of knoweth whatever there is on the them in their order as revealed in earth and In the sea. not a leaf doth the Qur'an. I will rely throughout fall but with His knowledge: there my discussion on the Qur'an and is not a grain In the darkness (or depths) of the earth, nor anything fresh or dry (green or withered), but is (inscribed) In a By Husain Zakariyya record Clear (to Yawale those who can read).” [al+234-8052952900 (sms only) An'am: 59] islamexplained35@yahoo.com T h e s e mysteries are clearly enunciated and declared Sunnah in putting my argument in the Qur'an in a single verse. across to my readers, rather than Allah says: “Verily the knowledge relying on any human or weak of the Hour is with Allah (alone). it perception emanating from a is He who sends down rain, and lower intellect. He who knows what is In the Allah says: “Verily the wombs. nor does any one know knowledge of the Hour is with what it is that He will earn on the Allah (alone).” [Luqman: 34] morrow: nor does any one know Indeed the full knowledge of In what land He is to die. Verily the exact time of the Hour is with Allah is full knowledge and He Allah's exclusive jurisdiction. is acquainted (with all things).” Abdullah ibn Abbas, [Luqman: 34] commenting on this verse, said, In this verse, Allah has ''These are five are known to one unequivocally and but Allah, the Most High! Even unambiguously declared His the closest angels (to Allah's majestic challenge for posterity Throne) and His Messengers do and all future generations of not have any proper idea (as to scientists to accept their their exactness). Thus, whoever incapacitation and surrender to claims full knowledge of any of His supremacy or go ahead to them automatically becomes an prove Him right! We as Muslims infidel, because he has first and foremost, accept and contradicted Allah." believe in the supremacy of Allah Thus, in a report narrated by in all matters without exception Abdullah ibn Umar (RD) the or omission. If you will ask any Apotle of Allah said: "The keys of Muslim scientist, you will the unseen are five, which no one certainly hear from him nothing knows except Allah." In another but an impulsive reaffirmation long narration Ibn Umar (RD) of the limitless power of Allah! said, "While we were one day Allah the All-Knower and the sitting with the Messenger of Originator of all knowledge, Allah (pbuh), there appeared

ISLAM EXPLAINED

before us a man dressed in extremely white clothes and with very black hair. No traces of journeying were visible on him, and none of us knew him. “He sat down close by the Prophet, (pbuh), rested his knee against his thighs, and said, ‘O Muhammad! Inform me about Islam.’ Said the Messenger of Allah, (pbuh), ‘Islam is that you should testify that there is no deity save Allah and that Muhammad is His Messenger, that you should perform salah (ritual prayer), pay the zakah, fast during Ramadan, and perform Hajj (pilgrimage) to the House (the Ka'bah at Makkah), if you can find a way to it (or find the means for making the journey to it).’ Said he (the man), ‘You have spoken truly.’ “We were astonished at his thus questioning him and telling him that he was right, but he went on to say, ‘Inform me about Iman (faith)." He (the Messenger of Allah) answered, ‘It is that you believe in Allah and His angels and His Books and His Messengers and in the Last Day, and in fate (qadar), both in its good and in its evil aspects.’ He said, ‘You have spoken truly.’...He said, ‘Inform me about the Hour.’ He (the Messenger of Allah) said, ‘About that, the one questioned knows no more than the questioner." So he said, "Well, inform me about the signs thereof (i.e. of its coming)." Said he, "They are that the slave-girl will give birth to her mistress, that you

will see the barefooted ones, the naked, the destitute, the herdsmen of the sheep (competing with each other) in raising lofty buildings." Thereupon the man went off. "I waited a while, and then he (the Messenger of Allah) said, "O 'Umar, do you know who that questioner was?" I replied, "Allah and His Messenger know better." He said, "That was Jibril. He came to teach you your religion." This hadith has gone to educate further that even the last and final Messenger of Allah did not have the full grasp of the exact time of the Hour! However, he was able to inform us of some of the signs of the coming of the Hour. The Qur'an is full evidences confirming the exclusiveness of this knowledge to Allah. He says: “Say: none In the heavens or on earth, except Allah, knows what is hidden: nor can They perceive when They shall be raised up (for Judgment).” [an-Naml: 65] The pagan Arabs, scared of their disbelief, and yet afraid of the awaiting chastisement for their misdeeds on the Day of judgement, kept on asking the Prophet the time of the Hour. And Allah, persistently refused to disclose the exact time. He says: "They ask thee about the Hour, 'When will be its appointed time?' Wherein art thou (concerned) with the declaration thereof? With thy Lord is the Limit fixed thereof. Thou art but a Warner for such as fear it. The Day they will see it, (it will be) as if they had tarried but a single evening, or (at most till) the following morn!" [Al-Qur'an 79:42-46] And: "They ask thee about the (final) Hour - when will be its appointed time? Say: 'The knowledge thereof is with my Lord (alone): none but He can reveal as to when it will occur. Heavy were its burden through the heavens and the earth. Only, all of a sudden will it come to you.' They ask thee as if thou were eager in search thereof: say: 'The knowledge thereof is with Allah (alone), but most men know not.'" [Al-Qur'an 7:187] The above Qur'anic verses confirm the fact that Allah, the Most High, knows the most infinitesimal details about all His creations. He also knows about the creatures who will be created in the future or the creatures that will remain hidden from the people for ever despite their quests and searches. Thus, there is nothing Unseen towards Allah. Therefore, whenever Allah says He has the knowledge of the unseen, it means He has detail knowledge about everything that is unseen by human beings, for there is nothing hidden to Allah. So, any reference regarding the 'unseen' is only related to us human beings. But, Allah is His infinite mercy to His creations, inform us of minor and major signs of the Hour. In sha Allah, in our next outing we will try to bring to light some these signs in order that we prepare ourselves for the inevitable!

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

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AY Kurdish peace process: The latest phase of de-securitisation politics ANALYSIS By Galip Dalay

onceiving of the Kurdish issue in political terms rather than security ones represents the third and final phase of de-securitisation politics in Turkey, which is an indication of the growing normalisation of the country. Since the beginning of 2013, Turkey's political agenda has been dominated by the Kurdish peace process initiated through negotiations between the Kurdistan Workers' Party's (PKK) incarcerated leader, Abdullah Ocalan, and the chief of Turkey's National Intelligence Organisation (MIT), HakanFidan. So far, the process has progressed smoothly. Some important milestones have been reached. First, a ceasefire has effectively been in place since the start of negotiations. Second, on March 21 - a symbolic day, Newroz, celebrated to mark the beginning of spring in Mesopotamia and Central Asia - a letter written by Ocalan was read aloud to a crowd of one million gathered in Diyarbak?r - the largest Kurdish city in southeastern Turkey - to celebrate the day. In his letter, Ocalan declared two things: first, the PKK seeks a solution to the Kurdish issue within Turkey's borders and through further democratisation. Second, the era of armed struggle has come to an end. In the new era, the struggle for Kurdish rights will be advanced through political means. To that end, Ocalan called upon PKK members to withdraw from Turkey in order to demonstrate their commitment to the peace process and clear the way for further negotiations and democratisation steps. The PKK leadership in the Qandilmountains in Iraq responded positively. They held a press conference on April 25, 2013 in which they declared that the withdrawal would commence on May 8, 2013. Withdrawal from Turkey constitutes the first of a three-phased process. In the second phase, the government will undertake legal, constitutional, and democratisation steps, and the third phase will focus on the reintegration of PKK members into society. The speed and nature of the process have puzzled many people, both inside and outside Turkey. That Turkey attempts to solve its most intractable issue through open political dialogue - and with no serious public backlash to date has further surprised many. To comprehend this thoroughly, one needs to analyse carefully Ocalan's message and then situate this latest initiative within a historical context, starting from 2002. Among all of Ocalan's statements, his pronouncements that the era of armed struggle is over and that any solution will be sought within

Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan the boundaries of Turkey effectively renouncing any irredentist claims - are the most important ones. These two messages alone illustrate Ocalan's transformed mindset in seeing the Kurdish issue strictly through political, not security, terms. It is unlikely that Ocalan's view would have evolved unless he perceived a similar trend of de-securitising the Kurdish issue among Ankara's political elite. In fact, desecuritisation politics in Turkey did not begin with the Kurdish issue; rather, it marks the latest phase of broader de-securitisation politics that have defined Turkey's political landscape over the last decade. The process began with geography - the Middle East - and extended later to ideology - Islamism. With the Kurdish peace process, the desecuritisation process now extends in its final phase to identity Kurdishness. After the break-up of the Ottoman Empire, and the establishment of modern Turkey, the republican elites embarked on a process of fashioning a cohesive nation-state. This project required significant social engineering, and maintenance of it depended on the guardianship of a militarybureaucracy alliance. The main tenets of this newly crafted idea of nationhood were Turkishness, laicism, and Western orientation. From this perspective, Kurds the largest non-Turkish ethnic group in Turkey - have been regarded as a potential threat to Turkishness, and thus to the territorial integrity of the state. Islamist ideology had been perceived as a central threat to laic-secular nature of the state. The Middle East, as the geography of both of these respective identityideologies, had been seen as antithetical to country's Western orientation. Over the years, Turkey acquired an infamous reputation

as the graveyard of political parties, having banned a total of 28 political parties so far. The bans typically cited the secular nature of the state (read as pro-Islamic political claims) or the territorial integrity of the state (read as proKurdish claims) as the reasons for closure. Among the frivolous and tendentious pretexts for party harassment include having a headscarved MP, reciting a poem, and speaking in Kurdish in Parliament. With only intermittent breaks, this securityoriented approach dominated Turkish politics for nearly 80 years. However, with the rise to power in 2002 of the Islamically sensitive Justice and Development Party (AK Party), Turkey has witnessed to a gradual politics of desecuritisation. The de-securitisation politics firstly started with geography - the Middle East - and had mainly been economy and energy focused in the beginning. Soon after the AK Party came to power, Turkey increased its economic and energy engagement with the countries of

the region. Iraq has served as a prime destination for Turkey's exports, while Iran has ranked second to Russia in meeting Turkey's energy demands. Trade relations with other regional countries flourished during the same period as well. For instance, trade with Iran - which stood at about $1 billion in 2000 - reached about $6.7 billion by 2006. Good relations with regional countries delivered significant economicand energy-related gains for Turkey. Unlike the republican project, the de-securitisation of Turkey's relations with the Middle East did not coincide with securitisation of any other regional policies. The period marked by de-securitisation of Turkey's Middle East politics has also constituted the golden era in Turkey-EU relations. Thus, Turkey did not only improve relations with Middle Eastern countries significantly, it also started the membership accession negotiations with the EU during the same period. The economic and political

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

Domestically, analysts have described Turkey as possessing a hybrid - partially democratic regime. Turkey's democratic political character was compromised by the existence of military-bureaucratic guardianship.

reforms of the AK Party's early years yielded stability and economic growth, and the party began in 2005-2006 both to normalise relations between the state and religious segments of society and to leverage its economic and energy relations for regional political engagement. With a more liberal reading of secularism, the government became more responsive to the needs of religious people. The government enabled female students to attend universities with headscarves, offered religious classes as electives within school curricula, and ceased discriminatory regulations against religious and vocational high school graduates on the statewide university entrance exam. Instead of casting citizens' religious claims as politically threatening, the government treated them as a religious liberty issue. This approach helped improve state-society relations. With the AK Party's consolidated power vis-a-vis the military and bureaucracy and the demonstrated results from earlier phases of de-securitisation, the government attempted to desecuritise - and finally solve Turkey's intractable Kurdish issue. The current peace process is not the first attempt to solve the Kurdish issue through peaceful means, but the third attempt. Prime Minister Erdogan's speech in Diyarbak?r in 2005, in which he publicly accepted the existence of a Kurdish issue and referred to further democratisation as the solution, marked the first attempt. The Kurdish opening of 2009, which included confidential negotiations between PKK representatives and MIT officials, represented the second attempt. However, a combination of factors - including military and bureaucracy opposition, mutual uncertainty regarding the parameters of a solution and PKK's resort to violence on some instances - stifled the process, which failed to produce the desired outcome. The military's retreat from the political scene, the emergence of a common framework between the government and the PKK leadership for solving the conflict, and shared determination to settle the issue paved the way for the latest attempt. Its success would not only dramatically transform Kurds' relations with the state, it would also have major implications domestically, regionally, and internationally. Domestically, analysts have described Turkey as possessing a hybrid - partially democratic regime. Turkey's democratic political character was compromised by the existence of military-bureaucratic guardianship. The securitisation of Kurdish identity - indeed, the very existence of the Kurdish issue - was the principle justification provided by non-democratic forces for their own existence within the political system. Source: Al Jazeera

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PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

Security forces kidnapped in Egypt’s Sinai A

group of unidentified gunmen have kidnapped seven Egyptian security officers in the Sinai Peninsula, near the border with Israel, security and Bedouin sources have said. According to the sources, three policemen and four army officers who were riding in taxis travelling from Arish to Rafahcities, both in North Sinai,

were stopped by armed men and kidnapped late on Wednesday. It was not yet clear who was behind the operation or their motives or demands. Egypt’s government has been trying re-establish the state authority that collapsed in Sinai following the 2011 uprising against former president Hosni Mubarak.

ambian President Michael Sata yesterday defended his government's decision to remove subsidy on maize which had kept the price of the country's staple food, affordable for many impoverished families. A statement released by his office said it is meant to ensure equitable distribution of resources on Thursday said: "Our people have to understand that maize subsidies have been a pillar for the huge economic inequality in our society as they only benefit the already well to do middlemen and not the targeted vulnerable groups of our society," the Zambian leader said in the statement released by his special assistant for press and public relations George Chellah. On Tuesday, Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, Robert Sichinga announced that government had removed the subsidy on maize sold to millers, which he said will result in the price of mealie-meal increasing. The subsidy was a five Zambian Kwacha (about 1 U.S. dollar) per 50 kg bag of maize which was provided to millers through maize sold to them by the country's Food Reserve Agency (FRA). But the decision has received wide

condemnation from a cross section of society who feels the move will make the price of the staple food unaffordable by the majority of the people. Students from the country's highest learning institutions, the University of Zambia (UNZA), have since started demonstrations. But the Zambian leader said his government was taking bold steps to facilitate practical and equitable distribution of national resources amongst the general populace through the removal of subsidies to enable it dispense development equitably throughout the various sectors and regions of the country. "We are simply channelling resources to the very poor citizens of our society and we are certain that for real economic and well distributed growth to occur, these changes are necessary. Therefore, all well-meaning Zambians need to look at days beyond today and tomorrow," he added. The Zambian leader cited another subsidy of farming inputs, the Farmer Input Support Program (FISP), saying it is a typical example of a subsidy where a lot of resources have been spent without the government and poor farmers recording any

Armed groups based mostly in North Sinai have exploited the vacuum to launch attacks both across the border into Israel and on Egyptian targets. Tribesmen have frequently held tourists to demand the release of their relatives held on criminal charges. In August last year, 16 Egyptian border guards were killed in an attack blamed on

fighters who then hijacked an armoured vehicle that they smashed across the border into Israel, where they were killed by Israeli forces. Earlier this month, gunmen shot a man dead who was selling alcohol in Sinai. Last month, fighters fired two rockets from Sinai into Israel.

U.S. instructors to train African Zambian leader defends removal of maize subsidy troops for Mali in Niger Z

President Michael Sata

tangible outcome. "Therefore, as a responsible government sworn to safeguard the interest of the people especially the underprivileged, we had to make these progressive and bold decisions to guarantee our citizens a better future," he said. Meanwhile, millers have said the removal of the subsidy on maize does not necessarily mean that prices of mealie-meal will go up. Millers Association of Zambia (MAZ) president Allan Sakala said the removal of the subsidy will

provide a favorable competition in the milling sector and will create a positive impact on prices of mealie meal. The removal of the subsidy will enable millers offer different prices of mealiemeal unlike in the past when a single price was dictated by government, he added. The Zambian government recently hiked the pump price of fuel by 21 percent which has seen prices of various commodities increasing. Source: Xinhua

Chadians hail ex-police chief arrest

ampaigners in Chad have welcomed the arrest of MahamatDjibrine, former President HisseneHabre's police chief. Mr Djibrine is accused of

torturing and killing hundreds of opposition activists in the 1980s. It is not clear whether he will be tried in Chad or in Senegal, where Mr Habre is due to go on trial after being held under house

Hissene Habre (L) has lived in exile in Senegal for more than 20 years

arrest there since 2005. Mr Djibrine has not yet commented on the allegations. He was arrested on the basis of a lawsuit filed 13 years ago by victims of Mr Habre's government. Earlier this month, Senegal and Chad signed a deal to allow special judges to carry out investigations in Chad for Mr Habre's trial on charges of crimes against humanity. Under this deal, Mr Habre's former top officials can be tried alongside him in Senegal. Mr Habre denies killing and torturing tens of thousands of his opponents. Mr Djibrine is the former head of the Directorate of Documentation and Security (DDS), Mr Habre's political police force. "He is accused of torture, acts of barbarism and illegal detention," prosecutor MassingaralKagah told the AFP news agency.

