Thur 04 Apr 2013 The Guardian Nigeria by The Guardian Newspaper

TheGuardian Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

Thursday, April 4, 2013

Vol. 29, No. 12,516

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How crises may mar APC, by PDP From Madu Onuorah, Mohammed Abubakarand Azimazi Momoh Jimoh, Abuja AUNTED by the difficulties H of managing its disparate interests, the All Progressives Congress (APC), which is billed to emerge on the platform of opposition parties may unravel on its own, according to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Since this is the likely prospect of the APC, the PDP said yesterday that it would not work against the merger, rather it would pray for its success. The party cited the All Niger-

• Alleges external attacks on NWC • Presidency, ruling party disown bid to stop merger party ian Peoples Party (ANPP), which according to it, is already complaining about modalities for constituting the structure of the APC’s organs. The PDP disclosed this position yesterday as the Presidency denied issuing any directive to frustrate the merger of the political parties. The National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Chief Olisa Metuh said in Abuja yesterday

that the new opposition platform would offer Nigerians a real chance to see that they have no alternative outside the ruling party. “The PDP is not afraid of APC. I believe it is better we allow the opposition to merge and get a name. It is not our business the name the opposition chooses to answer. Names don’t win elections. What is clear is that they (opposition party platform of APC) do not

offer any alternative to the policies of the PDP outside capturing power from the ruling party. They do not offer any solution to the programme of the PDP. “The opposition are going to face challenges of being a big party if the merger succeeds. And they cannot handle it. They are going to hold elections and people will lose and they will leave the party. Let them come together to show

their incompetence. And they don’t have antecedents of democratic leadership in their existing parties,” he said. Metuh regretted that there were constant attacks on the National Working Committee (NWC) of the PDP, but stated that “we have full confidence of the executive branch of the government, the legislative leadership of the National Assembly. We enjoy the confidence of the Gov-

ernors and the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the party. There appears to be a real war on PDP. It is a clear danger on the stability of the party. “The reports about the crisis in the party are grossly exaggerated. They are calculated attempts to distract us from running the party. But we are not embattled with the president. We are not embattled with the governors. We are not embattled with PDP governors. I can assure you that this NWC will conduct primary elections for the 2015 elections. We will be in charge of administration of the party till CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

MEND threatens fresh armed struggle, JTF deploys troops By Kelvin Ebiri, Port Harcourt ACED with a threat by the Fpation Movement for the Emanciof the Niger Delta

Group Managing Director, Odu’a Investment Company, Adebayo Jimoh (left); Chairman, Odu’a, Abiodun Alli; Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka; Baale of Ekotedo, Chief Taye Ayorinde; former Minister of Health, Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi; and Chief Consultant, Supreme Management and Consultancy Services, Yinka Fasuyi, during the commissioning of Odu’a Hall of Fame in Ibadan… yesterday. PHOTO: NAJEEM RAHEEM

(MEND) to resume hostility tomorrow, the Joint Task Force, Operation Pulo Shield, has deployed troops in the oilrich region. But the Leadership Forum for Peace in Niger Delta (LFPND), a group comprising former leaders of ex-militants in the region, has warned groups and individuals planning war to desist from this or be ready to face the consequences of their actions. In a statement issued yesterday, MEND spokesperson, Jomo Gbomo, said after a careful deliberation, the group, with effect from tomorrow April 5, 2013, would commence sustained attacks code-named “Hurricane Exodus.” “Hurricane Exodus is a direct repercussion of a forged threat letter contrived by the Nigerian and South African governments purporting to have originated from MEND. This fake letter was used as evidence against Henry Okah

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Nigeria begins probe into herbal cures for HIV, cancer, malaria, others By Chukwuma Muanya IGERIA yesterday began an investigation into alleged herbal cures for the Human Immuno-deficiency Virus (HIV)/Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), cancer, malaria, asthma, diabetes and contraceptives with the first meeting of the Scientific Committee on Verification of Herbal Cure Claims with stakeholders in Lagos. The convener of the meeting and Director-General of the National Agency for Food and

