Monday, December 28th, 2015 Edition by Peoples Media Limited

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Monday, December 28, 2015/ Rabiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ul Awwal 16, 1437 AH

EFCC, DSS to prosecute pipeline vandals page 5

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Al-makura, Maku disagree over N17bn Lafia airport

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Vol. 21 No. 79 N150

Fire destroys shops, properties in Jos, Ilorin

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Refineries to operate full capacity in 3 months-Kachikwu l As

FG shops for investors

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L-R: Minister of State for Petroleum/Group Managing Director, Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Engr. Ibe Kachikwu, Managing Director Kaduna Refining Petrochemical Company (KRPC), Engr. Saidu Mohammed and Manager, Power Plant and Utility, Engr. Kolawole Timothy, during the ministerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s visit to the refinery main control room fuel section, at KRPC, yesterday in Kaduna.

Turkish Airline fiasco: Abuja airport

managers, security suspended

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623 Days after Power cable vandal Will the abducted Chibok electrocuted in Kaduna schoolgirls ever be rescued?

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PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

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News CONTENTS News 2-11 Editorial 13 Op.Ed 14 Letters 15 Politics 16-18 Business Stockwatch

19-22 23

S/Report 24-25 Feature 26 Education 28 Health 30 Feature 29

Adebayo Shittu

New ICT blueprint will be out in January 2016 – Minister – Page 14

Metro

Int’l 39 S/World

Digest 40 Sports 41 Columnist 48

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Refineries to operate full capacity in 3 months -Kachikwu

• As FG shops for investors From Mohammad Ibrahim, Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

inister of State for Petroleum, Ibe Kachikwu y e s t e r d a y announced that Kaduna, Port Harcourt and Warri refineries will be in full capacity in first quarter of 2016. He said Kaduna refinery is already producing about 1.5 million litres a day, while Port Harcourt will commence production of about 2 million litres a day by next week, while Warri is expected to start full production early next year. He also debunked speculations that the refineries are obsolete, saying they are up to date and only need some refurbishment in order to make them to produce at full capacity. According to him, Nigerian refineries are not up to 40 years, while in the United States of America there are oil refineries that are 60 years old and still functioning. The minister who disclosed this while in Kaduna Refinery and

Petrochemical Company (KRPC) on oversight visit, said by next year the refineries are expected to produce 10 million liters a day. He also pointed out that, despite the refineries full capacity production the country will continue importing fuel. “We are still going to be importing, even if you are in hundred percent capacity, production of about four hundred and forty five thousand barrels capacity for the plant, you will still be doing less than two million litres, consumption is even at best with all we have done moving it from fifty to forty, it is still 50 percent. ”So until we begin to get individuals who can co-relocate new refineries within the premises of existing refineries to expand the capacity, that’s the best way to go. And that is the only way we are going to be committed to it. “We are looking for investors who have the capacity, the speed and the time to be able to accomplish on that. But until we do that, we are going to be doing a mixture. “Best case situation is a twenty

five to forty percent of local production and the rest being imported, worst case situation is what we have seen in the last few months of hundred percent importation.”, he said. The minister also said that he directed the refineries to look at the commercial view of their plants in order to use every arm of the refinery to generate profit. “A typical refinery will look at their looms, the petrochemical areas, will look at their power areas and see how they can probably expand the value chain and the potentials, that’s certainly what we are looking at”, he said. On the disappearance of queues in filling stations across the country, Kachikwu expressed confidence that the queues in the filling stations will end in the next two weeks. “Some of these factors are not in anybody’s control, one of the things i want people to understand is that NNPC is not setup to be a hundred percent importer for the country. “We are a last intervention force, that is what we are and this business should be run by

marketers who make money out of it, bringing their products, selling their stations. It is not the business of NNPC really to be providing them hundred percent capacity, but because there was over one year delay in payment subsidy. “Because of the excess challenges that marketers have had, NNPC had to wrap up on the forty percent to about eighty capacities right now. And with that comes also with the responsibility in terms of distribution, in terms of clearing and other related issues. “And bad pipeline are not exactly helping matters so it been huge amount of work we have to do in the last nine weeks just keeping people on the roads, I personally never had window of three hours to sleep over that period. Now we have been able to clear some of them but there is still a lot more work to be done. “, he explained. He also denied insinuation that there are plans to sell the countries refines, saying there was no such plan by the government.

Turkish Airline fiasco: Abuja airport

managers, security suspended From Suleiman Idris, Lagos

inister of State for Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika, yesterday ordered the suspension of three officials of Nnamdi Azikwe International airport Abuja over the recent incident where passengers aboard a Turkish Airline invaded the airport tarmac. Sirika gave the directive having obtained an incident report from the airport officials involved in the incident on Sunday in Abuja. He added that the Ministry had also ordered thorough investigation to ascertain the cause of the breach, as well as why the airline brought in passengers without their luggage. The suspended officials include the airport manager, terminal manager and head of airport security who were ordered to hand over to their next in rank pending the conclusion of the investigation. Sirika dismissed the explanation by the officials of the airport that the security personnel on duty were overpowered, saying it was not acceptable, and ordered for a thorough investigation into the incident. His words, “The action of the passengers by forcing their way

into the tarmac and blocking the aircraft from taking off was a security breach which must not be condoned. “There has been an unfortunate incident where some agitated passengers of the Turkish Airlines arrived without their luggage making them to force their way into the tarmac which is a breach of security. “The explanation given is not satisfactory because the primary purpose of the government is to ensure safety of lives and property of its citizens. “The cardinal objective of this administration is to secure the country and manage it and we cannot fail in aviation and we cannot fail in this important assignment at a very important point.” He said “We have ordered for the investigation into the matter immediately and all the people that are manning the various places, airport manager, terminal manager and head of security should handover the next man in rank pending the outcome of the investigation. “As to the airlines, the Consumer Protection Unit of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has been ordered to find out what happened, how

compliant they are and deal with it accordingly,’’ he said. Sirika said the ministry was yet get the flight manifest to be able to ascertain the number of passengers involved which he added were many in number. According to him, they got agitated and apparently they got access into the prohibited area because there was security lapse. The minister stated that the nation’s aviation sector had the capacity to grow, adding that it was already showing signal that it could tremendously contribute to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). According to him, aviation is carried out by value, 31 per cent of the world cargo which make it a very important industry as the fastest means of transportation. ``With specifics to Nigeria, you could see how we grew from Kano airport where the first plane landed in the country to about 22 Federal Government owned airports plus several other private owned airports. ``On the whole, aviation, I can say has grown to an appreciable level in the country and it has the capacity to grow more, which is importance it has t to the economy of the country, he said. Sirika added that the country

also had good manpower such as pilots and engineers to move the industry forward. He disclosed that the government was determined to deliver a more vibrant and efficient aviation sector in 2016 by making safety, security and efficiency its watch word with regards to transportation. According to the minister, once you are safe and secured in the industry, you have nearly achieved 100 percent of what you are meant to achieve. ``It is not about the beauty of the airports or planting flowers or other vanities, it is about safety, security and efficiency as far as aviation is concerned’’, he said. Earlier, Mr Bashir Hausawa, Acting Head of Security explained to the minister that the security personnel were overpowered by the angry passengers over the non-arrival of their luggage. Hausawa added that the shortage of manpower was responsible for the incident, adding that there was only one man manning luggage area of the airport at the time of the incident. He said they were 192 security men manning the whole of the airport resulting in the shortage of manpower distribution to various units of the airport.

PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

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News Al-Makura, Maku disagree over N17bn Lafia airport By Umar Muhammad Puma Governor Umaru Tanko Al makura of Nasarawa State and a former Minister of Information, Mr Labaran Maku may have drawn a battle line over perceived disagreements regarding the building of an airport in Nasarawa state put at the cost of 17 billion naira. Labaran Maku had yesterday advised Gov. Al-Makura against building N17 billion airport in Lafia. He said that instead of building the airport, the governor should provide other infrastructure that would spread across the state Maku who spoke with newsmen in his country home in Wakama, Akun Development Area of the state noted that building of a N17 billion airport in Kwandare, Al –Makura’s village was not the priority of the people of the state for now. However, in swift reaction yesterday Al-makura urged security agencies to extend their search light on failed attempt to secure the release of the abducted Chibok girls by the office of

former minister of Information , Mr. Labaran Maku. In a statement by the Special Assistant to governor on Media and Publicity yesterday , Ahmed Tukur in Lafia, Al-makura said the beginning of the probe of the arms deal by security agencies must not end without probing those who allegedly collected money in the name of securing the release of Chibok girls and never did. Governor Al-makura said the probe of the arms deal by the security agencies will not be completed if investigation is not carried out on how Maku as information minister deceived Nigerians that the war is been won while he allegedly collected millions of Naira under the guise of negotiating for the release of the Chibok girls as the then supervising minister of defence. “Maku’s recent outburst that he will soon speak over the $2.1bn arms deal was to draw public sympathy as security probe on the arms deal closes on him.”, the governor said. Al – makura, said Maku must provide answers to the failed deal to facilitate the release of the

Chibok girls from captivity and also explain why such deals where entered into. He said that the public will be very much interested in knowing those behind the deal and how they came in contact with those who knew the whereabouts of our girls. “Nigerians demand explanations from Maku as all along as minister for information he has been feeding the public with evil lies that the war against insurgency was on the right direction while millions of tax payers money is been siphoned to private pockets while he superintend over the ministry of defence. “Maku has been challenged to also explain his role in the Ombatse and Baba Alakyo Saga and the killings of 86 security operatives in his state while he was covering ministry of defence.”, the statement said. Al-makura commended President Muhammadu Buhari for his resolute, commitment to defeat Boko Haram. The signs are already clear that Boko Haram are on the retreat he then called on all

Nigerians especially citizens of the North East to support him in this patriotic and honest drive to bring lasting peace and move the country forward. However, insisting on his position, Maku said N17 billion could be used to provide other infrastructure for the people to provide them job opportunities, fight poverty and boost their living standard. “What Lafia needs is an airstrip, where aircraft can land in case some very important personalities may visit the state for one reason or the other.” “The money can be used to establish factories, industries, construct rural roads, provide potable water and electricity to the rural populace. “There is a high rate of poverty among the people, especially at the grassroots, a problem that has been compounded by lack of access roads, electricity and drinkable water,” he said He called on the Federal Government and the aviation authority to reverse the construction of an airport in Lafia at this time of economic hardship.

Wife of the President, Mrs Aisha Buhari (middle), celebrating Christmas with patients at the Kubwa General Hospital, with her is the Medical Director, Dr. Mohammed Ahmed-Danfulani (right), at the weekend in Abuja.

Senator adopts 60 orphans in Kaduna From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

he Senator representing Kaduna Central Senatorial Zone, Comrade Shehu Sani has adopted all the 60 children in the Adonai Orphanage Home, Kaduna, as his children. Senator Sani made this known when he paid courtesy call on the orphanage to present food items for the New Year celebration. The senator said though they are orphans, but they deserve a future like every other child, he added, “we owe it to them; to support them and make their lives useful and beneficial to the society”. ”And what we can do is to give their lives hope, and to make it possible for them to realise their dreams, these are all handsome and beautiful children when you see their faces you remember the ones you have in the house. “We should also take cognizance that any child can fall into this circumstance, so as a senator representing this Zone, I formally adopt this children as my own, and we will quarterly send support to this home enable you feed this children and take proper support of them and work on the possibility of their education. ”I will also like to know if there are those of them that has been able to finish their SSCE, and I will sponsor two children to China to study, so that these two children will serve as beacon of hope to others that will be able to support. ”So the orphanage should give me two names and they must be those that are here, that you know will make use of the resources that will be invested in their education.” Senator Sani called on all Nigerians who have the means to help the orphans to come and make their own contribute in helping the orphans, adding that “as orphans, their basic needs are food, clothing, shelter and education and we all own them that.” He commended the matron of the orphanage on his commitment to the child and the home, saying she is rendering services to God. Earlier, Evangelist. Elizabeth Afuwape, matron of the orphanage, who was represented by Pastor. Samuel Oyelowo commended the Senator for his kind gesture to the home.

20 prominent indigenes inducted into Ilorin Emirate’s hall of fame

he Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union (IEDPU) on Sunday inducted into its hall of fame 20 prominent indigenes and one non-indigene. Announcing the induction, the union’s President, Alhaji AbdulHamid Adi, said the inductees were honoured for their various contributions to the development of the emirate. Adi said the union had recorded

many achievements, particularly in the area of education including the establishment six secondary schools in the last 50 years. According to him, the induction is aimed encouraging others to emulate the inductees. The Emir of llorin, Alhaji lbrahim Sulu-Gambari; late General Tunde ldiagbon; former governor of the state, late retired Rear Admiral Mohammed Lawal; and a non-indigene of llorin

and proprietor of Al-Hikmah University, the first private university in Kwara, Alhaji AbdulRahim Oladimeji, were the inductees. The post-humous inductees included the 9th Emir of Ilorin, Zulukarnaini Mohammed Gambari; first Mufti of Ilorin, Sheik Muhammad Kamamaldeen, and founder of Markaz School of Arabic and Islamic Studies, Agege, Lagos, Sheikh Adam Abdullahi El-

Ilori. Others were Dr Olusola Saraki, the immediate past Waziri of Ilorin and Second Republic Senate leader; former Chief of Staff, Supreme Headquarters, retired Maj.-Gen.l Tunde Idiagabon; and former Minister of Works and Transport, retired Maj.-Gen.General Abdulkareem Adisa. Also inducted into IEDPU’s Hall of Fame were two female

daughters of the emirate, a former Minister of Environment, Hajiya Halimat Tayo Alao, and a former Commissioner for Education, Hajiya Halimat Yusuf. Responding, Alhaji Saka Onimago, the Senior Legislative Assistant to the Senate President whose father was an inductee, said the exercise was the greatest honour that could be done to any indigene of the emirate..(NAN)

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PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

Page 4 Report As Development Banks work towards optimized balance sheets… By Ese Awhotu with agency report

he African Development Bank (AfDB), the Inter-American Development Bank (IADB) and the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) have approved an innovative framework agreement for an exchange of sovereign exposures that will collectively optimize their balance sheets for greater development effectiveness, AfDB has disclosed. The sovereign exposure exchange agreement is a risk management tool collaboratively developed by the major Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs). This initiative was launched in October 2013 by the World Bank Group’s International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) and endorsed by the MDB heads following a meeting of the G8 Ministers of Finance. Unlike commercial financial institutions, which diversify their loan portfolio across thousands, and sometimes millions, of borrowers, the MDBs lend to their sovereign shareholders. The resulting asset concentration reflects the strength of the relationship between MDBs and their borrowers, but it also requires MDBs to hold additional capital. Exchanging exposures between MDBs greatly enhances their flexibility and efficiency in capital management. In the past, MDBs have managed their capital concentration risks mainly through reducing or limiting exposure in countries where lending volumes were especially high. “This innovative agreement improves our collective financial capacity and our development effectiveness,” said Jim Yong Kim, president of the World Bank Group. “The initiative also shows how the multilateral development banks will go to great lengths to be flexible in order to reduce risks.” “The MDB exposure exchange shows the ability to innovate that regional development banks bring to the table,” said Luis Alberto Moreno, President of the Inter-American Development Bank Group. “At the IDB, we are focused on maximizing the resources that we have available to meet the development needs of our dynamic region.” “The African Development Bank is pleased to be part of this ground-breaking balance sheet optimization initiative. It is a tangible example of the growing collaboration between Multilateral Development Banks to find creative ways to achieve more development impact. For the African Development Bank, the exposure exchange will have a very significant positive effect on our capital ratios as well as our institutional credit profile. This is critical as we look ahead to an ambitious development program to accelerate progress across Africa,” said Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank Group. According a AfDB statement posted on its website, this initiative was endorsed by the G20 Ministers of Finance in their paper on “Optimizing MDB Balance Sheets” and has been discussed at multiple international

New AfDB president Akinwumi Adesina

conferences, including the Financing for Development Forum in Addis Ababa last July. On December 15, AfDB, IADB and IBRD approved the first three bilateral exposure exchange agreements within this new framework for a total of about US$6.5 billion. The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) is Africa’s premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 34 African countries with an external office in Japan, the AfDB contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. The Inter-American Development Bank is devoted to improving lives. Established in 1959, the IDB is a leading source of long-term financing for economic, social and institutional development in Latin America and

“

the Caribbean. The IDB also conducts cutting-edge research and provides policy advice, technical assistance and training to public and private sector clients throughout the region. The World Bank Group, one of the world’s largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries, comprises five closely associated institutions: the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) and the International Development Association (IDA), which form the World Bank; the International Finance Corporation (IFC); the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA); and the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID). Each play distinct roles in the mission to fight poverty and improve living standards for people in the developing world. 2015 will go down in history as a year when the world decided that the time had finally come to set aside individual differences and to forge a new

“The African Development Bank is pleased to be part of this ground-breaking balance sheet optimization initiative. It is a tangible example of the growing collaboration between Multilateral Development Banks to find creative ways to achieve more development impact

development paradigm for the planet. A paradigm which, if implemented successfully, will not only put an end to extreme poverty as we know it but will also reverse the threat of global warming and usher in a new era of sustainable global development. The Finance for Development Conference, held in Addis Ababa in July 2015, prepared the muchneeded groundwork for the ambitious Sustainable Development Goals, which were adopted by the global community in New York in September. As key players in the discourse on global development, the multilateral development banks stepped up to the plate as never before and articulated a joint position stating that the trillions of dollars that will be necessary to finance the SDGs needed a fundamental re-think in how development is financed. Financing development will no longer be about aid, but about a country’s own policies and finances and a partnership between Governments, development practitioners and the private sector. Buoyed by the success of the United Nations Sustainable Development Summit in New York, the global community moved to Paris in December for COP21, where a historic agreement was reached to limit the increase in global average temperatures to below 2 degrees Celsius above preindustrial levels. Developed countries agreed to reduce their emissions in absolute terms and agreed to provide financial and technical support to developing countries with respect to both mitigation and adaptation. According to the AfDB, 2015 has been a landmark year, not just for the international community, but also for the African Development Bank Group, which was well represented at each of the global events mentioned above and played a central role in articulating the hopes and aspirations of the African continent. During the year, not only did the Bank complete the process of relocating its staff from Tunis to Abidjan but it also bid farewell to its President, Donald Kaberuka, who had led the institution for the past decade. Following a transparent and hotly contested election, the Bank also welcomed Akinwumi Adesina, as the institution’s 8th elected President. “2016 beckons and the real work of translating the aspirations of 2015 into reality will now commence in earnest. The Bank’s Board has sent a very strong signal of support to staff and its management by approving an unprecedented 19 percent increase in the Bank’s budget. The road ahead for us is clear. Guided by the vision and aspirations of the Ten Year Strategy, the Bank’s role in coming years will be to light up Africa, feed Africa, industrialize Africa, integrate Africa and improve the quality of life for Africans. To deliver these goals, the institution must evolve into a centre of excellence where there is no role for mediocrity. We owe this to our shareholders, but most of all to our clients, who expect us to play our part as the continent’s leading development finance institution. Together we will make this happen!”, AfDB said.

PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

News FG to involve EFCC, DSS in prosecution of pipeline vandals

he Managing Director, Petroleum Products and Marketing Company (PPMC), Mrs Esther NnamdiOgbue, says the Federal Government will involve some security agencies in prosecuting pipeline vandals. Ogbue disclosed this on Sunday during a visit to Mosinmi Depot and Ajebo pipeline in Obafemi Owode local government area of Ogun. She listed the security agencies to be involved as the Police, the Economic and Financial Crimes

Commission (EFCC) and the Department of State Services (DSS). Ogbue said that the involvement of these agencies would facilitate the prosecution of the vandals at the courts of competent jurisdiction. ``We are looking at all ramifications on how to bring these criminals to book; they have to be treated as criminals and pipeline products thieves. ``The pipelines are the most efficient way of moving products and then for the first time in a very long time we are pushing products

all the way to Ibadan. ``We intend to move to Ilorin, reduce bridging from Lagos area so that people can go and pick up their products in Ibadan and Ilorin,” Ogbue said. She expressed optimism that partnership with EFCC, DSS, Police and host communities would yield positive results and the culprits would soon face the full wrath of the law. Ogbue said that federal government would start deploying trackers on trucks carrying fuel from its depots to filling stations

Children Playing at Millennium, during the Boxing day Celebration, at the Weekend in Abuja.

across the country to check diversion of the product. The PPMC boss explained that with the trackers government would be able to monitor the movement of trucks vis- a-vis their destinations. Ogbue lamented that fuel diversion was a serious problem with undesirable consequences on the economy. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports the federal government operates 22 depots nationwide, including Atlas Cove, which is located in Lagos. (NAN)

Photo: Mahmud Isa

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Osun Assembly mourns member’s death From Suleiman Idris, Lagos

sun State House of Assembly has announced the death of one of its members, Mr. Samson Oladejo Makinde representing Ife Central Constituency. The lawmaker, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who was the Minority Leader and the Chairman, House Committee on Regional Integration and Special Duties in the Assembly died in the Ekiti State Teaching Hospital on Sunday at the age of 48 after a brief illness. He is survived by aged mother, wife and children. A statement by the Chairman, House Committee on Information and Strategy, Olatunbosun Oyintiloye said the death of the lawmaker came to the Assembly as a great shock. The Assembly noted that though the late lawmaker was battling with illness, but his response to medical attention gave them the confidence that he would soon be back on his feet and join the legislative business in the house. “It is shocking that late Honourable Makinde died at this critical period that he is needed in his immediate and political family most.” It sympathised with the immediate and political family of the late lawmaker, consoling them to take solace in the fact that he live a worthy life. The Assembly also prayed that God almighty should grant the family the fortitude to bear the irreparable lost.

We’ are not bondages to Zaria community- Shi’ite From: Femi Oyelola Kaduna

embers of Islamic Movement of Nigeria otherwise known as Shi’ite group has debunked allegation that it held residents of its strong hood and Zaria community hostage saying it has instead added value to local economy of the community. The group in a rejoinder signed by the President Media Forum of the Islamic Movement, Ibrahim Musa claimed that it is not what was portrayed. He explained that in any gathering of the Islamic Movement in Zaria where at least three million members attend and every member spends at least one hundred naira, three hundred million naira is spread among the said residents who claimed to be placed under bondage which members of the Movement add value to the local economy in Zaria. According to the statement,

“Contrary to the purported lies by the faceless group, his Eminence Sheikh Ibrahim Zakzaky had lived with Gyallesu residents in Zaria happily despite attempts by security operatives to cause disharmony at various times. This is evident from the way he exchanged pleasantries and gifts during festivities as can be attested from the Movement’s websites over the years. He hosted Eid feast with many from far and wide, including Christians in attendance. “Members of IMN have engaged in provision of free social services to the community, including water, sanitation and healthcare to neighborhood which had even extended to the Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Shika near Zaria where the Movement catered for patients stranded by health workers strikes on various occasions hence, it is absolutely mischievous and ridiculous for anyone to claim that residents have

been placed under bondage for 20 years. “More so, members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria have over the years embarked on a campaign of voluntary blood donation at each of the Ashura programs, not only in Zaria, and this could be testified to by the National Blood Transfusion Commission which had issued letters of acknowledgment every year for the past three years to the revered leader for such contribution to humanity. Who knows whether those Soldiers that came to kill us or their relatives might have even been saved by our own blood in the past? “It was not a coincidence that his house was a place of refuge when there was crises in Zaria such as the election crisis of 2011. All the minority Christian population of his area ran to his house during the 2011 post election crisis for protection. All these are the facts that government is trying to obscure through bogey newspaper headlines and reports or

interviews with security operatives posing as Zaria residents. “It is important that all well meaning Nigerians stand against this foreign-sponsored agenda of the Nigerian government. Nigeria should embrace all its components through dialogue, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence,” it said. The group also debunked that it leader, Sheikh El-Zakzaky is not a sectarian and does not have or belong to any sect. “Our attention has been drawn to headlines in major Nigerian Newspapers of a news item on their front pages of Sunday 27th December editions calling on the federal government to ban what they called “EL ZAKZAKY SECT”. By the way major Nigerian Newspapers carried this news item mostly on their front pages, shows that it is a carefully calculated scheme by the perpetrators of the brutal Zaria massacre to further their evil agenda in Nigeria.

“The faceless group referred to as “Zaria Residents” has no identity and does not represent all the Nigerians resident in Zaria but the mischief of their sponsors to make such a proclamation that made front pages in most Nigerian dailies. “We wish to make it clear to all that Sheikh Ibrahim Zakzaky does not have a “sect” as they claimed and he has said it on countless occasions that he does not belong to any sect. “He leads an Islamic Movement that has millions of Nigerians that included both Shi’ah and Sunni Muslims with warmly association with various Christian groups in Nigeria. “To buttress this, IMN yearly commemorates the birth anniversary of Sheikh Uthman Ibn Fodio who was a great Islamic Reformer in the West African subregion and a Sunni scholar and had spent millions of naira in the past 10 years producing a film on his life times”

PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

PAGE 6

News

Fire razes Ilorin Market

From Olanrewaju Lawal, Ilorin

midnight inferno on Saturday burnt goods worth millions of naira in OjaTuntun market, Ilorin, Kwara state. Twenty shops were completely razed by the raging fire incident.

It was learnt that some shop owners’ also left huge cash in the shops which was burn into ashes. It was gathered that the incident was caused by a spark from an electric cable when power supply was interrupted. Some night guards at the

market were said to have noticed smoke from one of the affected shops and drew the attention of leadership of the market to it. An eyewitness said that prompt response of fire fighters at the scene prevented the fire from spreading to other shops.

The chairman of Ilorin West local government council, Alhaji Tajudeen Zulu-Oloje who visited the scene of the incident, stated that he received a distressed call from one of the market executive around 2.00 A.M. yesterday that the some shops had been gutted

•••destroys N80m worth of properties in Jos

L-R: Islamic Cleric, Alhaji Abdusalam Isa receiving a plaque from Chief the Missioner of Nasfat, Alhaji Ali Alaya, during an award ceremony organised by Nasfat in OmuAran, at the weekend in Kwara state.

From Ado Abubakar Musa, Jos

bout eighty million naira worth of properties belonging to Bowlis company were reportedly destroyed , in Jos, the state capital, following an electrical fault in the area. According to the General Manager of the company, Abubakar Muhammad, the incident occurred at about 11pm midnight when residents of the area were asleep. He narrated that, “at exactly 11pm on Friday we suddenly heard people shouting fire outbreak, fire outbreak at the Bowlis Industries and before you knew anything the fire was everywhere. “All our working equipment, chemicals including different sections the company were destroyed but there was no case of death serious injuries. The fire fighters have also responded swiftly having informed on the development. The fire was later put off by the effort of the fire service “the manager added. Muhammad however said the loud sound experienced during the incident was nothing but the burst of ordinary drums containing chemicals which were parts of the materials used in making the products of the company such as vowles and realine pomade. He further appealed to the state government and other individuals to assist the management of the company in rebuilding it so as continue with the production.

by fire. The Chairman said the council was battling with lean pursue but would do its best to reconstruct the burnt shops. Zulu-Oloje commended men of the state fire service for their quick response .

Lalong urges ethnic groups to preserve languages

ov. Simon Lalong of Plateau has urged ethnic groups in the country to preserve their languages and save them from extinction. Lalong made the call on Saturday at the 2015 Gamai Cultural Festival in Shendam Local Government Area of the state, where he hails from. He said that languages were vital tools for interacting and expressing ideas, emotions, knowledge, memories and values. “Languages are also primary vehicles of cultural expressions and intangible cultural heritage, essential to the identity of

individuals and groups. “Safeguarding endangered languages is thus, a crucial task in maintaining cultural diversity, worldwide. “The United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO’s) recent reports on endangered languages shows that half of the 6,700 languages spoken all over the world are in danger of disappearing before the century ends. “Already, 417 languages are almost out of use; 47 of them are in Africa and 15 are from Nigeria,” the governor said. He also said that language

remained a weapon of cultural empowerment and should not be allowed to die like many extant languages of the world. Lalong assured that the state government, through the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Hospitality and cultural associations, would ensure the streamlining of cultural festivals and boost the rich cultural heritage of the state. He urged the Gamai to use the festival with its theme: ‘’Unity and Peace’’ to ensure peaceful coexistence among the different groups in the state. Mr Thomas Shialsuk, President, Gamai Unity and Development

Organization (GUDO), said the festival was to foster understanding between the Gamai nation and its neighbours as well as residents of Gamai land. Shialsuk thanked Plateau people for electing their son as the governor of the state. The Chairman of the occasion and Elder Statesman, Alhaji Yahaya Kwande, urged Gamai people to support the govenor to succeed. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the governor was honoured at the festival with a traditional attire and there was also display of cultural dances and a book launch. (NAN)

Bauchi first lady charges youths to shun drug abuse, violence From Ahmed Kaigama, Bauchi

he First Lady of Bauchi State, Hajia Hadiza Mohammed Abubakar has charged children and youth in the state to shun drug abuse and Violence in order to have a brighter future. just as she urge Christians Community to pray for peaceful core-existence of the state. Hajia Abubakar stated at the weekend during occasion of Christmas party organized for Children at Banquet hall of Government House Bauchi as part of activity to celebrate this year Christmas. She enjoined them to always say no to drug abuse and Violence saying that drug abuse do not do any good to the body but rather destroys

people’s life. “Drugs are not food so ensure you don’t involve in drug abuse and do not allow anybody to lead you astray so that you can be useful to yourselves, parents and society. “Your education is very important, take your education serious so that you don’t miss your chance and opportunity of becoming the leader of tomorrow. “There is no any satisfaction or benefit to derive drug but rather it destroys lives,” she said. She also urged them not to engage in violence activities saying “it’s unfortunate that we are being faced with problem of youth radicalism, our youths are being engaged in violent action. I want to enjoin you not to allow anybody to influence your mind or thinking

negatively. The First Lady advised the children to always ensure peaceful coexistence among their peers irrespective of their tribal and cultural differences. She said “I want to urge you to be an agent of peace by creating awareness on important of peaceful coexistence as well as be your brothers keepers. “Though Xmass is a time of merriment but we should also use the period to pray for peace and development in Bauchi state and Nigeria at large. In her welcome address on behalf of Bauchi children, Princess Ibe, an SSS 3 student if Immaculte Conception Secondary School Bauchi thanked the governor’s wife for showing love to children of

Bauchi state. She said “December 26, which is Boxing Day is a day gift sharing and showing love to people so we want to appreciate Her Excellency for organizing this event to make us happy. “We feel very happy for being part of this occasion because it’s a privilege to meet with the First Lady and dine with her so we will forever remember that we met with the governor’s wife during our secondary school. Princess Ibe commended the present administration of Governor Abubakar for its effort initiating new programs to ensure quality education in the state. Meanwhile, the First Lady has assured christian community in Bauchi State of the determination

of the administration of Governor Abubakar to transform the state and ensure peace for development of the state. Hajia Abubakar who stated this in a press released made available to newsmen by her Press Secretary, Hajia Rashida Yusuf said “we want to assure the Christian community of the determination of His Excellency, Governor Mohammed Abubakar to rapidly transform the state within available resources as well as support to peaceful coexistence for a better state devoid of sentiments. “We want to appeal to Christian community to use the occasion of Christmas to pray for peaceful coexistence, Economic recovery, stability of the polity as well as progress of the state and Nigeria.

PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

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Why armed robbery, kidnapping are on the rise – Ali Kwara

Clergyman condemns lesbianism, homosexuality, warns against destroying marriages

From Ahmed Kaigama, Bauchi

renown armed robbers hunter Alhaji Ali Kwara has explained that proliferation of arms in the hands of youths, children and lack of motivation to Police men led to increase in armed robbery and kidnappings in the country. Ali stated this in Bauchi while answering question from newsmen in Bauchi, He said today there are Guns like pistol, Ak 47 both locals and sophisticated in the hands of Youths and children between the age of 15 and 17 which led to increase in armed robbery operations and kidnapping in the country. Armed robbers hunter said some of the elites secure bails for notorious thieves lamenting that such action stops their prosecution and punishment which according to him hampers the elimination of robbery in Nigeria for years. He said in the past Police men and other security operatives were being promoted or rewarded after they repeal or captured armed robbers or kidnappers. Ali Kwara said the motivation encourages them to do more in fighting crime which led to the arrest of many armed robbers in the country. He appeal to the government at all levels to provide special incentives to courageous officers that dedicate their lives to combat the criminals in order to boost their morale. The armed robbers hunter solicited the continued support of security operatives and the general public in his crusade to trap armed bandits across the country.

L-R: Chairman, Editorial Board of Press Gallery, Dr. Chima Chibuike, Chieftain of All Progressives Congress (APC), Ambassador Nurain Mumuni and Publisher/Editor-In-Chief of Press Gallery, Mr. Isiaka Mustapha, during the Presentation of the West Africa Distinguish Award to APC Chieftain by Press Gallery, at the Weekend in Abuja. Photo: Mahmud Isa

Police nab man on female attire in Gombe G From Davis Hassan, Gombe

ombe state Police command has confirmed the arrest of a man who wore women attire and went to ECWA Church No 1 Billiri, Biliri local government area of Gombe state. Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Fwaje Attajiri who made this known to Journalists at Billiri at the weekend also said the arrest became necessary in order to

confirm from the accused why he used women attire close to Church when service was on. He said the accused would have been lynched by mob but due to the intervention of the Police he was rescued unhurt. According to him, investigation is ongoing to ascertain the truth of the matter, adding that no device was found on the accused when he was arrested by the Police. He said Police is always ready to protect lives and property of

citizens. The Police spokesman explained that the accused is helping the Police with useful information. While contacting the caretaker chairman Billiri local government Barr. L D Faruk called on the people in the area to be security conscious and report any suspicious movement to the Police. He also confirmed the arrest and urged the public not to relent in living peace with one another.

Police arrest 6 in Pakistan over drugging, raping of teenager

he Police in Pakistan on Saturday arrested six men for allegedly drugging and raping a teenage girl in the eastern city of Lahore. It said the 15-year-old student was kidnapped on Friday and

taken to a guest house where up to eight men raped her. A police officer, Ahmad Usman, said the victim had been under treatment in a local hospital where initial tests proved that she was drugged and raped.

He confirmed that six men were arrested. Usman said the accused sent a text message to her family to pick her up after the assault, resulting in their arrests. (dpa/NAN)

ev. Fr Raymond Tyohemba, the Assistant Parish Priest of St Patrick’s Catholic Church, Akwanga, Nassarawa State, has condemned the practice of lesbianism and homosexuality . Tyohemba, while delivering a sermon on Sunday, also warned people against destroying the marriage institution. According to him, “God has instituted the institution of marriage so that a man and a woman would come together as husband and wife, but not the other way round. “It is unfortunate that today, some groups of persons have chosen to violate what God has ordained and go about having sex with persons of the same sex with them. “To the extent that some powerful nations in the world today have legalised same-sex marriage and other immoral behaviours just in the name of granting freedom to their citizens,” he said. The Cleric described the granting of permission to citizens to practice same-sex marriage and individuals who on their own practiced it, as an ungodly act. He advised people who indulged in these ungodly acts to desist from them and accept God in order to avoid His wrath. He also attributed the alarming rate of social vices in the society to broken homes, saying that the family was the foundation of every society. `` So, the devil introduced lesbianism and homosexual to destroy the institutions of marriage,’’ he said. Tyohemba, therefore, called on parents, teachers and all stakeholders to rise up and ensure that the practice of samesex relationship was completely eradicated. (NAN)

Security: Police partner local hunters in Ogun

he Ogun Police Command says it is ready to partner with local hunters to provide adequate security in the state. The Police Commissioner in the state, Abdulmajid Ali, said this on Saturday while addressing the

hunters at Odeda Police Divisional Headquarters in Odeda Council Area of the state. Ali said the police had concluded plans to incorporate the hunters and other relevant groups in its security network for more

effective policing of the state. He said no serious police formation would jettison or underrate the role of hunters in intelligence gathering and effective policing of the community. He assured the hunters of

adequate support and protection if they (hunters) were law-abiding and operated within the ambit of the law. Mr Kunle Ogundairo, Chairman, Odeda Zone Ogun Hunters’ Association, thanked the

police for recognising the role of hunters in the provision of security in the area. Ogundairo pledged total support of the hunters for the police in the efforts to protect lives and property in the area. (NAN)

Warri traders want adequate security for Igbudu Market

raders in Igbudu Market, Warri, have appealed to the Delta Government to provide adequate security in the market to save them from the activities of cultists. Mr Lucky Otu, the PresidentGeneral of Igbudu Market Traders Association (IMTA), made the call

in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Warri on Sunday. Otu said that the cultists had been posing serious security threats to the lives of the traders in the market which is the biggest in the Delta commercial city. He said that in spite of the

presence of some soldiers and local vigilantes in the market, more security personnel were needed to save lives and property in the market. ‘’The only challenge we are facing in this market is the issue of cultism. Sometimes, they invade the market, intimidate people and

loot property. ‘’Though there are soldiers and local vigilantes on ground, we need more of them to completely stem the activities of the criminals in the market,’’ he said. The president-general, then, commended the Chairman of the Warri South Local Government

Area, Mr Mofe Edema, for clearing some of the drains in the market. ‘’We hope that by next year, government will clear the remaining drains especially the ones in the lower area of the market to enable water to flow into the canal,’’ he said.(NAN)

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PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

2016 Budget will have an easy passage - Saraki By Lawrence Olaoye

enate President, Bukola Saraki has declared that the 2016 Budget proposal presently before the National Assembly will have an easy passage in the National Assembly. According to him, the budget proposal was a good document aimed at tackling the problems in the country. He however expressed worries about its implementation as he cautioned that the bureaucracy should not be allowed to defeat the good intentions of the budget. Saraki, who joined other Nigerians to pay Christmas homage to President Muhammadu Buhari, spoke to State House Correspondents after the ceremony. He said “You know as we said, we are going to work on the Budget as quickly as possible. We are conscious of its importance to Nigeria and we are not going to waste time. As soon as we come back, we get down to work and do what we have to do.” “It is a good document, it has addressed the major issues, 70 percent capital and infrastructure. The key issue now are really implementation. We as a National Assembly will ensure that we get our oversight right. “By and large as a document, it is a good document and I am sure it will not have too much difficulty passing through the National Assembly. The key issue is implementation to ensure that the bureaucracy does not kill the joy of the implementation of the Budget. We will do our part,” he stated The Senate President said that Nigerians have a lot to be thankful for, for sparing their lives and Nigeria. He added that it will continue to address the problems including security, economy and fight against corruption. “I am hopeful that this time as we celebrate Christmas, we will continue to pray for this country that 2016 with everybody’s cooperation we begin to turn the corner for a greater country,” he added. Speaking earlier, President Muhammadu Buhari said government appreciated the enormity of the security challenges, saying government will do its best to make sure the Boko Haram elements allow peace to reign. “We appreciate that the security agencies are doing their and their best is showing and we have to continue praying for them. There can be no development without security, we have to continue to pray for theml. If we have 2million people who are IDP and 70 per cent are women and children and 70 per cent of them are children, some them are orphans, they grew up not knowing their parents, tradition or culture. As leaders, we have a weighty responsibility to ensure that infrastructure for the orphans are taken care of.

L-R: Mai of Tangale, Alhaji Abdu-Buba Maisharu; Deputy Governor Gombe State, Mr. Charles Iliya and Chairman of the occasion, Sen. Ajuji Waziri, at the 10th Pissi Tangale Annual cultural festival in Billiri, at the weekend in Gombe State.

Man electrocuted trying to vandalise power cable in Kaduna From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

n unidentified middle aged man was electrocuted at the early hours of yesterday while trying to vandalise power supply installation at Accra Crescent by LEA primary school, Unguwar Rimi, Kaduna. The Dan Iyar Unguwar Rimi, Alhaji Muhammad Gidado who confirmed the incident to Peoples Daily disclosed that

the corpse of the vandal was evacuated from the scene by the police from Unguwar Rimi Division. According to him, the said vandal was unknown to them and urged the law enforcement agencies to step-up patrol as the community has suffered from the activities of vandals lately. Investigation by our correspondent revealed that the late vandal tried to steal the

150mm four core up-riser cable at the Distribution sub-station along Accra Crescent when nemesis caught up with him. The Head, Corporate Communications of Kaduna Electric, the operator of Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company, Abdulazeez Abdullahi appealed to the customers of the Company to be more vigilant and report to the police any suspicious movement around

power supply installations especially in the night, stressing that the activities of these hoodlums is causing set back to the company’s effort at providing steady power supply to its customers. Mr. Abdulazeez further warned criminal elements to desist from damaging and or removing power supply equipment as the consequence could be very tragic.

Anglican Primate commends Sokoto on peace, development From Raji Bello, Sokoto

he Primate of Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Most Reverend Nicholas Okoh, has commended Sokoto state government for its efforts in promoting harmony among diverse religious and ethnic groups in the state. Okoh spoke in Sokoto,

yesterday when he led members of the church on a courtesy visit to Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal. He noted that Nigeria can learn a lot from Sokoto’s peaceful disposition for rapid development of the country. Okoh said even though there a ‘one or two issues’ with conflicts in Sokoto in the past, that has not affected the overall peaceful

disposition of the state. The Anglican leader urged all Nigerians to take the issue of protection of environment seriously, Okoh said the dangers posed by desertification is real and should be accorded the attention it deserves. Responding, Governor Tambuwal said Christians have lived in peace and harmony in Sokoto for centuries.

He said as part of measures to boost communal harmony, his administration will sustain the policy of non-discriminatory fees paid by all students in public schools started by the last administration. He equally invited all Nigerians willing to contribute to the development of education to come to Sokoto and exhibit their talents.

Fun returns to National Theatre after invasion by hoodlums

ome fun seekers thronged the National National Theatre for Boxing Day fun in Lagos on Saturday. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), recalls that some hoodlums punctured the carnival-like atmosphere when they invaded the premises and dispossessed fun seekers of their valuables on Christmas day. Policemen at the theatre later apprehended some suspected hoodlums at about 6.p.m., when the premises had been completely deserted by scared fun seekers. NAN reports that the theatre

was once again a beehive of activities on Saturday, as fun seekers thronged the premises. Many families were seen sitting on the lawns, eating and taking photographs, while others were seen trying to get tickets to watch movies. The whole atmosphere was filled with music blaring from loud speakers and fun seekers danced to different tunes. Some children were seen enjoying horse rides while others were seen basking and stomping on inflatable playthings. The venue bustled with

activities as kiosk owners made brisk businesses selling beverages and peppered soups. Mr Adewale Rasaq, a fun seeker, told NAN it was a ritual for him and his family members to visit the theatre on boxing days. ``I love the atmosphere. I enjoy the peace of the environment. I am catching my fun, I think I love everything here’’, he said. Rasaq said he learnt of the invasion by hoodlums on Friday, but said he knew the situation would have been brought under control by the time he would be visiting.

Another fun seeker, Mrs Mulikat Adesokan said the theatre was an escape place from all the hustling and bustling of the city and that a visit to the place was always worth it. She, however, urged the government to increase police presence around the theatre, saying activities of criminals were becoming a problem to the tourist centre. ``Those hoodlums are trying to spoil this place with their criminal activities. The government should try and increase police presence in this area’’, she said.(NAN)

PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

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Judge tasks chief registrar on “open door policy” By Usman Shuaibu

he supervisory judge in charge of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Gwagwalada Area council Division, Justice Mwada Balami, has called on the newly promoted Chief Registrar of the FCT High Court of Justice, Hon. Babangida Hassan to deem it necessary to operate an “open door policy” for the benefit of the judiciary workers in the territory. Balami, who was the chairman of the occasion made the call while addressing the gathering during a dinner organized by the committee of friends in honour of Babangida Hassan on Wednesday in Gwagwalada, also charged the Chief Registrar to remain committed to the administration of justice at all times. He further advised the Chief Registrar to be a good manager of government’s resources always, and urged the entire staff of the FCT High Court to support and co-operate with the Chief Registrar to move the judiciary to the next level in the territory, while he prayed for successful tenure of the Chief Registrar. Also speaking, the Grand Khadi of the FCT Sharia Court Abuja, Abba Ibrahim, expressed joy over the elevation of the Chief Registrar. On his part, the coordinator of the committee of friends, Barrister Dawud A. Sulayman who presented an address on behalf of the committee at the occasion, described the Chief Registrar as a man of the people with stupendous wealth of experiences. Sulayman therefore, prayed to God to continue to move the Chief Registrar to higher heights in life, ensuring the crowd that the Chief Registrar will succeed in his new task in all ramifications. On his contribution, the Chairman of Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) Gwagwalada Branch, Barrister Abdulwahab Muhammad, Said that the appointment of the Babangida Hassan as the new Chief Registrar of the FCT High Court was a step in the right direction. Not left out, the celebrant of the day, Hon. Babangida Hassan, thanked the leadership of NBA Gwagwalada Branch for the honour done to him, pointing out that his administration will take the staff of the FCT High Court as well as lawyers along in the scheme of things. The occasion which featured “Dinner Talk: Responsibility and Challenges of the office of the Chief Registrar” was graced by the government functionaries.

People relaxing at, Jabi dam during the boxing day celebration, at the weekend in Abuja.

Photo: Mahmud Isa

Bauchi begins forensic audit of contracts, MDA’s expenditure From Ahmed Kaigama, Bauchi

he Bauchi State Governor, Muhammad Abdullahi Abubakar has set up a committee of professionals to undertake a forensic audit of all contracts, expenditure and appointments made in all MDAs from May 2007 to May 2015. A statement issued by the Press

Secretary to the Governor, Abubakar Al-Sadique over the weekend, said the Committee under the chairmanship of Alhaji Salihu Lukman would carry out forensic auditing based on the Governor’s resolution to instill accountability and discipline as prerequisites for good governance. He said corruption had eaten deeply into the nation’s socioeconomic and political life when his

administration came into power, but said that in line with the anti corruption policy of the APC, his administration will not relent in its fight against corruption in public life until sanity is restored. He explained that it was against this backdrop that on assumption of office, one of the key areas he paid priority attention to was fighting corruption by appointing a committee

for the recovery of illegally taken government property. Governor Abubakar also commended President Muhammad Buhari for his determination and commitment in fighting insurgency in the North East sub region and charged public officers to play the appropriate role in highlighting the things that unite Nigerians not those few things that artificially divided us.

Cleric advises couples to embrace family planning

Cleric, Rev. Fr. Leonard Ojorgu of St Peters Catholic Church, Calabar, has advised couples to embrace family planning by having only the number of children they could cater for. Ojorgu, who is the Assistant Parish Priest of the Church, gave the advice at the end of the 2015 Sunday Church service in Calabar. The cleric said that the attitude of having unplanned number of

children in the family without the resources to cater for them was inappropriate. According to him, parents should weigh their resources in the face of the current economic challenges before deciding on the number of children to have. ``In the face of the current economic hardships, it is better to have one child and give him or her the best of parental upbringing than having many and allowing them to

go wayward. ``Giving birth to a large number of children without the resources to cater for them increases the rate of social vices in the country because some of them will become nuisance to the society. ``As parents, if you do not to raise up your children responsibly, God will not be happy with you. ``If you train your child in the right way, he or she will grow up with the fear of God and will

contribute meaningfully to the development of the society,’’ Ojorgu said. He admonished Christians to use the Christmas period to reconcile their differences with God, adding that Jesus was the reason for the celebration. Ojorgu also advised young adults to eschew all forms of violence and contribute their quota to the development of the society. (NAN)

Don’t use land for revenue generation – IEDPU warn Kwara govt From Olanrewaju Lawal,Ilorin

he Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union (IEDPU) has warned Kwara State Government not to use land acquisition in Ilorin as a means of generating revenue. The National President of the union, Alhaji AbdulHamid Adi stated this while addressing stakeholders and congregation of Union members at the celebration of the 50th anniversary of IEDPU annual conferences and N500 million education endowment fund. He said the state government should assist the real land owners on

good road and drainages rather than taking away their lands. He said: “ for avoidance of doubt, the Union has no objection, whatever,to Government’s acquisition of parcels of land for public good and interest. However, government has no business in buying and selling parcels of land for revenue generation purpose. “On the contrary, government could assist original land owners by carrying out land survey, layout and with provision of infrastructures such as road, drainage, water pipes and electricity which will in turn enhance the land value at reasonable cost to the owners as being practices in other

developing countries. “It should be noted that land issue between government and people or even amongst neighboring communities, it not properly handled, always lead to catastrophic consequences with corollaries of destruction of lives and properties; be it in Jos,Kenya or Zimbabwe.” The Union insisted that land being acquired for private industrialisation should be used as shareholding in an investment for the owners of such land. Adi also frown at the constitution of Management and Staff of Harmony Holdings, Civil Services in the state stressing that “a situation where the

Chief Executive and some other top management team of the company are not from Kwara State is not acceptable to us”. He added that all salaries arrears of all Colleges of Education, Local Government Staff, water Corporation, Media Houses and other Public Servants in the state must be pay and stop using tertiary institutions to generate revenue. Over N20million was realized at the launching with the highest donations of N5million each from a Lagos based Business Mogul, Alhaji Layi Gobir and the Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki.

PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

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El-Zakzaky followers protest over his detention in Minna From Yakubu Mustapha, Minna

T People at the popular Sango plank market which was gutted by fire, at the weekend in Ibadan.

Lalong urges Muslims to emulate Prophet Muhammad virtues of peace From Ado Abubakar Musa, Jos

uslims have been urged to be at peace with one another in emulation of Prophet Muhammad SAW, exemplary life style. Governor Simon Bako Lalong, of Plateau state made the call yesterday at the 46th annual EidEl-Maulud in commemoration of the birth of the Prophet, which held at the premises of the Jos central Mosque. Represented by the state commissioner of Information and Communications, Malam Nazif Ahmad, Lalong stressed

that preaching of peace and harmonious living is paramount for the overall development of the state. “I assure you that my administration is not run based on the basis of either religion or ethnic.” he said. He added that: “You should all be patience and tolerant to one another for the interest of peace.” Lalong admonished the people to be patience as he administration is fully aware of their expectations, saying he will do that is necessary to develop Jos-North being the state capital

as soon as funds are available. “We are aim at human and capital development,” he stressed. Lalong further felicitated with the Muslim ummah, wishing them many more years of such peaceful celebration. In his sermon at the occasion Sheikh Mukhtar Adam enjoined Muslims parents to emulate the good tidings of Prophet Muhammad SAW; “Loves him the most and inculcates in your children his true love and teachings.” “Because loving him is act of worship to Allah, loving him entails doing what he did and

though us as enshrined by Allah in the Qur’an and his sunnah,” Sheikh Adam admonished. The city of Jos was into agog with colourful decoration of houses into various paintings and flags of mainly green and white across streets of Jos, as Muslims celebrated the Ei-el-Malud of the prophet Muhammad SAW). The Maulud was celebrated peacefully amidst presence of tight security under the Operation Save Haven (OPSH). Pupils from various Islamic Schools made a match pass across streets of the city as they made their ways back homes.

Hausa community tasks commissioner on peace, development From Ado Abubakar Musa, Jos

lateau State Commissioner of Information and Communications, Malam Nazif Ahmad, has been tasked to promote peace and development in the state . The call was made yesterday by the leadership of Jos Hausa Community in a press statement congratulating the commissioner and also appreciating Governor Simon Lalong over the historical appointment of their sons.

The statement which was signed by Alhaji Sani Mu’azu as Secretary, said the appointment was a testimony of the positive changes that are happening in state and; “a mark of confidence from the Governor, Barrister Simon Bako Lalong.” It said; “As you assume office as a Commissioner we appeal to you to give your new appointment the seriousness it deserves and work assiduously in the promotion of peace and progress in the state.” The community tasked the

commissioner to be fully committed to the service of the state and to; “live as a statesman above parochial interest.” It also admonished him to be a worthy ambassador of his people and; “to establish the fact that our community is ever ready and committed to serve our state.. to its growth and development.” The community appreciated Governor Simon Lalong over the appointment of three of their sons as Deputy chief of staff government

house, Secretary Jos North LGC management committee, and Commissioner of Information and Communications, Barrister Yusuf Gambo Hawaja, Alhaji Shehu Bala Usman and Malam Nazif Ahmad respectively. “These appointments are testimony of the Governor’s efforts to foster greater understanding, peace, cooperation and inclusiveness among different communities in Plateau state,” the statement read in parts.

Don urges Akwa Ibom govt to regulate sand excavation

university lecturer, Dr Faith Ekong, has urged the Akwa Ibom Government to regulate the excavation of sand in the state in order to safeguard the environment. Ekong, who is the Head of Department, Urban and Regional Planning, University of Uyo, made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Uyo on Sunday. She said that there was no regulation to sand excavation in

the state and this had led to land degradation and pollution of sources of natural water supply. “In Akwa Ibom there is no regulation to mining of sand. Dredgers just get to site and dredge indiscriminately not minding the environmental impact on the community,” she said. The don said that the negative impact of the activities of dredging had caused hardships to some people in the state. “Almost all the villages rely on

wetland for portable water and water for other uses, but when they mine, it impacts negatively on the people of the state. “It leads to the silting of water. By the time they dredge the water it is actually polluted and the impact is very high. “When they finish mining they leave the pit and don’t cover it. The land becomes useless and the people cannot farm on it anymore,’’ she said. Ekong said that government

should create awareness to let the people realise the depth of the hazards the activity posed to the environment and the dwellers. “We at the receiving end are supposed to be well informed about it. We are also supposed to play our role as individuals to safeguard the environment,’’ she said. Ekong called on the State Government to enforce policy that would control the dredging of mining of solid minerals in the state. (NAN)

he Islamic Movement of Nigeria, Shi’ite followers Niger State chapter has at the weekend protested over the continued detention of their leader Sheikh Ibrahim El-Zakzaky by the security agents. The leader (amirul) in Minna the Niger State capital, Mallam Ibrahim Khalid Mohammed while addressing their followers at the central Mosque called for the immediate release of their leader who was known for peace and peaceful coexistence in the country. He added that the Non Governmental Organization which was established thirty seven (37) years ago has never been found wanting for any crisis, noting that many of their followers were arrested along side with their leader calling for their release as well the release of the corpses of the dead for burial. Mohammed explained that many innocent souls were killed in Zaria during the face-off with the military and the house of their leader and followers were demolished described it as unconstitutional, undemocratic and violation of human rights condemned by even the International communities. “Our leader is a patient and peace loving person who remain calm even when two of his sons were killed sometimes ago, God will not let go any injustice melted on our leader and supporters, release our leader for us” he said. According to him, they are not afraid of death because they have the right to live, intimated that the security assured to allowed him (El-Zakzaky) to talk to the press but up till date never heard from their leader because he will exposed their tricks. He stated that this is not the kind of change they voted for, a democracy without freedom of association, killing of innocent souls, assured to continued protest until the release of their leader and followers from detention and deceased for burial. One of the follower, Mallam Usman Mohammed urged security agencies to make public the number of arrest and killed persons, added that their action will depend on the actions of the government on their pledges. He appreciated different organizations within and outside the country that condemned the attack by the security, including a pastor who joined them in a protest last week calling for the release of their supporters just as he insisted that they will do everything possible for the release of their leader.

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PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

EDITORIAL

Nigeria won’t take this anymore!

embassy when they struck. The mission n the not too distant past, this paper of one Nigerian is not something that was not the primary target. There was a had cause to advise the federal we as a government would allow to group of Nigerian community who went government to say it loud and clear go without justice in the new foreign there to meet with their welfare officer. that we as a nation would no longer policy practice,” Dr. Mohammed had So the mission was a secondary, not a stomach maltreatment of Nigerians assured. primary target. And the talk of looking We commend the federal government for abroad by their host countries. We said for Nigerian kidnappers is just a rumour, it was time to say ‘enough is enough’, the no-nonsense stance it had taken a wild lie…” else our silence would be mistaken for on this matter, the first time ever for weakness, and it would not take long The attack claimed one Nigerian life, not a long time. That has forced a formal three as was reported by foreign news before smaller countries began to poke us apology from President Manuel Serifo in the face. Regrettably, that was exactly Nhamadjo’s government. At the time a what happened on Tuesday, October 8, Nigerian government team was in that 2013 in the tiny West African country of country to get to the root of the matter. Guinea Bissau. That day a mob attacked Its report was to determine what the Nigerian embassy in the capital, further action to take. “Our team is supposedly in pursuit of a Nigerian child already in Guinea Bissau working with kidnapper that had taken sanctuary our ambassador who will brief them there. exactly what happened and then Nigeria However, as it turned out, the alleged will present her conditionalities for an kidnapper was not a Nigerian but amicable resolution of this problem a Guinean. This was confirmed by including restitution”, said Senator our then minister of state for foreign Matthew Nwagwu,’ then Chairman of affairs, Dr. Nurudeen Mohammed, the Senate Foreign Affairs Committee. who went on to suggest a motive higher “The Nigerian team has gone there with than the pursuit of a kidnapper for the a clear instruction and a shopping list”. embassy attack. It was political. He That shopping list should have included a said: “The Guinea Bissau authorities clear threat to withdraw our technical have confirmed to us that they are and military training support to suspecting political enemies who are that country. Nigeria is the pillar of media. The Nigerian ambassador, luckily, trying to put a wedge between Nigeria the ECOWAS stabilization mission was not in the embassy building at the and the actualization of the overall (contact Group) in that country time of the attack. However, that does political yearnings of the citizens… the which our former President Goodluck not reduce the seriousness of the matter. unruly mob had political motives. Jonathan, headed. Much as we want The embassy, according to international “Some political groups see Nigeria as to help a needy neighbor, we must not law, is Nigerian territory and the attack, the country standing between them allow ourselves to be a victim of its therefore, was an act of aggression and an illegitimate ambition. There is dangerous power play. If the Guineans against a sovereign nation. And the fact that sentiment under the guise of antido not want us to help them, let’s get that only a life was lost does not make Nigeria demonstration. Fortunately, the hell out. They cannot want us and the crime any less heinous. “The killing our ambassador was not at the hate us, all in one breath.