He served in the United Nations peacekeeping force in Ivory Coast until campaigners complained and he was sent back to Chad. The Chadian Association for the Defence of Human Rights said he should be put on trial in Chad. For many years, Senegal resisted putting Mr Habre on trial but it has changed its position under new President MackySall. The charges date from 1982, when Mr Habre came to power in a coup, until 1990, the year he was ousted. A 1992 Truth Commission in Chad accused Mr Habre of being responsible for widespread torture and the deaths of 40,000 people. He was accused of carrying out a deliberate policy of terror to discourage any opposition. Survivors of torture say that, among other things, they were subjected to electric shocks, nearasphyxia and "supplice des baguettes", when their heads were squeezed between sticks.

.S. military instructors in Niger will train African forces participating in a U.N.-backed offensive against al Qaeda-linked Islamist militants in neighbouring Mali, senior military officers said yesterday. The United States and several European nations have backed a French-led military intervention which since January 11 has driven militant insurgents out of the towns of northern Mali. Pockets of Islamist resistance remain in Mali’s desert north. The U.S. military did not participate in the ground offensive but aided the operation by transporting troops and providing intelligence information from drones based in Niger. A senior Niger military officer said up to 30 U.S. military instructors would train African forces between June and August at Ouallam, in the Tillaberi region near the Malian border. “Some U.S. military instructors will train African-led International Forces in MALI (AFISMA) troops on Nigerien soil from June 25 to August 3,” the officer, asking not to be identified. “The training will help strengthen the operational capabilities of the coalition forces against terrorism in northern Mali.” U.S. authorities in Niger were not available to comment. The United States has deployed about 100 military personnel and drones in Niger. Niger troops going to relieve the contingent currently stationed in Mali will be the first to receive training. The U.S. military has run training programs for Niger’s army for years under a counterterrorism program in the Sahel. Niger is among the West African countries which contributed troops to the regional AFISMA force battling Islamists in Mali alongside a 4,000-strong French contingent. AFISMA is expected to be folded into a UN-sanctioned peacekeeping force of about 12,600 troops known as MINUSMA and will be supported by a rapid reaction unit of 1,000 French troops if needed to combat the Islamist threat in Mali.

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PAGE 29

Iran ready for nuclear talks with world powers

ran is prepared to pursue nuclear diplomacy with world powers before or after next month's presidential election in the Islamic Republic, its chief negotiator said yesterday.

Saeed Jalili, who is also a candidate in the presidential race, was speaking after talks on the nuclear dispute with European Union foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton. "We are ready to continue

our talks with the (six powers) whenever they are ready, before or after the presidential election in Iran... Talks will take place soon," Jalili told a news conference, without giving a date.

Jalili's meeting with Ashton, who oversees talks with Iran on behalf of the United States, Russia, China, France, Britain and Germany, followed a failed round of big power diplomacy in April, in the Kazakh city of

Asia & Middle East Almaty. Jalili also reiterated that Iran would never abandon its right to enrich uranium. Major powers want Tehran to suspend its enrichment activities to reassure the world that it is not seeking nuclear weapons. Iran denies having any such goal.

China says EU solar duties to "seriously harm" trade ties

hina warned the European Union on Thursday that imposing duties on Chinese solar panels would "seriously harm" bilateral trade ties, upping the tone of its criticism a week after the EU said it would move ahead with hefty penalties in June. The European Commission has agreed to impose average import duties of 47 percent on solar panels from China, according to officials, a move they say is to guard against the dumping of cheap goods in Europe. China's Ministry of Commerce spokesman ShenDanyang said he hoped reports about the duties were unreliable. "If this information is true, this action by the European Union would seriously harm China-Europe trade relations,"

Shen told a news conference. Shen said "provoking trade friction with China" was like "dropping a boulder on one's own foot" and would not help Europe break free from economic crisis. Trade friction between China and the EU is already high. The EU has 31 trade investigations, 18 of them involving China. The solar case is the largest to date, impacting 21 billion euros ($26.9 billion) of imported Chinese solar panels, cells and wafers. The Commission said this week it was prepared to launch another investigation into anticompetitive behavior by Chinese producers of mobile telecoms equipment. China is expected to decide in June whether to levy its own duties on imported European, U.S. and South Korean solargrade polysilicon, a raw material used in solar panel production.

Saeed Jalili Iranian Islamic Republic, its chief negotiator

Palestinian prisoner agrees to end fast

Palestinian prisoner held by Israel has agreed to end an on-off hunger strike that lasted for more than eight months in exchange for an early release, Palestinian officials say. The fast by Samer al-Issawi, from a suburb of Jerusalem, had stoked weeks of street protests and concerns by Israel that his death might lead to mass unrest. Issawi on Monday agreed to a deal brokered by Israeli and Palestinian officials to serve eight months for allegedly violating bail conditions for an earlier release, after which he will be freed to his Jerusalem home, Qadura Fares, head of the Palestinian prisoner organisation, told Reuters news agency. Issawi's lawyer and sister

conveyed the offer just before midnight to his bedside in Israel's Kaplan hospital, where he had been under Israeli guard and receiving intravenous vitamins but was refusing food. Israel convicted Issawi of opening fire on an Israeli bus in 2002, but released him in 2011 along with more than 1,000 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for Israeli soldier GiladShalit held hostage by the Hamas movement in Gaza. Issawi was re-arrested last July after Israel said he violated the terms of his release by crossing from his native East Jerusalem to the occupied West Bank, and ordered the 32-year-old to stay in jail until 2029 - his original sentence.

Shen Danyang,China's Ministry of Commerce spokesman

Israel starts process of authorising new West Bank settlement

he Israeli government has taken steps to authorise four new Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank. It has begun a legal process that could see four settlement outposts given legal approval under Israeli law. The decision has been condemned by the Palestinian officials. It comes just days before the United States Secretary of State John Kerry is due to meet the

Israeli and Palestinian leaders to discuss restarting peace talks. "The timing is very significant because it's a direct affront to all efforts at trying to revive any kind of peace negotiations. It's an attempt to tell the Americans that Israel calls the shots," PLO official, HananAshrawi told the BBC. "It's also a message about the true nature of this Israeli coalition government. It's an anti-peace government."

Settlers in Givat Assaf protested against previous plans to dismantle the outpost.

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

PAGE 30

Head of US tax agency quits amid controversy Europe and

arack Obama, the US president, has announced that the acting commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service will resign as part of the on-going scandal into the conduct of some IRS officers in unfairly targeting conservative political groups. Obama has been under pressure to act in the aftermath of acknowledgement by top IRS officials that conservative groups were improperly singled out for review after requesting tax exempt status. The president said that Treasury Secretary Jacob Lew had requested and accepted the resignation of the acting commissioner of the IRS, Steven Miller, and said that the matter would be investigated fully. "I have reviewed the treasury department's watch dog report, and the misconduct that it uncovers is inexcusable," he said. "It is inexcusable, and Americans are right to be angry about it, and I am angry about it. "I will not tolerate this kind of behaviour in any agency, but especially in the IRS given the power that it has and the reach that it has. "It should not matter what political stripe you are from, the fact of the matter is that the IRS has to act with absolute integrity."

An investigation by a Treasury inspector general found that the IRS had used inappropriate criteria that identified the Tea Party and other conservative groups as needing closer scrutiny after applying for tax exempt status. Obama said that he had instructed Secretary Lew to make

sure the IRS implemented all the inspector general's recommendations straight away. The president also said that there would be a full investigation so that those directly responsible for the actions would be held accountable.

Ben Wizner, from the American Civil Liberties Union, told Al Jazeera that the US government had, so far, reacted in exactly the right way. "There are no abuses of power more constitutionally suspect than using tax authorities to go after groups because of their ideology," he said.

Steven Miller

Mexico official fired for daughter's 'abuse of power'

exican President Enrique Pena Nieto has fired a senior official over an incident caused by his daughter at an exclusive restaurant last month. Humberto Benitez Trevino's daughter caused outrage by using his influence to try to close down the bistro after it did not give her a table she wanted. The episode sparked a

discussion about abuse of power in the country. The sacking suggests that Mexico has grown more sensitive to the issue, correspondents say. The episode became a trending topic on Twitter under the hashtag #ladyprofeco, after her father's agency. Mit Benitez, the attorneygeneral for consumer protection, and his daughter both

apologised, but this did little to appease public anger. On Wednesday, President Pena Nieto ordered his dismissal. The restaurant, Maximo Bistro in Mexico City, was raided by officials after Andrea Benitez

was not offered the table she had asked for. The government said that although Mr Benitez was not personally involved in the raid, the episode had become embarrassing for the institution.

Suspect arrested in New Orleans Mother's Day shooting

Humberto Benitez Trevino

Americas British Petroleum appeals to Cameron over spill costs

ew Orleans police arrested a man identified in connection with the shooting at a Mother's Day parade in which 19 people were injured, authorities said. Akein Scott, 19, was arrested in the Little Wood neighbourhood of eastern New Orleans, police spokesman Garry Flot said, adding that no other details would be released until morning. Seven women, 10 men, a girl and a boy were shot when gunfire erupted at the parade on Sunday, sending shockwaves through the city. The children were grazed, and three of the victims remain hospitalized in a stable to critical condition. The others have been released. Police identified Scott on

Monday as a suspect in the shooting. They did not say how he was apprehended. Police had released photos earlier on Monday from surveillance video that showed a person they considered a suspect, which led to tips and Scott's identification. Police also announced a $10,000 reward for information that might help find the shooter. Violent crime in New Orleans ranks above the national average in FBI surveys. A poll of residents in 2010 found crime to be their greatest concern. In February, four people were wounded in a shooting outside a nightclub in the city's French Quarter as crowds gathered for Mardi Gras celebrations.

ritish Pritish wants Prime Minister David Cameron to intervene over the escalating cost of compensating US companies for the Gulf of Mexico oil disaster in 2010. Investigators have learnt that that BP feels its financial recovery is in jeopardy because the compensation system is being abused. The financial burden of paying fictitious and inflated claims may even make BP a takeover target, it fears. BP hopes Mr Cameron will raise the issue with the US government. The Deep water Horizon disaster killed 11 oil rig workers and released an estimated four million barrels of oil into the Gulf and along the coastline. BP put aside $7.8bn (£5.2bn) when it agreed to pay compensation in 2012, but the company now expects the final figure to be much higher. Our business editor said: “According to BP sources, the rate at which cash is leaking from the company could turn into a serious new financial crisis for the company, putting at risk its dividend and making it vulnerable to a takeover by another oil company. “BP is so worried by the potential magnitude of alleged undeserved payments it is making to companies that it is planning to ask the UK prime minister and chancellor for help in persuading the US government to intervene. “It is hopeful that David Cameron will raise the issue at the G8 meeting of the government of the world’s richest countries, which the UK is hosting next month.” The company is also under pressure, along with other oil majors including Shell and Norway’s Statoil, following allegations that firms colluded in fixing oil prices. David Cameron said he was “hugely concerned” about that situation. Last year, BP agreed to pay compensation to around 100,000 people and companies, including fishermen and restaurant owners, who claimed their livelihoods and health had been affected. However, BP feels that the court-approved rules under which “business economic loss” is assessed are being systematically abused.

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

PAGE 31

Japanese restaurant uses dirt as the main ingredient for its expensive dishes W hile most chefs work hard to make sure no dirt winds up in their food, Ne Quittez Pas, a restaurant in Tokyo, Japan, dirt is actually used as a key ingredient. Mind you, this isn't just any kind of dirt. It's a special black soil from Kanuma, Tochigi Prefecture, that's actually been tested for safety, but it's still the thing most people use to grow plants in. So how did dirt wind up on the menu of this respectable venue? Apparently, Chef Toshio Tanabe once won a cooking competition with his signature dirt sauce, and from that point on he put together an entire menu based on the unusual ingredient. Now the restaurant is offering dishes priced as high as $110 with Kanuma dirt in them. The guys at RocketNews24 heard about the unique restaurant and decided to sample some of the dirt-based foods on their menu. They started with a dirt soup, moved on to a salad with dirt dressing, an aspic made with oriental clams and topped with a layer of sediment, and finished off with dirt ice-cream and dirt gratin. Believe it or not, the reporter swears they all tasted divine, and had only a hint of earthiness to them. I guess Ne Quittez Pas' Chef won that TV

Dirt risotto

cooking show for a reason. Still, 짜10,000 ($110) for a dirt meal seems a bit steep.

Although not considered a gourmet meal until now, dirt has been used as food before.

Pregnant women suffering from a condition known as PICA sometimes eat dirt to soothe

their stomachs, and in the Indonesian village of Tuban, people eat ampo - baked dirt.

Vietnam festival is dedicated to meeting ex-lovers Most people cannot stand the thought of their partners even talking to their exes, let alone socializing with them. But things are different in a small community of Vietnam. A yearly 'love market' of sorts is held in the hillside village of KhauVai, 500km north of Hanoi, near the border with China. It takes place each year, on the 26th and the 27th of the

Lovers at the market in KhauVai.

third month of the lunar calendar. During these two days, hundreds of ex-lovers from various hill tribes like Nung, Tay, San Chi, Lo Lo, Dzao, Giay and Hmong are reunited. They trek in from various mountainous districts nearby to be able to spend two days with the ones they could not spend their lives with. This concept might sound

extremely unusual to us, and there might be every possibility of a cat-fight breaking out if this unique love festival was held anywhere else in the world. But the people of KhauVai have a strong reason for the celebrating their love market. It has been a part of their tradition for centuries, originating from a local legend. The story is rather sad - an ethnic Giay girl from Ha

Giang had fallen for a Nung boy from Cao Bang., but she is said to have been so beautiful that her tribe did not want her to marry a man from another community. What followed was a bloody war between the two tribes. As the lovers witnessed the tragedy that surrounded their lives, they decided to part ways in the greater interest of peace. But their love did not die there. A secret pact was made between the lovers to meet each other once a year in KhauVaion the 27th day of the third Lunar month. The tradition is still being carried on today. On the designated days of the festival, local artists decked up in colorful clothes reenact this tale of forbidden love. Some might dismiss the lovers' rendezvous that happen in KhauVai as short flings, but in reality things are very different. The villagers view it as a time to go down memory lane, cherishing happier moments of their past. Lau Minh Pao, for instance, gets to meet his old flame and talk to her once a year. "In the past, we were lovers, but we couldn't get married because we were far apart," says Pao. "Now we pour our hearts out about the time when we were in love. We meet together to re-tell the tale of how it was when we were in love back then." Pao's wife has no problems with this, as she is off meeting her ex-lover at the very same

time. This is a typical scenario for most people of these hills. Over time, however, the tradition has taken on a more modern feel. The young plan dates via text messages and take pictures on their mobiles. The village itself is more accessible because of new roads. 23-yearold HuaThiNghi, an ethnic Giay, says "The young generation now go out together and find each other, and it's more modern, freer and clearer. Back in the old days, our grandparents had to pursue love in secret, not like today." The KhauVai love market is now so popular that it has become a tourist attraction for domestic and foreign visitors. Some of the other activities at the festival are a trade-tourism fair and a performance on the ritual of rain-worship of the ethnic Lo Lo people. There is also a ceremony to receive the certificate recognizing the festival as an 'Intangible Cultural Heritage.' Folk games such as shuttlecock, Ferris wheel, see-saw and cock-fighting are a part of the love market as well. Local cuisine and the beautiful highland girls in their traditional costumes are an added attraction. Nowhere else in the world has an entire festival been created around the simple act of meeting one's exlover, with no awkwardness whatsoever. Source: Reuters

PAGE 32

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013 With Tobias Lengnan Dapam 07036990957

Govt, not Nollywood should cater for film veterans-Desmond Elliot

ollywood has witnessed, in recent times, deaths of some of its veterans. The likes of Sam Loco Efe, Ashley Nwosu, Pete Eneh, David Ihieze, Gringory, Enebeli Elebuwa and few others who have crossed to the other side. Some of the veterans died due to poor medical treatments after fallen sick. In some cases, they died because they could not get even less than a million naira for treatment at the hospitals. The cases of Pete Eneh, Enebeli Elebuwa, Dento and a few others quickly come to mind in this category. While many have called for a good insurance scheme for actors in the movie industry, some others blame movie veterans for not making hays while the sun shines. Speaking with Nigeriafilms.com on the death of one of the veterans, Nollywood actor-cum-director, Desmod Elliot noted that the problem is beyond the industry,

but that the government ought to cater for movie stars. The Glo ambassador expressed dissatisfaction with the rate Nollywood veterans die because of poor medical attention and the inability to foot their hospital bills. He said, "it is not the industry, this is beyond the industry, it is what the government should do something about." When asked if the government should really be responsible for the welfare of movie veterans, he asked, "what do you mean by really? Saying that, "this man has brought up the good image of the country, what are you talking [about]? This is beyond Nollywood. What can we do? Nothing, it is sad." It will be recalled that the President of Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Ibinabo Fiberesima has established a health insurance scheme for actors. The initiative was welcomed by actors and the general public.

Desmond Elliot

Uche Obodo, wishes to act unclad

ollywood actress, Uche Obodo has declared to Nigeriafilms.com that she would act nude on any film if given the chance. "I can do anything in acting. There is no limit to what I can do on stage as an actress because I'm a professional actress and I don't care because that role I am playing is touching somebody somewhere. "If you give me a nude role that has something to teach people, i will do it. That is why I am an actress. I don't care what people might say or think about me." Obodo is an actress, who had lived her time when Nollywood was at its peak but she failed to stepped up her game when her colleagues were busy doing that media wise. However, now that the industry is filled with starlets who are ready to give it all it takes to be featured, Uche Obodo is now set to wrestle with them.