• To jail defaulting traditional medicine practitioners • The Guardian enlisted for contribution to natural health Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Dr. Paul Orhii, said the country could develop herbal cures for HIV, cancer, malaria, asthma, diabetes and contraceptives with effective collaboration among the stakeholders. Orhii, however, said quack

practitioners, producers and illegal advertisers of herbal medicine would attract jail term, insisting that there was the need for standardising herbal therapy in Nigeria. Orhii, who at the meeting enlisted The Guardian’s Chukwuma Muanya as a member of

the committee, said: “With collaboration with Federal Ministry of Health (FMOH), the National Association of Nigeria Traditional Medicine Practitioners (NANTMP), experts from the Nigerian Institute of Pharmaceutical Research and Development

(NIPRD), Nigerian Medicinal Plants Development Company (NMPDC), professors of pharmacy and medicine from the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State, and most universities in the country, the committee is going to make quality, safe and efficacious herbal medicines available to Nigerians at cheap prices. “We have done it with

FG concessions Abuja, Lagos stadia to private managers — Page71

NICOSAN for sickle cell which is accepted worldwide and so we can do it again by finding herbal cures for HIV, cancer, malaria, asthma, diabetes and contraceptive with proven safety and efficacy.” He said The Guardian’s Science/Health Co-ordinator was enlisted into the committee because of the contribution of the organisation towards the development of natural medicine with dedicated weekly pages on Thursdays.

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THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

2 NEWS

The Guardian enlisted for contribution to natural health CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 The committee members include Prof. Tony Elujoba, former Dean of Pharmacy, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU); Prof. Uche Osunkwo of NIPRD; Prof. Martins Emeje of NIPRD; and Prof. Omon Olaebhiele, Chairman of National Association of Nigeria Tradi-

tional Medicine Practitioners (NANTMP). Others are Mrs. Zainab Ujudud Shariff, Managing Director NMPDC; Dr. Olufunsho Awodele of the University of Lagos; Ben Amodu, Director of Procurement Ministry of Defence; Dr. Muhammad Ibrahim Jawa, Executive Secretary Yobe; Mrs. Hauwa Keri,

Director of Drug Evaluation and Research at NAFDAC; and Mrs. A. I. Osakwe, National Coordinator of Pharmacovigilance at NAFDAC. According to Orhii, the major problem facing NAFDAC and the search for a scientificallyproven cure for HIV, cancer, malaria and others is the prevalence of counterfeit

medicines and quack traditional medicine practitioners. He said: “Our biggest challenge is fighting counterfeit anti-malaria drugs. We have tried manufacturing artemisinin locally. Nigeria can generate billions yearly with this collaboration. But I have a problem. There are

quack claimants and illegal advertisers of herbal medicines will attract jail term. We are not going to approve illegal advertisement and we will not allow people to hawk.” Orhii further explained: “I have been very concerned about the proliferation of some traditional medicines, particularly the herbs, roots

JTF cautions MEND, strategises to tackle upheaval CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 for which a 13-year sentence was passed. To make matters worse, the prosecution’s second witness Mr. Sele VictorBen exclaimed in court that the letter was a fake one after failing to catch the prosecutor’s eye who wanted him to lie under oath. “We are now determined to conjure this imaginary trumped up threat into a painful reality.” According to Gbomo, the attacks would be sustained until an unreserved apology is offered to MEND, and the Nigerian government shows its willingness to dialogue the same way they are willing to do

with Boko Haram. But the spokesman of the JTF, Lt. Col. Onyema Nwachukwu, said security agents had been alerted to the threat by MEND, adding that the development had prompted the task force to effect a redeployment in the Niger Delta. He advised MEND to be orderly in addressing whatever grievance it has and to desist from any action that would upset the peace and development of the Niger Delta. According to him, the people are not in any bondage and therefore do not require armed struggle or emancipation as claimed by MEND. “What Niger Deltans are in dire need of now is peace for sustainable development, having

emerged from the dark days of turbulence in the region,” Nwachukwu said. LFPND leader, Pastor Reuben Wilson, said the threat by MEND and the Coalition of Concerned Ex-Agitators and the Social Restoration Foundation (SOREF), over allegations bordering on implementation of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, was an act of wickedness and ingratitude to the Federal Government that had shown so much commitment to the amnesty programme. Reuben who accused the groups of not acting in the interest of the Niger Delta, warned of dire consequences should anyone breach the prevailing