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We commend the federal government for the no-nonsense stance it had taken on this matter, the first time ever for a long time

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PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

Opinion

Fuels Scarcity: My opinions amid of Deuces By Abdullahi Garba Ramat

he epithet ” PMB’s die hard supporter or devotee, rigidly stout and stalwart loyalist or change agent will not and can never be detached from my name” yes i was and i still I am, but fact are sacrosanct and should always prevail over and above personal whims or any mundane aggrandizement. What we did plus what we are still doing isn’t particularly for PMB as a person but for our dear country, as I am known for my frankness and down to earthiness which I am unequivocally non apologetic, I owe it a duty to continue accessing while diagnosing corruption, incompetent, inaction or mismanagement devoid of sentiment or political rhetoric. Nigeria’s interest is at stake. Not any political or parochial interest. Most of us are not partisan politicians and will not keep quiet while some egocentric and prebendal politicians hold us by the jugulars. Its good to talk while u still can, better to alert while it’s still not too late and its best thing to dispassionately contribute while compassionately commenting as to influence decision of concerned people and other interested parties, in this spectrum we can submit our effort to skew government statically generated policy toward doing what is most affluently needful for the masses as the PMB himself is fallible as other are, I therefore employ you ( PMB devotees) to either join us or at list give a hitch freeway. It’s really sad and annoying, enough to give heart attack and hypertension to see this Government we strived and voted with our hard sweat, sliding into same loop as the previous one we voted out, from the Democracy definiendum ” Government of the people by the people and for the people” the central unit is “people” therefore people’s opinions is a gold, We had hope, we had high expectations, thinking that once PMB get to throne that would mark the end of our suffering, mediocrity and incompetent, some where taking his victory as the beginning of Nigeria’s metamorphosis to America while to some he is a Messiah, we were very much optimist that at list

the degree of our hardship would be subsidized to a minimal, in contrast to the previous leadership. Fuel and electricity are among if not the best need of every citizens irrespective of class he/ she falls in, for the economy is multidimensional, there are so many sector that can be touched without impacting immediate effect on the masses, so many angle can be left unattended or unchecked but still the common man might not know where the buck stop at, but these areas do not and should never circumscribed fuel scarcity Despite the abundantly teeming wealth of oil in the land, despite the highly nutritional profile in the pace of being naturally bless and endowed with crude oil and albeit the rigid and no nonsense leader driving the country while the price of petrol in the world is constantly decelerating to frightened level, while some non-oil producing country ( the like of Singapore) are busy refining oil, making it available and giving it at lower price to its citizen and selling it out to other hopeless countries like Nigeria, thereby sustaining its economy, fuel scarcity is here holding us by the neck, what a shame? (biggest slap on Nation face indeed). As the biggest exporter of crude oil in Africa, Nigeria still could not even give the minimum petrol required for the country’s daily consumption (38.2 million liters) let alone sell it out to other countries, while the fuel scarcity has reached apex, our business are going so weak, price of commodities are constantly raising while some people can’t not make two square meal, some can’t even take their children to school let alone paying for their school fees, some are dying in the hospital simply because they can not afford the treatment charges, so many instances in which due to the fuel scarcity someone couldn’t take food to hospital for his sick relative(s) due to the scarcity of fuel, some can not even get commercial bus to go to market while they are practicing a bird’s life style ( All we get today is only enough for today, tomorrow we must hustle again otherwise sleep with empty stomach). One has to spend 10 or more hours out of the limited time he has per day to get petrol from filling station

or buy it from black marketer at astronomical exorbitant price, In truth, PMB has failed us here and if not he is about to, as far as fuel saga is concern, so it was, so it is and so it shall be unless we raise our voice, let us be heard crying out in demand for our right, Its really disgusting and surprising that we fell in such situation with PMB as President and as petroleum minister for that matter, where did we go wrong? What have we done to deserve all these hardship and sufferings? Why should PMB gave a leap service to this grandeur issue consuming and devastating ua and our businesses in no uncertain term? Necessity is the mother of invention. Nigeria is facing desperate times which call for desperate remedies. These remedies are not going to come from civil servants in their air conditioned offices who are just watching the clock waiting for closing time so they can go home and do what they like. The ideas that will fix Nigeria must be generated by those of us whom Nigerians have trusted with their votes. We cannot continue to point to each other in blame. We must coalesce, cooperate and collaborate or we collapse as a nation. Whichever co- we want is up to us. All the claims of marketers blackmailing the government is an excuse its hitting to put itself in exactly this situation by allowing NNPC get away with passing off what should be their core responsibility to incompetent and unpatriotic marketers. these ‘so called’ marketers, and many of them who are having a field day, courtesy of their firm and tenacious grip in politics, they are but just traders; they add no value and, in some cases, even deplete value from the system. It’s perplexingly disgusting we should be importing fuel in the first place when we have four refineries in place, in addition to the local ones owned by the locals in the riverine areas, which can all be utilized for use, bit because the cartel in the sector gave preferred importation in order to clean out and rip us off, they want the status quo to be maintained. This is however anomalous for an OPEC member country. There is of course no need to

trade blames with the past, whether we like it or not, the truth is: This government should and must be held responsible for what is happening today in the downstream sector of the oil industry (the buck stops in its table). It must in a matter of urgent proffer solutions fast or ship out. Yes, give way to those who can fix this knotty problem once and for all. Strategy require to cobble Economy is multicipital and multidimensional, it therefore comprises of fundamentals to analyze, diagnose and access from their face of values, not otherwise, these fundamental are simple, they aren’t Nuclear Technology or a complex fuzzy logics to be solve, they are also definitely not a grand project requiring eternity to implemented the subsidy saga is about to get resurrected as the Government is reconsidering the issue which from all indications its held bend in removing it immediately the beginning of next year ( 2016), but PMB needs to take a closer look at the subsidy issue. While subsidy is good to alleviate financial hardships of the intended beneficiaries, the ill-effects of the subsidy being diverted to unintended benefactors must be addressed and above all the final Implications it may possibly be accompanied by has to also be accessed from their focal sight. For the fuel subsidy threat we are everyday receiving from the so called APC leading party ( not the president himself), If the fuel subsidy is removed, government is not likely to save the N1.2 trillion currently being spent on subsidy in the short to medium term as a result of the tax implications which may not have been considered. In the short to medium term the savings will be less than the subsidy removed. The reason for this is that to some extent taxpayers actually subsidize government’s subsidy on regulated fuel products, so removal of the subsidy will not result in 100 percent savings. Individuals and households will experience reduction in their disposable income, which will in turn result in a drop in savings and funds available for lending to businesses. This could lead to higher cost of funds for businesses further resulting in lower taxable profit for CIT purposes. Also firms may cut down on jobs, which

will further result in reduction in personal income tax. Under extreme pressures on disposable income and profitability, tax avoidance and evasion would likely intensify resulting in further loss of tax revenue to the government and higher cost of enforcing compliance. On the positive side, if the fuel subsidy is applied in fixing power supply and other infrastructures as the government has promised, then there will be a drop in the cost of doing business, cost of production and prices of goods and services. The increase in public spending on infrastructural development and social palliatives designed to ameliorate the harsh effect of subsidy removal will result in improvement of living standard and employment generation. It is important to ensure that Nigeria is able to refine crude oil locally at least to meet local demand otherwise fuel importation means export of jobs, in addition to loopholes, inefficiencies and avoidable cost associated with importation of refined products. It could also provide the impetus required for public transportation thereby reducing congestion on the road especially in cities like Lagos. By refining locally many oil producing countries are able to subsidise the price of fuel products on a sustainable basis. For instance the price per litre of petrol is about N5.84k in Venezuela, N15.95k in Libya, Saudi Arabia N17.52k; Kuwait N30.66k; Qatar N32.12k; Bahrain N39.42k; Egypt N46.72k; UAE N54.02k; Iran N58.40k; Malaysia N73.00; Mexico N81.76k; Indonesia N81.14 and Russia N90.52k. Government should heavily descend on all saboteurs from within and outside the system, no matter their political leanings and inclination. Political will must be displayed translucently to deal with the perennial problem of fuel shortage in the land as to show leadership and demonstrate good faith for it’s a time, a time to retrospect and circumspect as to circumscribe Nigeria away from a fang of hawks and vampires masquerading as statesmen. May God save Nigeria and its unity.

huge, for a nation as big as Nigeria. For Aero, the shame of using ladder to disembark their aircraft wasn’t enough, they had to further it by explaining to the general public that the reason for such an unruly practice was because the aircraft, which by the way was supposed to be a “special charter flight”, had problems with unserviceable equipments. How convenient I dare say?! They went further to say that the airline crew tried to calm the passengers to wait while the equipment was being fixed, but the passengers were too in a haste to get off the plane, and they did so out of their own volition. Unbelievable! This sort of story always trigger my old slang of balderdash. This is a high level display of irresponsibility and recklessness, a dangerous character to project in the face of a devastating insecurity in the country and across the globe. The pathetic sight of passengers climbing ladder

poles to disembark from an aircraft is not just shameful or shows the lack of common sense, but also inconsistent with human dignity or ethical conducts. Every airline use an external or inbuilt staircase to board passengers from certified companies, Aero can’t say they are unaware of this. The question that keeps running up on my mind is, did they think such practice won’t ever make the news headline? The circumstance we are opened to right now as a result of this action by Aero Contractors, is that if a nation’s oldest airline can be this irresponsible, flaunting aviation’s rules and regulations, then the actions of newer airlines can only be left to our imaginations. All passengers on board any air flight are bound to obey the rules and regulations of the airline, and that includes the cabin crew members. In any case where they disobey, there’s a reasonable sanction to erring passengers. It really

doesn’t matter what the situation is, in or out of the airspace, the airline is responsible for the actions and inactions of all passengers on board. We’ve had cases of aircraft crash, flight delays, flight cancellations without excuses and many other inadequacies. The shortfalls are becoming one too many and the reason isn’t really too far from us- those who should check the excesses of these airlines are either not doing their jobs well or completely incompetent in it. The new Minister of State for Aviation, Mr Hadi Sirika, who have promised to conduct an investigation on the shameless exhibition should make sure nothing delays it. Nigerians want answers. They need to see that those in authority have their interests well covered. They need to see that the promised change in the aviation industry is delivered. A failure to do this will definitely undermine the integrity of the

industry which in the long run, will shatter the aviation industry and the trust of the traveling public. One ultimate message an inconclusive or half-baked investigation will send out there will be that the Ministry of Transportation and the Civil Aviation Authority cannot deliver on their promise to strictly adhere to the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations (NCARs) or the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standard practice. Without urgently getting to the bottom of this shameful exhibition by Aero Contractors, Nigerians and other air travelers in the country won’t feel safe or secure when it comes to air transport services in the country. The shame is already too many; we can’t continue to add more to the pool.

Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat is a Public Affairs Analyst.

Aero Contractors and their ladder of shame By Jeff Okoroafor

here’s no place in the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations, or the International Civil Aviation Organization that the use of ladder in disembarking from an airplane is a recommended or standard best practice. This is too elementary a regulation that anyone should know let alone, an airline that represents Nigeria’s oldest carrier. Last weekend, Aero Contractors once again reminded Nigerians about the horrible aviation records in the country when passengers, 34 of them, used a ladder meant for electricity poll climbing, to disembark from their aircraft. The pictures engulfed the Internet. Some used it as their profile pictures on various social media platforms, comedians made jokes out of it and funny television stations in Africa also used it to spice up their program. The shame was

God bless Nigeria! Jeff Okoroafor is a Public Affairs Analyst.

PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

Comment Finally, the world woke up By Owei Lakemfa

he world woke up on Friday December 18 to the calamity that is the proxy war in Syria. The war began four years ago. Over 250,000 killed. Cities destroyed; 7.6 million, internally displaced. Over four million are refugees with an increasing number pushing into Europe. Most of the refugees are children; too young to have started the bloody conflict, but not too young to be victims of the senseless war. The popular fiction of what triggered the war is laughable: on the back of the Arab Spring, there was a protest in Syria; the high-handedness of the Syrian security forces triggered the war. If it were a mere protest, how come within weeks, heavily armed fighters were pinning down the Syrian armed forces, taking and holding territories? This is still the kindergarten rhyme parroted in leading world newspapers. The fact that “protesters” like the alNusra and Islamic Front (ISIS) had previously been trained long before the ‘protests’ does not usually make the headlines. There are a number of reasons why the ‘international community’ sat down under the United Nations Security Council and agreed on a Road Map to peace in Syria. I am not sure the human tragedy was a strong enough motivating force. Rather, the fact that the Syrian refugees have entered Europe in large numbers threatening its

demography; the forceful and decisive entry of Russia in October 2015 and the possible collision between the latter and the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) forces which can spiral out of control, are some of the main factors. The Road Map; UN Resolution 2254 is simple and straight forward. It provides for UN– facilitated talks between the government and opposition as early as next month, January, 2016. The talks is to agree on the outline of a nationwide ceasefire. The road from this is expected to lead to “credible, inclusive and non-sectarian governance” in six months, then the production of a new constitution which should lead to free and fair elections. This journey is planned to last about two years. The intention is salutary, and the wording great. Given the fact that the war is part of the wider Sunni-Shiite global battle fuelled by the Christian-dominated Euro-American alliance, the idea of a process which is inclusive of the minorities, especially Christians, and which is not along the sectional divide led by Saudi Arabia and Iran, is the best road to take. But among the fifteen nations that endorsed the Road Map are its grave diggers; whereas the UN Resolution 2254 states that the Syrian people will decide the future of Syria, some nations are imposing conditions. The Road Map does not make the removal of the Syrian

government a pre-condition. Pray, what morals can Britain, which under Tony Blair lied to destroy Iraq, teach? The same Britain that helped to establish ISIS which is eating up the world; what morals can it teach? France declares that the peace talks have to be hinged on the removal of President Bashir al-Assad. Its Foreign Minister, Laurent Fabius argues that, “How could this man unite a people that he has in part massacred? The idea that he could once again stand for elections is unacceptable to us.” The French thought that Assad should simply have handed over Syria to ISIS and walked away. For standing and fighting, he is a ‘mass murderer’. Does it matter whether the idea of Assad contesting elections is acceptable or not to the French? Are they Syrians; do they have the vote in Damascus? Of course David Cameron’s Britain has its own reasons why the Peace plan must fail. Its Foreign Secretary, Philip Hammond rules. “This process necessarily involves the departure of Bashar al-Assad, not only for moral reasons because of the destruction that he has unleashed on his own people, but also for practical reasons – because it will never be possible to bring peace and unity to Syria as long as he remains in office.” The Road Map does not make the removal of the Syrian government a pre-condition. Pray, what morals can Britain, which

under Tony Blair lied to destroy Iraq, teach? The same Britain that helped to establish ISIS which is eating up the world; what morals can it teach? The same morals of land grab, deception, duplicity, naked exploitation and mass murders that characterised its bloody history of colonialism? Give me a break! Of course a British position cannot be complete without its legendary duplicity. Hammond tells the world that, “But we must and will protect the institutions that are necessary for the future governance of Syria and that will be possible with a representative transitional governing body.” What institutions are left to be protected in Syria; the armed forces, civil service, political, religious? To be sure, the Americans are in this peace derailment work gang. Secretary of state, John Kerry announces magisterially, “If the war is to end, it is imperative that the Syrian people have to agree on an alternative” to the Syrian government. First, who appointed Kerry the spokesperson of the Syrian people? If the UN Resolution says Syrians must determine their future, how does Kerry arrogate that power to himself or his country? The peace process will lead to war mongers losing their battle field puppets and arms. But if that be the will of Syrians, so be it. The Americans argue that Assad can no longer remain Syrian President because he “bombed

PAGE 13

his people.” If there is a civil war in US who will the government be bombing? In the American Civil war, who was President Abraham Lincoln bombing? Nigerians or Japanese? If so called protesters seize New York and New Jersey by force of arms and move towards Baltimore, Washington and Maryland seizing territory and declaring a different Republic, will President Barack Obama simply pack his baggage and move to resettle in Kenya? As President and Commanderin-Chief, will he not order the American armed forces to retake lost territory. Will Americans not be killed or bombed in the process? What are these countries afraid of? That in a free and fair election supervised by the UN, Assad, like Charles Taylor in Liberia, might sweep the polls? When they argue that the previous elections won by Assad were flawed; assuming this were the case, are they not better than Saudi Arabia, the main ally of the West ruled by an unelected monarchy that rejects women and minority rights? The peace process will lead to war mongers losing their battle field puppets and arms. But if that be the will of Syrians, so be it. Owei Lakemfa is a Public Affairs Analyst. Waziri Adio is a Public Affairs Analyst.

This Christmas, and nation building

By Festus Ogun

elebrating Xmas is not all about putting on our best attire and enjoying all its merriments. Christmas is not just about cracking the bones of turkey and chicken. It is more than dancing the Shokis and Azontos of our time. Xmas is more than emptying as many bottles of beer as possible or ‘handling’ a good number of girls. This Christmas, And Nation Building -By Festus OgunPut simply, celebrating Xmas is not just about making fun out of the birth of the Messiah. It is more than that. That, which is more than, is the purpose of this piece. To the best of my knowledge, a festivity is supposed to serve as a tool for national development and integration. Let me even say that religion, whose festivities is one of its important features, is meant to be a tool for social-cum-political development. Unfortunately, in our country, neither religion nor its festivities have added any to national development. In the past years, religion festivities have been a moment of monumental disasters for many, instead of moments of joy. Bombing, armed robbery, fatal road accidents and so on occur intermittently. This is as a result of the harmful state of the economy which is caused, basically, by bad

governance. Christianity as a religion is supposed to serve as a nationbuilding tool. But in Nigeria, it is usually the other way round. The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) under the leadership of Rev. Ayo Oritsajefor, is a testimony to this fact. Sadly, many of those who claim to be Men of God in the country are purely apolitical. Many hold the view that politics is not for the ‘Holy-Ones’ rather it is for the ‘People of the World’. From the many conversations I’ve had with pastors, they claimed that building the nation was no business of theirs but the business of the politicians. One even said that he has never made mention of the name of the ‘country’ since the establishment of his church or business concern? Whichever one he calls it… It even got to the extent that some of them don’t participate in electioneering processes. They believe governance is not for ‘them’ but the ‘People of the World’ and since they are not of or for the world, they abstain from the affairs of the state. They argue that with the way and manner politics is played in the country, it will be a disgrace them to ‘involve’ themselves in it. It is an indisputable fact that politics in Nigeria is a dirty game. And these men of God, who claim to be with clean hands, would rather

not deep their hands into dirty politics. And it won’t be deemed fit for them to mingle with the dirty ones so as not to blemish their holy state as potential inheritors of the Kingdom of God. Incidentally, they have forgotten the fact that if the ‘People of the World’ are left to steer the affairs of the state, they may make obnoxious policies that won’t be of advantage to them (the Christians) and they will be left with no choice but disobeying these policies. However, when the ‘Men of God’ involve themselves in nation building, they’ll, hopefully, make decisions that will suit the interest of the entire citizenry, thereby making for a better Nigeria. But, if the view is still held that governance is not for ‘them’, they shouldn’t complain if the economy sucks, for some of us are the real cause. How? Because we give chance to the ‘wrong’ ones to be in the corridors of power by not participating. It will be very crucial to note that if we abstain from ‘governance’ and the economy is bad, it will in a way or the other affect the celebration of our festivals. In fact, it will hinder us from licking the expected milk of the season. For, if the environment is not an enabling one, how do we tend to celebrate our festivals? The Christmas Season As A

Case Study The question to the celebrating Christians is: do we ever remember our country during the course of our celebration? Though, we claim to be happy, while the nation we live in is not happy at all? Many are jubilating the birth of Christ but forget to remember the country they live in. Is it even that they forget or they pretend to forget? Whatever the case maybe, it is at the detriment of the religion and by extension the festival celebrated. The question that arises in the mind of some reader of this piece is that, how does one expect religion, which is the opium of the society, to serve as a weapon in nation building? The tool used by Christians to fight any challenge is prayer. Nigeria is not left out. Nigeria needs prayer. Prayer for peace, against bribery, corruption, bad governance and so on. The general believe is that ‘prayer changes things’, so also, prayer can change Nigeria, if we do during this season and beyond. Unfortunately, many of our Christians are too concerned about their personal issues. They only pray for themselves without remembering their country in prayer. The fact is that praying for Nigeria is one of the best way, I think, that Christians can use in contributing their quota to national development.

It is imperative to state that we can’t be praying for national development and we ourselves are not agent of change in our daily lives. As Christian who are praying for our own Jerusalem, we should also be good, patriotic and caring citizens of Nigeria. Churches should also try as much as possible, in this season, to enlighten their members on the need to be good citizens of Nigeria. This can be done by organising seminars, workshops or even emphasising it during sermons or homilies, as the case maybe. In respect of promoting national unity and integration, Christians should ensure that the fun and merriment should be spread out to others. Eating all the meals alone can’t do it all, give to your friends, family, the hungry, those from other religions, the Muslim brothers and finally to your enemy. Sharing the joy of the season to the above mentioned will also serve its purpose in nation building. As we celebrate Christmas, let us forget not our country by doing a lot of praying, and sharing which are believed to be tools for nation building. Festus Ogun is a Nigerian writer, blogger and sociopolitical commentator. He tweets @feogun.

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PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

News

Zaria killings: Communities want FG to ban shi’ites activities

From Mohammad Kaduna

Ibrahim,

fter a bloody clash between soldiers and members of Islamic Movement in Nigeria Shi’ites that left scores dead, residents of Zaria have urged the Federal Government to urgently regulate or ban members of the movement from their communities so that peace will reign in the area. According to them, Shiite for years have given them untold hardship in the area since their leader Shaikh Zakzaki relocated to the community 20 years ago. Spokesperson of the affected Zaria communities, Idris Mohammed Baba, disclosed this at a news in Kaduna state at the weekend.

He said Shiites had held people in Zaria and Sabon Gari local government areas of the state hostage with impunity and running a pararel government in the country. The communities also added that the Shiites members had in May 2015 declared 24 youths persona non grata for challenging their activities in Gyellesu community where Zakzaky resides. “We are happy over military action against Shiite’s movement in Zaria because we have fresh air now blowing in our areas. Before, we can’t grant interview to the world about Shiite’s activities, but now we are sleeping with our two eyes closed. “As a community, we wrote letters to the governments about ungodly activities of Shiites but

no single action was taken. We no longer report Shiites to police because they will never honour police or security invitation. “ These Shiites are authority unto themselves,they don’t respect authority, security and so on. We are Muslims but we discovered that, Shiites activities are contrary to Islam. They carried dangerous weapons openly molesting innocent people in our areas.Human rights should also look into our pains by Shi’at sect” he said. An Elder and resident of Gyallesu where Zakzaki residence is located, Alhaji Saidu Garba said, the once booming economic activities of their area have being crippled due to the activities of Shiite in the area. “ After, El-Zakzaky was released from detention in 1999,he came and

settled in Gyallesu since then there is no peace in our area. We thank Allah for touching the heart of government and the military for liberating us from Shiites untold hardship. “We were living like slaves in our own land which Shiite leader, Sheikh El-Zakzaky came and met us. We residents of Gyallesu are calling on the Federal government to ban Shiite movement in our community and Kaduna state as a whole. Government should put a stop to Shiite’s ungodly activities in our area “he said. The Zaria community also made available documents dated 18th May, 2015 in which the Shiites declared some youths persona non grata. The document signed by Secretary of Gyallesu Elders Forum,Mukhtar Gambo, read “We the elders are calling for our

People relaxing at Magic Land, during the Boxing Day holiday, at the weekend in Abuja

Defense minister celebrates Christmas with soldiers in Yobe

From Uche Uche, Damaturu.

o publicly announce a major defeat over Boko Haram, the Minister of Defense, Alh. Mansur Mohammed Dan Ali, alongside the Chief of Army Staff, Chief of Defense Staff, and other important dignitaries, on invitation by the leadership of the Nigerian army 3 Division tactical, Yobe, has this year celebrated Christmas, the first time ever, with soldiers in Damaturu the state capital. Speaking during the celebration, the minister commended the commitment, dedication and gallantry of the soldiers which led to the defeat and victory over insurgents and the reclaiming of territories former taken over by the

insurgents in the state. He assured the soldiers that their complaints about the challenges they are facing including their welfare would be given immediate attention, while recommending awards to the soldiers for their sacrifices that led to the victory achieved. He however advised them to stick to the military rule of engagement in order not to infringe on the privileges of law abiding citizens in their host community, warning that anyone who goes contrary to the rule would be held responsible. Earlier in his welcome address, the outgoing General Officer Commander, army 3 Division, who is also the incoming Theatre commander, Operation Lafiya

Dole, Major-General Hassan Umaru, described the celebration as a memorable day for all the soldiers in ‘Operation Lafiya Dole’ in Yobe state to celebrate Christmas with the governor, the honourable minister of defense, chief of defense, chief of army staff, and other important dignitaries In his remarks, the chief of army staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, expressed appreciation for the ministers visit saying it has given the soldiers a boost to their morals knowing the military leadership is with, and shows concern for them in the battle they are fighting against insurgency. This he said would encourage and strengthen the soldiers to carry on the war and be part of

the history making in the fight and subsequent defeat of the insurgency. In his remarks, the Chief of Defence staff, Maj.Gen. Abayomi Gabriel Olonisakin, while commending the soldiers for their efforts and sacrifices in the war against Boko Haram, he also commended the Yobe state governor for the support he is giving to the soldiers. In a short speech, the Yobe state deputy governor, Engr. Abubakar Aliyu, who represented the state governor, Alh.Ibrahim Gaidam, recalled the trauma the residents went through during the height of attacks by Boko Haram when people, using himself as one example, finds it very difficult to sleep even with one eyes closed.

children who left their homes in order to save their lives due to attacks and threat by the Shiite followers to return home”

New ICT blueprint will be out in January 2016 – Minister

he Minister of Communications, Mr Adebayo Shittu, says a new blueprint for the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) industry will be out in January 2016. In a statement obtained by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Lagos on Sunday, Shittu said that the blueprint would transform the ICT sector. He said that the blueprint would make the ICT industry a cash-cow for the economy. According to him, the new blueprint will help to transform the ICT industry into a new revenue earner for the country. ``By the grace of God, in mid January, I will be addressing the country on the blueprint for ICT development in the country. ``We have been receiving a lot of inputs from stakeholders across the country and from Nigerians in the diaspora; some of which will form part of the details of the blueprint. ``We have set up two days to do a retreat in Kaduna State in January after which the blueprint will be out. ``Certainly, what you should be assured of is that you have a new minister who is passionate about development. ``A new minister who does things the way they should be done, with a view to developing optimally the sector to generate a lot of employment in the economy,’’ he said. The minister said that the planned ICT blueprint would bring about training and retraining of major experts and consequently, generate more revenue for Nigeria. According to him, government wants to put an end to the dependence on oil, even with the dwindling resources coming through oil. He gave stakeholders assurances that government would continue to encourage local investment in the ICT sector to enhance growth of the sector. Shittu also said that a committee, whose membership would comprise public and private sector stakeholders, would be set up to advice government on critical ICT issues that bordered on national development. He said that the ministry would ensure policy continuity and that the National Broadband Policy would be considered among other issues as part of the new blueprint. (NAN)

PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

PAGE 15

Lafia Airport: Maku spoke out of ignorance, malice – Mallam Abdulkarim By Ali Abare Abubakar

allam Abdulkarim Muhammad Abdullahi, Executive Chairman of the Nasarawa State Universal Basic Education Board (NSUBEB) has described comments by former Minister of Information, Mr. Labaran Maku asking Governor Umaru Tanko Al-makura to stop work on the ongoing Lafia cargo airport as the height of ignorance and malice. Mallam Abdulkarim stated this yesterday in a chat with our reporter, chastising the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) guber candidate during the 2015 general election for elevating sentiments above common sense. He maintained that Maku should have consulted wisely before shooting off his mouth needlessly on a matter that should be a pride to every well meaning citizen of the state, reiterating that funds for the Lafia cargo airport is not wholly sourced from the state but that foreign investors are injecting more than 70 percent of the N17 bn earmarked for the project. “What Maku said was entirely his personal opinion and he’s entitled to such opinion particularly under this new dispensation. People are free to express their opinion unlike in the past. “The funding for the airport project is not entirely from the state that is why when people just go into issues on the basis of sentiments, they completely lose the track of the essence of what an enlightened debate should be. “What Maku said is a pity because Al-makura is not using the state’s fund but investors’ money. Is he saying the governor should reject the opportunity to develop the state or that after agreeing terms with the investors, Al-makura should divert the funds to other

ventures? “The Lafia cargo airport will definitely open up the state for great opportunities, especially now that agriculture is taking its right place. Our proximity to the FCT in the nearest future will turn out to be our cash cow and this airport will serve as alternative to the Abuja airport. “It will provide employment opportunities to our people as well as generate revenue for us. “Unlike what Maku was suggesting, an airstrip for dignitaries, Al-makura’s vision for the Lafia cargo airport is for widening and reaping the potentials of the rural farmers who will now have access to international markets” Mallam Abdulkarim said.

Maku reportedly advised Governor Tanko Al-makura against building the N17 billion airport in Lafia, stressing that instead of building the airport, the governor should provide other infrastructure that would spread across the state. The former minister was said to have offered the advice while speaking with newsmen yesterday in his country home in Wakama, Akun Development Area, adding that the amount could be used to provide other infrastructure for the people to provide them job opportunities, fight poverty and boost their living standard. Mallam Abdulkaim however noted that Maku cannot share the same space with Governor

Al-makura in terms of social responsibility as according to him, ”the value orientation is not the same. While Al-makura is wooing investors into the state, Maku and there likes are busy exporting the country’s wealth to create employment in foreign countries.” While decrying the open theft of the nation’s resources under the past administration in which Maku served as minister, the NSUBEB chairman lamented that with the unfolding revelations regarding the squirreling of huge sums of money meant for the purchase of arms, “such amount would have gone a long way to provide the infrastructure he mentioned.”

L-R: National Chairman, All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief John Odigie Oyegun with a Member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Suleiman Yahaya Kwande, during the APC Chairman visit to National Assembly, recently in Abuja. Photo: Mahmud Isa

We restored dignity of legislature in Katsina-Speaker From Lawal Sa’idu Funtua, Katsina

peaker of Katsina State House of Assembly, Alhaji Aliyu Sabi’u Muduru has stressed that the present crop of members of the assembly have restored the dignity of the House. Speaking with newsmen yesterday in Katsina, Muduru noted that the image of the House in the past has suffered serious damages due to lack of respect for the House rules and due process.