Cedars-Sinai Cancer Doc: Angelina Jolie 'Humanized' Mastectomies, spurred action

Angelina Jolie

op LA gynecological oncologist tells THR that the actress' example is already encouraging patients who have been reticent about surgical treatment for the BRCA

mutations, which can lead to breast and ovarian cancer. One of the nation's leading gynecologic oncologists told The Hollywood Reporter Tuesday that Angelina Jolie's public discussion of her double mastectomy has triggered an intense discussion of the medical options available to the one in ten women carrying the genetic mutation that puts them at similarly elevated risk for breast and ovarian cancer. Dr. Beth Karlan, who directs Cedars Sinai's Division of Gynecologic Oncology and serves as associate director of the hospital's Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, said that, in the day after Jolie went public, she's received many calls and emails

from her patients with the BRCA genetic mutation, but who have been delaying surgery. "Seeing Angelina's op-ed piece and knowing that surgery has not changed the fact that she is a beautiful woman has humanized the experience for people. She's beautiful. She's talented. She has a wonderful family. Everyone has to embrace the challenges in their lives and bring strength to make the best out of it. "I have patients who have tested positive for the gene and have not wanted to do anything," Karlan said. "I think if we can prevent cancer, it's even better than curing cancer. People don't have to go through chemotherapy and radiation."

Dr. Kristi Funk, who performed the surgery on Jolie at the Pink Lotus Breast Center -- which she founded and directs -- said her group, too, "applauds" the star's "bold choices regarding her BRCA contagion, and we hope the awareness she is raising around the world will save countless lives." Jolie revealed Tuesday in a New York Times op-ed piece that she has undergone a proactive double mastectomy followed by reconstructive surgery after learning that she carries the BRCA 1 gene mutation. As result, she wrote, doctors counseled that she had an 87 percent chance of developing breast cancer and a better than 50 percent chance of suffering ovarian cancer.

Uche Obodo

Cannes: Neue Visionen takes 'The Prize Idiot'

...as Dad discovers Double Mastectomy on New York Times

ngelina Jolie's father, Jon Voight, who is also a veteran actor, found out about his daughter's preventive procedure by reading her New York Times piece, along with the rest of the world. Jon Voight told the New York Daily News that he found out about her surgery on Tuesday, after reading her oped piece in the New York Times. He said he saw his daughter and her longtime partner, Brad Pitt, two days ago at a birthday celebration for his son and Jolie's brother, James Haven. "But I didn't know. It wasn't obvious at all," he said. "I found out (Tuesday) morning. I was as surprised as anyone and deeply moved by the way she's handled this." He added that he respects her decision to keep the news

private, even from him. "I want the focus to be on the inspiration," he said, calling her "a very extraordinary person." Voight said he talked to Jolie on Tuesday about her shocking revelation, during which she "explained to me and educated me on this stuff." He added, "My love and admiration for my daughter can't be explained in words." Voight and Jolie famously had a falling-out in 2002 when he claimed she urged her to seek

help for "serious mental problems." For her part, she had previously criticized him for having an affair while still married to her mother and later filed to legally remove Voight

Angelina Jolie with her father, Jon Voight

from her name. After several years of estrangement, the two began taking steps to reconcile sometime after Bertrand's death.

Neue Visionen

eue Visionen has snatched up German rights to the Norwegian action comedy 'The Prize Idiot' from director Hans Petter Moland and starring Stellan Skarsgard (The Avengers). The plot of the $6 million (â&#x20AC;˘4.7 million) feature has Skarsgard playing a man who drives a snowblower and lives a carefree life until the sudden death of his son puts him in the middle of a drug war between the Norwegian and Serbian mafias. TrustNordisk have kicked off presales in Cannes for the title, which is currently in post-production. The project reteams Moland and Skarsgard, who collaborated on the director's A Somewhat Gentle Man, which premiered in Berlin in 2010 and was a strong international seller.

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

PAGE 33

'Iron Man 3' writer, Drew Pearce to pen next 'Mission: Impossible' H

ollywood reporter has said that "Iron Man 3" cowriter Drew Pearce has landed the assignment for Paramount's next Mission: Impossible installment. It added that Tom Cruise will star in and produce Mi5 and is expected to shoot the movie in the fall after filming Warner Bros.' The

Man From U.N.C.L.E.' Christopher McQuarrie is in discussions to direct the film, which is also being produced by J.J. Abrams' Bad Robot. Skydance Productions, which served as co-financiers and executive producers of the fourth installment, will work closely with the team in the development

and production process. The Franchise, which was first introduced in 1996 -- earned nearly $700 million worldwide and marked Cruise's highestgrossing film to date. The franchise has earned more than $2 billion, one of the most successful franchises in movie history.

...as 'Mission: Impossible 4' becomes Tom Cruise's Top-Grossing Film

Drew Pearce

Kiefer Sutherland confirms for '24' limited series event

Tom Cruise

VLine has revealed that K i e f e r Sutherland will be reprising his beloved role of Jack Bauer in a limited series event of his hit show 24. "[It's] 24 compressed over 12 weeks," Fox chairman Kevin Reilly confirmed to reporters during a conference call on Monday. It added that details of the limited series event are expected to be revealed during the network's upfront presentation. Kiefer Sutherland

n a career high for Tom Cruise, Paramount's Mission: Impossible -Ghost Protocol crossed $400 million at the international box office on Friday for a global total of $603.5 million, the actor's biggest numbe r, Hollywood reporter has said. It added that the $591.7 million earned by Cruise starrer War of the Worlds, directed by Steven Spielberg.

Ghost Protocol, directed by Brad Bird in his live-action feature debut, has done much to restore Cruise's star status, particularly in North America, where his more recent films have lagged. The fourth outing in the espionage franchise has earned $203.5 million domestically. In addition to being Cruise's top grossing film,

Ghost Protocol also is the highest grossing title in the marquee franchise. The previous best was Mission: Impossible II, which grossed $546.4 million globally. Ghost Protocol is doing massive business in China, where it has earned $36 million in less than a week, pushing the international cume over the $400 million mark.

Evangelist Eucharia Anunobi recieves Christian Leadership Award

here is great joy for that sinner that repents and forsakes sins but for the hypocrites, they will have their reward in hell fire, says the word of God. For this actress turned evangelist, it's great joy for her when she was honoured recently. Eucharia Annuobi, received the "Ambassador of Religious Peace and Unity International Merit Award 2013" from the National Leadership of the Niger Delta Christian Network, Abuja. The honour was bestowed on her by His Eminence, ArchBishop Ambrose Joseph Milner, of Yeshua Embassy of Churches Int'l Inc. Philadelphia, USA at Excellence Hotel in Ikeja.

Eucharia Anunobi

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

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Journalists pledge commitment as Nigeria awaits guinea worm certification By Chijioke Okoronkwo

s the International Certification Team from the World Health Organisation (WHO) visits Nigeria in June to assess the country's claim to be guinea worm-free, the media is expected to, among others, substantially raise awareness of guinea worm disease among the populace Statistics from the Nigeria Guinea Worm Eradication Programme (NIGEP) shows that as of 1988, there were 653,620 reported cases of guinea worm across the country. According to the statistics, in 2005, only 120 cases of Guinea Worm Disease (GWD) were reported in six states. This shows a reduction of 99,9 percent in 16 years. There was further reduction in 2006. Guinea Worm Disease (GWD) is caused by a nematode worm, dracunculus medinensis, which grows in the body of an infected person and emerges from different parts of the body after maturity, medical experts say. They say the disease GWD is prevalent in poverty-stricken areas and contracted by drinking water from ponds or other unprotected or unsafe water sources. Nonetheless, by 2008, through concerted efforts of NIGEP and other stakeholders, GWD was eradicated in Nigeria while it awaits certification. Against the foregoing, a media roundtable was recently organised by Nigeria Guinea Worm Eradication Programme (NIGEP) to expound on the role of the media in the precertification activities. According to Mrs Ifeoma Anagbogu, the NIGEP Coordinator, the onus lies with the media and other stakeholders to embark on a massive and effective sensitisation and reportage henceforth as the country has limited time for the visit of the International Certification Team (ICT). She said the populace should be informed on what had been achieved so far, how to identify GWD, where to report it and what they stand to gain from certification. Any person with a skin lesion (boil/blister) should be suspected to have contacted GWD and should be reported to the nearest clinic, while NIGEP could be contacted on the tollfree number 0800 100 1000. According to Anagbogu, GWD cuts across the country; it is called kurkunu in Hausa, Sobia in Yoruba and Arikwa mmiri in Igbo, adding that the last case of guinea worm was reported in Nigeria on Nov. 11, 2008.

NUJ national President, Malam Mohammed Garba ``Nigeria has maintained a zero GWD status for 54 consecutive months since the last cases were reported in November 2008. ``Our surveillance and publicity targets are to notch up from the current 57 percent to at least 85 per cent timely reporting from all health facilities-public and private, primary, secondary and tertiary in all 774 LGAs in the states. ``We should let at least 80 per cent of the general public in rural and urban areas know about the reward for reporting GWD, which is N25,000 for any confirmed case of guinea worm disease. ``We should let at least all health staff at National, State and Local Government levels know the case definition of GWD and the appropriate response to a suspected case,'' she said. All GWD rumours from the general public should be investigated within 24 hours of verbal or written report, while rumours generated during immunisation should also be investigated within 24 hours. Mr Buki Ponle a veteran journalist and member of

National Certification Committee, said the media could achieve so much within the period, increase the awareness level and influence policy decisions through persuasive reportage. Ponle noted that further occurrences could be prevented through information sharing thereby raising concerns in poorly performing states and advocating for adequate funding for the programme. According to Ponle, governors, ministers and other policy makers should be aware of what will be required of states and local governments as

Nigeria expects the certification team. ``Our advocacy campaign means the grassroots people are to be increasingly informed to ensure that their actions or inactions do not jeopardise Nigeria's hope of certification. ``Community leaders, schools and churches as well as community-based associations can be sensitised and mobilised through our activities. ``In order not to give room for mischief makers and adversary stakeholders, our strategies need to be devised to provide accurate and up-to-date information on a continuous

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

Community leaders, schools and churches as well as community-based associations can be sensitised and mobilised through our activities

basis as selected radio stations and TV stations are being used to air jingles.'' Sharing similar sentiments, Dr Kefas Ityonzughul, the WHO Nigeria National Programme Officer, Guinea Worm Disease, stated that the media had always been an integral part of the campaign against GWD in Nigeria. According to him, there are no more cases of GWD in Nigeria, but there is the need for vigilance in the rural areas. He said that the emphasis should be shifted to reporting on meeting the certification criteria by engaging on individual and collective efforts at sensitising the people on pre-certification activities. Contributing, Maureen Eke of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) said there was the need for newsmen to have onthe-spot assessment of areas previously affected by GWD. She noted that that the twomonth time-frame for precertification activities was short; hence, the need for a massive enlightenment which should be sponsored by NIGEP. ``There is limited time; there is the need for steady jingles in the media for a wider coverage but this requires money.'' Another contributor from a leading media outfit, said that the media should engage people at the grassroots level in driving the message. The journalist said he would ``partner with his colleagues at the local government level in educating the people on how to identify GWD and what they stand to gain by identifying and reporting a case of GWD.'' According to him, grassroots sensitisation should be intensified by engaging town criers and traditional rulers as most people in areas that had not been previously affected could not identify GWD when they see one. ``They could mistake GWD for poison and instead of reporting to the appropriate authorities, the victim may end up in a native doctor's house.'' Miss Prudence Eboagwu of Love FM observed that jingles were expensive, but promised to anchor a public enlightenment programme on the precertification activities. Although the media has been a partner in the fight, stakeholders say the burden of the investigation to ascertain the veracity of Nigeria's claim to be guinea worm free, lies in the media. As the International Certification Team is being expected, one hopes that the media will play, more than ever before, its social responsibility role as well as its constitutional requirements to finally de-list the country as a guinea worm endemic country. Source: NAN

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

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Managing natural disasters through space technology By Ifeanyi Nwoko

y most accounts, mitigation is the most cost-efficient method of reducing the impact of natural disasters. Experts insist that if Nigeria has properly utilised its space resources, the impact of the natural disasters that ravaged the country last year would have been significantly reduced. Natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, floods, hurricanes and cyclones often occur unexpectedly. However, the 2012 flooding in Nigeria, which wrecked considerable havoc across the country, was predicted by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). According to a NEMA report, 7,705, 398 persons were affected by the floods, while 2,157, 419 persons were displaced from their homes. ``A total of 363 persons died, while 18, 282 people were treated for injuries they sustained during the flooding," the report stated. Alhaji Muhammad Sidi, the Director-General of NEMA, however, said that for disasters to be managed effectively, emphasis must be placed on adequate preparations. He also said that emergency management was a continuous process, stressing that mitigation remained the best option to reduce the impact of disasters. ``Mitigation is the most costefficient method of reducing the impact of natural hazards and disasters," he said. Sidi suggested that that the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) should always be ready to make available images covering the whole country at no cost to facilitate disaster prediction and management. Prof. Victor Olunloyo of the University of Lagos said that NASRDA should play a vital role in providing accurate geospatial data (geographical analysis) on Nigeria. He underscored the need for collaboration between the space agency and disaster management agencies, particularly in the areas of earth observation and monitoring, as well as data acquisition. ``This will require that the database, which is maintained by NASRDA on geospatial data for the country, must be comprehensive and up to date. ``For this, the fleet of satellites owned and managed by the space agency should provide a platform for monitoring and obtaining images as required input into the disaster management system. ``Also, the choice of NASRDA as the repository of all geospatial data for the country establishes it as a onestop shopping centre for acquiring

Minister of Science & Technology, Prof. Ita Okon Bassey

additional data needed for processing and analysing large-scale disaster management models. ``NASRDA has been active in establishing and maintaining these databases," he said. Prof Ita Ewa, the Minister of Science and Technology, emphasised that Nigeria should effectively use space technology applications for disaster management and economic growth, just like the developed countries. He stressed the need for Nigerians to adopt space science and technology as a tool for boosting defence and security, as well as socio-economic development. ``Due to the low level of public awareness and unfortunate misconceptions, many have viewed Nigeria's aspirations to go to the space as a needless venture. ``Almost every aspect of human

Director-General (NEMA), Malam Muhammad Sidi

problems can be tackled with relevant satellites and sensor platforms and applications,'' Ewa said. However, Mr Seidu Mohammed, the Director General of NASRDA, said that the agency is delivering on its mandate. He said that the agency had already commenced work on the possibility of using space technology in disaster- management efforts. Mohammed said that NASRDA supported NEMA in August 2011 with the mapping of the areas affected by flood in Oyo State. ``The map showing precisely the areas affected by flood enabled other national agencies and the Oyo State Government to rehabilitate those affected by the flood. ``Lokoja was one of the flooded areas during the 2012 flooding.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

the Minister of Science and Technology, emphasised that Nigeria should effectively use space technology applications for disaster management and economic growth, just like the developed countries

NASRDA visited the flood area and produced a flood plain and vulnerability map for the affected areas. ``The map was used by NEMA to rehabilitate those affected by the flood. ``As a result of the opening of the Lagbo Dam by Cameroon on the 24th of August, 2012, floodwaters affected the downstream communities in Adamawa. ``NASRDA visited the flooded area and produced a flood plain and vulnerability map for the affected areas," he said. The director-general stressed that NASRDA's role was, however, not limited to only post-disaster assistance, adding that its major role was to predict disasters in order to forestall huge losses. He said that the development of a Flood Plain Geospatial Information System for Nigeria by NASRDA was underway. Besides, Mohammed said that NASRDA, in partnership with NEMA, would develop a Flood Vulnerability Geospatial Information System for Nigeria, using NigeriaSat-2 satellite imagery. All in all, stakeholders want NASRDA to sustain its efforts to enable the country to reap from the huge investments it has made in the space sciences. Source: NAN

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PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

Do ‘environmentally friendly’ led lights cause blindness? By Rachel Reilly

co-friendly LED lights may damage your eyes, according to new research. A study has discovered that exposure to LED lights can cause irreparable harm to the retina of the human eye. LED lights have been touted as a super-efficient alternative to traditional bulbs because they use up to 85 per cent less energy and each bulb can last up to 10 years. In April, Philips, the world's biggest lighting maker, reported a 38 per cent jump in LED light sales from last year. They are already widely used in mobile phones, televisions, computer screens and can also be fitted as a replacement for traditional lighting in the home. LEDs are much more expensive that traditional bulbs - costing around £25 for an equivalent 100w compared to around £1 for an incandescent bulb although manufacturers claim that consumers make their money back because the use such little energy. The government announced it was phasing out incandescent bulbs in 2007 after an EU directive banned their use.