peace in the oil producing areas. According to him, all ex-militants are living witnesses to the impact of the amnesty progamme on the economy of Nigeria and on the lives of the youths that are today being trained as aircraft pilots, engineers and oil and gas industry professionals . “As leaders of former agitators in the Niger Delta, none of these names is known to us either as fellow compatriots or as stakeholders in our collective struggle. So those claiming to be speaking for the ex-agitators are clearly impostors, who have yielded themselves to be used for a pre-determined purpose.

As leaders of former agitators in the Niger Delta, we are in a better position to tell how the amnesty programme has fared so far and not those who played no role in our struggle but have suddenly emerged to try to rubbish the gains that the programme has brought to our region and its youths,” he said. SOREF had at the weekend alleged that the amnesty process had been hijacked by persons who did not mean well for the youths of the Niger Delta and had given seven days ultimatum to the Federal Government to look into their grievances to forestall a breakdown of law and order in the oil region.

or other allied products that are put out to the public via the media, with ridiculous and unsubstantiated claims of cure for ailments, including serious diseases like HIV/AIDS. “The unsuspecting public relies heavily on advertorials and it behooves us, as a scientific regulatory body, to either prove or debunk such claims scientifically so that people are not hoodwinked into spending huge sums of money for treatments that are ineffective and may sometimes be too dangerous to even cause harm.” The NAFDAC boss said herbal supplements could be beneficial to consumers but they could also cause serious side effects and potentially dangerous conditions. He further explained: “Under the current regulatory regime, NAFDAC only lists products based on safety studies. By taking this new initiative and steps, however, NAFDAC could raise the status of listed products thereby providing more reliable, safer and good quality herbal supplements generally accepted across the globe.”

Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Power, Godknows Igali (left); and Chief Representative of Japan International Co-operation Agency (JICA), Tetsuo Seki, during JICA advisors team workshop with the ministry in Abuja… yesterday.

Presidency, PDP disown bid to stop merger party CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 the end of the NWC current tenure of 2016. We may have differences in ideas. We may have differences in approach. But definitely, we are together in pursuing the vision and goals of our founding fathers.” Metuh admitted challenges facing the party especially as regards the Adamawa State chapter and the fact that the NWC had not met for the past nine months, but stated that they were issues being resolved through the various reconciliation committees constituted by the leadership. He stated that the NWC would meet “very soon” while the result of the Adamawa reconciliation committee would be released today. A statement by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Affairs, Dr.

Doyin Okupe, circulated to media offices in Abuja yesterday equally alleged that the publication was a product of forgery and evil intentions. “We have said it before and will say it again that the coming together of some political parties or associations is of no concern to President Goodluck Jonathan and the leadership of these groups should stop running helter-skelter when no one is chasing them neither should they seek for scapegoats in the Presidency for their own self-inflicted inadequacies”, Okupe said. In another statement in Abuja, the Presidential Spokesman, Dr. Rueben Abati, said neither the President, nor any of his aides had any hand in the alleged plot not to register the APC. Abati states: “It is worth pointing out, again, that what is being bandied around by a section of the media as a ‘Presidential Directive’ on Tinubu,

APC and other matters, is fictitious, designed to mislead the public, discredit the person and office of President Goodluck Jonathan and cause disaffection within the polity. “Careful examination reveals a mishmash of deliberately arranged and concocted lies, presented to the public as evidence of a document emanating from the presidency. This is not only dubious but raises concerns as to the length certain persons will go to perpetuate falsehood for the sake of their selfish ambitions. “Several interpretations of the purported presidential directive appear to have been granted prominence by an all-too-negative segment of the media, supported by partisan political jobbers all on the premise of a suspiciouslooking ‘bromide.’ “The Presidency affirms that no such directive was ever

conceived, nor was any such directive put forth by President Goodluck Jonathan or his aides. “It is ironic that this is coming at a time, when the President is actively engaged in serious discussions with various interest groups on how to further deepen the democratic experience as well as the key issue of how to build an economically viable federation.” He added: “We unequivocally state that in this case, as in others that may follow the same path, the Goodluck Jonathan administration has no desire to create any inhibitions to the expression of democratic ideas in the country. “With regard to the imaginary ‘Presidential directive’ released to hoodwink the general public, the government is confident that the discerning public is well aware that this purported document is alien to how things are done within this Presidency.”