He said “if you look at the presentation of budget to the House by the state Governor, Alhaji Aminu Bello Masari we make sure only those constitutionally recognized seat on the floor of the House. But in the past people who have no business were allowed to sit on the floor of the House”. Muduru stated that the assembly would ensure quick passage of the budget to allow the government embarks on policies and programmes that would change the lives of the people of

the state. He therefore called on ministries, agencies and departments in the state to prepare quickly for the defence of their budget estimates, adding that all their estimates would be properly scrutinized. The speaker added that within the last six month the House has passed landmark resolutions that touched on the lives of people of the state and support government to quickly hit the ground. Speaking on his Mani Local

Government Constituency, Muduru said he has executed various programmes to support rural communities in the area which he said include the purchased of a land worth N1.5 million for the expansion of graveyard in Jani town. Similarly the speaker added that he has purchased vehicles for various religious groups in the area, purchased ambulances for some health centres, supports students with JAMB forms among others.

Gov Yari violated 2015 budget, group alleges From Ibrahim Sidi Muh’d, Gusau

he Zamfara state Budget Working Group (BWG) has challenged Governor Abdulaziz Yari Abubakar over what it described as non-compliance to the appropriate policy been signed into law by the State House of Assembly on the strict management of the 2015, 92 billion naira budget and the delay for the presentation of the 2016 Appropriation Bill as well. This observation was made known by the Vice Chairman of the BWG, Malam Rabi’u Sambo during a press conference organised by the group in Gusau, the state capital over the weekend, stressing that the style of managing the 2015 budget by the state government was full of violations of the law and total breach of confidence conferred in by the good people of the state. Sambo, who largely hammered on the act of delay for the presentation of the 2016 budget by Governor Yari as eventually witnessed by many states challenged that the Sub-head (7) of the approved 2015 budget has stressed the utilisation of 2 billion naira being provision for General Schools Renovations across the state, but he alleged that only the renovations of three secondary schools have unbelievably engulfed the whooping sum of 7 billion naira. “The entire people and all other concerned organisations and individuals should be told on how it was made that the proposed two billion naira for renovations of education structures across the state was encased by spending up to 7 billion naira for just three secondary schools in Gusau, Bungudu and Talata Mafara local government areas”, Sambo challenged. He further alleged that numerous projects being executed by the administration of Abdulaziz Yari in terms of road constructions and town planning as well as some in education were not clearly captured in the 2015 budget, thereby creating the need for convincing explanation on the level of budget implementation for the consumption of the downtrodden in the state before presentation of the awaiting 2016 budget. According to him, the negative impact of non implementation of the last year’s budget has led to the collapse of the state public service, “The group observed that, the award of contracts has been shifted to the state Government House, even ministries like that of Works and Education were only left with nothing but projects supervisions. Continued on page 16

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PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

Politics

The rise and fall of NSTV Minna, how past Info Commissioners fared Analysis

From Minna

Yakubu

Mustapha,

he Niger State Television, NSTV Minna Channel 25 UHF idea for establishment was muted during the administration of Engineer Abdulkadir Abdullahi Kure but could not see the light of the day despite contact being awarded and equipment supplied at the eve of that government. The administration of Governor Muazu Babangida Aliyu took the bull by the horns to actualize the dream several times with lots of deliberate hurdles despite release of funds by former governor Aliyu but successive commissioners took the advantage of Aliyu’s passion for publicity to mismanage the funds released to them. If the present administration under the leadership of Abubakar Sani Bello with Mr Jonathan Tsado Vatsa as Commissioner of Information, Tourism and Culture must get it right this time then it must copy from the then Alhaji Umar Danladi Abdulhamid ways of dealing with those civil servants who are fully prepared to throw in spanners in the works as they did successive commissioners. Notwithstanding, the establishment of NSTV in 2012 fully owned and managed by the Niger State government as its media outfit aimed at propagating the state policies and programs is begging for an urgent attention for revival. Investigation revealed that the immediate past government of Dr Muazu Babangida Aliyu expended over N400 million for the establishment of the television station that couldn’t operate for consecutive seven months without breakdown. The problem according to findings was due to poor set up that has continued to affect the station to stand the taste of time compared to what is obtainable in our sister states of Nassarawa, Kebbi, Kwara and Kogi States who were more effective and efficient in managing their media outfits. Consequently, the immediate past administration of Governor Muazu Babangida Aliyu awarded contract earmarked for NSTV project worth N400 million which includes building, supply of equipments, training and project vehicle but only building was constructed whilethe Hilux vehicle was nowhere to be found under a professional, Commissioner Alhaji Baba Barau when he left the state as Commissioner for Information. Moreover, Babangida Aliyu’s desperation to actualize the

dream brought in someone who always wanted to succeed where many had failed, Alhaji Umar Danladi Abdulhamid emerged commissioner of Information, Communication and Strategies who stood firm against every hurdle. Abdulhamid, in a bid to excel, shun those tendencies frustrating the actualization of the station while he approached an expert in Lagos, a retired NTA staff who succeeded in bringing up the station to come up on air. He also constructed the road leading to the station as well as the electrification project and furniture. He took the station like his baby even after he had left the Ministry of Information to that of Ministry of Education, the cabals saw him as a threat but the workers still celebrate him as a hero of their term for taking it upon himself to ensure positive results despite abuses he received from the alleged cabals. Another commissioner was brought in to consolidate on Abdulhamid’s stride who was adjudged to be the engineroom of the past administration, Professor Mohammed Yahaya Kuta who also succeeded in revamping and renovation of the state owned print media the Newsline Newspaper to a befitting standard. But however failed to construct parameter fencing round NSTV despite report of alleged millions of naira released to that effect the station is without fence and may soon experienced encroachment on its land. Reports revealed that in 2014 budget, the sum of N80 million was earmarked for the parameter fencing of the entire landscape but was allegedly carted away leaving the station and its staff unsecured till date. Unfortunately, the station has no functional vehicle even the only Corolla car procured on hire purchase by the management is presently broken down while

Niger State Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Mr Jonathan Vatsa the Star times subscription has packed up since July, 2015 and completely off the air for the past 8 months now just as the present administration’s approval of over a million naira for over two months has not scaled through. This is coupled with the operational staff of the station that were not adequately trained in the basic norms of television knowledge for effective and efficient service delivery including those handling studio equipments that led to the total breakdown of the entire system according to report. The station that has begun its transmission on a sound footing suddenly turned out to be a shadow of itself, with a reliable source saying that when the station mast fell down without

“

paying attention for its repairs after the crack on the mast site manifested for several months. It was reliably gathered that the mast was sold out to a businessman instead of repairs, therefore the station as at moment has no mast, and government has been advised to do something positive about the issues to avoid the repeat of the past retrogression. Investigation further revealed that apart from equipment challenges there is also the problem of poor construction of the building in which if no urgent action is taken the consequences will be more devastating because of continuous decay of those equipments. There are lots of misplaced

This is the era of a new dawn with the change mantra as well as the apostle of change, Mr Jonathan Tsado Vatsa in charge of Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism, with observers keeping eyes on him to find out if he was merely talking to get into power so as to be counted among the rich too

priority and the station needs a total restructuring so as to inject into the system professionals while those whose services were not required should be redeployed to where they will be relevant. One of the best opportunity for NSTV was when Mallam Danlami Ndayebo emerged as the Commissioner of Information, Communication and Strategies who has the zeal, charisma to upgrade the station to digital as well modernize the Niger State Television, Minna but couldn’t due to the dwindling oil revenue from the federation allocation as at then and that the administration was busy counting months to leave office. Ndayebo another professional who assumed office with optimism was handicapped throughout the little period he spent as a commissioner which many observers described as a right decision at a wrong period because he couldn’t perform to the best of his ability due to lack of funds up to the end of the immediate past government that up till date Nigerians are still suffering because of it. What obtains presently is killing the morale of workers while government will continue to pay salary without commensurate work. Being part of corruption, pundits are of the opinion that the change mantra under the APC might not be agrreable such idea of not working but rushing to the bank at the end of the month to get payment without justification. Several of such workers in the Niger state civil service only smile to banks monthly without commensurate work, with analysts agreeing that such need to be checked or shown the way out of service or be made to work either in their present offices or to be transferred to where they will be relevant. This is the era of a new dawn with the change mantra as well as the apostle of change, Mr Jonathan Tsado Vatsa in charge of Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism, with observers keeping eyes on him to find out if he was merely talking to get into power so as to be counted among the rich too. The question observers are asking presently is whether Vatsa, an architect who has been calling for change even when there was no need, can really bring any difference to bear at all especially as it concerns his ministry or even depart from the culture when workers smile to the bank without paying their dues. Again, many are of the view that Vatsa must be prepared to look inward and outside the present system so as to tap into better ways of getting better result in all ramifications.

PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

PAGE 17

Politics

PDP members must always respect party’s position – Adeyanju From Ayodele Samuel, Lagos

he Social Media Director of the Peoples Democratic Party, Mr. Adeyanju Adedeji, has urged politicians elected on the platform of the PDP to always stand by the position of the party. Adeyanju said it is important for the party to stand united as the face of opposition and alternative to the All Progressives Congress, noting that it is indiscipline and lack of respect for members to express different view from the official position of the party. “The other day, two senators elected on the platform of the party were singing the praises of Buhari over the budget presentation. A budget that failed to meet the expectations of Nigerians, address core issues of the economy, unemployment and insecurity; an unrealistic budget, and a budget that has been termed a fraud by our great party, the PDP, but only for our elected senators to take a disparagingly different view from the official position of the party and turn around to praise the president. Will a Republican or Labor party senator in the United States of America or United Kingdom disagree with the official position of his party on a fundamental issue such as this and make it public? The answer is never,” he noted. He urged members of the PDP, especially lawmakers not to be afraid of victimization and political witch-hunt by the Buhariled government, stressing that they should take strength from Ekiti state governor, Ayodele Fayose, former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-kayode and the Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Olisa Metuh, who are relentless in pointing out the ills of the APC government. “No elected member of the PDP should publicly go against the official position of the party because this is the worst form of indiscipline a politician can demonstrate. Since independent candidacy is not recognized in our constitution, political parties are the vehicles by which many aspirants ride to power and as such these politicians cannot continue to deride the platform on which they got to power. I therefore urge the leadership of PDP, to henceforth, sound a clear note of warning to every elected member of our party never to go against the official position of the party and be ready to take disciplinary measures against anyone that flouts this warning. Political parties cannot be administered without party discipline,” he added.

L-R: Member House of Representatives, Hon. Goni Bukar Lawan, Senator Solomon Adeola, Leader of the House of Representatives, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila and Hon. Segun Odebunmi, during after the plenary, at the National Assembly, recently in Abuja. Photo: Mahmud Isa

Atiku warns politicians against causing distrust with Buhari By Umar Muhammad Puma

ormer Vice President and chieftain of All Progressives Congress (APC) Atiku Abubakar has advised political mischief makers to allow him enjoy his peace and desist from sinister propaganda designed to draw a wedge between him and President Muhammadu Buhari, in order to cause needless distrust and distractions in the President’s government. Reacting to insinuations by what he called “political mischief makers and enemies of unity”, who alleged that he has been hosting political meetings at Burj Al-Arab, Dubai, the former Vice President said contrary to the rumours being bandied around by political opponents, he is currently in Dubai with his family for physiotherapy on his injured knee.

A press statement released by his media office in Abuja yester, signed by his Media Adviser, Mazi Paul Ibe said the former Vice President is embarrassed by the deliberate falsehoods being spread against him by political opponents who are bent on causing distraction for President Buhari at a time all energies should be channeled into helping the President actualise his change agenda. Describing rumour mongers as “ill-motivated busybodies that don’t wish the country well”, the Turakin Adamawa explained that his medical treatment is his private affairs, which should not be politicised by anybody to achieve sinister objectives. Atiku Abubakar said he is entitled to enjoy his private life, including the right to attend to his health, without being harassed and lied against by political

opponents. Contrary to the insinuations by political opponents, the former Vice President said the success of the Buhari administration has been his preoccupation, and that any true APC member should have the same zeal. According to him, rumour mongers that seek to cause distrust and distraction in Buhari’s government do not mean well for the APC administration. The former Vice President said with the challenges of providing good governance for the country and creating job opportunities for Nigerians, including reducing the impact of poverty, President Buhari needs all the goodwill and support in this endeavour. “Whether at home or abroad, the Turaki is preoccupied with his unassailable support to President Buhari and his administration, especially in this critical time,

as it works assiduously to turn the fortunes of our dear country around and make Nigeria work for the greater good of Nigerians”. According to Atiku, rumour mongers and mischief makers are toxic to the progress of the APC and the country at large, adding that the campaigns are gone, and therefore, all energies should be constructively devoted to the success of the Buhari administration. “This is yet another plot of the enemies of our country and democracy to divide, divert attention and distract the APC in its avowed commitment to secure the country, provide jobs for the mass of unemployed youths, build needed critical infrastructure, enthrone a regime of probity and accountability and pull the country out of the economic woods it has been consigned to by locust years of mismanagement.”

Kogi guber: Why we’re in tribunal APGA candidate From Ahmad Ibrahim, Lokoja

he governorship candidate of the All Progressive Grand Alliance in Kogi State, Comrade Goodman Akwu has expressed confidence that the “charade” recently organised by the electoral umpire in the state would not stand the test of time. Speaking to newsmen in Lokoja shortly after filing his petition before the state governorship election tribunal, Comrade Akwu said they are in

court to get justice in view of what happened during the recently held gubernatorial poll. He alleged that the Independent National Electoral Commission, rather than being an unbiased umpire, handed over power to a wrong person, adding that this unconstitutional act would surely be upturned at the appropriate time. He further pointed out that following the sad incident that led to the demise of the candidate of the All Progressives Congress,

late Prince Abubakar Audu, INEC ought to have cancelled the entire process, rather than handing over power to an “outsider” under the guise of an election. According to Comrade Akwu, the late Prince Audu had gone to the grave with his votes, saying the “smuggling of Alhaji Yahaya Bello through the back door” as the winner of the process would surely fall like badly arranged pack of cards. He maintained that he strongly believed that the right

thing would be done, more so that the judiciary is the last hope of the common man, insisting that a fresh governorship poll should be conducted to enable the electorates to freely vote for the candidate of the choice. The governorship candidate stressed that the era of dishing out political judgement was over, as the current change mantra in the country is holistic, pointing out that those learned in law would ensure that the right thing is done accordingly.

PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

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Politics

Fayose urges Nigerians to pray for Buhari, wants Lai Mohammed relocates to Borno or Yobe By Doyin Ojosipe

R-L: Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode; Alhaji Femi Okunnu and Asoju Oba of Lagos, Chief Adebutu Kessington, during the Yoruba Tennis Club Christmas Eve Dance 2015 at the Club Hall, Onikan on Thursday in Lagos.

No amount of mischief, blackmail can distract us – Adamawa Gov, Bindow From Umar Dankano, Yola

damawa State Governor, Muhammadu Umaru Jibrilla Bindow has vowed not to be distracted by the insults and the hatchet job of disaffection being sponsor by mischief makers against his administration. Bindow said that his commitment to work and refusal to share money to individuals and politicians who he alleged are used to that kind of trade was the rationale behind attacking his government by some few selfish politicians.

Bindow fired the salvo at Government House Yola weekend during the usual Christmas and Boxing Day homage by the traditional rulers and stakeholders saying that no amount of blackmail can divert his administration’s focus in providing meaningful projects to the electorate in the state. “You can see that in spite of all the work we are doing some people are still insulting us. “Our sins according to these people are two; the first is that we are working and they are not happy with that. Number two is that we refused to share money as was the practice in the past.

“State money is for the people and no amount of insult or blackmail will change our position to use the people’s money for the people.” Jibrilla said. He urged for support and prayers of the people of Adamawa to the APC led government in the state and federal levels to succeed in its change agenda. The governor lauded the support and cooperation of traditional and religious leaders to the administration and urged them to sustain their role of promoting peace, unity and tolerance in the society. In their respective responses,

the traditional rulers who included Lamido of Adamawa, Alhaji Barkindo Mustapha, Emir of Mubi, Alhaji Abukakar Isa, Hama Bachama, Mr Honest Irimiya, Murum Mbula, Mr Joram Fwa, Hama Bata, Mr Alhamdu Teneke and Gangwari Ganye, Alhaji Umaru Adamu lauded the government development effort and assured him of the traditional council support. They urged him to continue to remain patience in the face of the challenges and concentrate on his work as the majority of the people of Adamawa were solidly behind him.

Yelutide: Electorates berate Adamawa politicians for negligence From Umar Dankano, Yola

he electorates in Adamawa have berated elected politicians in the state for not identifying with their constituencies in the festive periods of Christmas and EidMaulud. A cross section of the electorates who spoke to newsmen in Adamawa on the celebrations said they were disappointed with the politicians for failing to show concern as was the practice before during such festive periods. “No donation of rice and cows to groups and associations including the underprivileged as was the case before. “ In fact, even Internally

Displaced Persons (IDPs) are complaining that they did not see flowing donations from politicians as experienced before the general election”, Mr Zamdai Ali said. Jessica Paul, Usman Buba, James Titus, Ibrahim Loko and Baba Yakubu said the politicians did not performed this time around as expected. They claimed that they only received a text message wishing them happy celebrations from former a former House of Representatives member, Hajiya Aishatu Ahmed Binani of Peoples Democratic Movement (PDM) who contested for Adamawa Central Senatorial District but lost to APC candidate, Sen AbdulAziz Nyako.

“ I am impressed by the woman concern; in spite of losing the election, her campaign organization known as Binani Ambassadors still remember to keep in touch with the electorates”, Paul said. Paul noted that Binani had proved herself as a lady of the people by relating with them whenever the need arise and also by keeping her promise of providing ambulances for conveying corpses to Christian and Muslim groups in the state. “She gave the Muslims their ambulance before election and went ahead to give the Christian their ambulance after the election in which she was even defeated. She set a good example by keeping her promise despite

the defeat. “She is the type of politicians we want; she represents the type of change we are yearning for, and not the present crop who we elected because of Buhari and they are now running away from us”, Paul said. Baba Yakubu on his part cautioned the politicians particularly those that rode on Buhari’s change to emerge that they have been exposed for what they were and would be rejected in next election if they fail to change. “They are just moving around arrogantly snubbing people that elected them and pretending to be too busy while we are yet to see result from them in terms of quality representation.” Baba lamented.

kiti State Governor, Mr Ayodele Fayose has called on Nigerians to pray specially for President Muhammadu Buhari; saying; “The President needs God to give him the necessary wisdom to be able to find solution to the country’s economic and security problems.” The governor also challenged the Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed to relocate to Sambisa in Borno State or Yobe and move around there without heavy military security if indeed he was sure that Boko Haram had been defeated. Speaking through his Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media, Lere Olayinka, Governor Fayose said, “Only God’s intervention can save Nigeria from the present economic and security problems as it is glaring that the man running the affairs of the country at the federal level does not have any answer to the problems.” He said, “Even the Holy Bible said in James 1:5 that if anyone lacks wisdom, he should ask God and as it is, Nigerians must assist the President in asking for wisdom and understanding to tackle the country’s economic and security problems before Nigeria is further plunged into more woes with the federal government’s decision to borrow N2.2 Trillion, which translates to N6.066 billion per day to finance the 2016 Budget.” He described the Federal Government’s announced reduction of petrol pump price from N87 to N85 per litre as a continuation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) government’s governance by deceit, saying, “Even secondary school students of economics know that you cannot deregulate and regulate at the same time.” Governor Fayose, who maintained that petrol will not sell below N100 per litre in 2016, added that; “Even now that the price is N87 and subsidy is yet to be removed, Nigerians are buying at between N130 and N300 per litre. What will now happen when they remove subsidy and allow market forces to determine the price?” The governor described claimed by the Information Minister that Boko Haram insurgents had been defeated as strange, saying; “Nigerians will only take the minister serious if he relocates to either Sambisa in Borno State or Yobe State and stay there till the end of March, next year without heavy military security.”

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PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

NCAA urges airlines to pay over N6bn TSC debts

From Suleiman Idris, Lagos

he Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) yesterday urges domestic airlines to remit over N6 billion been the 5% Ticket, Charter and Cargo Sales Charges the airlines received from passengers on behalf of the regulatory agencies. The agency by virtue of the Civil Aviation Act 2006, is mandated to receive from operating airlines a 5% sales charge on all tickets

originating from Nigeria, cargo operations and charter/contract flights. The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET), Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB) and the Nigeria College of Aviation Technology (NCAT) and NCAA in turn split the money as contained in the Civil Aviation Act of 2006. An electronic mail by the General Manager Public Relations of NCAA, Sam Adurogboye stated that ”The Authority notice with

serious concern the huge debts of airlines as a result of failure to settle promptly invoices as at when due.” He explained that it “poses serious financial challenges to the various Parastatals that benefit from the 5% Ticket, Charter and Cargo Sales Charges.” “Consequently, the Authority would be pleased to see that the Airlines put plans in place towards the full liquidation of all outstanding indebtedness. The settlement of those debts

will go a long way in assisting Authority fulfill its statutory obligations to the Country and the world at large.” The authority further wished all Airline Operators and all aviation stakeholders a happy Christmas celebration and a prosperous new year in advance expressing joy for safe operations and urging improvement in that area. “We thanked God for a safe operation in the outgoing year

and we looked forward to a safe and secured operation in the coming years. Safety is a collective responsibility and we appreciate the cooperation from all stake holders, particularly the airlines towards the safe operations in the outgoing year.” “It is pertinent to point out that the Authority is fully committed to strict enforcement of compliance to safety Regulations in order to engender safe operations at all times.”

Business activities resumed, after Maulud and Christmas, yesterday in Mararaba Nasarawa state.

Photo: Mahmud Isa

Association lauds CBN new guidelines on loans for SMEs

he Executive Secretary, Nigerian Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (NASME), Mr Eke Ubiji has lauded the proposal of CBN to take education certificates of promoters of startups as collaterals to access loans. Ubiji told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Sunday that inclusion of startups in the revised Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Fund (MSMEDF)

Guidelines would reduce the level of unemployment among the youths. The CBN launched the MSMEDF with seed capital of N220 billion on August 15, 2013 to bridge the huge financing gap in the MSME sub-sector. Initially only existing businesses had access to these loans, but the revised guidelines made provisions for Participating Financial Institutions (PFIs) to fund startups with BVNs. “Collateral for startups shall

be educational certificates which may include; SSCE, National Diploma (ND), National Certificate of Education (NCE), National Business and Technical Examination Board (NABTEB). “Others are Higher National Diploma (HND), University degree (NYSC Certificate if any) alongside guarantor, “It is a positive development that will drive entrepreneurial zeal among many aspiring youths who are incapacitated from pursuing their dreams

because of lack of funds. “Due to limited revenue or high interest rate, most of these small scale operations are not sustainable in the long-term without additional funding. “I believe that the high unemployment rate in the country coupled with complaints from SME operators necessitated the apex bank to review the guidelines for accessing the intervention fund,”he said. ubaji urged startups to undergo intensive capacity

building programmes with the aim of acquiring skills in accounting, managing human and material resources. According to him, the training will instill in them the prerequisite skills to guarantee their survival in the business world. Ubaji said that the CBN’s reviewed guidelines would translate to poverty alleviation, job creation, economic growth and development in the country. (NAN)

Page 20

Money Market

PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

GTB appoints Akpofure Director

Stories from Ngozi Onyeakusi, Lagos

uaranty Trust Bank Plc has announced the appointment of Ms. Imoni Akpofure as an independent director. According to the lender, Akpofure holds a Bachelor of Engineering (B.Eng Honors)

degree in Civil Engineering (1988) from the Imperial College, University of London, United Kingdom, a Masters of Science Degree (M.Sc) in Environmental Engineering (1989) from the Newcastle University, United Kingdom. She also obtained an MBA from the INSEAD, France. It added that she is a seasoned professional with over eighteen

(18) years work experience in the financial industry, having worked with International Finance Corporation from 1995 till 2013, where she rose through the ranks to become the Director, Western Europe, a position she held from 2009 till her retirement in 2013. Akpofure serves as member of several other boards, both

locally and internationally, including as Member, Investment Committee, Fund for Agricultural Finance in Nigeria (FAFIN), Member, the Advisory Board, KINA Advisory Limited, United Kingdom and is currently one of the two (2) Regional Directors for Africa of CDC Group Plc (formerly Commonwealth Development

Corporation), working with CDC’s investment teams in London to support investments in Anglophone and Francophone West Africa and Lusophone Africa. Davies Okeowo, CEO of Redbrooks Consulting, beat three other finalists to win the prize money of five million naira and a Ford coSport.

Naira currencies

Heritage Bank lends hand to SMEs

eritage Bank Limited has pledged commitment to the development and sustenance of small and medium scale enterprises (SMEs) as a major plank to address youth employment in Nigeria. The assurance was given by the Managing Director, Mr. Ife Sekibo at the final of the Next Titans, a Proudly Nigerian Entrepreneurial Reality Television show by FICOMMS International.

According to him, the support for SMEs was in with line with the bank’s mission to create, preserve and transfer wealth across generations. “This is the reason why from inception, Heritage Bank decided to rise up to the occasion and made a commitment to helping young people and young businesses to realise their dreams and goals by partnering with its customers, inclusive of young people and SMEs to create,

preserve and transfer wealth across generations”, he said. He further stated that the bank’s participation in the Next Titans TV Reality contest as lead sponsor is to reinforce its promise of supporting the sector and fight unemployment in the country. He highlighted various efforts the bank has put in place to strengthen entrepreurship development in the country to include its agreement with the

National Youth Service Scheme, NYSC, which led to the setting aside of N200 million young graduates with brilliant and feasible business ideas. Other SMEs support from the bank include the establishment of the Paris Klub Scheme which is a platform to cultivate real partnership with Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, MSMEs. Membership of the club gives access to loan support through the

Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN’s Single Digit Loan Fund. It also facilitates business mentoring programmes through seminars, workshops and talk shows. Earlier in his remarks, the Executive Producer, Next Titans, Mr. Mide Akinlaja commended the bank for the good gesture. “We greatly appreciate the bank for its passion in igniting entrepreneurial spirit of young talented Nigerians.

PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

Page 21

Capital Market

NSE: Investors hail returns on Equity Stories from Ngozi Onyeakusi, Lagos

ransaction at the nation’s capital market last week ended on a bullish trend as the market indicators closed high. Specifically, the NSE AllShare Index appreciated by 1.26% to close at 26,871.24 basis points from 26,537.36 basis points it opened with while the Market Capitalization of listed equities as well increased by 1.26% to close at N9.238 trillion from N9.124 trillion recorded the previous week. Similarly, all other Indices finished higher during the week, with the exception of NSE Insurance and NSE Consumer Goods Indices that depreciated by 1.02% and 0.44% respectively, while the NSE ASeM Index closed flat. The NSE All Share Index increased by 333.88 basis points to 26871.24 points from 26537.36 recorded the previous week. NSE Premium Index increased by 16.67 per cent to 1,440.23 points, NSE Main Board Index grew by 16.45 per cent to 1277.07 points, NSE 30 Index went up by 15.04

to 1209.07 points, NSE Banking Index 0.75 kobo to 266.40 points, NSE Oil/ Gas Index rose 24.00 to 327.13 points, NSE Lotus II 23.86 to 1904.23, NSE Industrial Goods Index 61.71 to 2048.42 and NSE Pension Index 9.14 to 795.22 points. Meanwhile it was a threeday trading week as the Federal Government of Nigeria declared Thursday 24th and Friday 25th of December, 2015 as Public Holiday in commemoration of the Eid-el-Maulud and Christmas Celebration respectively. Review of activity in the market showed that a turnover of 743.117 million shares worth N6.591 billion in 8,325 deals were traded by investors in contrast to a total of 1.457 billion shares valued at N13.803 billion that exchanged hands last week in 13,648 deals. The Financial Services Industry (measured by volume) led the activity chart with 652.872 million shares valued at N3.583 billion traded in 5,226 deals; thus contributing 87.86% and 54.36% to the total equity turnover volume and value respectively. The Consumer Goods Industry followed with 30,540

million shares worth N2,080 billion in 1,332 deals. The third place was occupied by the Conglomerates Industry with a turnover of 29.052 million shares worth N154.209 million in 483 deals. Trading in the Top Three Equities namely – Wema Bank Plc, Guaranty Trust Bank Plc and FBN Holdings Plc. (measured by volume) accounted for 335.820 million shares worth N2.159 billion in 1,516 deals contributing 45.19% and 32.76% to the total equity turnover volume and value respectively. Twentysix (26) equities appreciated in price during the week, lower than Twenty-seven (27) equities of the preceding week. Twenty-seven (27) equities depreciated in price, lower than Forty-one (41 equities of the previous week, while one hundred and thirty-seven (137)

equities remained unchanged, higher than one hundred and twenty-two (122) equities recorded in the preceding week. Unity Bank Plc led gainers table for the week, increasing by 28.77 per cent or N0.12 kobo to close at N0.94 kobo, Skye Bank followed with a gain of 18.70 per cent or N0.23 kobo to close at N1.46 kobo while Entranzact increased by 14.70 per cent or N0.14 kobo to close at N3.20 kobo. Other companies appreciated in price were Mobil Oil 13.64 per cent, Forte Oil 12.81 per cent, May & Baker 9.85 per cent, Honey Flour Mills Nigeria Plc 7.85 per cent, UAC of Nigeria Plc 6.11 per cent, NAHcO 5.87 per cent and lafarge Wapco 5.22 per cent. PZ Industries topped losers chart, shedding 7.18 per cent or N2.08 kobo to close at N26.50 kobo, Fidson Healthcare trailed

with a losd of 6.72 per cent or N0.18 kobo to close at N2.50 kobo, Avon Crown declined by 4.61 per cent or N0.07 kobo to close at N1.45 kobo. Other firms that recorded price depreciation include Continental Reinsurance 4.59 per cent, Port Land Paints and Products 4.47 per cent, Tiger Brands Consumer goods 4.07 per cent, Learn Africa 3.90 per cent, FCMB group 3.85 per cent, NEM Insurance 2.58 per cenT and Skye Bank 2.70 per cent. Also traded during the week were a total of 721 units of Exchange Traded Products (ETPs) valued at N250,859.50 executed in 19 deals, compared with a total of 6,372 units valued at N445,625.60 transacted last week in 32 deals. There was no transaction recorded on bonds this week, same as last week.