Enterprising: Lighting shop owner Kerry Nicholau, from Twickenham, stockpiled 3000 incandescent bulbs after 75 watt bulbs were phased out in 2011

The 100w bulb was the first to go in 2009 and lower wattage bulbs continue to be phased out gradually. The ban caused public outrage as customers were forced to spend large

sums of money on lighting that not only gave an unpleasantly 'cold' light but also caused some people to report symptoms of itchy skin and headaches. The government's Enhanced

Capital Allowance Scheme, which was brought in to help cut UK carbon emissions, is also pushing the use of LED lighting by offering businesses added tax relief if they use LED and other lowA Spanish study has shown that the light emitted by LED bulbs can damage the cells in the retina. Some experts are now calling for a filter to be fitted in the bulbs

Incandescent bulbs (left) are being phased out in favour of low-energy alternatives such as CFLs (right), but there are concerns about the safety of the new generation of so-called 'environmentally friendly' lighting

energy bulbs. Dr. Celia Sánchez-Ramos, of Complutense University in Madrid and who led the study, explained that light from LEDs, or light-emitting diodes, comes from the short-wave, highenergy blue and violet end of the visible light spectrum. She said that prolonged, continuous exposure to this light may be enough to damage a person's retina. The retina is composed of lightsensitive tissue that is responsible for detecting light and in turn allowing us to see. 'This problem is going to get worse, because humans are living longer and children are using electronic devices from a young age, particularly for schoolwork,' Sánchez-Ramos told ThinkSpain.com. 'Eyes are not designed to look directly at light - they are designed to see with light,' Sánchez-Ramos said. Her comments are partly based on her 2012 study that was published in the journal Photochemistry and Photobiology. The study found that LED radiation caused significant damage to human retinal pigment epithelial cells in vitro. Sánchez-Ramos added that modern humans have their eyes open for roughly 6,000 hours a year, and are exposed to artificial light for the majority of that time. Some experts have called for the LED lights to have built-in filters to cut out the blue glare. This is not the first time energysaving lights have come under scrutiny for safety reasons. Compact fluorescent light bulbs, or CFLs, have been criticized for the high levels of mercury they contain as well as the UV radiation they can emit. LED lights have also been blamed for the changing hues of masterpieces in art galleries. A study carried out by the University of Antwerp earlier this year found that LED lights were bleaching the paint on works by Van Gogh and Cézanne. Source:Dailymail.co.uk

Autistic children see movement twice as quickly as those without condition By Rachel Reilly

hildren with autism see simple movement twice as quickly as other children their age, according to a new study. Scientists think this this hypersensitivity to motion may provide clues to what causes the disorder. The findings may explain why some people suffering with autism are sensitive to bright lights and loud noises. 'We think of autism as a social disorder because children with this condition often struggle with social interactions, but what we sometimes neglect is that almost everything we know about the world comes from our senses. 'Abnormalities in how a person sees or hears can have a profound effect on social communication,' says Duje Tadin, one of the lead authors on the study and an assistant professor of brain and

cognitive sciences at the University of Rochester. Although previous studies have found that people with autism possess enhanced visual abilities with still images, this is the first research to discover a heightened awareness of motion. The findings were reported in the Journal of Neuroscience by Tadin, colead author Jennifer Foss-Feig, a postdoctoral fellow at the Child Study Center at Yale University, and colleagues at Vanderbilt University. In the study, 20 children with autism and 26 typically-developing children, all aged 8 to 17, viewed brief video clips of moving black and white bars. They were asked to indicate which direction the bars were heading, right or left. Each time a participant chose the correct direction, the next video clip

became slightly shorter and so a little more difficult. When a child made a mistake, the next video became a bit longer and thus easier to see. In this way, the researchers were able to measure how quickly children with autism can perceive motion. The researchers found that when the bars in the image were just barely visible, both groups of children performed identically. When the contrast or darkness of the bars was increased all participants in the study got better at perceiving the direction of movement. 'But kids with autism, got much, much better-performing twice as well as their peers,' says Foss-Feig. In fact, the worst performing participant with autism was roughly equal to the average of the participants without autism. 'This dramatically enhanced ability

to [see] motion is a hint that the brains of individuals with autism keep responding more and more as intensity increases. The scientitst sais that while this could e seen as an advantange, in most circumstances the heightened sense could cause sensory overload. Such hypersensitive perception is the neural signature for a brain that is unable to dampen its response to sensory information, note the authors. This same increase in brain 'excitability' is also found in epilepsy, which is strongly linked to autism. In fact, as many as one third of individuals with autism also have epilepsy. Normally, the brain puts the brakes on its responses to sound, taste, touch, and other stimuli when they become too intense. Source: Dailymail.co.uk

The study found that autistic children were hypersensitive to movement

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

PAGE 37

Yuguda’s administration has delivered democratic dividends, says Information Commissioner INTERVIEW

y May 29 this year, the country will be celebrating 13 years of democratic rule, and the governor of Bauchi state, Mallam Isa Yuguda , will be Six years in office as the Executive Governor of the State. Can you give us an overview of the performance of the Bauchi state government in the last six years? This is a very nice question. So far so good, every thing has been so impressive, and the government has initiated various projects currently undergoing execution. The government has been able to put in order dilapidated hospitals he met on ground when he came in as the governor. I can tell you authoritatively that before the governor came into office, most of the hospitals in the state have no water or light, but today go and see the hospitals in Bauchi, the governor has made sure that boreholes were sunk in all the hospitals and generating sets were installed so that when there is no PHCN light, the generators give light for 24 hours. Most of the schools were renovated and now go and see the secondary school in Dass, we thought it was going to be converted into a university. And in the road sector, the governor has been able to construct over 20 kilo meters of roads within Bauchi metropolis alone. The streets lights which have not functioned in the state in the last 20 years are now functioning, and all these are geared towards improving the living standard of the citizens. He has also constructed roads in virtually all the local governments from Alkaeri, Bujuk road projects; Wunji to Bura road; from MagamaGumo to Samnika and from Isa to Azare completed roads which are nearing completion. Boreholes are being sunk all over the state, and they are functioning well and effectively. The only problem we have is in the state capital here where you have influx of people trooping in on daily basis from some states in the Northeast. And in this, the government has taken a lot of measures to curtail the problems. Besides the general hospitals in Dass, Zaki, Shera others have been equipped, renovated and completed. Though the Zaki one has not been completed but it will soon be completed. And for the

Eng, Mohammed Damina is the Commissioner for information, Bauchi state. In this interview with Agaju Madugba, he listed the achievements of the state governor, Mallam Isa Yuguda, in the last six years and commended his efforts enhancing the economic, and tourism potentialities of the state. According to him, Yuguda’s administration has brought about an airport, teaching hospital, a university and has opened doors of opportunities for investors for operation in the state. Excerpts. records, so many primary health care centers, primary schools have been built by this quiet and silent achiever. These are democratic dividends Yuguda has given to the people of Bauchi state. You can see the new airport in place, it will be completed very soon, and some people were thinking that the government of Mallam Yuguda was joking. You can also see the university and go to Yankari and see how the government has invested a lot of money to improve the standard there. All these are geared towards improving the living standard of the people as well as attracting investors. When the airport and Yankari are ready, we expect investors and tourists to pour into the state and our internally generated revenue will improve. So you can see that a lot has been done by the government and don’t forget that we are building another specialist hospital, after handing over our own State Hospital to the Federal Government which is now a teaching hospital making it possible for the university to create a faculty of medicine which we don’t have before . Now, the University is the second with such facility in the North East region after the University of Maiduguri. We have sent our people abroad to study, we have sent people to learn Aeronautical Engineering, Medicine amongst others. It is all geared towards improving the living standard of our people. Mallam Isa Yuguda is not going to benefit from all this training for our youths rather he is working

Eng, Mohammed Damina hard to see that Bauchi State is safe and conducive for everybody that leaves in it. Is it true that the governor of Bauchi state has abandoned his duty post in Bauchi for Abuja?

“ The governor stays in Bauchi for three weeks and may be one week in Abuja; then tell me, how has he abandoned his people. He has to go and fight for the right of his people

I have reacted to this question several times. I told those who have been asking this question every time that you don’t sit down in one place and get something done in a country of over 160 million people. Look at the teaching hospital, what all those that have ruled this state, in the past failed to achieve, the governor has achieved that. Secondly if the governor is not getting something for the state, I will say they are right; but in this case the governor has not done anything wrong. What they are saying are wild allegations. The governor stays in Bauchi for three weeks and may be one week in Abuja; then tell me, how has he abandoned his people. He has to go and fight for the right of his people. There are national commitments; he is a member of some national committees which is for the overall inertest of the nation,

he has to be there. He is a member of the economic group and he is a member of the National Economic Council. It is alleged that the insecurity situation in the north has destroyed northern economy. Do you agree to that? It is true, once there is no security, nothing can move forward. But here in Bauchi we are very lucky because God has blessed us and given us very highly intelligent security personnel, highly qualified personnel. In fact, it was testified by the American security team that came here that they have got a group of intelligent people in Bauchi state that can be compared with the best anywhere in the world. But here in Bauchi we thank God for taking control of the security situation in our state. But what is the way forward? I think government has already taken measures towards that. We should continue to pray so that their action will result to something positive very soon. So you are in favour of amnesty for the BokoHaram sect? Yes, fully in support of it. What should Bauchi people expect in the last remaining two years of Mallam Isa Yuguda’s administration? People will start enjoying the airport, the teaching hospital, and our university will be fully operational. Our people will start realising the gains of our community radio stations; we have ten of them in place which is not comparable to anyone in this country. We are working very hard to expand the operation of Bauchi State Television (BSTV). We have placed some generators in various locations preparatory to general connection so that every nook and cranny of this state will have transmission. Already the community radio stations are covering all the state. But the Central Radion Station which has a booster station in Azare will soon take off so that it will add up to all this mass mobilization of our through radio. We want our people to have effective communication.

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PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

Anambra: Why Gov. Obi is after me â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Ubah ANALYSIS The intensity of the intrigues around the Chairman and Chief Executive of Capital Oil and Gas limited, Dr. Ifeanyi Ubah's decision to join the race for Anambra Government House come 2014, when the Peter Obiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s government must have completed final lap of its eight-years reign in the state, has once again exposed the perennial underlining and inter- play of negative politics plaguing the nation's democratic terrain. Stanley Onyekwere writes.

he Nnewi-born oil tycoon, who made formal declaration to contest the governorship election of Anambra state when he hosted Ikoro, the umbrella association for journalists of Igbo extraction in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), last week, has stated that the spate of insecurity in the state is the direct fallout of unemployment plaguing the state. He said "I'm worried and disappointed that with all the financial support that I have been given to the politicians all these while, all of them have disappointed my trust and believe in their sincerity to deliver democratic dividends to our people. "The last politician to fail me is Imo state governor, Owelle Rocha Okorocha, whom despite all the support I gave him, with what is happening in the state, does not give joy at all, as it's still not progressing as I had expected it", he expressed. According to him, his declaration means the turning point for the state and this is encapsulated in a four-point agenda including education, health, security, and employment, set for unveiling by July, for Anambra people. "Today in Anambra state, our children cannot go to school and the aged cannot enjoy their old age for fear of being kidnapped, as kidnapping had become a viable industry for the unemployed youths; and to reverse the trend, there is the need for a turning point in the highest political echelon in the state. "I have destiny with Anambra state in truth and in spirit, so I don't aspire to become the next governor in order to steal the state treasury, but because of the need to transform the state; and if a free and fair election were to be held in the state, I would win 70% of the votes. Prior to this time, little did he(Ubah) know that the

disclosure to Governor Peter Obi about his quest for change and decision to no longer play from the sideline, but get directly involved in steering the affairs of the people of the state to the promise land, had incurred his wrath. According to him, it wasn't until he became a subject of oilsubsidy theft scandal that it dawned on him that he must have pitched himself against the governor's interest when not too long before then he had advised Obi on the need for financial probity in the state. Recounting his ordeals in the oil theft saga, the businessman and politician accused Obi of having a hand in his alleged involvement in the oil subsidy fraud alleging the plot as part of plans by the governor and some persons in Anambra state to tarnish his reputation because of his ambition to contest for governorship of the state. "I never knew that I had incurred the wrath of Mr. Obi when I told him that a tree cannot make a forest, while advising him to be transparent in handling Local government funds. "Not too long after advising Gov. Obi, I returned to tell him about my political ambition, but unknown to me, I was

Governor Peter Obi inviting trouble for myself. And it wasn't long Access Bank, which is the government's bank, became the bank to handle subsidy matters; and before I knew it, I became a subject of oilsubsidy theft scandal. "At a point it was alleged that I stole the nation's 46 billion naira; at another point I was said to be a threat to national security. And later on I was alleged to be holding money worth federal allocation for eleven states; and in the process APCON sealed off my company. "You will recall all the ordeals that I was subjected to since last year. I was labeled a thief and attempts were made to freeze my personal and business accounts as all part of plans to tarnish my reputation, because I want to contest for governorship of my state. But because God is bigger than them, at the end I was

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

I never knew that I had incurred the wrath of Mr. Obi when I told him that a tree cannot make a forest, while advising him to be transparent in handling Local government funds

Ifeanyi Uba vindicated", he exuded. He however maintained that it was all a campaign of calumny aimed at turning the good people of the state against the actualisation of his ambition; we have begun our sensitisation campaigns and I want to appeal to the media to urge the government of Anambra State to leave me alone." "I thought the battle was over until recently when my sister wedded in Lagos, a fortnight ago, when twentyfour out of the thirty state House of Assembly members, 61 Royal fathers (Igwes), 107 town union presidents and vast number of traders in Anambra and environs attended the occasion. "On their return to their respective domains, the government declared war against everyone one of them that attended the wedding. During the recent summit of the State Traditional Rulers Council, the government disgraced those of them that attended the wedding by ordering them to stand up and return the money I gave to them. "They accused the Igwes of not taking permission from President Goodluck Jonathan before attending the wedding in Lagos but they themselves(the government) did not equally take permission when they took the same journey. It was embarrassing and humiliating, especially to some of them that have been on the throne for about 63 years", he said. Although the traditional rulers and other dignitaries

merely attended the wedding, there are insinuations, especially in government quarters, that there must have been political undertones attached to it. In fact, the Anambra state governor suspected that the dignitaries were in Lagos to meet with Ubah on his political ambition by 2014. This, it s reasoned, points to the fact that the business magnate might have gained a certain political mileage over the Obi'sleadership by pulling to his side traditional rulers who are supposed to be under the strict control of the governor. To keen political watchers, the ensuing intrigues could be true, as Ubah appears to be having sympathy for the All Progressives Grand Alliance, (APGA) because he is believed to be the backbone behind the Chief Victor Umeh-led faction of the party. Umeh's faction is firmly opposed to the faction of the party led by the governor. Additionally, the reported endorsement of the Capital Oil's boss by another oil magnate, Chief Arthur Eze , who expressed confidence in his leadership because having done great as a businessman, he (Ubah) is prepared to take the state to the next stage sequel to his esteem track records in the private sector. With the situation of things in Anambra state, the political temperature is assuming a feverish point ahead of the 2014 governorship election in that state. The political leadership of the state must watch the development and be more tolerant of one another if the election is to be free and fair, pundits submit.

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

Briefs NEMA donates relief materials to victims of Wukari crisis From Yusha’u Alhassan, Jalingo

he National Emergency Management Agency NEMA has donated materials worth millions of naira to victims of Wukari crisis. Presenting the materials to the Taraba state government, NEMA’s operational officer in charge the zone in Gombe, Apollos Jediel said the donations was a function of the report of NEMA official who visited the affected area to ascertain the level of damage done in the area. Jediel said the Director General of NEMA, Mohammed Sani Sidi has expressed dismay over the recent crisis in Wukari and directed relief for victims at the thirteen displaced camps in Wukari. The operational officer appealed to people living in the riverine areas to relocate to where they would not be affected by overflooding of the rivers.

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NPC to conduct house to house registration in Gombe From David Hassan, Gombe

he Federal Commissioner, National Population Commission in Gombe state, Alhaji Bala Muhammed Magaji has said that the commission has a total of 35 vital registration centres across the 11 local government areas in the state ready to conduct house to house census. The commissioner stated this when he paid a courtesy call on Governor Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo at Government

House, adding that some local government areas which include Gombe and Dukku has been assisting the commission with subregistrars who would carry out registration exercise at ward levels. He noted that the commission has designated Comptrollers and Deputy Chief Registrars to conduct all National Commission activities and report back to the state office. The commissioner said since 2010, NPC has been participating actively in bi-annual national maternal new born child health

week due to the collaboration with the National Primary Health care Development Agency. He said, even though most of the Comptrollers have no office accommodation to operate effectively, there was need for local government areas in the state to assist toward revamping the vital registration exercise to enable NPC staff reach the grassroots. He said, in view of effort made by the commission, it has been able to achieve the target of registering 60 percent of children

in the state. Responding, Governor Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo also said that his administration would conduct a housing census to enable it ascertain the number of households in the state following the daily influx of the people. He appealed to the commission to help the state and plan for census, adding that people from neighboring states migrate daily to Gombe because of the relative peace obtained in the state.