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

News Panel okays elevation of 130 police officers From Karls Tsokar, Abuja HE Police Service ComT mission has approved the promotion of 130 officers and dismissal of an assistant commissioner of police and four others following the recommendations of the Inspector- General of Police. This was disclosed yesterday in Abuja at the end of the 35th plenary meeting to reposition the Police Force and the internal administration of the Commission. The Chairman of the Commission Perry Osayande congratulated the newly promoted officers. In a statement signed by the Chief Information Office, Ferdinand Ukpe, the commission also approved the demotion in Rank of a Superintendent (SP) and a Deputy Superintendent (DSP) as well as severe reprimand and letter of Advice given to some other superior officers for acts unexpected of senior police officers. The promoted officers include one Commissioner of Police (CP), promoted to the rank of Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG), 13 Deputy Commissioners (DCP) elevated to the rank of Commissioners (CP) and 22 Assistant Commissioners (ACP) to the rank of DCP. Others are nine Chief Superintendents (CSP) to the rank of ACP, 10 Superintendents (SP) to CSP, 16 Deputy Superintendents (DSP) to SP. And 52 Assistant Superintendents got elevated to the rank of DSP, as well as seven Inspectors to ASP. Furthermore, for gross misconduct and indiscipline, ACP Fausat Azzez Oduwa, deployed as AC Provost Annex Lagos in May 2012 led four others on the dismissal list. They include a CSP, SP, DSP and an ASP.

Task force alerts public to three-day nationwide outage From Mathias Okwe, Emeka Anuforo (Abuja) and Roseline Okere (Lagos)

• Govt raises transition panel on PHCN successor companies • To privatise dams

N anticipation of the expectIelectricity, ed drop of about 800Mws of the Presidential

bidders have paid 25 per cent of the bid value. The Chairman, Technical Committee of NCP, Atedo Peterside inaugurated the committee yesterday in Abuja. Also, in preparation for privatisation, the Federal Government has zeroed in on 17 dams in the country. Information made available yesterday indicate that the Ministry of Power and its partners have concluded study on 10 of the dams while work is on going by transaction advisers for the privatisation of the dams for electricity generation. Meanwhile, the Federal Government has sought the assistance of the Japanese govern-

Task Force on Power (PTFP) yesterday said that there would be three-day outage beginning from tomorrow in many parts of the country. The task force therefore, called for patience, as it is coordinating with Chevron, Nigerian Gas Company (NGC)/NNPC and the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) to ensure minimal disruption to electricity in the country. Meanwhile, the Federal Government has instituted a transitional committee for 15 Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) successor companies whose preferred

ment in a number of areas in its drive to reposition power supply in the country, using renewable sources. The PTFP said the disruption which is due to occur from April 5-7, 2013, is as a result of scheduled work for the tie in of additional gas supply to the Chevron Escravos Gas plant. As part of the mitigating plan, transmission line maintenance in the Lagos area will also be conducted in tandem to avoid sequential outages, the task force said. Chairman of the PTFP, Beks Dagogo-Jack said the outage would take about 800 megawatts out of service during the three-day period. “The outage is also inclusive of the Shell Afam VI scheduled

maintenance which contributes about 200 megawatts to the power shortfall. The PTFP is coordinating with the relevant project owners to further mitigate the effect of the expected power shortfall. In a statement, the BPE said the committee was in compliance with Share Sale Purchase Agreement (SSPA) approved by the National Council on Privatisation (NCP). Members of the committee are expected to facilitate the smooth transition and eventual handover of the management and operational control of the successor companies to the purchasers; allow purchasers access to the companies in order to prepare for the implementation of their busi-

ness plans laid out in the proposals submitted to the BPE; provide a forum for purchasers to engage with existing management and employees to ensure a smooth transition and handover; and allow BPE and the purchasers to monitor the ongoing operations of the company to ensure they are operating in an efficient manner and in compliance with the terms of the Share Sale Agreements. The acting Director-General BPE, Benjamin Ezra Dikki added: “Each successor company has a three-member committee and members are each from the BPE, the management of the successor company and the preferred bidder. The BPE nominee is the chairman of each committee”.