Oando Acquires $13.7 Million Worth Minority Shares in Canadian Subsidiary

ando Plc has announced its acquisition of minority shares of its Canadian listed subsidiary, Oando Energy Resources (OER). Oando said the deal worth about US$13.7 million with the equity value for the company put at US$955.3 million “The Consideration represents a 177.2% premium to the 20-day volume weighted average price of the Common Shares on the Toronto Stock Exchange for the period ending December 21, 2015, using the Bank of Canada US$ to CDN$ closing exchange rate of 1.3965 on December 21, 2015. The transaction provides total consideration to holders of Minority Shares of approximately

US$13.7 million and implies an equity value for the Company of approximately US$955.3 million,” the release stated. “The Board of Directors of OER has unanimously (with Messrs. Tinubu and Boyo abstaining) determined that the Plan of Arrangement is fair to shareholders (excluding Oando Plc and the Institutional Shareholders) and it would be in the best interests of the company to enter into the Arrangement Agreement.” According to the company, the determination of the board was made upon the recommendation of a special committee of independent directors, and after consideration of the advice of legal and financial advisors to the Independent Committee and the Company.

Reed resigns from AXA Mansard as Director

he board of Directors of AXA Mansard Insurance has approved the resignation of Mr. Matthew Reed from the Board as a non-Executive Director. This is contained in a notice to the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) and signed by the Company Secretary, Omowunmi Mabel Adewusi and its Chief Executive officer Yetunde Ilori . The Board unanimously gave the approval at the 64th Annual general Meeting also approved approved the appointment of Mr. Jad Ariss as a Non-Executive Director subject to regulatory approval by National Insurance

Commission (NAICOM). Jad Ariss has been Chief Executive Officer for Middle East, Gulf and Africa at AXA Group since September 2015. He work as the Chief Operating Officer at Axa France and served as the Chief Executive Officer of AXA Enterprises and deputy Chief Executive Officer of AXA France. He joined the company in 1991 as Chief Financial Officer of AXA Global Risks and been with the AXA Group for almost 25 years. He also serves as a Director at L-A Finances SA. He served as a Director at Paris Re Holdings Ltd. since October 22, 2004.

NSE

SEC commences Direct Cash Settlement 2016

he Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has affirmed implementation of Direct Cash Settlement come January 2016. The Commission disclosed in a notice it posted on its official website that the Direct Cash Settlement (DCS) is a process where cash proceeds from trades executed by Brokers on the Exchange settles directly into investors’ bank account. According to the commission DCS was aimed at improving

transparency, entrenching investor confidence, reducing market infractions and improving trading velocity. The notice added that based on an agreement reached with the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS) PLC, Association of Stockbroking Houses of Nigeria (ASHON) and Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS) Plc, Dealing Firms are hereby directed to send relevant information to NIBSS not later than Wednesday,

December 30, 2015 to enable the Firms log-on to NIBSS portal for validation of Bank Verification Numbers (BVN). SEC further said that all investors are expected to complete a Direct Cash Settlement form with their Stockbroking Firms. Forms could also be downloaded from the website of SEC, NSE, CSCS, ASHON and individual Stockbroking Firms and forwarded to investors’ respective Stockbroking Firms after completion.

Page 22

PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

Business AFAN tasks CBN on judicious use of the N300bn agric loan A

former Chairman, All Farmers Association of Nigerian (AFAN), Delta Branch, Mr Jerry Ossai has called for transparent implementation of the proposed CBN N300 billion loans to agriculture in 2016. Ossai, a commercial farmer, made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigerian

(NAN) in Asaba on Sunday. He advised that the apex bank should ensure that only genuine farmers would access the loan, stressing that the fund would yield the desired results if only genuine farmers accessed it. He lauded the CBN and the partnering banks for floating the loans, adding that the five

per cent interest rate as well as the five years repayment were encouraging. The commercial farmer, however, called on the apex bank to give the beneficiaries between six and 12 months moratorium before repayment. He said that the period of moratorium should be determined

by the nature of the farming activities of the beneficiaries. NAN recalls that the Governor of CBN, Mr Godwin Emefiele, announced recently in Lagos that the bank and the deposit money banks had set aside N300 billion for loans to agriculture in 2016. Emefiele said that the scheme was an effort to boost agriculture

Business activities, at the Federal Secretariat, recently in Abuja.

Diversion of petroleum products attracts N150 fine per liter in Kano State

arketers caught diverting petroleum products in Kano State will henceforth pay a fine of N150 per litre of the diverted product. Alhaji Rabiu Bako, Chairman of The Task Force on Distribution of Petroleum Products in the state, said this during a news conference on Sunday in Kano. Bako said the measure was to check the continued fuel shortages being experienced in the state. Bako, who is also the Commissioner for Commerce in the state, said marketers had

not heeded to earlier warnings to desist from sharp practices. ``The decision followed series of warnings by the Task Force to oil marketers in the state to desist from sharp practices and illegal increases in the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS),” he said. He said any marketer found diverting petroleum products would be so sanctioned and also risk forfeiting such products. Bako said that the warning was necessary in order to ensure that all products reached their designated filling stations across the state.

The chairman said the Task Force had confiscated eight drums and 50 Jerry cans of PMS and fined the petrol station involved N4.2 million since its inauguration. The committee urged members of the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious character to the Task Force or law enforcement agencies nearest to them. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that Gov. Abdullahi Ganduje had last week inaugurated the 17-member task force as part of efforts to address the lingering fuel scarcity in the state. (NAN)

as well as grow and diversify the economy. He said that to achieve this objective, the bankers’ committee planned to de-risk agricultural value chain. He said that the fund would accommodate the small and medium enterprises (SMEs) as well as large-scale farming. (NAN)

Photo: Mahmud Isa

Stop importation of second hand electronics, WAPCEH Registrar urges Nigerians

he Registrar and SecretaryGeneral, West African Postgraduate College of Environmental Health (WAPCEH), Ibadan, Dr Sunday Ojewole yesterday urged Nigerians to stop importation of second hand electronic gadgets. Ojewole made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos. He said that most of the second hand electronic gadgets constituted wastes which were dangerous to human health. “We should all look out and see that Nigeria is not used as dumping ground for all these used electronic gadgets. “Most of these electronic gadgets, after buying them, you will discover that they are not working and you decide to throw them away. “Most of these electronic

gadgets have mercury which is hazardous to our health. “There is no need to buy these gadgets when we known that they will create problem for us. “It is sad that when some Nigerians travel out of the country, some of them pick these things by the roadside and bring them home. ‘`Apart from their effects on health, these electronic gadgets are contributing to the wastes we are generating in the country,” he said. The registrar, however, said that the College had started turning bio-degradable waste products like nylons and plastic materials to economically useful finished products through recycling. He called for more assistance from government and private companies in this direction to make the country neater and environmentally-healthy. (NAN)

PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

PAGE 23

Stock Watch: Friday, December 25, 2015 Company

7UP

Previous Closing Price

185.06

184.5

Opening Price

184.5

High

Low

184.5

Change

Trades

-0.56 25

Volume

Value

Company

Previous Closing Price

Opening Price

High

Low

Change

Trades

Volume

Value

233,796

43,137,315.02 MAYBAKER 1.26 - - - 1.26 5 26,078 32,955.18

ABBEYBDS 1.25 - - - 1.25 0 - -

MBENEFIT 0.5 - - - 0.5 0 - -

ABCTRANS 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0 4 505,000 252,500.00

MCNICHOLS 1.2 - - - 1.2 5 154,383 176,896.62

ACADEMY 0.59 - - - 0.59 0 - ACCESS

4.46

4.64

4.46

4.5

0.04 321

28,060,764

126,589,999.78

ADSWITCH 1.63 - - - 1.63 0 - AFRIK 0.5 - - - 0.5 0 - AFRINSURE 0.5 - - - 0.5 0 - -

MOBIL 138.99 - - - 138.99 20 6,378 854,115.18 MORISON 1.73 - - - 1.73 0 - MRS 49.66 - - - 49.66 1 500 23,590.00 MTECH 0.91 - - - 0.91 0 - MTI 0.5 - - - 0.5 0 - MULTITREX 0.5 - - - 0.5 0 - -

AFRIPRUD 2.65 2.7 2.7 2.61 2.61 -0.04 35 553,581 1,479,349.55 MULTIVERSE 0.5 - - - 0.5 1 10,000 5,000.00 AFROMEDIA 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0 1 550,000 275,000.00

NAHCO 4.38 4.17 4.17 4.17 4.17 -0.21 19 203,175 850,145.97

AFRPAINTS 2.59 - - - 2.59 0 - -

NASCON 7.18 7.5 7.3 7.16 7.3 0.12 26 1,031,170 7,479,398.60

AGLEVENT 1.02 0.97 -

1.02

8 48,971 46,330.44

AIICO 0.9 0.91 0.91 0.91 0.91 0.01 18 983,972 898,207.23 AIRSERVICE 1.91 - - - 1.91 3 1,505 2,918.35 ALEX 9.84 - - - 9.84 0 - ALUMACO 7.75 - - - 7.75 1 200 1,474.00 ANINO 0.25 - - - 0.25 0 - ARBICO 5.04 - - - 5.04 0 - -

NB 135 135.2 135.2 129.51 129.51 -5.49 105 1,220,085 161,842,702.19 NCR 11.02 - - - 11.02 0 - NEIMETH 1.03 0.98 0.98 0.98 0.98 -0.05 6

126,800 124,264.00

NEM 0.69 0.7 0.7 0.7 0.7 0.01 16 1,774,600 1,241,859.00 NESF 552.2 - - - 552.2 0 - NESTLE 814

822.99 822.99 822.99 822.99 8.99 73

115,282 94,401,035.72

NIG-GERMAN 4.91 - - - 4.91 0 - NIGERINS 0.5 - - - 0.5 0 - -

ASHAKACEM 22.5 - - - 22.5 16 55,698 1,233,876.58 NIGROPES 7.46 - - - 7.46 0 - ASOSAVINGS 0.5 - - - 0.5 0 - -

NNFM 8.99 - - - 8.99 0 - -

AUSTINLAZ 2.09 - - - 2.09 0 - -

NPFMCRFBK

AVONCROWN 1.52 - - - 1.52 0 - BECOPETRO 0.5 - - - 0.5 0 - BERGER 9.6 9.61 9.61 9.61 9.61 0.01 9 379,696 3,674,398.56 BETAGLAS 48.51 - - - 48.51 0 - -

0.98 0.98 0.98 0.98 0.98 0

174,000 170,510.00

NSLTECH 0.5 - - - 0.5 0 - OANDO 8.5 8.92 8.92 8.48 8.48 -0.02 364 7,671,197 65,761,034.51 OKOMUOIL 28.82 - - - 28.82 21 108,772 3,056,214.60 OMATEK 0.5 - - - 0.5 0 - OMOSAVBNK 0.92 - - - 0.92 0 - -

BOCGAS 4.18 - - - 4.18 0 - PAINTCOM 1.14 - - - 1.14 0 - CADBURY 20.1 - - - 20.1 15 82,240 1,655,764.64 PHARMDEKO 2.14 - - - 2.14 1 5,000 10,850.00 CAP 38 39 39 39 39 1 16 166,666 6,492,031.87 PORTPAINT 3.53 - - - 3.53 0 - CAPHOTEL 4.07 - - - 4.07 0 - -

PREMBREW 2.95 - - - 2.95 0 - -

CAPOIL 0.5 - - - 0.5 0 - -

PREMPAINTS 10.93 - - - 10.93 0 - -

CAVERTON 2.63 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 -0.13 7 145,913 366,122.50 CCNN 8.73 9.16 -

8.73

7 51,560 458,087.60

CHAMPION 4.17 4.17 -

4.17

11 146,282 587,170.36

CHAMS 0.5 - - - 0.5 0 - CHELLARAM 3.76 - - - 3.76 0 - -

PRESCO 30.5 - - - 30.5 6 32,910 1,045,950.40 PRESTIGE 0.5 - - - 0.5 0 - PZ 25.5 25 25 25 25 -0.5 33 567,539 14,195,538.05 RAKUNITY 0.5 - - - 0.5 0 - REDSTAREX 4.2 - - - 4.2 2 19,785 83,097.00 REGALINS 0.5 - - - 0.5 0 - -

CILEASING 0.5 - - - 0.5 2 4,000 2,000.00

RESORTSAL 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0 1 100,000 50,000.00

CONOIL 27.41 26.04 -

ROADS 6.6 - - - 6.6 0 - -

27.41

13,350 330,799.00

0.6 - - - 0.6 0 - 1.06 1.01 1.06 1.01 1.06 0 11 3,520,635 3,661,166.09 ROKANA ROYALEX 0.5 - - - 0.5 0 - CORNERST 0.5 - - - 0.5 0 - RTBRISCOE 0.5 - - - 0.5 3 78,164 39,082.00 COSTAIN 0.5 - - - 0.5 1 5,000 2,500.00 CONTINSURE

COURTVILLE 0.5 - - - 0.5 0 - CUSTODYINS 4.1 - - - 4.1 6 16,101 64,845.03 CUTIX 1.45 - - - 1.45 1 26,666 38,665.70 CWG 2.67 - - - 2.67 0 - DAARCOMM 0.5 - - - 0.5 1 4,000 2,000.00

SCOA 4.16 - - - 4.16 0 - -

SEPLAT 230.04 225 225 225 225 -5.04 20 77,862 17,490,790.00 SIMCAPVAL 103.24 - - - 103.24 0 - SKYEBANK 1.9 1.9 1.99 1.9 1.99 0.09 75 2,020,105 3,920,083.45 SKYESHELT 100 - - - 100 0 - SMURFIT 0.98 - - - 0.98 0 - -MAY-

DANGCEM 162 163 163 163 163 1 33 156,759 25,532,904.96

BAKER 1.26 - - - 1.26 5 26,078 32,955.18

DANGFLOUR 2.31 - - - 2.31 16 31,484 75,328.68

MBENEFIT 0.5 - - - 0.5 0 - -

DANGSUGAR

- - - 1.2 5 154,383 176,896.62 6.52 6.32 6.51 6.32 6.51 -0.01 26 343,221 2,210,542.55 MCNICHOLS 1.2 MOBIL 138.99 - - - 138.99 20 6,378 854,115.18

DEAPCAP 0.58 - - - 0.58 0 - -

DIAMONDBNK 2.87 2.8 2.8 2.74 2.74 -0.13 43 1,315,800 3,645,250.00 IPWA 0.5 - - - 0.5 0 - JAPAULOIL 0.5 - - - 0.5 1 10,000 5,000.00 JBERGER 39.5 - - - 39.5 4 1,180 44,879.00 JOHNHOLT 0.96 - - - 0.96 0 - -

MORISON 1.73 - - - 1.73 0 - MRS 49.66 - - - 49.66 1 500 23,590.00 MTECH 0.91 - - - 0.91 0 - MTI 0.5 - - - 0.5 0 - MULTITREX 0.5 - - - 0.5 0 - MULTIVERSE 0.5 - - - 0.5 1 10,000 5,000.00

JOSBREW 1.51 - - - 1.51 0 - -

NAHCO 4.38 4.17 4.17 4.17 4.17 -0.21 19 203,175 850,145.97

JULI 1.75 - - - 1.75 0 - -

NASCON 7.18 7.5 7.3 7.16 7.3 0.12 26 1,031,170 7,479,398.60

LASACO 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0 1 300,000 150,000.00

NB 135 135.2 135.2 129.51 129.51 -5.49 105 1,220,085 161,842,702.19

LAWUNION 0.54 0.53 0.53 0.52 0.52 -0.02 14 910,610 481,548.30

NCR 11.02 - - - 11.02 0 - -

LEARNAFRCA

0.68 0.65 0.65 0.65 0.65 -0.03 10 1,074,871 699,416.15

LENNARDS 3.15 - - - 3.15 0 - LINKASSURE 0.5 - - - 0.5 0 - LIVESTOCK 1.4 1.41 1.41 1.41 1.41 0.01 9 134,400 192,410.51 MANDRID 5.35 - - - 5.35 0 - MANSARD 2.62 2.55 -

2.62

8 37,850 99,859.50

Top Gainers Company

Previous Closing Price

Opening Price

High

NEIMETH 1.03 0.98 0.98 0.98 0.98 -0.05 6

126,800 124,264.00

NEM 0.69 0.7 0.7 0.7 0.7 0.01 16 1,774,600 1,241,859.00 NESF 552.2 - - - 552.2 0 - NESTLE 814

822.99 822.99 822.99 822.99 8.99 73

115,282 94,401,035.72

NIG-GERMAN 4.91 - - - 4.91 0 - NIGERINS 0.5 - - - 0.5 0 - NIGROPES 7.46 - - - 7.46 0 - -

Top Losers Low

Change

Trades

Volume

Value

Company

Previous Closing Price

Opening Price

High

Low

Change

Trades

Volume

Value

ALUMACO 7.75 - - - 7.75 1 200 1,474.00

MULTITREX 0.5 - - - 0.5 0 - -

FORTISMFB 5.42 - - - 5.42 0 - -

NNFM 8.99 - - - 8.99 0 - -

UNHOMES 5.23 - - - 5.23 1 3,750 18,637.50

MCNICHOLS 1.2 - - - 1.2 5 154,383 176,896.62

INFINITY 1.42 - - - 1.42 0 - -

UTC 0.5 - - - 0.5 0 - -

OMOSAVBNK 0.92 - - - 0.92 0 - -

UNIONDICON 11.84 - - - 11.84 0 - -

MULTIVERSE 0.5 - - - 0.5 1 10,000 5,000.00

MANDRID 5.35 - - - 5.35 0 - -

ASOSAVINGS 0.5 - - - 0.5 0 - -

CADBURY 20.1 - - - 20.1 15 82,240 1,655,764.64

ABBEYBDS 1.25 - - - 1.25 0 - -

JULI 1.75 - - - 1.75 0 - -

Peoples Daily, Monday, DecEMber 28, 2015

PAGE 24

PAGE 25

Special Report

Will elections end the fighting in Central African Republic? A

Muslim alliance called the Seleka seized power in March 2013. A band of mostly Christian militias, called the anti-Balaka, rose up to counter the Seleka as the country descended into sectarian violence. A transitional government was formed in January 2014 and elections have been postponed four times since February 2015 due to insecurity and logistical challenges, in spite of the presence of international peacekeepers. Who is running for president? Former Prime Minister Martin Ziguele, an economist, heads the one-time ruling party, the Movement for the Liberation of the Central African People (MLPC). He has pledged to restore state authority and prosecute perpetrators of abuses. Fidele Gouandjika, a wealthy businessman with years of experience

Voters in the Central African Republic (CAR) cast their ballots on 30 December in presidential and parliamentary elections aimed at re-establishing an elected administration after three years of turmoil. in previous governments, has struck a nationalistic chord with voters by calling for the country to be wrested “from the clutches” of France, the former colonial power. Also in contention are two sons of former CAR leaders, Sylvain PatasseNgakoutou and Jean Serge Bokassa. Former Humanitarian Action Minister Regina Konzi-Mongot is the only female candidate. The Constitutional Court has cleared 30 candidates and rejected 14 others, including ousted President Francois Bozize and the “national coordinator” of the anti-Balaka

militia, Patrice Edouard Ngaissona. The two are seen as the leaders of the Christian militia who were blamed for widescale massacres against the minority Muslim population. Will the elections end the fighting? Not likely. The exclusion of armed groups from the vote could possibly set the ground for conflict in the near future. There are estimated to be tens of thousands of fighters in a country of 4.8 million. The militia, who have no formal command structures, do not respect state authority and have become increasingly

People took part in a referendum earlier this month to approve changes to the constitution

Muslim Seleka militia seized the capital Bangui in 2013. A transitional administration has been in place since then

belligerent. The leader of a Seleka faction, “General” Noureddine Adam, had said there would be no voting in the autonomous republic which he declared in the mainly Muslim north. However, after talks

with the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Chad just days before the election, he said he would “contribute positively and sincerely” to the poll and withdrew his call for a separate state.

The referendum on constitutional changes earlier this month was marred by violence. Could it reignite the conflict? The presence of UN and French troops has largely failed to stabilize

the country. An election dispute is unlikely to trigger conflict on its own, but will feed into existing political tensions. Armed groups could take advantage of a fresh political stand-off and perpetrate violence.

How much territory do the Seleka still hold? With Muslims displaced from most of the south, including the capital, support for the Seleka has been confined to the north-east and a few other pockets in the north. The Seleka remain powerful in their heartland in the northeast. Did the Pope’s intervention make any difference? Pope Francis ignored safety concerns to visit CAR last month.

As well as celebrating Mass, he gave a speech in a mosque, saying “Christians and Muslims are brothers and sisters”. But sectarian divisions remain deep in the country where some view Muslims as foreigners. Most of the leading candidates are Christians and even if they shy away from inflammatory rhetoric, are likely to pander to the Christian majority. War has blighted the CAR for decades, but it was only three years ago the fighting took on a religious form. A group of mostly Muslim rebels from the north called the Seleka

marched on the capital, briefly taking control of the country. Their rebellion tapped into a feeling northerners had of being excluded and unrepresented by the central government. But the choice of target, as they fought their way to power, was churches and Christian communities. It wasn’t long before the targets of their anger mobilised and retaliated. The anti-Balaka ironically meaning antiviolence - hit back, and so began a downward spiral of tit-for-tat violence which continues today. Towns and villages are divided, with hundreds

“

The Pope appealed for peace during his visit to the Central African Republic at the end of November

Former Prime minister Martin Ziguele is one of the leading presidential candidates

War has blighted the CAR for decades, but it was only three years ago the fighting took on a religious form. A group of mostly Muslim rebels from the north called the Seleka marched on the capital, briefly taking control of the country. Their rebellion tapped into a feeling northerners had of being excluded and unrepresented by the central government. But the choice of target, as they fought their way to power, was churches and Christian communities.

of thousands of people displaced into camps divided along religious grounds. A teacher at a Christian camp in the second city of Bambari - which had been attacked just days before - said if the children crossed an invisible line to get to school they’d be “chopped into pieces”, making a cutting action with her hand. Three people were killed and dozens were injured after an attack burned 30 huts to the ground. The Central African Republic is rich in minerals - the motivation to violence is more about control of the gold and the diamond mines. “They just use a religious umbrella,” the Bishop of Berbarati, Dennis Kofi Agbenyadzi, told me in the church grounds where he had given shelter to Muslims when the cycle of killing came to his door. “Religion arouses emotions, not reason,” he said. “It’s being manipulated.” That’s perhaps why the Pope wanted so desperately to come to the CAR - to draw attention to the futility of the division and to try and bring communities together against the violence. Source: BBC

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PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

Feature

The inmates who chose to remain on ‘prison island’

t became known as the prison island: it was where people were detained without charge, forced to do hard labour clearing the jungle with simple tools to make roads and farms. They were not given adequate food or clothing. Hundreds died due to illness, worn down by the toll of physical labour. Some others committed suicide. In the face of increasing global condemnation they were released by the end of the 1970s. They were free to leave the island but had to report regularly to the local authorities. This continued until President Suharto fell from power in 1998. But for some of the prisoners, returning to everyday life was simply not possible because of the stigma surrounding their detention About 20 of them opted to stay on the island that imprisoned them. These are the settlers’ stories. ‘We ate rats to survive’ Diro was in his late 20s, married and with a young son when the military arrested him from his village of Boyolali in Central Java in 1968. “I was a farmer, helping my father on the farm, nothing more,” he said. “Until now, I really don’t understand why they detained me for more than 10 years; my wife never recovered from the shock and became mentally ill. She died while pregnant with my second child,” he said. “We had to eat rats, snakes, mushrooms and plants—anything we could find in the jungle to survive,” he recalled. He says he was beaten many times: “They beat my head and my legs. It hurts sometimes even now.” His family were ostracised from their community. “My oldest child left school because he couldn’t stand the stigma of being a son of an accused Communist Party member,” he said. “If I went back to my village and I married again I was worried that my new wife and children couldn’t stand it when people stigmatize them for being so-called communists,” said Utomo. The Communist Party is still banned in Indonesia. When former political prisoners have tried to hold meetings in recent months they have been shut down.

Buru Island in East Indonesia was once home to 12,000 political prisoners, suspected communist sympathisers sent to toil there during the rule of President Suharto from the late 1960s.

The political prisoners who died on Buru were buried in a cemetery on the island After being released Diro married a local woman, Mada, and they now live with their four children in the Savana Jaya Village alongside a small community of former political prisoners. His wife runs a food stall in front of their house and he works in their vegetable fields. ‘My father died without seeing justice’ In 1974, when the island was still a prison, the government

said prisoners could invite their families to come and live with them. Many of the families didn’t know their loved ones were on the prison island. Darsini was seven when her family moved to join her father on Buru. He was a teacher in a village in central Java and had been labelled a communist and sent to Buru without trial in 1969.

Diro and his second wife, Mada, run a food stall from their home

Diro says he was wrongly arrested

“

“My father said that if we moved here, we could continue our education,” said Darsini. She and her older sister were forced to leave school in Java after her father was arrested. Her former friends taunted her for being the daughter of a suspected communist. On Buru they were able to complete their education in peace. But the stigma even today still haunts them. “There are a few people here that if we have a disagreement with them they call us communists. It’s really hurt us, because my father never went to trial. He died without seeing justice,” she said. ‘They couldn’t feed us any more in prison ’Roni Munawar, 75, had just graduated from the army academy in Bandung West Java when he was arrested. He was suspected to be a member of the group related to the failed coup on 30 September 1965. But he said he never knew about the coup, and was never put on trial. “I don’t now why they detained me for a long time, and I think they sent us here so we can feed ourselves by clearing the jungle to make roads and paddy fields. Because they couldn’t feed us anymore if we stayed in prison on Java,” he said.

He chose to stay in Buru after Suharto government released him at the end of the 1970s. “I didn’t have anything in my homeland, and I thought my life would be meaningful here. I teach children to learn how to read and count, and find them scholarships to continue their studies,” said Roni. Roni also works as an acupuncture and herbal therapist, using knowledge that he learnt from other prisoners. Source: BBC

Roni works as a teacher as well as an acupuncture and herbal therapist

Darsini and her husband continue to live on Buru

Buru Island in East Indonesia was once home to 12,000 political prisoners, suspected communist sympathisers sent to toil there during the rule of President Suharto from the late 1960s. It became known as the prison island: it was where people were detained without charge, forced to do hard labour clearing the jungle with simple tools to make roads and farms. They were not given adequate food or clothing. Hundreds died due to illness, worn down by the toll of physical labour. Some others committed suicide.

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PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

Education

FG transfers 2,400 child IDPs to unity schools From: Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

he Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) Alhaji Sani Sidi had said that 2, 400 schoolchildren from the various internal Displaced Persons Camp (IDPs ) camps have been transferred to various Unity schools across the country to continue their education on scholarship from the Save School Initiative programme supported by ex- British Prime Minister, Mr Gordon Brown. Speaking yesterday in Kaduna after receiving the best performing civil servant and the best

organisation for good governance awards from Northern Youth Council, the NEMA boss said that with the continuing efforts of the Nigerian military that have led to the liberation of the seven local government areas previously under the control of Boko Haram insurgents, Nigeria has passed the emergency stage in Northeast. According to him, despite recent successes recorded by the Nigerian military that has seen some IDPs return home, there are still 2.1 million IDPs in 34 camps in Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states, Director General, National Emergency Management Agency

(NEMA), Alhaji Mohammed . Sidi, added that what is required now is reconstruction and rehabilitation of the region as the war is almost over. “In the last five years, we have insurgency in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe states which made the federal government to declare a state of emergency in the three states. There was mass displacement of people. We still have 2.1 million internally displaced persons with over 1 million of them in Borno state. “We had to establish formal camps in the three states. There are about 26 camps in Borno, 11 in Adamawa and four in Yobe, we

used to have IDP camps in Gombe and Bauchi states but due to the successes recorded under this administration the seven local government controlled by the insurgents have been liberated. The 11 camps in Adamawa state have been collapsed to four, as IDPs return to their various houses. “Many schools were closed down in the last two years and some have not been reopened, 2,400 children were transferred under Safe School Scheme from the Northeast to other parts of the country under the scholarship. There is the programme of building and rehabilitation of

all schools affected in the three states. Nigerian government is doing a lot to support the IDPs who are fed thrice daily.” President of the Northern Youth Council, Malam Isah Abubakar said NEMA and its DG were given awards to appreciate their efforts and achievements, while motivating them and other organisations to do more especially in this new era of change. He urged NEMA and the federal government to revive agriculture, industries, dams for waters supply and textile industries to create employment opportunities for the teeming Nigerian youth and take them away from vices.