Nigeria records 110m ‘clinical’ malaria cases annually From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

igeria is said to record between 70 – 110 million clinical cases of malaria per year. The Permanent Secretary of the Kaduna State Ministry of Health; Dr. Paul M. Dogo disclosed this at the presentation of 2013 Annual Operational Plan for Malaria Control in Kaduna State. The Permanent Secretary who was represented at the presentation by the Director of Public Health in the Kaduna State Ministry of Health, Dr. Ado Zakari Mohammed said malaria is a major cause of mobility and mortality in Nigeria. “There are 70-110 million clinical cases of the disease in the country per year. It accounts for about 60% of all outpatient attendances and 30% of all hospital admissions with annual deaths of children under 5 years estimated to be around 300,000".

Oyo, Wemabod build 4,000-shops in Ibadan From Inumidun Ojelade, Ibadan

he Oyo State Government and Wemabod Estates Limited have commenced a joint construction of an ultra-modern business complex expected to accommodate no fewer than 4,000 shops and 20 warehouses in Ibadan, the state capital. The complex, which would be completed within nine months, is located at Samonda area of the Ibadan metropolis. Governor Abiola Ajimobi, while laying the foundation stone of the business complex, said that it would be a state-of-the-art shopping complex, upon completion.

L-R: Chief Ben Nwanbueze, Justice Pius Aderemi, and Lagos state Governor, Mr Babatunde Raji Fashola, during the launching of a book titled "The Enforcement of Electoral Law and Case Law of 2007 Election Petition Judgments" written by Professor Itse Sagay, yesterday in Lagos. Photo: Olawale Rotimi

Nigeria might not meet MDGs target by 2030 By A’isha Biola Raji

oncerning the rate at which Nigeria has been handling intervention issues concerning deaths of babies and mothers, the country will have to work harder to meet MDGs 4 and 5 (reduction of maternal and child death rate), in 2030 in contrast to proposed 2020. Resource person, Dr. Oyinbo Emmanuel said this yesterday at a two hour workshop organized for health correspondents in Abuja by Save the Children (a nongovernmental organization). He said for Nigeria to meet up with the MDGs goals, the country needs to embrace the use of skilled birth attendants through tasksharing or task-shifting formula in the manner in which health workers are deployed to health facilities. Dr. Oyinbo described the death of mothers and babies in Nigeria as second to none as a result of the healthcare system not being able to cater for the infant population. He said, “Lower antenatal rate means high maternal mortality. This is why 241,000 babies die every year. He called for increase in human resources, especially accredited birth

attendants which should meet standard of 23 doctors, 23 nurses per 10,000 people. Dr. Emmanuel said, “Nigeria has 20 doctors and 20 nurses per 10,000 people.” He said Nigeria has about 57,000 doctors, 137,198 nurses and midwives put together but most of them are in South-West particularly Lagos, working in teaching hospitals not PHC. “This is why we have inadequate skilled birth rate especially in northern Nigeria. North-West has chances of 9.8 normal deliveries meaning that, 99 per cent will deliver without skilled attendants,” he lamented. According to Dr. Oyinbo, out of

about 30,000 primary health care facilities spread across the country, 22,000 are government-owned while about 8,000 belong to private owners. He said, “out of all the health workers in these PHC, only 4 per cent are midwives, 3 per cent nurses, 0 per cent Pharmacist, 27 per cent CHEW (Community Health Extension Worker) 11 per cent JCHEW (Junior Community Health Worker) and 28 per cent Health Assistant (somebody that have been working in hospital for long) however constitute the largest percentage.” Based on this data, the bulk of work at PHCs are being done by unskilled attendants since skilled

health workers are few. Speaking further on saving babies at birth, he said the goal of task-shifting or sharing, according to WHO definition, is to get the right workers with the right skills in the right places doing the right things. In his presentation, Mr. Chidi Agbaraji, Monitoring and Evaluation Management Officer said, one of the major solutions to the problem of neonatal and maternal deaths is the passage of health bill. “Most questions will be provided answers to in the health bill,” he said. He however called on health to imbibe the use of evidence based report. “We want to see reports that are evidence based,” he said.

Unpaid salaries: NUJ moves to picket media houses By Adeola Tukuru

he Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) has threatened to commence picketing of media houses that are yet to offset salaries owed to their workers from next Monday. About five Lagos-based media are to be affected in the exercise. Speaking on the plan to picket defaulting media houses, the

National President of the NUJ, Mallam Mohammed Garba noted that the union appreciated the harsh economic condition in the country as well as the difficulties associated with revenue drive but insisted that the factors cannot be entertained as excuse for media houses to owe their staff. He warned defaulting media houses to close shop and allow those with capacity to drive the media

industry if they cannot afford to pay salaries. The NUJ president described the non-payment of media practitioners as really worrisome and an act that encourages corruption in the industry. According to him, the leadership of the union and its sister associations were working on a new document that would stipulate code of conduct for journalism practice in the country.

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

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Turai,Dame Patience land tussle: The issue at stake is of morality - Consultant, African First Ladies Peace Mission

hat is the cause of the problems over the alleged disputed land between the two first ladies? We do not have any issue with the former First Lady, but the issue of land is very paramount to the FCT Administration and the Peace Mission, though we were not party to the suit at an Abuja court, including the First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan. It was purely an issue of morals. A land kept in your care as chairperson of the Mission not be converted to your private use at the twilight of leaving office. It goes to show how morally bankrupt some persons can be.

As the Turai Yar'Adua -Dame Patience Goodluck’s FCT Administration land dispute saga raged, consultant to the African First Ladies Peace Mission, (AFLPM), Mrs. Rhoda Sika bares her mind to a group of journalists on a controversial issue. Our Etuka Sunday, who was there, reports. Excerpts:

Can you throw more light on the genesis of the land dispute? In 2010, precisely during the administration of then FCT minister, Adamu Aliero, a crony of the former First Lady, they converted the same plot owned by the Peace Mission because then, she was the chairperson, to her private NGO (WAYEF), and was granted a statutory right of occupancy in respect of the same Plot 703 now re-designed and numbered Plot 1347, while the original allocation to the Peace Mission was not revoked. It was perhaps reasoned then, by her and the minister, that this issue may never be brought to limelight or re-visited and no one was likely to ask questions as it is our style in Nigeria. However, after the demise of the former President, it became necessary for the present First Lady, Dame Jonathan to complete Nigeria’s tenure and to continue the task of providing the Secretariat of the Peace Mission. It was at this juncture, the FCT administration discovered that an error had been committed in allocating the same plot allocated to the Peace Mission to Hajiya Turai Yar’Adua’s personal nongovernmental organisation (NGO). The FCT therefore, had to reverse it self by revoking the title of Women and Youth Empowerment Foundation (WAYEF) and restored back the Land to the original allottee, the African First Ladies Peace Mission (AFLPM) in 2011. Thus, faced with the reality that the land appropriated might be lost, especially now that her crony is no longer in office, she promptly went to court and launched a massive media propaganda that the current First Lady, Dame Jonathan, wanted to take her land. While a lot of people joined her to vilify the First Lady not knowing the true nature of the land allocation story. It is very unfortunate that Judgment

Consultant, African First Ladies Peace Mission, (AFLPM), Mrs. Rhoda Sika may have been given, but ‘Justice is yet to be served ‘on an issue of abuse of office and morality. The original owner of the Land is the Peace Mission. What does the Peace Mission intend to do and your next line of action? We believe in due process as one of the cardinal focus of the transformational agenda of Mr. President. We are sure the FCT Administration will appeal the case and justice will be served. For the records, the land in question is for the Peace Mission, though we are not joined in the suit including the First Lady. But Hajiya Turai, in her clandestine motive, went to town to sell lies that it was a battle of wits with the current First lady. This is aptly not true. It was a legal dispute between her and the FCT and the FCT has also refuted these baseless allegations; that it was the First Lady on so many fronts, and people are now coming to terms with the real issue at stake. The First Lady is too preoccupied to be bothered by such frivolities, as she is focused on the emancipation and empowerment of women in Nigeria, and Africa at large.

Why did you not come out earlier to inform Nigerians? The problem with us, as a people is that when you are in government, whatever you do, people view it with cynicism and do not tend to believe it at times. The office of the First Lady has issued countless press releases, statements including advertorials to buttress the point and drive home the

matter but Nigerians are not willing to listen as the other party had already set a propaganda machinery in place to deceive the gullible people as to the true nature of the story. But we are glad that the FCT has come up to let Nigerians know that the land was gotten illegally and the plot in question is situated in a zone allocated to government institutions and cannot be that

“

My candid opinion is that people should look at the real issue at stake; the morals committed, the converting of a property by an individual to personal use and bringing to book the perpetrators of these heinous crimes against the state.

of a private organisation. What is your personal opinion as regards the land dispute? My candid opinion is that people should look at the real issue at stake; the morals committed, the converting of a property by an individual to personal use and bringing to book the perpetrators of these heinous crimes against the state. The former FCT Minister, Adamu Aliero, should be made to answer questions; because Modibo Umar has said it times without number that the land in question belongs to the Peace Mission and that the former President instructed him not to give anyone or his family members any land. I am quite sure at the end of the day, the land will still revert to the Peace Mission for the common good of the nation, because other African countries are watching with keen interest to see the outcome of their land meant for the Permanent Secretariat and we will not like them to see us in bad light as the Big Brother of Africa, which is housing the President and Chairperson, which happens to be Dame Patience Jonathan.

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

PAGE 41

Why I dropped Eneramo, Musa, Ogude, from Mexico friendly- Keshi By Patrick Andrew

uper Eagles Head Coach, Stephen Keshi, opted for Joseph Akpala instead of Michael Eneramo because he was yet to watch the latter's recent matches to determine his mental and physical form to merit call up

to the Eagles ahead of May 31 international friendly against mexico. Also, Keshi adduced reasons why he dropped notable names such as Ahmed Musa, Fegor Ogunde, who were regulars at the Nations Cup finals in South Africa, because the duo were excused by

the clubs for serious clubs' engagements. "Fegor's club did not oblige our request for him to join the team. They said they need him for an important league game. For Musa, his club would be involved in the Russian cup final at about that time we will be playing the

friendly," Keshi. However, he said they were still integral part of the 30-man provisional list that he had earlier released to prosecute the friendly game, 2014 World Cup qualifiers against Kenya and Naimibia and the FIFA Confederation Cup in Brazil, all in June. "But they are still on the 30-man list and I expect them to be available for the World Cup qualifiers." Peoples Daily Sports learnt that Musa's Russian army club, CSKA, are chasing a league and cup double this season, while Ogude's club specifically requested that he be excused from the friendly game.

Keshi has also defended his choice of Werder Bremen striker Joseph Akpala ahead of Michael Eneramo to replace injured Emmanuel Emenike. The former Mali and Togo coach said: "I have seen Akpala play and I know what he can do on the pitch. Unfortunately I have not been able to watch Eneramo play, but I have spoken with him and he understands that his time would come." The Super Eagles will depart Abuja next Thursday for a training camp in Germany with players from the domestic league, while the foreign pros are expected to join up next week.

6 more players join Flying Eagles in Germany

Michael Eneramo

Ahmed Musa,

Fegor Ogunde,

... Reuben doubtful for Mexico, Confed Cup F

ormer Kano Pillars midfielder and Kilmarnock FC new sign-on, Gabriel Reuben, is a serious doubt in the Super Eagles 2014 World Cup qualifiers as well as the FIFA Confederation Cup finals, next month. The rugged midfielder, who could not feature in all the AFCON finals despite being a regular during the qualifiers, has had been blighted by injury for a while. It is unclear whether he would be subjected to the knife following a revealing scan. According to a wire service, the player was quoted to have confirmed that he has "a groin injury," and has been directed by Kilmarnock doctors to take a rest after undergoing a scan at a hospital in Glasgow. "I have a groin injury which recurred in a recent in-house match. Initially I didn't think it was a problem but after I reported the injury to the club doctor he took me to the hospital in Glasgow for a scan. After investigation the doctors advised me to take some rest," he said. Peoples Daily Sports recalls that he sustained serious injury

during the Federation Cup match and could not participate in the last phase of the Nations Cup qualifier. Reuben was impressive in Blantyre, Namibia when the Eagles visited them. "I am really sad that I might miss the Confederations Cup because I was looking forward to playing against top teams like Spain and Uruguay I cried about this situation but I know God's time is best," he said even as he was quoted to have said he spoke to Dan Amokachi after efforts to reach Keshi on 'phone failed. "For now, I have to make sure I am ready for pre-season in Kilmarnock and also the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. I am looking forward these challenges and I am excited about the future," said Reuben. The former Kano Pillars midfielder is one of 25 players called up by Keshi for this month's international warm-up game against Mexico as well as the FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Kenya and Namibia and the FIFA Confederations Cup in Brazil.

arely 24 hours before the deadline on the submission of the provisional 30 players for the FIFA U-20 World Cup, six players have joined 14 others already in the Flying Eagles' camp in Germany. According to the Media Officer of the team, Samm Audu, the players arrived at the team's Ullrich Hotel in Elfershausen yesterday morning from Abuja. He listed them as Kingsley Madu, Christian Pyagbara, Lucky Omeruo, Uche Agbo, Samuel Mathias and Sikiru Alimi. Peoples Daily Sports recalls that the head coach, Sam John Obuh, has had hitches with the Nigeria Football Federation over the number of players. Obuh had called up nine new players, but the NFF insisted on four only even as they dropped five without the

consent of the coach. Without the arrival of these players though, the coach should meet FIFA's deadline today by naming the 30-man provisional squad for next month's World Cup in Turkey. The team will leave Germany for the Toulon International Tournament in France on May 26. Their opening game is against defending champions Mexico on May 29. Meanwhile, the Flying Eagles drew 1-1 with Nuremberg Under23 team in a test game on Wednesday as part of their buildup to next month's Under-20 World Cup in Turkey. The Flying Eagles will face Portugal, Korea Republic and Cuba in the opening rounds of the 2013 FIFA Under-20 World Cup in Turkey.

SWAN lauds appointment of Elegbeleye as new NSC DG

Gabriel Rueben

he Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), FCT Chapter, has lauded the appointment of Gbenga Elegbeleye as the new DirectorGeneral of the National Sports Commission (NSC). Kayode Adeniyi, the Chairman of SWAN, FCT, said in a congratulatory letter in Abuja that Elegbeleye's appointment was a testimony to his outstanding leadership qualities and competence. Adeniyi said the appointment also confirmed the confidence reposed in him by President Goodluck Jonathan. ``Certainly, this appointment is a testimony of the confidence reposed in you by President Goodluck Jonathan and indeed the Federal Government. It also confirms your outstanding

leadership qualities and competence. ``On our part, we promise to work with you to see to the rapid development of sports in Nigeria," he following the confirmation of the appointment on Wednesday. Elegbeleye, a former Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Sports, was a former council chairman in Ondo State. He later became the chairman of the Ondo State Waste and Environmental Board. Elegbeleye had also served as member of various sports committees, among which was the reform committee on football administration. Elegbeleye was appointed on May 16, to replace Dr Patrick Ekeji, who retired in April as the NSC director-general, after eight years of service.

PAGE 42

Super 5: Fans want to Kwara govt restore Adewole Park

pectators at the Adewole Park, venue of the ongoing Felicia Kisira Super '5' Softball Championship midweek in Ilorin appealed to the Kwara Government to restore the park. Some of the spectators who spoke to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) complained that the poor state of the park had affected the development of softball in the state. Kazeem Ahmed, a businessman, said that the park had been abandoned for too long by the government. ``For many years now, this park which used to be a world class baseball and softball field in the early '90s had been left to rot," he said. In the same vein, Victor Adeyemi, a trader, said that the government should endeavour to refurbish the park, in order to reposition the sport in the state. ``My appeal to the state government is to restore this park to what it used to be, when it was first constructed in 1991,'' he said. Lateef Fatai, a student, said that the bad state of the park had discouraged people who were interested in the sport from participating in it. ``If not for the ongoing competition, the field would be overgrown with trees and grasses and nobody can train in such an environment," he said. Oyebanji Kazeem, a driver, said that the government should put the park in the care of private individuals. ``Since the government has abandoned the park, the park should be given to private individuals who can maintain it,'' he said. The Adewole baseball and softball park was commissioned on Nov. 21, 1991 by the late Adm. Augustus Aikhomu, a former military Vice President. Meanwhile, in some of the matches played in the ongoing competition, Delta defeated Lagos by 11 runs to 1, while Niger outplayed Rivers by 12 runs to 5. The competition ends tomorrow.

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

Floyd tops list of highest paid sports men

top 50 in 2012, shot to number three in 2013 thanks to a $37 million signing bonus from his NFL

(gridiron) team. The magazine's list takes into account salary, winnings, bonuses and endorsements.

he Chairman of the Beach Volleyball Committee, Engineer Musa Nimrod, has revealed that the board members of the Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF), unanimously resolved to return Engineer Habu Gumel as president unopposed because of what they believe could do for the game. Nimrod, who was reacting to criticism that the newly elected members were cowed by the National Sports Commission (NSC) to support Gumel who has had four tenures, insisted that they were swelled by his wealth of experience and stabilizing influence. According to him, the president deserves no condemnation from any individual from the board because he had shown competence previously and is therefore trusted to advance the course of the game. "Gumel has what it takes to be president of the federation, so we resolved to return him unopposed because he's a member of international volleyball federation and the board members want to learn from his experience. "Gumel came back unopposed because we all in the board want to learn from his wealth of experience, one of his advantage is that he (Gumel) is a member of the international volleyball federation. "We are ready to support and assist his leadership because there is unity in the board, "he said. The board members of the NVBF returned Engr Habu Gumel unopposed as president. Nimrod implored all stakeholder in the sector who loss election into the board in zonal or national level to support Gumel leadership in order to move the federation to it desire height.

emerging unopposed because he believe his commitment, dedication and hard work towards the NHF that would vehemently vindicated him at the poll. "Let me tell you, I am an achiever; I have worked round the knock to see the federation move to a greater height, yes there were inches during the election because nothing good comes easy but I know my wealth all through the voting. "How on earth will I agreed to step outside, I won't have done that because I know my target for the federation. "Let me also tell you that I will never celebrate my victory because the board who voted me in known what I am capable of doing for the federation, "he added. When asked the controversy surrounded the election, he said every loser would definitely complain because he/she loss but it wouldn't count.

damu Ereena, the newlyelected President of the Nigeria Squash Federation (NSF), on Wednesday pledged to consolidate on the achievements of the outgoing board. Speaking to Peoples Daily Sports soon after his election, Ereena said he was determined to bring a change in the administration of the game. According to him, his administration's topmost priority would be to maximise the vast potentials at the disposal of the NSF to the fullest. ``We will try as much as we can to ensure that we enhance the profile of squash in the country. My manifesto is the bible for the game. I will follow it religiously to the letter. "I want everyone to keep the manifesto and hold us accountable. People should always draw our attention to whatever it is that we have promised as contained in this

manifesto. ``We pray that we surpass the achievements of the previous administration, as we intend to consolidate on their success and we will work to improve those areas that need to be worked on. ``As a part of the outgoing board, I have an insight on how things are, and we will be working with everyone who has the interest of squash at heart," Ereena said Also, he expressed happiness over his victory and lauded the board members for reposing confidence on and promised not to let them down. He thanked his opponents for their sportsmanlike disposition. ``Naturally I'm happy, it wasn't easy but God gave us victory. I must commend my opponents for their sportsmanship,''he added. Ereena would be at the helm of the NSF for the next four years.

he undefeated American boxer, Floyd Mayweather, is the highest earner according to Sports Illustrated's list of highest-paid sportsmen for the second straight year. In compiling its Fortunate 50 list which was released midweek, the list showed that Mayweather could earn $90 million in 2013; more than twice as much as Tiger Woods. Golf star Woods, who was No 1 one on the Fortunate 50 every year from 2004 to 2011, falls to his lowest ranking. He is at No 7 with estimated earnings this year of $40.8 million. Mayweather, nicknamed Money, stretched his professional record to 44-0 when he beat Robert Guerrero on points on May 4, the first fight in his new deal with Showtime television. It guarantees him at least $32 million per fight for six bouts. The fight for Mayweather's WBC welterweight title was the champion's first since he served a jail term for domestic violence last year. LeBron James, the Miami Heat basketball superstar who was recently named NBA Most Valuable Player for the fourth time in his career, is second on the list with projected earnings of $56.5 million. James becomes the first player in a team sport to be in the top two since former NBA star Shaquille O'Neal in 2004. James's $39 million in endorsements were more than any other US sports figure in 2013, Sports Illustrated reported. New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees, who didn't figure in the

We return Gumel to learn from his experience, says board member

Floyd Mayweather

president NHF election: I return as an Newly-elected pledges to revamp squash achiever, says Dauda A By Albert Akota

Yusuf Dauda

he President of the Nigeria Handball Federation (NHF) who return unopposed at the just concluded

federation's election in Abuja, Yusuf Dauda said that he was return as a result of his achievement. In spite the intrigues and counter allegation of foul play, Yusuf Dauda still return unopposed as NHF president. Dauda has earlier accused of accepting to abide by the resolutions reached in February this year by the Handball stakeholders of Nigeria to allow the former Vice President of Federation Barrister Mark Jacob to be the sole flag bearer for the position. He told newsmen in Abuja that the federation has witness tremendous progress for the last four years by organizing grassroots and secondary schools competition in order to discover prospect players that can do the country pride in subsequent international engagement. Dauda further said that he wouldn't celebrate his victory of

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

Chelsea to go on spending spree

helsea will splash out on new players and return even stronger next year, interim manager Rafael Benitez predicted after leading his team to Europa League victory. Speaking to Spain's Onda Cero radio after their 2-1 win over Benefica on Wednesday night, the outgoing Benitez predicted a bright future for the team. "It is clear to me that Chelsea will be much better next year because they will spend 100 million, they will sign three or four players, and the foundation is there, it is a foundation that works well and has a big future," he said. Benitez said it would be tough to leave the Chelsea players in the hands of another coach.

"I have a very good group of players. They are very committed, they're keen, and they have worked well up to the end," the coach said. "It is always sad because they are talented young players who are improving," Benitez said, citing in particular Victor Moses, Eden Hazard, Oscar, Cesar Azpilicueta, David Luiz, Fernando Torres and Oriol Romeu. But Benitez said he could not confirm that Chelsea's new coach will be Real Madrid's Jose Mourinho, who is widely speculated to be the man taking over at Stamford Bridge. "I don't know who the next coach will be because it is not for me to say, even if everyone is speculating the same thing," Benitez said.

PAGE 43

Onyedima laments says female League still lacks sponsors By Albert Akota

hough she said that the female league is worth about N500m, the Chairman of the Nigeria

Women Football League, Chief Dilichukwu Onyedima, has lamented that the league is still groping for sponsorships. Onyedima, who regretted that the plight of female league

Abuja 2013 Unity Polo tournament to celebrate May 29 Democracy Day

liyu Umar, the Tournament Manager, Abuja Guards Polo Club, said yesterday that the week-long 2013 Unity Polo tournament would be used to celebrate Nigeria's Democracy Day on May 29. Umar said in Abuja that the tournament, now in its fourth edition, would run from May 20 to May 26 ``This national tournament will attract people from all over Nigeria to celebrate the nation's democracy day in our own style; which is, by playing the game of polo,'' he said. Umar said that the highlights of the tournament would include a road show, as well as the polo competition proper. ``The road show is to create awareness, so that the general public really knows what is going

Onazi upbeat on Europa League ticket

genyi Onazi has revealed Lazio will qualify for next season's Europa League by finishing fifth in the Italian Serie A. "I am not losing hope, God is with us. I believe we will finish in the top five to earn a Europa League ticket," Nigeria midfielder Onazi said. "All we need is to win our last game and see what happens in Udinese game. We are still hopeful of the ticket. We can equally get the ticket by winning the Coppa Italia, but top five is our aim and we can do it." On Sunday, Lazio will play away to Cagliari on the final day of the season, while Inter Milan will host Udinese. Lazio are currently sixth on the table, just two points behind fifthplaced Udinese and a win for Lazio in the last game and loss by Udinese will pave way for Lazio to feature in the Europa League for a second straight season. Onazi who has made 22 appearances in Serie A this season for Lazio with a goal to show, is expected to be in the thick of action against Cagliari.

on. As I said earlier, we are celebrating Nigeria's unity, so we want to inform a lot of people about what we are doing and to urge them to come and join us as we celebrate. ``Our partners are really putting all their efforts together to ensure that we have a successful tournament,'' he said. The manager said that four major trophies were on stake at the tournament. ``We have four major trophies that will be competed for over the seven-day period, namely: The President Cup, the Legislative Cup, the Guards Brigade Cup and the Guards Challenge Cup. ``In order to encourage our home grown or local players, we have limited the Guards Challenge Cup competition to Abuja and its environs. ``The President Cup is a trophy that has attracted interest from some corporate organisations, specifically Fidelity Bank. ``Fidelity Bank has indicated its interest to be part of the Unity Tournament and is sponsoring the President Cup,'' he added.

Ebere Orji, Super Falcons' player

in country however was optimistic that there was light at the end of the tunnel. She said negotiations with prospective sponsors were at advantage stage and added that it won't be long now before sponsors for female league would be unveiled. ''Since the inception of this current female league board our marketing drive has been very aggressive, but the snag is that most corporate concerns keep telling us that they are still consulting at their leadership level. Some have however assured us that they will get to us before long'' Further, she claimed that the league that has produced players for the Super Falcons that have won the African Women championship a record six times. "Yet, there is no cash prize for any team that wins the league every year. There is enough to dampen the spirit of players," she said. Also, she disclosed that once sponsorship was secured the league body would introduce the ladies premier league that would comprise 12 teams. ''Just to give our female league a level of respectability," she added. The leadership is also toying with the idea of floating an international tournament in conjunction with the continent football ruling body CAF. ''We want our female clubs to look forward to some international competition at the club level just like their male counterpart, and we intend to stat it with some neighbouring African countries before pushing the idea to CAF."

Nigeria lose Sidney Sam to Germany

ayer Leverkusen midfielder,Sidney Sam has finally opted to play for Germany ahead of Nigeria after he was called up to the national mannschafft squad ahead of the friendly internationals against the United States and Ecuador in June. Sam, who has played for the Germany under-19 team, is eligible to play for the Super Eagles and has been courted in recent months by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and head coach, Stephen Keshi. However, Sam may never get to dorn the green-white-green after it was revealed that he had been called up by the Germany coach, Joachin Loew for the internationals against Ecuador and the United States. The NFF has now reacted to the development through an Executive committee member who refused to have his name in print. "Keshi won the Nations Cup in South Africa without Sam so I don't

really see it as such a big miss. Besides Sam hardly speaks a word of English and would have struggled to get with the rest of the bunch. "I also hope for his sake, that Sam does not end up like Patrick Owomoyela who went on to

Sydney Sam

represent Germany without any real fruits to show for it," the NFF member said yesterday.

Sam has been capped 19 times at junior level for Germany netting 3 goals.

Heynckes in hot demand in Europe

ayern Munich coach Jupp Heynckes has revealed he has been contacted about job opportunitites away from the Bundesliga, though he has been tipped to retire at the end of the season. Heynckes, 68, dropped hints of his possible retirement during a press-conference on Tuesday, when stating that he will not take over another Bundesliga club next season and claiming he was too old to take over a club outside of Germany. "I am getting a bit long in the tooth and the clubs want to enforce a new generation. You can't do that with a 68-year old," Heynckes said. However, speaking to kicker magazine on Wednesday, Heynckes revealed several clubs still hoped to

lure him into another contract. "I certainly have offers from abroad," Heynckes said. "[But] I am entirely focused on Bayern right now." Heynckes has been linked with Monaco, former club Real Madrid and an as yet unnamed Russian club, though he insists that no official decision will be made regarding his future until after the DFB-Pokal final against Stuttgart on June 1. Bayern Munich will take on Heynckes' first Bundesliga club Borussia Monchengladbach in their last game of a record breaking Bundesliga campaign, with the veteran German saying: "That's like in a good script."

PAGE 44

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

Vlasic returns to competition, 16 months after

ixteen months after missing out in major competitions including the 2012 London Olympics Games and all the IAAF Diamond League meets, high jumper Blanka Vlasic, will return to active competition. The former world and Olympic champion, is expected to next week at the Adidas Grand Prix in New York, her first meet in nearly two years. Already, the jitters are building for the two-time world champion. The Croat, 29 years, went through an ordeal that included having to learn how to jumper a fresh. A fragment of a bone in her left ankle broke off and embedded into her Achilles, requiring surgery to shave part of the tendon on her takeoff foot. That was 16 months ago. Since then, she contracted a serious bacterial infection in her foot, missed the London Olympics where she would've been a favourite and spent many a grueling training session figuring out how to jump again off her repaired ankle, wondering if she

Djokovic glide through to Rome quarters

orld No 1 Novak D j o k o v i c o v e r w h e l m e d Ukrainian Alexandr Dolgopolov to reach the quarterfinals of the Rome Masters with a 6-1 6-4 win yesterday. Djokovic, who was defeated by in the second-round at the Madrid Masters by Bulgaria's Grigor Dimitrov, despatched the 23rdranked Dolgopolov exactly an hour after the game began. Dolgopolov missed two chances to break Djokovic in the sixth game of the second set and surrendered the final game to 15 when the Serbian hit a forehand winner. Djokovic will now face Tomas Berdych after the Czech sixth seed defeated South African Kevin Anderson 7-5 6-2. Berdych came back from a break down in the opening set on the Foro Italico clay to level at 4-4 and never looked back. The 27-year-old Czech, though, will have to step up his game against Djokovic who has beaten him 13 times in 14 previous meetings.

Novak Djokovic

Blanka Vlasic would ever recover enough to be among the world's best. "To go out there and put on the spikes, to jump in front of a crowd? I just can't wait," Vlasic said in a phone interview from Croatia. "I can't wait to feel that precompetition nervousness, the positive excitement, to be the part of that circuit again. I don't want to expect anything. But I still have my hopes." There was a time when Vlasic was inching closer and closer to the world record of Stefka Kostadinova, a mark the Bulgarian has held for more than 25 years. At a meet in 2009, Vlasic cleared 6 feet, 9Âž inches, the best mark ever by someone other than Kostadinova, whose record stands at 6-10Âź.

These days, Vlasic's nowhere near that form. Not yet anyway. "I don't know if I'll be myself again," she said. "I cannot tell you how high I can go. I believe I will be able to jump as high as I used to. But I'm not obsessed over it. I can't think too much about height." Instead, she's simply relishing her return, vowing to appreciate each step along the way. "The worries I had before this were nothing," she said. "Why worry about centimetres or losing? I didn't have any right to be disappointed when I was healthy and had the opportunity to do what I like. It's sad that people understand that only when something happens and you don't have your abilities to do what

you do best, what is your life calling." After her surgery on January 30, 2012, Vlasic had some setbacks that had her questioning if she would clear another bar. Like when she woke up one day in April 2012 and her foot was completely swollen. At first, she thought maybe she had pushed her recovery too far. Turns out, one of her stitches didn't heal properly and became infected, she said. Like that, she was sidelined again. And like that, any realistic chance of being ready for the London Olympics was gone. "I had some really dark moments," said Vlasic, who was on antibiotics for three months to clear the infection. "But what kept me

Isinbayeva added, ahead of Saturday's Diamond League meet. "I am just thinking what to do. Everything will depend on the Moscow world championships." Last week, former Soviet polevault great Sergei Bubka predicted that the outdoor world record-holder will end her career in Moscow, rather than push on to the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics. Isinbayeva, 30, had planned to retire after London, but she extended her career after she failed to become the first woman in history to win three successive Olympic crowns. Although Isinbayeva has set 30 world records, indoors and outdoors, she took only bronze at last year's London Olympics and failed to win a medal at either of the last two world championships.

Yelena Isinbayeva

Isinbayeva eyes gold in Moscow, may quit if not

elena Isinbayeva yesterday said she was keen to claim her third Olympic gold but may quit if she flops at this year's Moscow world championships. Isinbayeva, the Athens 2004 and Beijing 2008 Olympic champion who finished third at last year's London Games, told reporters in Shanghai that "everything will depend" on her performance on home soil in August. "About my retirement, it is going to be a difficult decision, and you know it is difficult to say right now what I am going to do after the world championships in Moscow. It will depend on my performance there," she said. "I still would like to have my third gold medal. If I would have done it in London, for sure I could stop after Moscow. But for the moment I don't know,"

going is the feeling that there was still something for me in high jumping. There was still something out there I didn't do that I still have to do. What was that? I didn't know. "But I didn't feel in my soul that I was finished, that it was over for me." Watching the London Games last summer was painful, simply because she had a good shot at winding up on the podium had she been healthy. "For two days, I was in really bad shape," said Vlasic, who finished runner-up at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. "But then you accept it and make peace with it. It's not like I was ready and I just wasn't there. No, I wasn't ready. So, from that perspective, you accept it. There will still be other Olympic Games and world championships for me. I believe in that. I have faith in that." Vlasic returned to high jumping last September. Nothing too ambitious, just a four-step approach to the bar in her training shoes. From there, she graduated to a six-step approach and eventually to eight steps. And then she tried jumping in her spikes, which didn't have as much cushion. "Whole different story," explained Vlasic, who now wears a custom-built pair of spikes by Adidas. "You start to jump and you see how far, far away you are from huge jumps. When I put my spikes on, I was like, 'Am I ever going to run without pain?'" By the end of November, Vlasic began feeling a little more like her old self, the jumper who everyone else was chasing before her injury. Still, she really has no goals set for this season. Well, maybe to make it to the world championships in Moscow in August, but that's about the extent of it.

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

PAGE 45

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TRUE VISION & HELP DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE

THE LIBERATION GOSPEL CHURCH OF THE LORD INTERNATIONAL

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. JOHN ABIOLA ADESHINA 2. AKANBI OLADELE JOHN 3. OLATUNDE ABRAHAM OLATUNJI 4. ADEJARE EZEKIEL ADESINA 5. FEMI TOYE 6. OLAITAN ADESHINA 7. OLAJIDE AGBEJE 8. ADENIYI SUNDAY GESIN THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST ACROSS NATIONS 2. TO HELP BELIEVERS WALK IN THEIR DIVINE ASSIGNMENT 3. TO LEAD BELIEVERS TO A LIFE OF FULFILMENT 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; SECRETARY

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED INITIATIVE HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION,ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANY AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990.