Sokoto State Govt to sustain nondiscriminatory fees in schools - Tambuwal

R-L: Minister of state for Education, Prof. Anthony Anwuka, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Folashade Yemi-Esan and Director of Finance and Account of the Ministry, Mr. Kanala Adebowale, during the interactive session with House of Representatives Committee on Education, at the National Assembly, recently in Abuja. Photo: Mahmud Isa

NGO plans to prepare ex-secondary schools students for WAEC/NECO in Zamfara From Ibrahim Sidi Muh’d, Gusau

non-governmental Centre for Education and Community Development (CECODE) has expressed plans for the revival and uplifting the standard of education in Zamfara following the state’s backwardness in the sector’s examination scores ranking mirror across the country. This was disclosed by the Executive Director of the CECODE, Malam Idris Mainasara during advocacy visit to the Managing Director, Zamfara Radio and Television, Malam

Nuhu Salihu Anka, informing him of the plans to develop the education sector in the state. Mainasara said, the centre has mapped out strategies in organising extra-mural classes for ex-secondary school students as it would enable them to make up their WAEC and NECO after undergoing one year training for them to eventually acquire background knowledge. The director noted that, the decision made by the centre for its planned and unconditional intervention has become necessary considering the performance recorded by other states in the scores of final

examinations by their students which placed Zamfara as second to the last position in the country. “To be precise, states like Anambra and Abia got 65.92% and 58.52% out of 100% of their students that were eligible to be admitted into various universities in the country, Zamfara state recorded only 7.47% amounting to only 1,954 candidates that got admission requirements into universities”, the director recalled. He further called on all other stakeholders in education sector in the state as well as the state government to embark playing expected roles and to double

efforts towards achieving the desired goals. In his remarks, the Managing Director Zamfara state Radio and Television, Malam Nuhu Salihu Anka, assures adequate cooperation through giving goldtime for the centre to reach-out to the targeted communities. Nuhu Anka said, the services runs by the radio station were largely meant for the promotion and development of education; therefore, it is ready to assist the centre and any like-minded organisations in passing their messages across the state in order to ensure the revival of education in the state.

oc. Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto state on Sunday pledged to sustain the non-discriminatory policy on payment of school fees introduced by his predecessor, Sen. Aliyu Wamakko. Tambuwal said this in Sokoto when he hosted the Primate of Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Most Rev. Nicholas Okoh, who led members of the church on a Christmas courtesy visit. He said: ``Às part of measures to boost communal harmony, my administration will sustain the policy of non-discriminatory fees paid by all students in public schools started by the last administration.’’ The equally invited all Nigerians willing to contribute to the development of education to come to the state and exhibit their talents. He enjoined Christians to also sustain the centuries old peaceful and harmonious coexistence with their neighbours in the state. Okoh had earlier said that Nigeria can learn a lot from Sokoto’s peaceful disposition for rapid development of the country. He said: ``Even though there a one or two issues with conflicts in Sokoto in the past, that has not affected the overall peaceful disposition of the state.’’ The cleric commended the Sokoto Government for its efforts in promoting harmony among diverse religious and ethnic groups in the state. While urging all Nigerians to take the issue of protection of environment seriously, Okoh said the dangers posed by desertification is real and should be accorded the attention it deserves. (NAN)

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Education Foundation disburses N1.2m bursaries to 60 students in Omu-Aran

he Adebisi Fabiyi Foundation has awarded 60 students of tertiary institutions in Omu-Aran bursaries for 2015, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports. The N1.2 million award was an increase compared to the 2014 edition totalling N1 million for the same number of students. The Chairman, Award Planning Committee, Dr Atoyebi Atolagbe, at the presentation of the 16th edition of the scheme, commended Prophet Fabiyi, the award financier, for his foresight. He said Fabiyi’s award scheme had tremendously impacted on the lives of many indigent students in Omu-Aran. Atolagbe said the scheme’s selection process had no religious, ethnic or political colouration, adding that academic competition among schools in Omu-Aran was the major criterium. According to him, the scheme has the chances of growing bigger to accommodate an enlarged number of beneficiaries in the years ahead. In his remarks, the initiator of the foundation, Prophet Fabiyi, said the ceremony coincided with his 83rd year birthday celebration. He said his philosophy had been anchored on reduction of illiteracy in the society through award of bursaries to indigent but brilliant students of tertiary institutions. Also speaking, the President of Omu-Aran Development Association (ODA), Chief Peter Oyinloye, lauded Fabiyi’s initiative aimed at promoting educational development in Omu-Aran. ``In the last 16 years he has given scholarship and bursary award to more than 1,500 indigent students within the community. ``Through his effort many doctors, engineers, lawyers and other professionals had been produced for the society,” he said. Oyinloye, who was represented by association’s Secretary, Mr Bidemi Olawuyi, praised God to give the philanthropist long life to reap from the fruit of his labour. He advised the beneficiaries to excel in their studies and imbibe the spirit of giving back to the society as exemplified by their benefactor. The Chairman of the occasion and former military administrator of Bauchi and Osun States, retired Brig.-Gen. Theophilus Bamigboye, appealed to other wealthy Nigerians to emulate Fabiyi’s initiative. A former Executive Director of NAN, Otunba Jide Adebayo, and former director in Kwara State Polytechnic, Dr Michael Abolarin, were among other dignitaries that witnessed the occasion. (NAN)

PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

2016 budget: Tetfund boss lauds education lion share From Ahmed Kaigama, Bauchi

he Executive Secretary Tertiary Education Trust fund Professor Suleiman Elias Bogoro has lauded President Muhammadu Buhari for giving the education sector lion share in the 2016 proposed budget. It could be recalled that President Buhari in his proposed budget, with a revenue projection of N3.86 trillion, gave critical

attention to Education, Defence, Health and the Power sectors, which received the lion share of the appropriation. The Executive Secretary Tertiary Education Trust fund Professor Suleiman Bogoro made the commendation while receiving members of the Bauchi State House of Assembly in his residence at Gwaranga of Bogoro local Government area during the Christmas celebration at

weekend. Professor Suleiman Bogoro said TETFUND plays a significant role in the area of capacity building and infrastructural development of higher institutions in the country Bogoro appreciate the state House of assembly for demonstrating leadership that has the conscience of the people, thanked God for hosting the leadership and members of the

House. Suleiman Bogoro described this year’s Christmas celebration as symbolic in many dimensions because it co-insides with the Eid el Maulud . Earlier ,speaking the Speaker Bauchi State House of Assembly Right Hon. Kawuwa Shehu Damina has declared that the legislators and the entire people of the state were proud of him, as the Executive Secretary of Tetfund.

Founder, David Mark Scholarship Foundation, Sen David Mark (Right) exchanging greetings with chidren, at the Otukpo children carnival sponsored by his foundation in Otukpo, at the weekend in Benue state.

Don’t Judge Islam by misbehaviour of some Muslims - Don

rof. AbdulHafiz Oladosu of the Department of Arabic and Islamic Studies, University of Ibadan, has called on world leaders not to judge Islam from the negative attitude of some Muslims. Oladosu made the call at the formal opening of the 100th edition of the Annual Islamic Vacation Course (IVC) held at IVC permanent site, kilometre 30, Lagos/Ibadan Express way. At the event, organised by Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN) Southern Zone, the Don said that the misbehaviour of some Muslims should not be used as the basis for judging what Islam really stood for.

``It’s not Islam that should be held responsible for the misbehaviour of some Muslims. ``The same way you don’t hold a car responsible when it has an accident; you need to question the driver and owner of the car. ``Allah gave the religion of Islam to the Muslims; it is we the Muslims that are misrepresenting the gift from Allah. ``The world should try to read about Islam and not about Muslims,’’ Oladosu said. He called on Muslims to find their way back to the teachings of Islam so as not to allow the public to stigmatise Islam as a religion of trouble makers rather than religion of peace. In his remark, Malam

Muhammad Jameel, National President of MSSN, urged the Federal Government to disregard the banning of Islamic dress in the name of security as such would lead to denial of fundamental right to practice one’s religion. He also called on government to urgently address the myriad of problems facing the country. ``It is pertinent to call on our leaders to make concerted efforts to cushion the harsh socioeconomic and education realities of today. ``These range from poverty, inflation, fuel scarcity to falling standard of education, among others,’’ Jameel said. Highlights of the occasion were the recitation of the Holy

Qur’an and presentation of award of appreciation to dignitaries for their contributions to the development of the MSSN and Islam. Those given the awards include; the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar; the Executive-Secretary of Muslim Ummah of South Western Nigeria, Prof. Daud Noibi, and the Executive Secretary, National Commission for Nomadic Education, Prof. Rashid Aderinoye. Others are; Alhaji Kunle Sanni, Chairman, Oyo State Muslim Community; Dr Daud Amoo-Alaga, a renowned Islamic preacher, and Malam Yusuf Ali, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), among others. (NAN)

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PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

Healthy living

Health benefits of eating apple Health Matters Dr. Longwap AbdulAziz Saleh

e-mail: longwapabdul@yahoo.com, Text: 08039537913

pples are one of the healthiest foods a person can eat. They are high in fiber and vitamin C, and they are also low in calories, have only a trace of sodium, and no fat or cholesterol. “Apples are high in polyphenols, which function as antioxidants,” said Laura Flores, a nutritionist based in San Diego. “These polyphenols are found in both the skin of the apples as well as in the meat, so to get the greatest amount of benefits, eat the skin of the apple.” All of these benefits mean that apples may mitigate the effects of asthma and Alzheimer’s disease, while assisting with weight management, bone health, pulmonary function and

gastrointestinal protection. Benefits Apples are loaded with vitamin C. Almost half of an apple’s vitamin C content is just under the skin, so it’s a good idea to eat apples with their skins. Flores said that this is also where apples’ fiber is found. Apples contain insoluble fiber, which provides bulk in the intestinal tract. The bulk holds water that cleanses and moves food quickly through the digestive system. According to Flores, “Regular intake of apples has been shown to have cardiovascular benefits. [This is due to] two properties of apples: the fiber that they contain and the polyphenols that are found in high amounts.” In addition to digestion-aiding

insoluble fiber, apples have soluble fiber, such as pectin. This nutrient helps prevent cholesterol from building up in the lining of blood vessels, which in turn helps prevent atherosclerosis and heart disease. In a 2011 study, women who ate 75 grams of dried apples every day for six months had a 23 percent decrease in bad LDL cholesterol, said study researcher Bahram H. Arjmandi, professor at and chair of the department of nutrition at Florida State University. When it comes to polyphenols and antioxidants, Flores explained that they “work in the cell lining to decrease oxidation resulting in lowering risk of cardiovascular disease.” Another study tracked food consumption among 9,208

people for 28 years. Those who ate more apples had a lower risk of stroke. Researchers attributed the results to quercetin, an antioxidant in apples. There are respiratory benefits to eating apples, as well. “Apples’ antioxidant benefits can help lower the risk of asthma,” Flores told Live Science. Also, a study of 2,500 middle-aged men in Wales found improved lung function among those who ate an apple a day, according to the University of California, Davis. A study in Brazil showed that adding three apples a day to women’s diets helped lower their calorie intake and contributed to weight reduction. Apples and cancer The American Institute for Cancer Research recommends eating lots of fruits and vegetables, including apples. The antioxidant content of apples ranks among the highest for fruits, and research shows that antioxidants help prevent cancer. Lung cancer risk can especially be lowered through apples’ antioxidants, according to Flores. A study in Hawaii found that people who regularly eat apples, onions and white grapefruit cut their lung cancer risk in half. Health risks

“Eating apples in excess will not cause many side effects,” said Flores. “But as with anything eaten in excess, apples may contribute to weight gain.” Furthermore, apples are acidic, and the juice may damage tooth enamel. A study published in 2011 in the Journal of Dentistry found that eating apples might be up to four times more damaging to teeth than carbonated drinks. However, according to the lead researcher, Professor David Bartlett, head of prosthodontics at the Dental Institute at King’s College in London, “It is not only about what we eat, but how we eat it.” Many people eat apples slowly, which increases the likelihood that acids will damage tooth enamel. “Snacking on acidic foods throughout the day is the most damaging, while eating them at meal times is much safer,” Bartlett said in a press release from King’s College. “An apple a day is good, but taking all day to eat the apple can damage teeth.” Dentists recommend cutting up apples and chewing them with the back teeth. They also recommend rinsing the mouth with water to help wash away the acid and sugars.

you. By the time your baby is 12 months old she will probably use the words “mama” and “dada” and know exactly what she’s saying. However, she may also still babble short sentences that sound like she’s fluent in a foreign language! Reading to your toddler, describing what you’re doing around the house and asking her lots of questions will all help to develop her vocabulary. Don’t be tempted to correct her early pronunciation of words but do repeat them back to her clearly so she can learn from you. Between 12 months and 18 months your child will take more of an interest in words. She will have a vocabulary of between six and 20 words, although she will understand many more. By the time your child is two she may know as many as 200 words (although she may only

use around 50 of these). She may also be able to form two-to three-word sentences. Nursery rhymes, songs and simple games like “Simon says” can help your child learn to formulate simple sentences and understand how to take turns in conversation. She’s also discovering that learning to talk is fun! By the time your child turns three, she will be a more sophisticated talker. Her words will be easier to understand and she will be able to have a longer conversation with you. Bear in mind that babies develop differently, some more quickly than others. If you’re concerned about your baby’s development, talk to your GP or health visitor. Find out more about how your baby learns to talk.

livescience.com

What to do with your baby’s first talks

t about nine months old your baby’s babbling is probably starting to sound more like real words. For example, she may say “mama” and “dada”. Don’t get too excited just yet though, as she probably doesn’t connect the sounds “mama” and “dada” with mum and dad at this age. They are just a couple of the many sounds she’s trying out as she finds her voice. You can help your little one at this early stage by talking to her clearly and often. The conversations may seem oneway at first but your baby will soon catch up and gurgle or laugh and smile in response. Explore your baby’s world with her, pointing out interesting things on walks and outings. Switching off unnecessary background noise such as the TV and radio can make it easier for her to hear and understand

babycentre.co.uk

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Healthy Living

PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

Reasons babies cry and how to soothe them

o how are parents supposed to know what their baby is trying to tell them? It can be tricky to interpret your child’s cries, especially at first. Here are the most common reasons babies cry. If your little one is wailing and you don’t know why, work your way down the list. Chances are you’ll find something that helps. 1. Hunger This is probably the first thing you think of when your baby cries. Learning to recognize the signs of hunger will help you start your baby’s feedings before the crying stage. Some signs to watch for in newborns: fussing, smacking of lips, rooting (a newborn reflex that causes babies to turn their head toward your hand when you stroke their cheek), and putting their hands to their mouth.

2. A dirty diaper Some babies let you know right away when they need to be changed. Others can tolerate a dirty diaper for quite a while. Either way, this one is easy to check and simple to remedy. 3. Needs sleep Aren’t babies lucky? When they’re tired they can simply go to sleep – anytime, anywhere. Or so adults like to think. In reality, it’s harder for them than you might think. Instead of nodding off, babies may fuss and cry, especially if they’re overly tired. We thought our daughter was colicky for the first five weeks of life, until we read about how babies get really cranky if they’re exhausted. After we started putting her to sleep as soon as she yawned the first time at any

time of the day, she cried a lot less and had fewer problems with gas.

5. Tummy troubles (gas, colic, and more) Tummy troubles associated with gas or colic can lead to lots of crying. In fact, the rather mysterious condition called colic is defined as inconsolable crying for at least three hours a day, at least three days a week, at least three weeks in a row. If your baby often fusses and cries right after being fed, he may be feeling some sort of tummy pain. Many parents swear by over-the-counter antigas drops for babies or gripe water (made from herbs and sodium bicarbonate). Get your doctor’s okay before using either of these. babycenter.com

What to do for a restless, sleepless baby to eat every few hours in order to grow and develop properly. As babies grow older, gain weight and eat more at each feeding, they will naturally begin to sleep better and go longer between feedings, suggests Kids Health. Although you might not be able to change newborn sleep patterns, establishing consistent sleep routines can help your baby sleep better as he grows older. Identification Watch your baby for signs of sleepiness, such as eye-rubbing, faint circles under his eyes or pulling on his ear, and put him to bed as soon as you notice that he is tired. Over-tired, exhausted babies often fight sleep and might be difficult to settle down. By watching your baby’s cues, you can create a sleep routine based upon his patterns. Try to put him down for naps and night-time sleep at the same time each day and start the proceedings with a consistent routine, perhaps including a bath and stories or songs before bedtime.

ew situations are as stressful for new parents as caring for a new baby who will not settle and fall asleep. Although most new parents expect to get less sleep than they did before their baby’s

arrival, a baby who stays up all night long can try the patience of even the calmest and most dedicated parents. Maintaining realistic expectations about infant sleep—and sharing night-time parenting with your partner—can

help your household cope with a sleepless and restless baby. Significance Sleeping too long or too deeply is not generally healthy or desirable for new babies, who usually need

Considerations Some new babies might need help differentiating between nighttime and day-time sleep. Although babies usually adjust their sleep and wake patterns on their own within a few weeks of birth, Stanford pediatrician Alan Greene suggests that you can speed up the adjustment process by altering the environmental stimuli

surrounding your baby. Keep the house brightly lit during the day and play with her frequently. At night, talk in soft voices and keep your interactions with your baby low-key and minimal. Change her diaper and feed her without making eye contact or turning on bright lights. Misconceptions Many new parents expect their baby to sleep quietly and peacefully throughout the night, but in reality, most babies toss and turn, cry out from time to time and wriggle in their sleep. The University of Illinois Extension suggests waiting a few minutes to see if your baby will settle back down before responding to her at night. If she continues to cry after five minutes--or if the crying escalates or sounds urgent--you should check on her and help her re-settle. Solution Creating the right sleep environment for your baby can help improve her sleep patterns. Use a white noise machine or fan in her room to muffle household noises and voices. Install lightblocking shades on her windows so that she will not wake at the first hint of sunlight. For your baby’s safety, keep soft objects and loose items out of the crib, this includes blankets, pillows, bumper pads and toys. HealthyChildren.org

PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

PAGE 31

Yuletide: FCTA vows to consolidate on prevailing inter-religious harmony By Stanley Onyekwere

he Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) would work assiduously to consolidate on the gains achieved by the prevailing interreligious harmony being enjoyed in the Territory, FCT Minster, Malam Muhammad Bello has assured.

Bello, who gave this assurance on Christmas Day, when he received a delegation of religious and traditional rulers who paid him a Homage at his official residence in Gwarinpa I District (Life-Camp), Abuja. According to a statement signed by the Minister’s Special Assistant (Media), Abubakar Sani, the visit was a mark of mutual

respect for both the Administration and the eminent religious and community leaders in Abuja. Bello, who noted that the Christmas celebration coincided with the Muslim’s Friday service, said the day was ordained by God as a sign for the two religious bodies to stay together in peace and harmony. The Minister therefore called

on the leaders and the residents of the Territory in general to use the occasion to thank God for His blessings to Nigeria and further renew their support and prayers for President Muhammadu Buhari to enable him achieve the good things he has promised Nigerians. The delegation included the Chairman of FCT chapter of the Christian Association of

Sugar cane sellers attending to customers, yesterday in Mararaba.

Nigeria (CAN), Rev. Israel Akanji, Archbishop Nicholas Okoh of the Anglican Church, Deputy Imams of the Abuja National Mosque Muhammad Kabir and Ibrahim Makari. Meanwhile, the Ona of Abaji and Chairman of the FCT Traditional Council, Alhaji Adamu Baba Yunusa led the Traditional Rulers for the Christmas Homage.

Photo: Mahmud Isa

FRSC prosecutes 20 offenders, convict 12 in Kuje

he Federal Road Safety (FRSC) Special Mobile Court in the Kuje area of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has convicted 12 of the 20 traffic offenders it prosecuted while eight were discharged. The unit Commander, Mr.

Charles Umoh, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that court sat on specific traffic corridors of Kuje-Gwagwalada Road and Kuje-Airport Road. He said that the offenders were prosecuted for dangerous driving, speed limit violation, use

of phone while driving and overloading of passengers. According to him, other offences include driving with expired driver’s licence and expired vehicle documents. Umoh said that establishment of the mobile court resulted

from collaboration between the commission and the judiciary, in an effort to enforce discipline on motorists and reduce road accidents. He urged motorists and other road users to obey traffic rules, warning that the command would

not spare offenders. The unit commander gave the assurance that the command would continue to improve on its operations with the aim of reducing road accidents in the area. (NAN)

Judge urges pastors to empower church members By Usman Shuaibu

he Judge in charge of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Gwagwalada Area Council Division, Justice Mwada Balami, has called on the pastors to empower their church members financially with offering gathered

from their various churches, in order to establish businesses of their own. Balami, who made the call while addressing the gathering at the Heavenly kingdom church international during the church service last week in Gwagwalada, expressed dismay that some clergymen had failed to meet up

with the needs of their church members, despite the huge offerings at disposal of the churches. He charged the clergymen irrespective of their status to take care of their church members, so as to enable them to cope with basic necessities of life in the society.

He called on Christians to always dedicate themselves to the service of God and humanity, and urged them to the closer to God in the heart instead of mere worshipping. He stressed that “we must reflect on our past and ask God for forgiveness while praying.” He employed Christians to live

a selfless life and share what they have with their neighbors, urging them to be their bothers /sisters’ keeper at all times. The Judge therefore, advised clerics as well as followers to work together towards wining souls for God, while pleading with the clergymen to be patient with their followers.

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USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS ON ANY EMERGENCY Council endorses the useful phone numbers submitted by the security agents for easy access in case of any emergency on the metropolitan roads. Accordingly, the general public may easily Contact KAROTA for: Breakdown of Vehicle(s), Traffic Congestion, Accidents, and Illegal/Wrong Parking to kindly Call KAROTA through the following numbers on – 08091626747. Similarly, the State Police Command could be contacted on – 08032419754, 08123821575. In addition, the State Fire Service can be contacted on – 07051246833, 08191778888.

26TH KANO STATE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING 23RD DECEMBER, 2015 (12TH RABI’UL AWWAL, 1437AH)

PREPARED BY THE COUNCIL AFFAIRS DIRECTORATE, OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY TO THE STATE GOVERNMENT, GOVERNMENT HOUSE, KANO.

ne of the formidable challenges facing each of the three tiers of government in the country is massive joblessness among the teeming able-bodied youth with its attendant negative consequences on security, the economy and even politics. Though many intervention measures have been put in place time without number to address this problem in concert with donor agencies, development partners and non-governmental organizations through the initiation of various empowerment programmes to make the youth self-reliant, productive and morally upright citizens, the problem has continued to worsen thereby making the youth susceptible to manipulation in the hands of those who wish the country no good. In Kano State, successive governments have come up with many empowerment programmes in the form of vocational and skills acquisition trainings under which thousands of youth of both sexes benefited and the government assisted them with capital and materials to set up their business. With the advent of the present administration of Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje OFR, the amiable governor has made his intentions bold and clear to face this challenge headlong as massive youth employment is a sure recipe for chaos. Apart from continuing with the empowerment programmes of his predecessor, Gov. Ganduje has also pledged to introduce new ones and he tasked all empowerment implementing ministries, agencies and departments to ensure that partisan politics is avoided in selecting the beneficiaries with a view to making sure that only those in real need of assistance benefit to avoid the experience of the past. Recently, his government sponsored some pastoralist youth to learn artificial insemination in Turkey and upon their return home they will be required to teach others what they have learnt. And in continuation of the present administration’s dogged commitment to catapult Kano State to enviable height of development in the country, the State Executive Council held its 26th meeting under the distinguished chairmanship of His Excellency, the Executive Governor, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje OFR, on Wednesday, 23rd December, 2015 corresponding to 12th Rabi’ul Awwal, 1437AH, during which policy

Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, OFR issues and memoranda were deliberated upon and important decisions made for the well-being of the teeming people of the State as well as the desire to maintain the status of the State as a pace-setter and trailblazer in all fields of human endeavour in the federation. In his opening remarks after welcoming the esteemed members to the meeting, Gov. Ganduje congratulated the people of the State on the celebrations of the birthday of the Noble Prophet, Muhammad (SAW) which shows their devotion to Islam and the teachings of the Prophet (SAW) and prayed for peaceful celebrations. The Chairman disclosed that the day before, the State Qur’anic recitation competition was declared close during which he promised to sponsor the two male and female winners in the two categories to Saudi Arabia for pilgrimage next year and to pursue higher education at reputable Islamic institutions and universities across the world to serve as encouragement to others. He commended the Board of Trustees of the Qur’anic recitation competition for the numerous successes recorded in the last 30 years during which the State won the national competition 15 times in the male category and 11 times in the female category and promised to continue supporting this laudable endeavour. “Kano State has also won several awards at the

past international Qur’anic competitions. This has shown that we are leading in several sectors including Islamic education as we shall not relent in our efforts to maintain leading position in several sectors of human endeavour both nationally and internationally,” the Governor asserts. He further assured that the state government would continue to support Shari’ah implementation agencies like Hisbah Board, Shari’ah Commission and Zakkah and Hubsi Commission because of their role of promoting moral values and societal reorientation aimed at making people to be of moral rectitude for societal progress, peace, harmony and development, pointing out that measures would be taken to overcome the challenges facing these agencies. On politics, the governor expressed happiness over the progress APC as a party has been recording across the country in the last six months especially the party’s victories at the various judgments passed by different election tribunals as well as Courts of Appeal in respect of disputed gubernatorial and other elections particularly the recent verdicts in Rivers, Akwa Ibom and Taraba States. Also, he rejoiced with the Governor of Jigawa State over the recent defection of many PDP bigwigs and thousands of their supporters to APC and congratulated the Governor-elect in Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello on his election victory. He equally acknowledged the efforts of President Muhammad Buhari to tackle corruption and insurgency and revamp the economy, saying the days of the insurgents are numbered and grafts would drastically reduce in view of the seriousness and sincerity of purpose of the President which has made the State Government to take a cue from the APC-led federal government in reforming and reinvigorating the State Board of Internal Revenue. The governor then thanked the Council members for their constructive deliberations, implementation of programmes and execution of projects for the development of the State since the inception of the administration, assuring that year 2016 will be action-packed despite the paucity of financial resources facing the State and appealed to the people of the State to give their maximum cooperation and support to the government to enable it realize its objectives of improving their living standard. The following memoranda were presented before the esteemed Council members by ministries, departments and agencies for due consideration and approval during the 26th meeting, three memorandum with financial implication in the sum Contd on Page 33

PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

of N630,865,786.8 was approved by the Council. a) Memorandum on Request for Funds for the Provision of Equipment and Machines for the Accreditation of 21Nos Academic Programmes and Engagement of Academic Staff at Kano University of Science and Technology (KUST), Wudil The request is from the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology to enable Kano University of Science and Technology (KUST), Wudil for the accreditation of 21Nos academic programmes, provision of equipment and machinery for teaching and research as well as employment of 242 academic staff made up of 46 professors, 104 senior lecturers and 92 lecturers I & II and assistant lecturers in a bid to overcome the inadequacy of academic staff facing the university. Accordingly, Council considered and approved the release of the sum of N7, 005, 600: 00 for the accreditation of 21Nos academic programmes, the sum of N520, 903, 329: 27 to facilitate the provision of infrastructural facilities and equipment in the most critical areas of teaching and research and the recruitment of 242 academic staff whose annual remuneration will amount to N756, 167, 377: 20. b) Memorandum on Request for Funds for the Repairs of Damaged Structures Caused by Fire Incidents at GGSS, Jogana and GGSS, Kwankwaso and Assistance to Victims and Parents of Deceased Students The request is from the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology inviting the esteemed Council to recall the fire outbreaks at Government Girls Secondary School, Jogana and Government Girls Secondary School, Kwankwaso that occurred on 20th November, 2015 and 2nd December, 2015 respectively following which two teams comprising officials of the Ministry and the Kano State Senior Secondary Schools Management Board (KSSSSMB) were constituted to establish the immediate and remote causes of the fire incidents, assess the damage/loss of property and come up with the estimates for the repairs of the damaged structures. Based on their findings and recommendations, Council approved the sum of N20, 564, 313: 33 for the repairs of burnt-down hostels at GGSS Jogana and another sum of N31, 126, 419: 20 for repairs of the damaged hostels at GGSS Kwankwaso. In addition, the esteemed Council approved the sum of N11, 128, 950: 00 as assistance to students of the two schools who lost some property, replacement of burnt beds and other materials in the two schools, assistance to families of the 7Nos deceased students, assistance to 16Nos students discharged from hospital and assistance to 2Nos matrons who lost property to the GGSS Jogana fire incident. c) Memorandum on Request for Funds for the Relocation of Final Year Students of Hassan Ibrahim Gwarzo Boys Secondary School to Three Private Boarding Secondary Schools The memorandum was presented before the esteemed Council by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology following the closure of Hassan Ibrahim Gwarzo Boys Secondary School,

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Kano pending the conclusion of investigation over allegation of child abuse. Government, in its characteristic compassion and concern for the welfare, well-being and overall interest of the people of the State, decided to relocate 73 SSS-III students of the school to Andal Science Academy, Nigerian Turkish International College and Alhaji Akilu Comprehensive Secondary School, Madobi at its expense so as not to jeopardize the education of the innocent students as well as bringing succour to their parents. This decision will also enable the students to complete their studies and sit for the appropriate examinations at the private all-male boarding secondary schools at the cost of N40,137,175:00 to cover their feeding, accommodation, registration and other charges which the Council magnanimously approved after due consideration and deliberations.

medical practitioners/MNA, media practitioners, Academic Union of Tertiary Institutions, among others. The workshop highlighted the importance of the Contributory Healthcare Scheme for civil servants in the State.