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; BARR.ONYIDO OGOCHUKWU

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CHURCH 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. PASTOR OKE OLUSOLA ADEBOWALE - PRESIDENT 2. MRS OKE OLUWAFUNMILAYO OLANIKE 3. PASTOR OKE OLUWAGBEMIGA AYOMIDE 4. MR SHOGBOLA AKINKUNMI 5. MRS OLADELE OLUSOLA THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1.TO PROCLAIM THE WORD OF GOD TO THE WHOLE WORLD. 2. TO ASSIST THE LESS PRIVILEDGED 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; DEJI AKANDE & CO.

PUBLIC NOTICE

GOD'S OWN LIVING CHURCH WORLD WIDE

SPORT FOR PEACE AND DEVELOPMENT CENTRE

THE TRUSTEES ARE; 1. VALENTINE IFEANYI IGBOSONU 2. GABRIEL DIKE OBIALO 3. KENEDY IGBOSONU THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1.TO PROMOTE PUBLIC HEALTH THROUGH SANITATION & AWARENESS CAMPAIGN 2.TO CARTER FOR THE WELFARE OF THE LESS PRIVILEDGE IN THE SOCIETY THROUGH ENTREPRENEUR SLILLS.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED NAME HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION,ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANY AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CENTRE 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. OKOH JACKSON IDAMUDIA - CHAIRMAN 2. BAKARE SARAFADEEN OWOLABI - SECRETARY 3. RAMANU ISAAC 4. AMIEKHAMHE PHILIP EKPE 5. OSAGIE AGBOSUAN 6. EGWAKHIDE ITSEMEKHAI

THE TRUSTEES ARE; 1. OLUKAYODE ABIMBOLA THOMAS 2. ABIMBOLA ANIKE THOMAS 3. KAYODE MUFUTAU OGUNBUNMI 4. ROBINSON OKOSUN 5. ADEOLA IBRAHIM

GOOD GESTURE HUMANITARIAN FOUNDATION THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION 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. OUMATEBE INIOEMI FOSTER 2. ALIYU ATTO 3. MOSES ANTHONY S. BABA 4. OYIBO O. FELIX 5. ABANG SUSAN AGBO 6. HASSAN SAIDU 7. MOGBOGU ROSELINE NMA 8. DILLUM M. TURE 9. ISELEWA ELIJAH O. 10. ABDULLAHI MUHAMMED SANI THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1.TO HELP IN THE PROMOTION OF UNITY AND DEVELOPMENT, TO PROVIDE CHARITABLE SERVICES FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE COMMUNITY. 2. TO PROVIDE RELIEF OF FINANCIAL HARDSHIPS 3. TO ADVANCE EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE TO THE LESS PRIVILEDGED. 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; SECRETARY

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST, AND TO HELP THE LESS PRIVILEDGED IN THE SOCIETY.

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1.TO PROMOTE SPORT AS AN INSTRUMENT FOR PEACE ANDE DEVELOPMENT. 2. TO PROMOTE LOVE AND UNITY AMONG MEMBERS.

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; SECRETARY

SIGNED; SALIFU OGUCHE USMAN ESQ

PUBLIC NOTICE

CHANGE OF NAME

REHOBOTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION

I, FORMALLY KNOWN AS TASBIR ABDURRAHMAN, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESS AS MRS TASBIR SHAMSUDEEN RABIU ABUBAKAR. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

MOTHERS AGAINST CHILD ABANDONMENT INITIATIVE THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED INITIATIVE 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.BAR. MRS OBIOMA LIYEL IMOKE 2. PASTOR MRS ENO OGUA 3. MRS NORA AGBATA 4. MRS NGOZI ALAGA. THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1.TO CREATE AN ENABLING ENVIRONMENT FOR THE SURVIVAL GROWTH, HEALTH, EDUCATION AND GENERAL WELL BEING OF YOUNG GIRLS WHO ARE THE WOMEN OF TOMORROW. 2. TO ERADICATE THE ALARMING RATE OF TEENAGE PREGNANCY, ABORTIONS AND CHILD ABANDONMENT IN CROSS RIVER STATE AND THE NATION AT LARGE 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; BAR (MRS) CHINWE ONYEKWULUJE

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION 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. MRS AFOLAKE AJALA -CHAIRMAN 2. MRS OLUBUNMI OYELEKE -SECRETARY 3. MR SEUN ODUBORE 4. MR ADEYEMI AJALA 5. MRS JOSEPHINE OGBU THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1.TO CONNECT ENTREPRENEURS WITH ADEQUATE FUNDING AND RESOURCES 2. TO PROVIDE TRAININGS, SKILLS DEVELOPMENT AND INNOVATIONS AIMED AT IMPROVING THE MANAGEMENT AND STABILITY OF ENTERPRISES. 3. TO IDENTIFY AND SUPPORT PROMISING ENTREPRENEURS, MEN TO RING THEM TO SUCCESS IN BUILDING OF SUSTAINABLE ENTERPRISES. 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; BARR. OMATSEYIN FREDRICK

CHANGE OF NAME I, FORMALLY KNOWN AS SA’ADATU MUSA DANGOGGO ALIYU, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESS AS MRS SA’ADATU ABUBAKAR RABIU ABUBAKAR. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. NATIONAL AGENCY FOR FOOD, DRUG ADMINISTRATION AND CONTROL (NAFDAC) AND GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

CHANGE OF NAME I, FORMALLY KNOWN AS JAMILA DANJUMA, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESS AS JAMILA ABDULLAHI. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

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CHANGE OF NAME I, FORMALLY KNOWN AS MR ADAMS ANTHONY IDRIS, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESS AS MR ADAMS TONY ENEOJO. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. MULTI ENGINEERING SOLUTION AND GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

CHANGE OF NAME I, FORMALLY KNOWN AS PRECIOUS OKWU, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESS AS PRECIOUS OPUSUNJU. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

CHANGE OF NAME I, FORMALLY KNOWN AS MISS AISHA JUNAIDU, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESS AS MRS AISHA ABDULKAREEM GURI. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. NIPOST AND GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

PUBLIC NOTICE INITIATIVE FOR DEVELOPMENT, COUNSELLING AND CARE 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. MUSA AISHATU GIDADO 2. MUSA DANJUMA SAMARI 3. BALA SHAGARI AMINA 4. BALA SHAGARI MUHAMMAD BELLO THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1. . COUNSEL, SUPPORT AND CARE OF WIDOW, ORPHANS AND LESS PRIVILEGED. 2. TO PROMOTE, SUPPORT AND COUNSEL MEMBERS ON DRUG AND TRAFFICKING RELATED MATTERS. 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; N. D. ISHAYA (08035893802)

PUBLIC NOTICE DYNAMIC GREAT AMBASSADORS CLUB OF NIGERIA

PUBLIC NOTICE RESCUED PEOPLE'S ASSEMBLY THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ASSOCIATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART "C" OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, NO.1 OF 1990. TRUSTEES ARE; 1. EVANG.JAMES FREDRICK ANEKWE. 2. MRS.NONYE ANEKWE. 3. DR.EMEKA MOSES UGWU. 4. MR.LAWRENCE AZUAKONAM OKAFOR. 5. MR.MARTIN CHIEDU ANIEZE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1. TO REBUILD EVERY BROKEN LIFE BY THE WORD OF GOD. 2. TO TEACH THE UNDILUTED WORD OF GOD. 3TO SHOW THE WAY INTO LIFE ETERNAL AND THE LIFE THAT IS NOW BY THE WORD OF GOD. 4. TO PROMOTE THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST IN THE NATION. ANY OBJECTION TO THE REGISTRATION SHOUD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, P.M.B 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA, WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED; OKECHUKWU OBINKA ESQ. 08037075205 (SOLICITOR)

PUBLIC NOTICE YOUTH FOR GOOD LEADERSHIP, PEACE AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ASSOCIATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART "C"OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, NO.1 OF 1990. THE TRUSTEES ARE; 1. HON.ANAYO EDWIN. 2. HON.CHARLES OGBARI. 3. MR.FELIX EMOKINIOVO AVBUNUDIOGBA. 4. MR IDOKO ANGUS ISREAL. 5. ENGR. KENNETH OKAH. THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1. TO CREATE VOTERS EDUCATION AND AWARENESS IN THE NATION. 2. TO CORRECT SOCIAL ILLS LIKE THUGGERY,CULTISM ETC.,AMONGST THE YOUTHS THROUGH SEMINARS AND AWARENESS. 3. TO ENLIGHTEN THE ELECTORATES AS REGARDS THEIR RIGHTS TO VOTE IN AN ELECTION. ANY OBJECTION TO THE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FOWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, P.M.B 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA, WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED; OKECHUKWU OBINKA ESQ. 08037075205 (SOLICITOR)

PUBLIC NOTICE FRIENDLY ORGANISED ADVANCED CLUB OF NIGERIA

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CLUB 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.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ORGANIZATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART 'C' OF CAMA, 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE; 1. OKEMEFULA ONWUKWE 2. EGBUNA CHINEDU CHRISTIAN 3. IGWE PETER 4. PHILIP FEDINAND 5. IFEANYI UMEJESI

THE TRUSTEES ARE; 1. FOA KAYODE ONI -PRESIDENT 2. FOA RICHARD OLUMAKINDE AKOJENU FISHERSECRETARY 3. FOA MOSES OLANIYI OMOTOSO -TREASURER.

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1. TO SEE TO THE WELFARE OF THEIR MEMBERS AND ASSIST THEIR MEMBER THAT ARE NEED OF OTHER 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; EMILIA U. OKONJI (ESQ) 07033742877

PUBLIC NOTICE CHRIST HOPE 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. THE TRUSTEES ARE; 1. PROPHET JOSHUA OLAWALE IJIOLA CHAIRMAN 2. MRS. MORISELADE ADENIKE IJIOLA 3. MR. LAWRENCE OLOWOSHOLA 4. MR. BAMIDELE MUYIWA AJAYI 5. MRS. ESTHER DANIEL 6. MR. DAYO OREKELEWA 7. MRS. OLUWAFUNMILAYO JOSEPH

GENERAL OVERSEER/ SECRETARY

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1. . TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST 2. TO ORGANIZE OUTREACHES AND CRUSADES 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; NAOMI ALASA (BARR) 08064449518

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1. TO FOSTER UNITY LOVE AND HARMONY AMONG IT'S MEMBERS. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS FROM THE DAY OF THIS PUBLICATION.

PUBLIC NOTICE OHIO IRU ESTATE RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ASSOCIATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART "C"OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990. THE TRUSTEES ARE; 1. HON.EMMANUEL OMAH 2. DR EMMANUEL ARDU 3. PROF.EMMANUEL O.ANOSIKE 4. PA GABRIEL EGWUMATA 5. CHIEF O.OBASI 6. ENGR.ALEXANDER EGWUDIALE 7. HON.GOODLUCK N.OPIAH THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1. TO PROMOTE PEACE AND UNITY AMONG MEMBERS 2. TO BRING TOGETHER ALL RESIDENTS OF THE ASSOCIATION. 3. TO PURSUE A COMPREHENSIVE WELFARE PROGRAM FOR 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: J.W.NIMFAS ESQ M.A.ATTAH & CO LEGAL PRACTITIONERS

PUBLIC NOTICE LIBERTY EMPOWERMENT 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. OKELOM UDOKA JOHN 2. MRS GLORIA UDOKA OKELOM 3. MOSES AJIE AMEDU 4. NWANKWO PETER IZUCHUKWU THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1. DEVELOPING THE SKILLS & POTENTIALS OF YOUTHS. 2. MAKING EDUCATION & SKILLS ACQUISITION MORE PRACTICAL THAN THEORITICAL. 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; CHAIRMAN

PUBLIC NOTICE ITSEKIRI ARCHIVAL CULTURAL & INFORMATION CENTRE 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. JACKSON OMASANJUWA IREYEFOJU 2. MR EBIGBEYI KENNEDY AWANI 3. MR EGBEGBEMI AJAGBE 4. MR PAUL IREYEFOJU

- CHAIRMAN - SECRETARY

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1. TO SERVE AS AN INFORMATION/DATA GATHERING CENTRE ON ITSEKIRI CULTURE.

SIGNED; SECRETARY

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; SECRETARY

PUBLIC NOTICE

PLASTIC PRODUCT MARKETERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA

RURAL AND URBAN PEOPLE HEALTH INITIATIVE

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ASSOCIATION 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. BENSON ONYEBUCHI ONWANUA - CHAIRMAN 2. SUNDAY ADIFE - VICE CHAIRMAN 3. OKWUCHUKWU PAUL ENENDU - SECRETARY 4. GEORGE BLESSED IJEOMAH 5. KENNETH EGBU 6. INNOCENT ENEANO 7. CHUKWUDI GABRIEL EZEMMADUKA 8. UCHENNA OKORO THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1. TO FOSTER UNITY, PEACE LOVE AND UNDERSTANDING AMONG MEMBERS OF THE ASSOCIATION. 2. TO CATER FOR THE WELFARE OF THE MEMBERS. 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. CHUKWUEMEKA UCHENNA 08033458678

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. MRS IQUO EFFIONG OKON 2. ENGR. OKON EFFIONG OKON 3. MRS NKOYO JAMES OKOLI 4. DEBORAH EFFIONG OKON THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1. TO PROMOTE HEALTHY LIFESTYLE. 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; BASSEY ETUKUDO ESQ LEGAL TEMPLE AND TEMPLAR WUSE, ABUJA, 08037045394

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

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PUBLIC NOTICE CAMP OF DAVID GOSPEL 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. THE TRUSTEES ARE; 1. PASTOR AKINLADE SEGUN CHAIRMAN 2. PASTOR (MRS) AKINLADE ABOSEDE 3. MR AKINLADE OLUWASEUN JOHNSON 4. ENGR. KUKE FESTUS 5. MR ADEMOLA SOGO SIMEON SECRETARY 6. MRS KUKE OLUWAGBEMINIYI

PUBLIC NOTICE

FIRST AID FOR NIGERIANS INITIATIVE

SOWSTAN DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE

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. CHIEF JOEL MADAKI 6. AMB. WILBERFORCE JUTA 2. MRS ITOSE OLOGUN 7. DR. ILIYA SALU 3. SHALOM AGBON 8. BARR. AKPADIAH EBITU 4. VANIAH AGBON 9. KAYODE KALE 5. DAME PAULINE TALLEN OFR 10. SAKIJE FAITH

THE TRUSTEES ARE; 1. HON. STANLEY BENIBO 2. MRS. SOWAGBAIN IGBIKIS 3. MRS. QUEEN TARIBO BOB-MANUEL 4. MISS. AMANDA S. BENIBO 5. MR. TAMUNO-INA BENIBO

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST. 2. TO CATER FOR THE LESS PRIVILEGED. 3. TO PREACH AND TRAIN CHRISTIANS TO POSSESS THE GOOD CHRISTIAN VIRTUES AND SHINE AS LIGHT IN THE WORLD AND SALT OF THE EARTH. 4. TO PROMOTE UNITY AMONG CHRISTIANS, BY DE-EMPHASIZING THOSE THINGS THAT DIVIDE US. 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 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1. TO GIVE FIRST AID LECTURES TO NIGERIANS IN THE 36 STATES OF THE FEDERATION, IN SCHOOLS OFFICE AND HOMES. 2. TO GIVE FIRST AID KITS TO NIGERIANS, IN EVERY HOME, OFFICES AND SCHOOLS. 3. TO REDUCE PRE-HOSPITAL MORTALITY RATE.

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1. TO ADVOCATE AND FACILITATE THE HUMAN AND INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT OF RURAL COMMUNITIES IN THE NIGER DELTA REGION

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.