REPORT OF 18-MAN TASK FORCE COMMITTEE ON FUEL SCARCITY In its efforts to reduce lingering fuel scarcity in the State, the Committee under the Hon. Commissioner for Commerce, Industry and Cooperative reported on its effort to ensure the availability of the product in the State. The Hon. Commissioner disclosed that the Committee had visited NNPC deport during which they discussed on the need to prevent diversion of the product to black markets. He also revealed their intention to liaise with major petroleum marketers in the country with a view to seeking their cooperation toward reducing fuel d) Report of the Committee on Kanawa scarcity in the State. International Market Project The findings/recommendations of the report were REPORT ON THE ARTIFICIAL presented by the Committee to the esteemed INSEMINATION TRAINING PROGRAMME Council on the stalled execution of the ambitious IN TURKEY Kanawa International Market project initiated in The Hon. Commissioner for Agriculture and the year 2006 at Dangwauro Village along Zaria Natural Resources informed the meeting that the Road on a 121.2 hectares of land provided by the 73Nos trainees who were sponsored to undergo State Government as its equity for which the sum training on artificial insemination in the Republic of N467 million was paid as compensation to the of Turkey have completed their training and have land owners while Integrated Development and already returned to the country. The program Investment Services (IDIS) agreed to develop and which was initiated by this Administration is operate the market for a period of 25 years under intended to enhance the capacity of the trainees in public private partnership arrangement. Despite modern techniques of animal production as well the fact that the State Government has fulfilled all as developing and boosting agricultural activities its sides of the bargain, the private company has in the State. failed to live up to expectation thereby breaching many provisions of the agreement including PARTICIPATION IN RUMFOBA ANNUAL abandoning the project for nine (9) years to the GENERAL MEETING extent that the site has been seriously affected His Excellency, the Deputy Governor informed the by gully erosion leading to huge loss of initial Council of his participation at the instance of His investment on infrastructural facilities therein Excellency, the Executive Governor in the above provided hence denying the people of the state the mentioned conference. The annual event was held opportunity to benefit from such commercially- at Rumfa College where the Executive Governor designed project. In addition, these breaches and was honoured with an honorary membership to be the desire of the State Government to actualize formally presented at a ceremony later. During the the project for the benefit of the people of the event, the organizers requested the Government to State and beyond necessitated the constitution of consider re-boarding Rumfa Collage. the Committee on Kanawa International Market Project to investigate the remote causes of the PARTICIPATION IN THE FORMAL delay and proffer recommendations on the way RECEPTION OF FORMER PDP STALWARTS out upon which Council approved the revocation INTO APC IN JIGAWA STATE of the certificate of occupancy of the 121.2ha The Council noted the participation of His of land provided for the Kanawa International Excellency, the Deputy Governor in the ceremony Market Project with immediate effect as part of in Jigawa to mark the decamping of 370,000 Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s determination to continue with the former members of the PDP including the former project for the benefit of the people of Kano State Governor, Deputy Governor, Senators, Members especially as IDIS is not ready to secure funds from of the House of Representatives, state Assembly and Commissioners to APC. This remarkable other investment outlets to execute the project. progress highlighted the good leadership style of UPDATE ON ACTIVITIES OF THE 26TH the party in steering the affairs of the State and the peoplesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; appreciation/support of the policies of the EXCO SITTING ONE-DAY WORKSHOP ON Government. CONTRIBUTORY HEALTHCARE SCHEME AT TAHIR GUEST PALACE Signed: The Head of Civil Service informed members of his Malam Muhammad Garba participation in the workshop on 22nd December, Commissioner of Information, 2015 organized by the National Health Insurance Youth, Sports and Culture Scheme, Kano Office which was also attended by Kano State

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PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

Money Sense How to save money while dinning out N

ot only can eating out be expensive, but it will probably get tacked on to plenty of other events you’ll go to. As such, this should probably be one of the first places you look to save money. The obvious ways to cut costs are to eat at cheaper restaurants or cook your own meals, but that isn’t very fun, is it? Here are some things you can try to shave that check: Eat at culinary schools or ‘Mama Put’. Chefs have to learn to cook somewhere. Often, culinary schools will run educational restaurants that allow students to learn their trade by cooking for the public. Or you can go down the street for a good popular local ‘food is ready’ spot or vendor referred to as ‘mama put’. Which of these places, you visit choose to go; you can get a nice meal for cheaper than you might at a regular restaurant. Find discounted vouchers. When it comes to finding deals for less payment at exotic restaurants, unlike Europe and America where there are plenty of places to get discounted vouchers for meals out, in this part of the world there aren’t plenty of such places to go about that. For instance in America, LivingSocial and Amazon local are great places not only to find deals, but to discover new restaurants in one’s area. Eat lunch, not dinner. If you have the choice between eating earlier and later, go for earlier. Dinner meals are frequently more expensive than lunch for a variety of reasons. Not only is competition for speed and turnover higher around lunch time, but it’s easier to coax money out of people in the evening when they’re relaxed. Have a small snack first. Your mother told you all your life not to snack or you’ll ruin your appetite. You’re an adult now, though, and it’s time to break those chains. If you go to a restaurant ravenous, you’ll be more likely to indulge in expensive meals. Everyone knows you should avoid going grocery shopping while hungry. Just apply that same logic to dining out. Skip the booze. This is supposed to be fun. However, the quickest way to burn through your funds is to start out by spending N10, 000 per cocktail to increasingly impair your judgment (and then spend even more on a taxi home). If you really want to drink as part of your night out, withdraw a small amount of cash and stick to that budget.

Overlooked ways of making extra money

hen your expenses total more than your income and a conventional second job is not possible, you have several other ways to make extra money. You don’t have to demean yourself or work for pennies. Several legit moneymaking options exist that nearly any adult can do. Get creative with your abilities and put more cash in your pocket. Online sweepstakes contests

and

Enter online sweepstakes and contests. While some offer opportunities to win cash, others give away products, free groceries and big-ticket items like kitchen appliances and televisions. If you win a product or item, sell it for cash. You’ll likely have to enter hundreds of contests to make much money, but the more you enter the better your chances are of winning. Even small wins add up, and you can often enter more than once, increasing your odds. Personal assistant It’s not just movie stars and famous people who need personal assistants. Regular people, who work odd or long hours, travel extensively or just need extra help, hire personal

assistants. This position runs errands, pays bills, drops off and picks up dry cleaning, does the grocery shopping and gets the mail. It is not a glamorous job, but it brings in extra income and provides some variety to your day. Clinical studies Participate in clinical studies conducted by drug companies, universities and hospitals. The rates vary widely depending on how long the study lasts, what participants are required to do and if overnight stays are involved. Some may be as simple as a sleep test, while others involve trial drugs or new treatments. There are often criteria you must meet for each study, but if you get picked to participate, you’ll get paid for your effort and time. Pet care Many pet owners work long hours and take vacations where Fido isn’t welcome. Offer your services to walk dogs during the day or keep them in your home while their owner is at the office. Some people provide sitting services at the client’s house, while others just stop in to walk a dog or feed and water an animal.

world news

PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

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international_peoplesdailyng@yahoo.com

Hopeful security signs in CAR analysis By Tania Page

ANGUI - The new commander of the UN peacekeepers in Central African Republic (CAR) is a Senegalese general with a nononsense reputation. Bela Keita arrived in Bangui about a month ago. At the time, he said, PK5 - the Muslim enclave in the capital - was very tense and the streets almost deserted. However, now people felt more confident about trying to go about their daily business, he said. “It’s like Dakar now, nice and busy.” That might be a bit of an exaggeration but the general consensus here is that in recent weeks security has improved. CAR has been rocked by sectarian violence since the mostly Muslim Seleka seized power from President Francois Bozize in 2013, prompting revenge killings by a mostly Christian militia that spilled over into civilian communities. Muslims are a minority group here, although they are among the majority who have fled their homes for camps both inside and outside CAR.

Thanks to Keita eita is partly to thank for the improvement. He has instructed his troops to “change their posture” by taking a more aggressive approach. He has reminded them of their mandate to protect civilians, so they have been more responsive to trouble since he arrived. The CAR army and police have also come back on to the streets recently. Keita agrees with Pierre Chrysostum Sambia, CAR’s security minister, who told me that

Pope Francis’ visit to CAR a month ago was something of a turning point. “Not only was his visit very much awaited and hoped for,” Sambia said. “If you can see what’s happening right now, we owe very much to his visit to Bangui.” Sambia said Pope Francis showed the people of CAR the importance of taking a risk for the common good. Pope Francis went to PK5 and spent time with the Muslim community, which has been too scared to leave that zone. It was in that area that fighting broke out on referendum day on December 13. Two people were killed. Protest marches

“

We need to make these towns weapon-free,” he said. “I want to push them out and dismantle all their checkpoints

uslims have also marched there recently in protest against the intimidation they are suffering under the armed groups still holed up there. The country voted overwhelmingly in favour of the referendum, which would see a new constitution enacted that would create a senate and limit the president to two terms. Sambia was inspired by Francis. “Before the arrival of the pope, I had made an agreement to go to PK5,” he

said. “But the pope himself got there before me. He went to the central mosque in PK5 and, just a few hours after his departure, I was able to take advantage of his example and went myself. ”That is to say if the pope is able to go to these areas, then I can’t see why a member of the government can’t go.” Keita said: “For the time being, we are in control.” He explained his plan for the towns and areas outside Bangui that were ex-Seleka

strongholds. “We need to make these towns weapon-free,” he said. “I want to push them out and dismantle all their checkpoints.” Keita was cautiously optimistic but careful to remind me of a crucial missing component. “The problem is that there are still many armed groups out there,” he said. “And there’s no peace plan.” Source: aljazeera.com

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News From Africa

PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

Muslims in Kenya offer a Christmas present to the world

Benin PM Lionel Zinsou escapes from helicopter crash

The past week is a reminder to all of us of the power of solidarity against extremism in an increasingly anguished and angry world, write Cole and Fraser-Rahim [Reuters]

fter a year marred by violence that has led some people to suppose that confrontation is inevitable among humanity’s religions, a busload of Muslims in northeast Kenya has given us all a gift beyond measure for Christmas and the New Year. On December 21, when armed al-Shabab extremists halted a bus near the town of Mandera, they asked the Muslims on board to help separate out the Christian passengers for execution - a pattern of attack with which they have repeatedly traumatised Kenyans in recent years. But the Muslim passengers threw a human shield around their Christian compatriots and told the attackers that they would have to

kill the entire busload, Muslims and Christians alike. Muslim women took off their traditional headscarves and handed them to non-Muslims to wear for protection. The gift of these Kenyans went far beyond offering protection for their Christian neighbours. Kenyan society is predominately Christian, but communities of Muslim, Bahai, Buddhist and African traditional religion add an important cultural, economic and social fabric to its citizenry. Organisations such as the Inter-Religious Council of Kenya composed of a cross-section of faithbased communities - work vigorously to promote inclusion, and speak to the long-standing tradition in Kenyan society promoting tolerance

and inclusion. Thus, the past week is a reminder to all of us of the power of solidarity against extremism in an increasingly anguished and angry world. The message of these Muslim bus passengers, with their courage at gunpoint, is that extremist groups will ultimately fail to drive a wedge between Christians and Muslims, in part because the vast majority of the world’s 1.6 billion Muslims oppose any religious ideology that embraces violence. The world’s two most populous religious communities share values of tolerance and peace that can prevail over any religious or ethnic division. Indeed, the Muslim-Christian commitment to mutual respect is rooted in 7th-century East Africa, to

which early Muslims fled as refugees and were granted protection in the ancient Christian kingdom of Axum, in an event known as the “First Hijra”. This week’s defiant act of peace at a rural roadside is no singular event in Kenya. While communal divisions have flared, it is a nation also steeped in long traditions of tolerance and cooperation among its disparate ethnic and religious communities. In Nairobi, Garissa and other localities that have been traumatised by terrorist attacks in recent years, local women now run an organisation, called Sisters Without Borders, to prevent radicalisation of young people. They also have lobbied Kenyan legislators to provide better support for Kenyan police.

enin’s Prime Minister walked away unscathed after the helicopter in which he was travelling crashed in the country’s northwest, his daughter said. It is unclear why the helicopter carrying Lionel Zinsou crash-landed in a stadium. “My father is fine. There were no victims in the helicopter accident in Djougou,” Marie-Cecile Zinsou tweeted. Earlier this month, Mr Zinsou confirmed he would run as a candidate in Benin’s 2016 presidential elections. The helicopter crashed while landing at a stadium in the city of Djougou, a spokesman for Benin’s interior ministry Leonce Houngbadji told the AFP news agency. He said no-one in the helicopter was hurt. Mr Zinsou, a former private-equity executive, was appointed prime minister of Benin in June. He has said he will run for president in February’s election as a candidate of the ruling Cowry Forces for an Emerging Benin (FCBE) party. Reuters reported in early December that Mr Zinsou’s announcement put an end to speculation Benin’s president Thomas Boni Yayi was seeking a third term.

FW De Klerk criticises Rhodes statue removal campaign

ormer South African President FW De Klerk has criticised a campaign to remove a statue of Cecil Rhodes at Oxford University’s Oriel College. Mr De Klerk said South Africa’s white Afrikaner population had many reasons to dislike Rhodes but “never thought of removing his name from our history”. Campaigners say the statue venerates the 19th Century colonialist and the values he stood for. Former Australian PM Tony Abbott has also said the statue should stay. Mr Abbott, a Rhodes Scholar, said removing the statue would “substitute moral vanity for fairminded enquiry”. Read more: When is it right to remove a statue? Upon his death, Cecil Rhodes, who attended Oriel College, left a legacy which has funded the university’s prestigious Rhodes Scholarships postgraduate awards for non-British students. Mr De Klerk, in a letter to the

FW De Klerk, pictured here with Nelson Mandela in 1994, helped to bring an end to apartheid

Times newspaper, said that “for better or worse”, Rhodes had made an impact on history, which included the positive contribution of his scholarship scheme. “If the political correctness of

today were applied consistently, very few of Oxford’s great figures would pass scrutiny,” he said. He pointed out that Rhodes had been “the architect of the Anglo-Boer War that had a disastrous impact

on our people, yet the National Party government never thought of removing his name from our history”. Mr De Klerk also criticised Oriel College’s decision to consult on the future of the statue, and remove a plaque honouring Rhodes. The college, he said, should be “a little more gracious in its treatment of its most generous benefactor” and suggested if his legacy was so “reprehensible” then it should consider returning Rhodes’ bequest to the victims of British imperialism in South Africa, the Times reports. The #RhodesMustFall movement began in South Africa, where students succeeded in having a statue of Rhodes removed from the University of Cape Town. Students involved in the movement argue that Rhodes’ involvement in land seizures in 19th Century Africa make him unworthy of commemoration. More than 2,300 people have signed a petition calling for the removal of the statue from Oriel College.

The movement includes amongst its members several current Rhodes Scholars. There is also an internal movement of Rhodes Scholars called Redress Rhodes, which says it seeks to work with the Rhodes Trust to “honestly confront” Rhodes’ legacy and ensure that more scholarships are awarded to students from African countries and former colonies. Mr De Klerk, 79, was South Africa’s last white president and shared the Nobel Peace Prize with Nelson Mandela in 1993 for helping to bring an end to the apartheid system. In a statement, the Rhodes Must Fall Oxford (RMFO) movement told the BBC it considered it “despicable that someone who claims to be an ‘icon for reconciliation’ uses apartheid’s National Party as a model for how to deal with colonial symbols”. It added: “His comment that white Afrikaners ‘have greater reason to dislike Rhodes than anyone else’ embodies precisely the distortion and whitewashing of colonial history that we at RMFO are challenging.”

PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

Iraqi forces ‘retake Islamic State Ramadi stronghold’

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Asia & Middle East

Chinese mine owner kills himself as 17 miners remain trapped

raqi forces have retaken a former government compound in Ramadi from where Islamic State (IS) group militants have been resisting an army offensive, the military has said. The complex was “under complete control” and there was no sign of IS fighters, a spokesman said. He said this heralded the defeat of IS in the city, although he admitted there could be pockets of resistance. The government has been trying to retake Ramadi for weeks. The mainly Sunni Arab city, about 55 miles (90km) west of Baghdad, fell to IS in May, and was seen as an embarrassing defeat for the army. In recent days, troops have been picking their way through booby-trapped streets and buildings as they pushed towards the city centre, seizing several districts on the way. After sniper fire from the compound stopped and aerial surveillance detected no human activity, Iraqi soldiers moved in. The military spokesman, Sabah al-Numani, told Reuters: “The complex is under our complete control, there is no presence whatsoever of [IS] fighters in the complex. “By controlling the complex this means that they have been defeated in Ramadi. The next step is to clear pockets that could exist here or there in the city.” There had been no clear indications of the number of IS militants who had been defending the city, although some reports put it at around 400. No official toll of Iraqi army casualties has been given. The Iraqi military believes the remaining militants have headed north-east; with fighting also reported to be under way to the south-west of the compound. Gen Ismail al-Mahlawi, head of Anbar military operations, told Associated Press that the fighting had been tough given IS’s use of suicide bombers, snipers and booby traps. Concern also remains for the plight of hundreds of families who have been trapped on the frontline, the BBC’s Thomas Fessy reports from Baghdad. Although the full extent of the situation on the ground remains unclear, Agence France-Presse reported there had been celebrations on the streets of a number of Iraqi cities.

Iran’s Rouhani urges Muslims to fix Islam’s global image

A number of miners have so far been rescued (pictured), with one body recovered

he owner of a gypsum mine in China’s eastern Shandong province has killed himself, as rescuers try to reach 17 miners who have been trapped for two days, state media report. One person died and four miners escaped when the mine collapsed on Friday. Since then, rescue workers have managed to pull a number of miners to safety. China has a long history of industrial accidents. The latest incident comes days after a deadly landslide caused by construction waste in southern China. Ma Congbo, the chairman of Yurong company which owns the mine, drowned himself by jumping

into a mine well early on Sunday, China’s Xinhua news agency reports. His motive is not clear but the Chinese authorities have toughened the punishment of employers who are negligent, says the BBC’s Stephen Evans in Beijing. Mr Ma killed himself two days after the mine collapsed in Pingyi County’s Linyi city, Shandong Province, just before 20:00 local time. It is not yet clear what caused the collapse. Rescuers have drilled a hole to access some of the trapped workers, and are trying to transfer food and water, officials say. More than 700 emergency officials are involved in rescue efforts, according to Linyi

Mayor Zhang Shuping. Xinhua news agency reports that seven people have been rescued so far. The facility was used to mine gypsum, a soft mineral that is widely used in construction. The latest incident comes a week after a landslide in the southern city of Shenzhen killed one person and left another 75 people missing, presumed dead. Authorities say the landslide was caused when a huge man-made mound of earth and construction debris lost stability and collapsed. It is one in a series of industrial accidents to occur this year, with questions raised about rapid industrialisation and safety standards in China.

Is the PLO facing a legitimacy crisis?

amallah, occupied West Bank - The demonstration against the Israeli occupation had been going on for hours, and these teenage boys wanted a break. On a recent afternoon, they passed around soft drinks outside a convenience shop near Ramallah, huddling in the chilly air. “We’re not with any political party,” said Ehab, 17, loosening

the keffiyah wrapped around his face. “We don’t support any of the political parties. We are Palestinian, and that’s it.” But when asked whether they placed any hope in the leadership of the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO), one of the young men, Mohammed, 18, tutted in disapproval. “We don’t support what the

Critics say that since the Oslo Accords were signed and the PA established, the PLO has ignored the Palestinian diaspora and instead focused on state-building [AP]

leaders are doing,” he told Al Jazeera. “They aren’t doing anything for the people. We support the time when Abu Ammar was in control, but not now. They are just talking, talking, talking.” In recent weeks, young men and women across the West Bank have taken to the streets in anger against the Israeli occupation. But the Palestinian nationalist organisation that Abu Ammar - better known as Yasser Arafat - led from the 1960s to 2004 is currently facing a crisis of legitimacy, analysts say. Last week, Palestinian Authority (PA) security forces reportedly beat Palestinian demonstrators who were marching towards a checkpoint in Ramallah for a protest. Journalists present at the scene told Al Jazeera that undercover Palestinian security personnel pushed reporters away and even confiscated or deleted data from photographers’ memory cards - just the latest example of the PA’s recent crackdown on press freedom. Since the Oslo Accords were signed in 1993, the PLO has remained committed to finding a two-state solution through negotiations with the Israelis.

ranian President Hassan Rouhani says Muslims should strive towards improving the world’s opinion of Islam, which he says has been tarnished by violence. “We must remove Islam’s negative image from today’s cyber and real space,” he told a conference in Tehran. Mr Rouhani, a religious moderate, said Islamic principles opposed violence. In a veiled reference to Saudi Arabia and its Gulf allies, he also criticised nations which had bought US weapons and fired them at fellow Muslims. Iran is staunchly opposed to the Saudi-led aerial bombardment campaign targeting Shia Houthi rebels who seized control of large parts of Yemen earlier this year. “How many bombs and missiles have you purchased from America this year?” Mr Rouhani asked. “If you had distributed the money for those bombs and missiles among poor Muslims, nobody would be going to bed hungry.” Addressing a conference on Islamic unity on Sunday, the Iranian president spoke of the shame of watching Muslim children make long, dangerous journeys to seek refuge in nonIslamic countries. “It is our greatest duty today to correct the image of Islam in world public opinion,” he said in the speech that was aired live on state television. He voiced concern that damage was being done to Islam’s reputation by the violence in its heartlands, and urged all Islamic nations in the region to stop the “violence, terror and massacres”. He also condemned Muslim countries for “being silent in the face of all the killing and bloodshed” in Syria, Iraq and Yemen - conflicts in which Iran plays a role.

President Rouhani said violence in the Middle East was giving a “negative image” of Islam

PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

Page

Europe & Americas

Australia residents return after Christmas Day bushfire New

injuries have been reported. Work was now under way to assess damage to roads, power and water lines and to the environment, he said. “The other issue today of course is smoke and what impact that will have in terms of those who’ve got underlying conditions,” Mr Andrews said. Hundreds of firefighters have

been battling the blaze in the two towns as well as Lorne - popular holiday spots along the famous Great Ocean Road. On Friday, some 1,600 residents and tourists were evacuated from Lorne amid fears that a wind change would push the fire towards the town, but were allowed to return on Saturday.

tools help advance keyhole womb surgery

esidents of areas hit by bushfire in Australia’s Victoria state have begun returning home after the evacuation orders were lifted, officials say. Locals of Wye River and Separation Creek - the worst-affected towns - were bussed in to survey their properties. The Christmas Day bushfire

destroyed 116 homes, with nearly one in three houses in Wye River now unliveable. A change to cooler weather and rain has greatly reduced the threat, but some emergency warnings remain in place. Victoria Premier Daniel Andrews said the damage was “significant”. No

Flooding ‘worst in 50 years’, as 150,000 flee in Paraguay, Argentina, Brazil and Uruguay

Paris attacker Samy Amimour L buried in unmarked grave

ast areas in Paraguay, Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil are being hit by the worst flooding in 50 years, forcing the evacuation of more than 150,000 people. Days of heavy rains brought on by the El Nino weather phenomenon have caused three major rivers to swell, and officials report at least six deaths. A state of emergency is in force in Paraguay, the worst hit nation, where 130,000 people have fled their homes. In northern Argentina, some 20,000 people have left their homes. Dry weather is forecast for the BrazilUruguay border region in the next few days, but in Paraguay and Argentina water levels are still expected to rise. The Paraguay river in the capital Asuncion, is only 30cm (12in) away from overtopping its banks. Officials warn this could lead to widespread flooding in the area. And it could also affect thousands of other people who live by the Paraguay the country’s main river - the authorities said. “(The flooding) was directly influenced by the El Nino phenomenon which has intensified the frequency and intensity of rains,” Paraguay’s national emergencies office said. Nearly 200 electricity pylons have been damaged or destroyed by strong winds, causing power cuts. Four people have been killed by fallen trees. After declaring the state of emergency, President Horacio Cartes said $3.5m (£2.3m) would be immediately available in relief funds for the victims of the flooding. At least two people have died in the floods, which are mostly affecting the north-eastern provinces of Entre Rios, Corrientes and Chaco.

Amimour’s parents took precautions to ensure the burial plot could not be identified

ne of the men who attacked the Bataclan music venue in Paris on 13 November was buried on Christmas Eve in a northern suburb, reports say. Samy Amimour was one of three suicide attackers who killed 90 people at a rock concert. He was buried in a cemetery in Seine-Saint-Denis, where he grew up and where his parents live. Only a few people attended and the grave is unmarked. A total of 130 people were killed in the Islamist militant attacks in Paris. Amimour, 28, is thought to be the first of the

attackers to be buried. Le Journal du Dimanche reported that the burial took place late on 24 December in La Courneuve inter-communal cemetery after it was closed off to the public. It said the hearse disappeared behind trees and concrete walls, and the ceremony was then held in secret and attended only by a few people. Amimour’s parents took precautions to ensure that the burial plot could not be identified, reports said. Authorities feared it could become either a shrine or a target

of attacks. French citizens have the right to be buried where they lived, where they died or in a family plot. Amimour had been charged with terror offences in 2012 over claims he had planned to go to Yemen. He was placed under judicial supervision but then dropped off the radar, prompting the authorities to issue an international arrest warrant. It was later revealed he had travelled to Syria and evidently then slipped back in to France.

ondon, UK - The lab at the University College Hospital in London is abuzz with activity. One team is working on a prototype of an extremely highresolution ultrasound for an unborn baby: the veins are bright pink and the placenta a swirling grey. Another is putting a tiny flexible probe through a hole in a cardboard box: a tool for practising keyhole surgery, while a third group is using a robotic hand to manipulate a tiny probe in a plastic box filled with water designed to replicate the womb. It is all part of a seven-year, $17m programme to develop tools for keyhole womb surgery. The “lowhanging fruit” - the project easiest to achieve - is a foetalscope, the highresolution ultrasound that provides a map of the placenta. It will give surgeons a much better picture of what they’re doing, the project’s director, Seb Ourselin, told Al Jazeera as engineers and computer scientists whirled around the lab, fixing cables, working on connections and manoeuvring robotic arms. The high-tech scanning machine takes a series of pictures and puts together a complete view of the womb, much like you do when you take a panorama with your smartphone camera. It allows surgeons to see on a screen in front of them in the operating room exactly where they are working in the womb, often a confusing and challenging environment. “It’s like painting the back of the door through the keyhole,” explained Jan Deprest, one of Europe’s preeminent foetal surgeons. The tools will allow doctors such as Deprest to go places they couldn’t see and work in areas they couldn’t reach. When Anna David, an obstetrician at the University College Hospital, scans her patients she can detect birth defects as early as 12 weeks, when the foetus is the size of a tangerine. But surgery would be too risky on a foetus that small. Frustratingly, there’s often nothing the doctors can do but watch problems develop.

Texas tornadoes: Eleven killed in Dallas area

leven people have been killed in tornadoes in Texas, police say, raising the death toll to 29 in a week of storms across several US states. At least eight people died in Garland, near Dallas, five of them when their cars were blown off a motorway. Three bodies were found

in other towns. Officials also say west Texas and New Mexico could suffer major blizzards, bringing up to 16in (41cm) of snow. The storms across the South have been unusually powerful for winter. Reports from Texas said churches were destroyed, cars mangled and

trees toppled across a 64km (20 mile) zone from south of Dallas up to suburbs in the north-east. Garland police believed that tornado-strength winds late on Saturday were the cause of car accidents, Melinda Urbina from the Dallas County Sheriff’s office, told the BBC. Ms Urbina said the winds “tossed

cars around” and vehicles were later found below Interstate 30, about 15 miles (24km) north-east of Dallas. She urged local residents to stay off the roads. In a Sunday morning briefing, Lt Pedro Barineau, of Garland police, said 600 buildings had been damaged. The Red Cross is setting

up shelters for those with damaged homes. Police said all street and highway lights had been knocked out, leaving officers working in the dark overnight. Two people were found dead at a petrol station in Copeville, and a third was killed in Blue Ridge, reports in local media said.

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Strange

world

Anger as body-in-suitcase killers have their Bali jail sentences cut for Christmas By Richard Shears

he US ‘body in the suitcase’ killers have received a cut in their Bali jail sentences. Under annual remissions granted over Christmas, Heather Mack and her boyfriend Tommy Schaefer, who have been sentenced to ten years and 18 years in jail respectively, have been awarded a small cut in their sentences. Mack and Schaefer murdered Miss Mack’s mother, Sheila von Wiese-Mack, from Chicago, in an upmarket Bali hotel in August 2014. They have had their sentences cut by one month. The cut in jail time was met by criticism as other convicts in Bali such as British drugsmuggling grandmother Lindsay Sandiford, 59, who is on death row for attempting to smuggle 10.5lb of cocaine through Bali airport in May 2012, received no benefit. ‘It’s not a huge cut when you consider they’re doing 10 years and 18 years, but it makes you wonder why Lindsay Sandiford faces death with no remission and the Americans who actually kill someone are shown leniency,’ a jail visitor familiar with the Sandiford case said today. The courts have heard that after a fierce argument between Schaefer and her mother, 62-year-old Chicago socialite Wiese-Mack in the five-star St Regis Hotel in Bali, the couple killed her in her hotel room and then stuffed her body into a suitcase which they loaded into the rear of a waiting taxi. They fled from the hotel, resulting in the taxi driver reporting the incident at a police station. When police opened the suitcase they found the battered body of Mrs Mack. The killers were arrested later at another hotel. The pair are in Bali’s notorious Kerobokan Prison where British drug-smuggling grandmother Sandiford is also held. Sandiford, from Cheltenham, did not received a reduction. After being sentenced to death in January 2013 she has fought through the courts for her life, but has received setbacks each time. She is still trying to raise enough money through her supporters to launch a final desperate appeal. The jail visitor added: ‘Lindsay was stopped at the airport with drugs in a suitcase

Schaefer and Mack are pictured arriving at a court in Denpasar on the Indonesian holiday island of Bali in February. they have both had their sentences slashed by one month for Christmas

after her sons back in England were threatened with death if she didn’t carry the drugs, so the drugs didn’t get out on the streets and she wasn’t responsible for anyone dying. ‘Yet the Americans brutally kill someone, escape a death sentence and now they have received remissions. It doesn’t make sense and it definitely isn’t fair.’ More than 80 inmates at

Kerobokan Prison have been granted sentence remissions this Christmas, the state-run Anatara news agency reported today, quoting warden Kusbiantoro, who uses only one name. Kusbiantoro took over then top prison job only a few days ago after his predecessor was sacked over his failure to prevent a deadly riot. Indonesia has a tradition of

Heather Mack carries her baby daughter inside a cell at the Denpasar District Court before her verdict at her trial in Bali, Indonesia, in April. She was sentenced to 10 years behind bars and has her child with her in her cell

offering remissions to celebrate religious holidays. Christian inmates can get remissions at Christmas, while Muslims get shortened sentences for the religious Indul Fitri holiday. Sentence cuts are also announced on other major national holidays such as Independence Day, remissions being granted on

recommendations from prison officials. Curiously Mrs Sandiford has been described as a model prisoner, while Miss Mack has made a number of demands including asking for a more comfortable cell for herself and her nine-month-old daughter Stella. Source: Dailymail.com

Tommy Schaefer after his verdict trial in April this year. He was sentenced to 18 years behind bars for the murder of Sheila von Weise-Mack.