PUBLIC NOTICE DEVOTION & RECONCILIATION POWER MINISTRY

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE GOD IS REAL INTERNATIONAL BIBLE OUTREACH

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. REV. DANIEL EBI KEMS 2. DEACON (MRS) JANET EBI KEMS MEMBER 3. PASTOR PATRICK AREKUMO 4. MR PEREKEME SELEYEIBO 5. DEACON FREEDOM OJI

CHAIRMAN MEMBER SECRETARY MEMBER

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST AND PROPAGATE CHRISTIAN VALUES. 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; MOHAMMED T. KURA 9 JERE STREET, GARKI ABUJA 08064086889

PUBLIC NOTICE

MME-MME SOCIAL CLUB THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CLUB 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. ONYEMA ODOH CHAIRMAN 2. IKE WISDOM SECRETARY 3. KEVIN EZE TREASURER 4. CHINEDU NNAMCHI FINANCIAL SECRETARY 5. NNAMONU MARTINS PATRON THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1. . TO FOSTER UNITY, CORPORATION AND INTEGRATION AMONG MEMBERS. 2. TO PROMOTE THE WELFARE AND OVERALL WELLBEING OF MEMBERS. 3. TO PROMOTE FRIENDSHIP AND LOVE AMONG THE MEMBERS. 4. TO ASSIST MORALLY AND FINANCIALLY. 5. TO PROMOTE SOCIAL UNDERSTANDING AMONG MEMBERS 6. TO PROMOTE PEACE AND COOPERATION AMONG THE MEMBERS AND THE PUBLIC. 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; IKECHUKWU K. ODOH, ESQ PEARL PARTNERSHIP (PLOT 21 NIAMEY STREET, WUSE ZONE 2, ABUJA (08032613839)

PUBLIC NOTICE VICTORY EMPOWERMENT CENTRE 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. UZOMA EMMANUEL NWAZUOKE CHAIRMAN 2. CHERECHI IHEOMA UZOMA-NWAZUOKE 3. ADEYEMO ADESHINA OLUWAKAYODE 4. CHINYERE OKORO SECRETARY THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1. TO PROVIDE FUNDS FOR THE POOR AND LESS PRIVILEGD TO ENABLE THEM IMPROVE THEIR LIVING CONDITIONS. 2. TO ENGAGE THE POOR AND LESS PRIVILEGED IN SKILL ACQUISITION ACTIVITIES TO ENABLE THEM BE SELF EMPLOYED. 3. TO PROVIDE MICRO-CREDIT FUNDS TO THE POOR AND LESS PRIVILGED. 4. TO EMPOWER THE YOUTHS TO MAKE THEM PRODUCTIVE TO THEMSELVES AND 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; CHINYERE OKORO TEL: 08038658520

NKPOR DEVELOPMENT UNION-LAGOS THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED UNION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC) ABUJA FOR REMOVAL AND ADDITION OF TRUSTEE FROM THE ORGANIZATION UNDER PART 'C' OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

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 OLD TRUSTEES ARE; 1. MR MICHEAL ANIGBOGU 2. MR EDWIN ODDIH 3. MR LOUIS UMERAH 4. MR CHUKWULOZIE FELIX 5. MR EMMANUEL MOLOKWU THE NEW TRUSTEE IS: 1. CHIEF FIDELIS NWOSU THE REMOVED TRUSTEE IS: 1. MR EMMANUEL MOLOKWU

THE TRUSTEES ARE; 1. BISHOP FRIDAY UGURU OKWEY 2. LADY MARTHA ADA OKWEY 3. ELDER CHARLES ONYEBUCHI 4. ELDER VICTOR OKORONKWO AZU 5. ELDER EMMANUEL NNABUIHE 6. SENIOR WILSON IGWE UKOMA 7. MOTHER NWANNE EGBUTA 8. BARRISTER VICTOR CHINEDU OKPARA 9. BARRISTER UCHE OKEUDO

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1. TO FOSTER THE SPIRIT OF ONENESS AMONG ALL THE PEOPLE OF NKPOR IN AND AROUND LAGOS. 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; IFEOMA A. N. OKEKE

PUBLIC NOTICE CHRIST THE COMPASSIONATE OUTREACH INT'L

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. PASTOR JOSEPH YUSUF 2. SISTER TINUOLA ABIOLA 3. REV. ALAGBE AMOS OLATUNJI 4. REV. ASIYANBI MATHEW OLUBAYO

- PRESIDENT - VICE-PRESIDENT - ACCOUNTANT - SECRETARY

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1. TO HELP THE POOR, ORPHANS, WIDOWS AND ELDERLY PERSONS 2. TO ASSIST THE LESS PRIVILEGED AND HOMELESS PERSONS 3. TO HELP THE NEEDY BY EMPOWERING THEM 4. TO SET THE CAPTIVES AND THOSE IN PRISON FREE 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. JESSICA EFE-DANIELS VINEOLIVES CHAMBERS, GWARIMPA

PUBLIC NOTICE ATEBOR MICHAEL OSHOMAH FOUNDATION

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST 2. TO ORGANIZE OUTREACHES AND CRUSADES. 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; UCHE OKEUDO ESQ. BARRISTER & SOLICITOR, 07035426619

PUBLIC NOTICE HABIBA DANGANA FOUNDATION 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. AMINA SALIHU 2. NANA FATIMA SALIHU THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1. TO PROVIDE PHILANTHROPIC SERVICES TO THE MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC 2. TO PROMOTE AND SUPPORT SUSTAINABLE EMPOWERMENT PROGRAMMES 3. TO CATER FOR THE GENERAL WELFARE OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SOCIETY ESPECIALLY THE LESS PRIVILEGED AND VULNERABLE MEMBERS OF 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; ADEMOLA AJALA, ESQ. ACTRA CHAMBERS, 13 PARAKOU CRESCENT, WUSE II, ABUJA. 08033987503

PUBLIC NOTICE LIFE STREAMS DEVELOPMENT AND EMPOWERMENT FOUNDATION

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. ATEBOR MICHAEL OSHOMAH 2. BARR. (MRS) OBIORA EBERE CYNTHIA 3. DR. IDEMOH JANE ONOSHORENA 4. MR. ANTHONY OTUH 5. MR. NURUDEEN YUSUF

THE TRUSTEES ARE; 1. . DAVID IBIYEOMIE 2. PEACE IBIYEOMIE (MRS) 3. EBIZIMO DIRIYAI

CHAIRMAN SECRETARY

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1. TO HELP IN THE PROMOTION OF UNITY AND DEVELOPMENT. TO PROVIDE CHARITABLE SERVICES FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE COMMUNITY. (2)TO PROVIDE RELIEF OF FINANCIAL HARDSHIPS. (3) TO ADVANCE EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE TO THE LESS PRIVILEDGED 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. ONUORAH CHINANUEKPERE ESQ.

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THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1. TO PROVIDE PHILANTHROPIC SERVICES TO THE MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC 2. TO PROVIDE SCHOLARSHIPS, ENDOW CHAIRS AND GENERALLY SUPPORT RESEARCH WORK IN SCIENCE, ART, MEDICINE, EDUCATION, ETC. 3. TO PROVIDE AND ESTABLISH SKILLS ACQUISITION/ VOCATIONAL TRAINING CENTER FOR THE BENEFIT OF BOTH ITS MEMBERS AND THE LESS PRIVILEGED 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

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

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PUBLIC NOTICE LINUS OCHAI FOUNDATION 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. . LINUS BALA OCHAI 2. FLORENCE SHOLA OCHAI THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1. TO EMPOWER ORPHANS, WIDOWS AND OTHER VULNERABLE GROUPS THROUGH THE PROVISION OF SHELTER, ACCESS TO POTABLE WATER, EDUCATION, SKILL ACQUISITION, FREE HEALTHCARE. 2. TO BUILD THE LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT CAPACITY OF HEALTH PROFESSIONALS. 3. TO REDUCE THE INCIDENCE OF HEART ATTACK AND HIV AIDS THROUGH FREE CPR TRAINING AND HIV AIDS EDUCATION, TESTING AND COUNSELING. 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: BIMBO AGBOGUN 19, MAHATMA GANDHI STREET ASOKORO ABUJA (08067702223)

PUBLIC NOTICE GREEN-BRIDGE ADVOCATES INTERNATIONAL INITIATIVE 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. . ITEDJERE OGHENENYERHOVWO JUDE ESQ. 2. OGEGE ESTHER ESQ. 3. JULIUS EZIMADU ESQ. THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1. DISPUTE RESOLUTION 2. LEGAL AID (FREE LEGAL SERVICES) 3. CAPACITY BUILDING 3. GENDER ADVOCACY. 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 OGBAKO NDI ENUGU ASSOCIATION, WARRI 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. CHIEF ANTHONY CHIKELU 2. CHIEF JUDE CHIEDOZIE 3. CHIEF ORJI OKOSISI ENEH 4. CHIEF MICHAEL OGUAJU 5. CHIEF SUNDAY EBE 6. CHIEF DOMINIC UCHENNA ONABA 7. CHIEF OGBONNA NNAMANI THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1. TO UNITE STATE REGISTERED ASSOCIATION IN WARRI AND ENVIRONS 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: BIMBO AGBOGUN SECRETARY

PUBLIC NOTICE

EDO TIPPER DRIVERSASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA

CHANGE OF NAME I, FORMALLY KNOWN AS FATIMA BINTA, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESS AS FATIMA BINTA ABUBAKAR. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

CHANGE OF NAME I, FORMALLY KNOWN AS AMINA YUSUF , NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESS AS AMINA YUSUF GWAMNA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. F.C.E KANO, ABU ZARIA AND GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ASSOCIATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC) ABUJA FOR AMENDMENT OF ITS CONSTITUTION UNDER PART 'C' OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

Onyedima laments says female League still lacks sponsors By Albert Akota

hough she said that the female league is worth about N500m, the Chairman of the Nigeria Women Football League, Chief Dilichukwu Onyedima, has lamented that the league is still groping for sponsorships. Onyedima, who regretted that the plight of female league in country however was optimistic that there was light at the end of the tunnel. She said negotiations with prospective sponsors were at advantage stage and added that it won't be long now before sponsors for female league would be unveiled. ''Since the inception of this current female league board our marketing drive has been very aggressive, but the snag is that most corporate concerns keep telling us that they are still consulting at their leadership level. Some have however assured us that they will get to us before long'' Further, she claimed that the league that has produced players for the Super Falcons that have won the African Women championship a record six times. "Yet, there is no cash prize for any team that wins the league every year. There is enough to dampen the spirit of players," she said. Also, she disclosed that once sponsorship was secured the league body would introduce the ladies premier league that would comprise 12 teams. ''Just to give our female league a level of respectability," she added. The leadership is also toying with the idea of floating an international tournament in conjunction with the continent football ruling body CAF. ''We want our female clubs to look forward to some international competition at the club level just like their male counterpart, and we intend to stat it with some neighbouring African countries before pushing the idea to CAF."

TRUSTEES ARE REMAIN THE SAME 1. SECTIONS AMENDED: ARTICLE 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 & 14. SCHEDULE 2 & 4. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES REMAIN THE SAME ANY OBJECTION TO THIS APPLICATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: BARR. TOBE LORDLY

Ebere Orji, Super Falcons' player

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FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013

SPORTS LA TEST LATEST

Beckham announces retirement

he former England captain has decided to bring the curtain down on his illustrious career - despite the best efforts of les Parisiens to persuade him to play on for another year Paris Saint-Germain midfielder David Beckham has announced that he will retire from football at the end of the season. The 38-year-old only moved to the French capital on a shortterm contract in January but the Parisiens were keen for the former England captain to extend his stay at the Parc des Princes for another season. However, even though Beckham played his part in PSG ending their 18-year wait for a Ligue title, the midfielder has now decided to bring the curtain down on his illustrious career this summer. Beckham has established himself as one of the most recognisable faces in sport during a remarkable career that has spanned two decades. He made his name at Manchester United, winning six Premier League titles, two FA Cups and one Champions League with the Red Devils before joining Real Madrid in 2003. Beckham lifted La Liga in his final season at the Santiago Bernabeu before shocking the footballing world by moving to LA Galaxy, with whom he won two MLS Cups. Perhaps more significantly, though, he played a massive role in boosting football's popularity in the United States. After two loan spells with AC Milan during his time in America, he eventually returned to Europe earlier this year with PSG, picking another domestic championship to become the first Englishman to win titles in four different countries. In his homeland, though, he will probably best be remembered for his captaincy of the national team, and the trademark free kick against Greece which secured his country's qualification for the 2002 World Cup.

David Beckham ADVERT: BUSINESS: NEWS: LAGOS:

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QUO TABLE Q UO TE UOT QUO UOTE What I saw this morning (Wednesday) scared me. I had never seen soldiers on the move quite like that before. — A Maiduguri resident reacting on the first full of emergency rule in Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states

INTRODUCING YOUNG VOICES ‘Feyi Fawehimi is an accountant who has spent the last 7 years working in London's financial services industry. He is currently finishing up an MBA and is particularly interested in Behavioral Economics especially as regards understanding the Nigerian economy so as to design policies for economic growth. Feyi joins Yemi

NASIR EL-R UF AI EL-RUF UFAI ON FRID AY FRIDA elrufai@aol.com

Adamolekun, Japheth Omojuwa, Chinedu Ekeke, Seun Fakuade, Zainab Usman, Momoh Adejoh, Amina Saude Mohammed, Olusegun Dada and Seun Fakuade who have been very active in promoting youth participation in governance. Feyi writes today on saving our economy through changing the structure of government in Nigeria. It is my honour to introduce Mr. Feyi Fawehimi for your reading pleasure.

Winner takes some ‘Feyi Fawehimi

oruba people like to say that if you travel far enough, you’ll eventually chance upon a hunchbacked squirrel i.e. nothing is too strange to see or hear if you either live long enough or are prepared to go to the end of the earth to look for it. One of the stranger things I have seen recently is Northern Ireland essentially exporting conflict resolution strategies. Broadly, Northern Ireland spent decades at war with itself driven essentially by a difference in opinion between Unionists and Republicans. There was of course the religious aspect to it as well between Catholics and Protestants. Everyone from Nelson Mandela to Tony Blair to Henry Kissinger tried to help broker a peace agreement until eventually a 20 year peace process began in April 1998 with the famous Good Friday Agreement. It is against this backdrop that Northern Ireland now has a body like the Causeway Institute run by a Unionist MP, Jeffrey Donaldson, which tours the world’s troubled regions like Afghanistan, selling ideas for peace. This is all the more remarkable given that this is a money earner for the Northern Irish economy still struggling to find its way after all those years of conflict. What can we learn from this in Nigeria? A very simple observation is that some conflicts simply won’t be resolved unless a power sharing model can be devised between all parties. This is not a one size fits all rule but in the case of Northern Ireland, it is remarkable that these days, the biggest worry on the minds of some of the people who were always at loggerheads with each other is that the conflict might flare up again and ruin the new export. After all who is going to

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buy conflict resolution from a country in the news for sectarian clashes and burning of cars and houses? As a cost saving measure, I have often advocated for the scrapping of the positions of Chairman and Vice Chairman of Local Government Councils in Nigeria. Currently these positions are elected (in theory) separately by voters. My idea has been that we turn the local government system into a parliamentary one where voters only elect councillors. Once all councillors have been elected, they will then choose a ‘council leader’ among themselves to carry out the function of the council chairman. The council leader will be drawn from the party with the majority of councillors and can be replaced at any time by his peers. By my estimation, this simple change to the LG system would take out over 1,500 political offices saving us billions a year and perhaps reducing the tendency for the council chairman, purportedly with his own mandate, from walking away with the local government budget, as is often the case right now. But there can be more to this idea than just saving money. From north to south, east to west of Nigeria, there is no shortage of conflict in Nigeria today. A feature of these conflicts is that those who have been locked out of the system and thus feel like they have no stake in the society have no qualms about raising hell and causing destruction. Sometimes the excluded just want attention and use mindless violence to announce their presence. Ansaru would fit this bill. Sometimes they like what the privileged have done for themselves with the commonwealth and rather than push for redistribution of resources as they claim to be fighting for, what they really want is their own share of the

same resources. The Niger Delta militancy movement has been shown to fit this bill. An annoying feature of our democracy is how the local government system has become the plaything of governors across the country. Yet in other countries, as evidenced by the recent UK council elections, local governments afford voters a useful opportunity to ‘experiment’ with various options usually in the form of different political parties and ideas. In the UK for example, no one is about to put the Green Party and some of their wacky ideas in overall control of the government but voters in Brighton are happy to let them run the council there. A small congested town suffering things like road traffic and parking issues can vote the Green Party and their radical ideas but this is not a problem that translates across the country. In short, local government ought to be for resolving local issues. This is sorely needed in a diverse country like Nigeria with myriad moving parts and a hapless Federal Government whose first and last idea for resolving any problem is to set up a committee and throw money at it. So to extend the idea of a parliamentary system, here’s another unoriginal idea – proportional representation in electing local government councillors. We can have a process that makes it possible for today’s militants and ‘freedom fighters’ to wield some political power in their sphere of influence on the condition that they lay down their arms. But we have to ditch the first past the post system we currently use in settling electoral matters. It should be clear that from the outset that one party cannot control everything by winning the elections. Say a council has 10 councillors; we can have a system where the party with the

highest number of votes gets a maximum of 5 councillors. The rest of the offices will be shared across say the parties that come from 2nd to 4th. This should encourage a kind of plurality that mirrors, to an extent, our diversity as a people. There are various forms of such models across the world so it’s not something we need to build from scratch; we can modify to suit our circumstances. Rather than throwing bombs at innocent people, the Boko Haram Party might find that it can officially control parts of the states where it is currently ‘campaigning’ with violence. Perhaps MEND can be invited to emancipate a few local governments in the Niger Delta complete with budgets (which have to be wrested out of the control of governors). There’s no sustainable solution in any democracy that can bypass the test of the inclusiveness of its institutions. It is interesting that our current method of ‘inclusiveness’ does not involve institutions but merely the sharing of money in the name of amnesty. This was always a very simple solution and we are now running out of problems that can be solved with such cut and paste ideas. It is often said that these armed groups across the country are ‘popular’ and have plenty of sympathizers out there. Well this is one way to find out; granting them a ‘political amnesty’ that encourages them to drop their weapons and participate in a process that guarantees a measure of ‘winning’ for everyone involved. Who knows, one day Nigeria too might be exporting conflict resolution and power sharing strategies to troubled countries around the world. Adejoh Idoko Momoh is reachable via www.adejoh.blogspot.com

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: +234 814 292 9046. Cell: +234 802 443 2099; 803 7007 759. e-mail: contact@peoplesdaily-online.com; pmlnewsdesk@gmail.com ISSN: 2141– 6141