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Digest

How eating fish can stop middle-age spread By Fiona Macrae

ating fish could help prevent middle-age spread. In what will be welcome news for those who are planning to ditch their diet over Christmas, it seems that fish oil can melt away unwanted fat. Research found that omega-3 fats in fish oil turned ‘bad’ fat cells into healthy ones, which specialise in burning off calories. The number of these ‘good’ fat cells starts to fall around middle-age – meaning the finding could be of particular value to those whose waistlines are becoming larger as they grow older. The Japanese research centred around two types of body fat. The troublesome white variety that we are all too familiar with soaks up extra calories and stores them in big bellies, love handles and saddlebag thighs. But adults also have ‘beige’ fat cells, which burn off

Oil rich in omega-3 fats, found in fish, turned ‘bad’ fat cells into healthy ones, which burn off calories. calories and generate heat. Experiments on mice showed that fish oil transforms

white fat cells into beige ones. Study author Teruo Kawada of Kyoto University

The DHA and EHA, compounds found in omega-3 oils which come in supplements, pictured above, help to maintain a health waistline, new research has revealed.

said: ‘We knew from previous research that fish oil has tremendous health benefits, including the prevention of fat accumulation. ‘We tested whether fish oil and an increase in beige cells could be related.’ The team tracked the weight of mice fed fatty food for four months. When their food was supplemented with fish oil, the mice put on up to 10 per cent less weight and up to 25 per cent less fat. High doses of DHA and EHA, compounds found in omega-3 oils, were particularly beneficial, according to the journal Scientific Reports. The discovery could help explain why people from nations like Japan, who have fish-rich diets, tend to have exceptionally long lives. The researchers said: ‘People have long said that food from Japan and the Mediterranean contribute to longevity, but why these cuisines are beneficial was up for debate. ‘Now we have better insight into why that may be.’ Omega-3 fats, which are particularly abundant in oily fish such as herring,

mackerel, and salmon, are already credited with a host of health benefits, from keeping high blood pressure at bay to helping ward off Alzheimer’s disease. The NHS says we should all eat fish twice a week, including one portion of oily fish. However, many of us would rather pop a pill, with health conscious but time-pressed Britons spending around £10million a year on omega-3 supplements. Not everyone agrees that fish oils boost health. Two years ago, US scientists warned of a link between increased levels of omega-3 fats in the blood and increased incidence of prostate cancer. The researchers said that the amount of omega-3 fatty acids in supplements is huge compared with that in fish and advised men, in particular, against taking it in capsule form. Omega-3’s benefits to the heart are also under the microscope, with several recent studies, including two large-scale round-ups, questioning whether the oils really do boost cardiac health. Source: Dailymail.co.uk

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Southampton dents Arsenal EPL title chase

Southampton beat Arsenal

rsenal missed the chance to go top of the Premier League as they were thrashed by Southampton at St Mary’s. Saints full-back Cuco Martina marked his first league start with a stunning goal, curling in from 30 yards out. Arsenal’s Olivier Giroud and Theo Walcott missed free headers, before Shane Long finished from close range and Jose Fonte headed in the third. Striker Long struck the post with three minutes remaining, but managed to add a fourth through the legs of Petr Cech. It could have been even worse for the visitors. Virgil van Dijk had a header ruled out for offside, while Dusan

Tadic’s dipping strike was pushed away by Cech. Arsenal had lost just one of their previous 11 league games and recorded an impressive victory over Manchester City on Monday but Arsene Wenger’s side could not back that performance up with victory on the south coast. Playing from the left, Walcott failed to make any impact in the final third of the pitch. A lot of his touches came in his own half Having seen leaders Leicester beaten by Liverpool earlier in the day, the Gunners would have gone top with a win but were resoundingly beaten by a rampant Southampton side.

Mikel gives Chelsea needed balance Hiddink >>Pg 43

Playmaker Mesut Ozil - who has received plenty of plaudits for his impressive performances this season - was kept quiet by the Southampton midfield, while former Saint Walcott posed little threat, attempting only 20 passes before being substituted. Going into the game, Arsenal had conceded the jointfewest number of goals (14) in the league this season and their second-half capitulation will be a big worry to Wenger. Arsenal need to win games against teams in the bottom half of the table if they are to take the title, but did not come close to capitalising on the points dropped by Claudio Ranieri’s side.

Neymar, Brazil will rule the world at 2022 World CupLazaroni >>Pg 46

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Sport

Dalung calls for return of schools to former owners

Ojobo falls out with Enyimba

ne of the NPFL’s most decorated defenders, Markson Ojobo, has been put on transfer list of Nigerian champions, Enyimba. Enyimba explained that the defender, who can play across all positions in the backline, has been put on transfer for “violating the club’s code of conduct”. Ojobo left the base of the People’s Elephant following the development and will no longer train with the club. “Defender Markson Ojobo has been placed on transfer by Enyimba after violating the club’s code of conduct.

Ojobo who joined Enyimba five seasons ago from Bayelsa United will no longer train with the first team, pending his eventual move away from Aba,” Enyimba spokesman Farriel Allaputa revealed via his Twitter account on Boxing Day. Ojobo left the Enyimba camp on Christmas Eve after he was informed by club officials that he would be allowed to leave the team. Ojobo scored five times in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) and played a key role in helping Enyimba win a record seventh league title last season.

Barr Solomon Dalung

inister of Youth and Sports, Barr Solomon Dalung has called for the return of all schools taken over by the Federal and State governments to their former proprietors in order to bring back inculcation of moral, spiritual and ethical discipline which such missionary and private schools were noted for in the past. Dalung made the call while receiving a seven-man delegation of .Executive Members of the Church of Christ in Nigeria - COCIN, Recubelem Jos, led by the Leading Minister of the Church -Rev. Yucaps Gwotts who came to pay him a courtesy visit on Christmas Day. According to the Minister, the nation profited from the all round sound training which such schools provided for our founding fathers; noting that the taking-over of schools by Governments has not yielded the desired result. He also appealed to the church to resuscitate youth programmes

such as the Boys Brigade, Girls Guide, Red Cross and help provide sporting facilities to complement Government’s efforts as deliberate character-mounding and empowerment strategies for our youth in order to produce patriotic and selfless leaders of tomorrow. Towing the line of the President, he apologized to the public for the untold hardship being experienced by the current fuel scarcity, which he explained to be mainly caused by sabotage and greed of some stakeholders; saying a situation whereby large numbers of tankers loaded with the products left Lagos but never surfaced in Abuja destination seven days after leaves much to be desired, and that such practice is rampart but promised that the Federal Government is working round the clock to bring an end to the unacceptable situation and ensure that petroleum products are readily available at the right price.

Amunike to quit Eaglets job

olden Eaglets head coach, Emmanuel Amunike has hinted that he wants to leave the national team. Speaking in a recent radio programme, the former super eagles player turned coach said that he is no longer interested in training the U17 players a squad which he led to win the just concluded FIFA world in Chile. The coach chorused that he would love to take up other challenges in his career, he however feels he has done his bit for the Team. “I have been in this category for years and to be honest I am not interested in continuing with the under-17s, we have to be honest with ourselves, one has to move forward and I am looking forward to the next challenge. Amunike was the assistant coach to Manu Garba who led Nigeria to win the U-17 FIFA world cup in Dubai in 2013. He later on took over from Manu Garba.

Markson Ojobo

NPFL clubs keep tabs on Gyang G

Emmanuel Amunike

iwa FC attacker Amos Gyang has become a beautiful bride in the Nigeria Professional Football League as many as four clubs have the youngster on their radar. Kano Pillars, Nasarawa United and Wikki Tourists are among the clubs wishing to prise him away from the Jos side. Gyang was one of the top performers for Giwa FC as they finished fifth on the Glo Premier League table narrowly missing a spot on the continent. He scored seven goals during the last NPFL campaign with 13 assists to boot which has ignited a scramble for his signature.

“Yes, I have received offers from some clubs around the country but I’m still yet to decide on my next step,” Gyang confirmed. “I am still a player of Giwa FC and will remain so until it becomes otherwise. I’m happy my hard work has been recognised. “Last season was something like a break-out season for me. It’s always good when people appreciate what you do. “Giwa FC has given me the platform to showcase my talent and I’m grateful. If the club accepts an offer for me then I’m good to go, but for now my allegiance is with Giwa FC.

PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

Sport

Mikel gives Chelsea needed balance- Hiddink

igeria international Mikel Obi has won the praise of Chelsea manager Guus Hiddink for bringing stability to the team as they played out a 2-2 draw with Watford at Stamford Bridge on Saturday. Mikel replaced Cesc Fabregas in the 46th minute of the game and almost got the winner as his 20- yard shot missed narrowly. “I liked our intensity but we also have to look for a balance in

the team. It’s a very attackingorientated team,” Hiddink told the Chelsea website. “When we have a midfield with all creative players it’s beautiful but sometimes you need a balance and I thought John Obi gave us that balance. “When you have the creative players such as Matic, Oscar, Willian coming inside and Cesc as well, sometimes you have to choose in a different way.”

Page 43

Ighalo closes in on Yakubu’s EPL record

dion Ighalo is now just three goals away from equaling the highest number of goals scored by a Nigerian player in the English Premier League after he netted his 13th goal at Chelsea on Saturday. Yakubu Aiyegbeni holds the record of the most prolific Nigerian striker in the EPL after his 16 goals for Portsmouth in the 2003/04 season.

Osaze Odemwingie is a close second after his 15 goals for West Bromwich Albion in the 2010/2011 season. Ighalo’s 13th goal in the league was his sixth goal in five consecutive EPL games. Last season, he banged home 20 goals to win Watford promotion back to the English top-flight after many years in the lower league.

Watford and Ighalo celebrate

Chelsea midfielder Mikel

Atletico unwilling to rule out Costa return

helsea striker Diego Costa could yet make an Atletico Madrid return, according to the La Liga club’s president. The Spain international finally found some form on Saturday, scoring a brace in Chelsea’s 2-2 Premier League draw against Watford. The 27-year-old has been linked with a return to Atletico, where he starred before his

Chelsea striker Diego Costa

move to England in July 2014. Atletico president Enrique Cerezo was unwilling to rule out a return for Costa. “But you never know what will happen in football and sometimes players do return to their former clubs.” Costa scored 43 league goals in three seasons for Atletico, who sit second in the La Liga table.

Gaal set to quit Manchester Uniited

an Utd boss Louis van Gaal says he could “quit by myself” after Stoke condemn his side to a fourth straight defeat. Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal said he could “quit by myself” after Stoke City condemned his side to a fourth straight defeat. The Dutchman, under pressure after seven games without a win, was asked whether he feared he would be sacked. “That is something I discuss with [executive vice-chairman] Ed Woodward not you,” Van Gaal told a media conference after the game. He added: “Sometimes I do that by myself, but I am the one who wants to speak first with the board of Manchester United and my members of staff and my players, not with you.” United’s miserable run has seen them knocked out of the Champions League at the group stage and slip out of the top four in the Premier League. “I have received [the club’s backing] all the time but we have lost so there is a new situation,” said Van Gaal. “I feel the support of my players and my board. The fans will be disappointed but that is logical after four defeats.” Van Gaal does not think it is important that Woodward has not publicly backed him.

Louis van Gaal

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PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

Sport

Tokyo Olympic stadium gets new, cheaper design A

new, more scaled-down, design has been chosen for the main stadium at the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo. Spiralling costs had forced the scrapping of renowned architect Zaha Hadid’s futuristic original design. The new design, by Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, will cost 149bn yen ($1.2bn; £825m) to build. Ms Hadid’s plan would have cost 252bn yen,

making it the world’s most expensive sports venue. The scrapping of the design caused a row that eventually led to the resignation of Japan’s Education and Sports Minister Hakubun Shimomura in October. Mr Kuma’s design echoes Japanese temple styles, with a low-lying steel and wood structure, surrounded by trees. It will sit more than 20 metres lower than the previous design and supporters say it fits better with its immediate environment, which includes the greenery

Pooley eyes cycling gold at 2016 Olympics

Pooley narrowly missed out on gold to Linda Villumsen in the 2014 Commonwealth Games

Olympic silver medallist Emma Pooley is set to return to the British cycling team for the Rio Olympics in 2016, having retired from the sport in 2014. The former world champion will target the time trial and may

also support Lizzie Armitstead in the road race. Pooley, 33, retired from cycling after winning two silver medals at the 2014 Commonwealth Games to concentrate on triathlon and other endurance

events. Pooley won silver in the time trial at the 2008 Beijing Olympics before finishing sixth in the event at London 2012, where she also helped Armitstead win a silver medal in the road race.

around the nearby Meiji Shrine. Construction or the new design will also be quicker. Necessarily so when the International Olympic Committee deadline for completion is January 2020, ahead of the Games’ start in July that year. The new winning design has also attracted colourful comparisons, with some saying it looks like a stack of pancakes, or a hamburger.

Mills worry over pollution water for Rio 2016

ritish sailor Hannah Mills says the polluted waters of Rio de Janeiro could hinder her chances of winning gold in next year’s Olympic Games. Mills and Saskia Clark finished 2015 with victory in the 470 class at the Copa Brasil de Vela event at the Olympic sailing venue. World Sailing says the water quality in Rio needs major improvement, and Mills admits it remains a significant worry. A statement from the Rio 2016 organising committee earlier this month said the water at the sailing venue “meets the relevant standards”. However, tests at Guanabara Bay have revealed high levels of

bacteria and viruses coming from human sewage. Two sailors contracted infections at a test event in August, which they claim were caused by the waters. World Sailing will conduct the latest site visit in late January to assess work being done to improve the quality. Cardiff-born Mills, 27, and Clark, 36, from Colchester, won a silver medal at London 2012 and have already qualified for next year’s Games. They claimed a gold medal at the 2012 World Championships and silver in 2015 and are ranked number one in the world in the 470-class.

Evans misses Olympic after turning professional

Smith wants Cotto after defeating Kelly

iam Smith has called out Puerto Rican legend Miguel Cotto ahead of the first defence of his WBO light-middleweight title against Jimmy Kelly on Saturday. Liam became the first of Liverpool’s four fighting Smith brothers to win a world title when he stopped American John Thompson in October. Kelly will be taking part in only his 17th pro fight at the Manchester Arena but will have home advantage. Cotto is a former fourweight world champion who lost to Mexico’s Saul Alvarez in his last fight in November. Cotto has been campaigning as a middleweight for the last three years.

Smith, who is unbeaten in 21 pro fights, is also targeting unification matches with WBA champion Erislandy Lara and IBF champion Jermall Charlo. Kelly, 23, is trained

by former British lightmiddleweight champion and world title challenger Ensley Bingham, who believes his charge is boxing’s best-kept secret.

Liam Smith

Fred Evans (R)

Olympic silver medallist Fred Evans has turned professional, ruling himself out of competing at the 2016 Rio Games. The 24-year-old, from Cardiff, became the first Welsh boxer to win a silver medal by reaching the welterweight final at London 2012. Evans also won gold at the 2011 European Amateur Boxing Championships in Ankara. Evans’ move into the professional ranks comes three months after Wales’ most decorated amateur boxer, Andrew Selby, also gave up his unpaid status.

Both have signed with Bristolbased manager Chris Sanigar, who also represents IBF featherweight world champion Lee Selby, and will be trained by Tony Borg. Evans is currently serving a twoyear suspended prison sentence for unlawfully wounding friend Michael Wilson after they had been drinking at a Gloucestershire pub for “several hours”. He was refused accreditation to compete for Wales at the 2014 Commonwealth Games following checks by the Home Office and Games officials.

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Sport Neymar, Brazil will rule the world at 2022 World Cup- Lazaroni S

ebastiao Lazaroni knows a fair bit about polishing rare pearls, the current Brazil coach and high-stakes showdowns with Argentina. He nurtured the career of a mega-hyped youngster named Romario, made Dunga an automatic in the Seleção’s engine room and, after masterminding a defeat of La Albiceleste in the final round of the Copa America 1989, saw his side suffer a Diego Maradona-concocted loss in the Round of 16 at the next FIFA World Cup. Lazaroni believes Brazil face a stern examination in Buenos Aires tonight. The 65-year-old nevertheless reckons that, while Russia 2018 may come a little too soon for what he calls “another golden generation” just as Italy 1990 did for Dunga and Romario Qatar 2022 will climax with five stars becoming six and Neymar established as the biggest star on the planet. The 23-year-old forward, who scored a wonder goal for Barcelona against Villarreal earlier this week, will return from an international suspension against Argentina. “Brazil’s performance in Buenos Aires is very important in the long term,” Lazaroni said pointing to that aforementioned 2-0 Copa America victory, which gave a platform to rising talents Bebeto and Romario, the two marksmen. “It is the first chance for our talented youngsters to blend as a group. “Another golden Brazilian generation is emerging with Neymar, Oscar, Lucas Moura, Philippe Coutinho, Willian, Roberto Firmino and Douglas Costa. They will achieve full maturity as a group, with Neymar as leader, by Qatar 2022, and could win the country’s sixth World Cup title. I think Russia 2018 might come a bit too soon for them. Dunga’s role will be to foster the golden generation into a team unit. “They are all in their early-20s and can follow in the footsteps of Ronaldo, Rivaldo, Ronaldinho and Kaka, who won the fifth title in 2002. With the World Cup returning to Asia in 2022, it is the perfect timing for the next golden generation to bring home the sixth title, what we call in Brazil the hepta. It would be a fantastic occasion to win with the Middle East hosting the region’s first ever World Cup. The people of the region will lift Brazil just as it

did in South Korea and Japan in 2002.” The best time to begin the process of rebuilding after 2014, according to Lazaroni, would be against Argentina, who are still a formidable side at home despite missing Lionel Messi and Sergio Aguero to injury and having had a difficult start to Russia 2018 qualifying. “Argentina is a strong side even without Messi and Aguero,” said the man who was appointed for a second stint at Qatar Sports Club last month. “They have several marvelous offensive players, especially Angel Di Maria, and are a strong defensive unit as we saw in Brazil 2014, when they finished runners-up. They always have the hunger to win against Brazil. Neymar and his team-mates will be tested by the Argentinians on their own turf, and this experience will help the youngsters in the future.” Lazaroni believes Neymar, scorer of 46 goals in 67 internationals, will be at the peak of his mercurial powers in 2022: “According to statistics, Neymar is better than Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo when they were at a similar age. He will be at the peak of his technical prowess in Russia 2018. Players normally start reaching full maturity when they are between 26 and 28. In 2022, Neymar will be 30 and the complete package as a player. While he will still be a force to reckon with technically, he will be more mature than in Russia.” First up for Neymar and Co, though, is work in the Argentinian capital, which sent Lazaroni on a trip down memory lane. “We had dominated the game, but lost by a goal scored by Claudio Caniggia off a brilliant Maradona assist,” he reminisced ruefully of that clash at the Stadio Delle Alpi in Turin. “We had so many chances and our forwards just couldn’t find the back of the net. As they say in Brazil, the ball will punish you if you make mistakes. Argentina was happy defending and relying on Maradona to produce a moment of magic. This is exactly what happened.”

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PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

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THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990. THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.MRS. LINDA IBEGBULE 2.MRS. FUNMI ADELEYE 3.MRS. CHIOMA AGUH 4.MRS. CHARITY UMEZIE 5.MRS. UCHE NWOSU THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. To eliminate discrimination and harassment against women; creating a gender aware environment. 2. To chart a new movement toward true equality for all women, and toward a fully equal partnership of the sexes, as part of the world-wide revolution of human rights now taking place within and beyond our national borders. 3. To take action to bring women into full participation in the mainstream of the society, exercising all the privileges and responsibilities thereof in truly equal partnership with men. 4. To create a platform that confronts, with concrete action, the conditions that now prevent women from enjoying the equality of opportunity and freedom of choice which is their right, as individuals and as human beings. 5. To organize, initiate or support actions by individuals or organizations, to break through the silken curtain of prejudice and discrimination against women in government, industry, professions, churches, political parties, the judiciary, labor unions, in education, science, medicine, law, religion and every other field of importance in the society. 6.To empower and rehabilitate female prisoners. 7. We are looking to give a voice to women who are oppressed in our society. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISION 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: UCHE UWAZURUONYE ESQ. (08037868944)

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PEOPLES DAILY, MONday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

Some Interesting Facts 1. Reindeer like to eat bananas. 2. No word in the English language rhymes with month, orange, silver and purple. 3. The word “samba” means “to rub navels together.” 4. Mel Blanc (the voice of Bugs Bunny) was allergic to carrots. 5. The electric chair was invented by a dentist. 6. The very first bomb dropped by the Allies on Berlin during World War II Killed the only elephant in the Berlin Zoo. 7. More people are killed annually

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by donkeys than airplane crashes. 8. A ‘jiffy’ is a unit of time for 1/100th of a second. 9. A whale’s penis is called a dork. 10. Because of the rotation of the earth, an object can be thrown farther if it is thrown west. 11. The average person spends 6 months of their life sitting at red lights. 12. In 1912 a law passed in Nebraska where drivers in the country at night were required to stop every 150 yards, send up a skyrocket, wait eight minutes for the road to clear before proceeding cautiously, all the while blowing their horn and shooting off flares. 13. More Monopoly money is printed in a year, than real money throughout the world. Caesar salad has nothing to do with any of the Caesars. It was first concocted in a bar in Tijuana, Mexico, in the 1920’s.

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PHOTO OF THE DAY

Cheer up! This Christmas card photo went awry when these babies starting crying and looking miserable. Source: Dailymail.co.uk

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monday, DECEMBER 28, 2015

QUOTABLE QUOTE On this occasion of the commemoration of the birth of Jesus Christ, let us all rededicate ourselves to the virtues of peace, love, honesty, justice, equity, piety, humility and service to others which he taugh — President Muhammadu Buhari

SPORTS “#Buharigate” As the limit lat-

Kano Pillars resume training today ahead of new season Kano Pillars will resume training for the new Nigeria season today, officials have announced. According to Pillars spokesman Idris Malikawa, all 33 players registered for last season are expected to report for training on Monday. Malikawa also disclosed that a management meeting is slated for today and Sunday during which plans for the new campaign will be formalised. Coach Mohammed Baba Ganaru is expected to negotiate a new contract. Last season, Pillars finished a disappointing eighth on the table after they had won the league three seasons in a row. The new season will kick off on January 31.

Rabiu Ali of Pillars

Company injured again as Manchester City win Manchester City skipper Vincent Kompany described himself as “invincible” on Saturday despite seeing his latest injury comeback last just eight minutes. The 29-year-old Belgian international came on as a second-half substitute in the 4-1 win over Sunderland after eight matches out with a calf injury. Kompany had come on in the 62nd minute at Eastlands on Saturday but his latest setback gave manager Manuel Pellegrini a worrying selection headache ahead of Tuesday’s trip to title rivals Leicester.

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of obstructionist politics

s the war on corruption heightens, the political battle-line between the governing All Progressives Congress (APC) and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has sharply been drawn. While leaders from both parties voice out their support for the clean-up of the country by ridding it of corruption, the National Working Committee of the PDP seems clearly to be working contrary to the anticorruption rhetoric of their Board of Trustees. Their public communication organs have, in particular, become increasingly combative against the exercise. All that the president, leading the APC change orchestra, is trying to do is to revamp a moribund nation through economic growth, jobs and recovered looted funds. Sadly, only a few, if any in Wadata House are treating the war against corruption as the extra-ordinary event which it is. Instead, when they speak up, they do so most ardently against it. In a clear demonstration of obstructionist politics, they challenge the government in every move it makes, but fail to spell out alternative roadmaps to curbing the monstrous corruption that threatens to consume the country; they rush to condemn and dramatise even the smallest of measures which, given time and patience will manifest through positive outcomes. Doing this gives the PDP the illusion of being an effective opposition party, but taken in the context of national interest and the mood of the nation, it is doubtful it it is yielding anything beyond limited political returns. To most Nigerians, the cacophonous opposition is just a media spectacle to distract or mellow the president. After an historic loss in an election to the opposition for the first time in the annals of this country’s politics, PDP has not looked inwards in any serious way to seek its revival. The initial and major leap at reform ended disastrously when, first, the party establishment rejected a well-timed apology tendered on its behalf for their past failures. Then, the leader of the reform movement got himself mired in allegations leading to court charges of the theft of billions of Naira voted for weapons purchase to fight terror in the North-East. Chief Raymond Dokpesi’s trial (and Col. Dasuki’s) is no doubt a serious blow to any prospects of a turn-around in the PDP. The party did not seek to democratise its internal organisation, a major reason for its implosion leading to the loss of the election, or begin to think

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Monday Column By Garba Shehu

President Buhari innovatively about the challenges of modern day Nigeria, nor have they got a “Plan B” that is inviting to the voters. It is this failure to reckon with, or look at the real issues confronting the party and the nation, that led to their call for an investigation of President Buhari for having been supplied two jeeps by the erstwhile Jonathan administration after the personal bullet-proof jeep he owned was bombed by yet unknown assailants. As the Special Adviser to the President, Femi Adesina said, issuance of the cars, soon after this incident was merely a facesaving move, intended to cover the government’s failure to keep its duty to this particular former leader. The law, cited as the Remuneration of Former Presidents and Heads of State (and other Ancillary Matters), entitles former Nigerian Presidents including General Muhammadu Buhari to “three vehicles to be bought by the Federal Government and liable to be replaced every four years”. Cars are just a few in a litany of entitlements written in that law, although it is contestable to say that General Buhari had been given his due entitlements by successive administrations as provided thereunder. Regime after regime treated him as if he was not a former Head of State. General Abacha came on the saddle and wanted to throw everything at Buhari who, knowing his very nature declined virtually all but his military pension. The military, in particular, treated him so badly that its leaders kept silent

when the PDP charged that he didn’t have WAEC papers. One shameless Army Records officer said that the former Head of State had no records at all under their system. General Buhari went without a full compliment of armed guards from the army he served at the highest level until the dastardly bomb attack on his convoy in April 2014. It was at this time that the Chief of Army Staff at that time thought it necessary to reinstate the armed convoy to protect him. When they brought the two cars within a few days of his being bombed, the staff of the General were merely informed that this was from the Federal Government, in fulfillment of its obligation to him. Since this was an entitlement long-overdue, not minding that it came short of what was expected, there was absolutely nothing wrong on the part of the General for accepting that which was due to him. This hashtag “#Buharigate” was intended as a counterpoise to “Dasukigate,” the phenomenal corruption scheme by which money intended for weapons to fight terror was shared among PDP leaders. It was a fake intervention and a malicious propaganda against the president, obviously intended to detract from his enormously huge reputational capital, the basis on which the APC nation-wide victory was founded. The #Buharigate failed to gain traction because it was seen as an opposition overreach and a desperate attempt to tarnish his hard-earned name and nothing more. No serious blogger therefore paid a serious attention to it. This baseless allegation that the President had benefitted from the diversion of money intended to fight insurgency under the former National Security Adviser equally underlines the cruel nature of today’s politics, that even the best personal examples cannot keep a leader from the tar brush of the opponent. Apart from seeking to mellow the president, I suspect that the opposition had thought these attacks would revive the collapsed fortunes of the PDP, while at the same time projecting their leaders as victims of persecution in the hands of the APC administration. What however is encouraging in the country today is that Nigerians have thrown their full weight behind the war on corruption. This itself is an account of the constructive nature of the government’s

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engagement against the vice and the determination with which it is being fought. Adding impetus and flavour is the frustration at the routinisation of corruption by the last administration and their inadequate and impotent efforts to curb and punish high-profile offenders. My concluding augment is that President Buhari’s election and war against terrorism and corruption have become a template. In Niger, Chad and Ghana where there will be elections next year, opposition candidates are parading themselves as the “Buhari” of their own country. President Buhari must have himself been embarrassed by calls, through newspaper articles, posters and banners in the course of his visits to these friendly countries, saying “we want Buhari type elections; we will wage Buhari-type anti-corruption war”. One Chadian political party published an advertorial asking their government to procure and issue permanent voters cards as well as the use of card readers in the coming election and if the funds were not available, “let us borrow from Nigeria” for the coming elections. President Buhari was and is far, far away from, and remains untouched by the “Dasukigate”. “#Buharigate” is therefore a fraud and an unbecoming spectacle designed to tarnish the illustrious record of the President so as to mellow his anti-corruption drive. It failed because it was born out of desperation to gain sympathy by an opposition that can’t heal itself unless it comes to terms with the danger of corruption they thrived in, and the party’s internal structures are overhauled and remade to meet the minimum requirements of a democratic organisation. Garba Shehu is the Senior Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity.

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It is sign of changes