Chief Executive Officer, Association for Reproductive and Family Health, Prof. Oladapo Ladipo (left); Spokesperson for Endometriosis in Nigeria, Nike Oshinowo and Chief Executive Officer, Nordica Fertility Centre, Dr Ababyomi Ajayi during a seminar on the Pains of Endometriosis in Abuja…yesterday PHOTO: LADIDI LUCY

Police, others beef up security in feuding Anambra, Kogi communities From Chuks Collins and Uzoma Nzeagwu, Awka O forestall future violence, T security has been beefed up in the feuding Anambra and Kogi communities as the taskforce comprising the army and police has begun roundthe-clock patrol of the areas. There was a recent clash between Enugu-Otu Aguleri

• Firm suspends operations • Youths task govt on boundary community of Anambra East Council of Anambra State and its Echonwa /Odeke neighbours of Abaji Local Government Area of Kogi State which allegedly claimed seven lives. The clash is alleged to have been sparked off by a dis-

agreement over the ownership of the oil and gas deposits being tapped by Orient Petroleum Resources Plc (OPR). Meanwhile, following the clash, the firm has shut down its operations. In a related development, Aguleri youths yesterday gave

the Federal Government seven days ultimatum to intervene over the alleged infiltration of their land by the Echonwa people of Kogi state. The youths also warned that should the Federal and state governments refuse to intervene in the crisis, they may take drastic action. Also, Senator Emma Anosike said he had averted a planned reprisal attacks by youths

from both sides of the crises who were alleged to have recruited some mercenaries for the move. Speaking on the incident, the Anambra State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Bala Nassarawa, dismissed reports of fresh killings, contending that what was in the area were mere apprehensions. He, however, confirmed that a joint police and army patrol

Ex-NITEL chiefs, others blame EL-Rufai over firm’s collapse From Emeka Aanuforo, Abuja ORMER Director General of F the Bureau for Public Enterprise, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai

has been criticised over comments that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar approved the appointment of Pentascope, the failed management consultant hired to manage the Nigeria Telecommunications Limited (NITEL) in 2003. Major stakeholders who claimed to be privy to the issues surrounding how Pen-

tascope came to be engaged for NITEL rather want Nigerians to hold El-Rufai responsible for the destruction of the one time life wire of the nation’s telecommunication sector. El-Rufai who later became the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister was also accused of misleading, not only the National Council on Privatization (NCP), but also the entire government of the Federation by presenting Pentascope as a capable management company that could turn NITEL

around. Those who faulted El-Rufai yesterday included former chief executives, union and NITEL retirees. Speaking in Abuja yesterday, former Managing Directors of MTEL, the GSM arm of NITEL, Kunle Bello, who claimed to have voluntarily resigned to avoid the touted new managers, stressed how he saw the collapse of NITEL/MTEL coming. He said the NITEL’s death knell was due to what he described as insincere and

inconsistent implementation of policies by the BPE under El-Rufai. “The Pentascope management brought in by El-Rufai is an irredeemable misfortune upon the telecommunications industry and an unmitigated disaster on NITEL/MTEL staff who have been dying one after another due to nonpayment of pensions,” he stressed. He spoke further of how Pentascope allegedly squandered more than N100 billion of NITEL’s funds, besides the loss

of revenue without adding a single telephone line. Another NITEL’s ex- Managing Director, Prof. Buba Bajoga lamented the destruction of firm as very painful, adding, “We approved the payment of dividends to government and I remember that I left N15 billion and U.S200 million in the coffers of the organisation.” Stressing that NITEL was more profitable than most banks, he claimed: “We paid all our bills and were financing all our projects.”

team had taken over the area and was on routine patrol on major flash points in the area. “There is nothing like killings and burning of houses but what is going on in that area is mere apprehensions. As I speak to you now we have joint police and army patrol and officers and men have taken over major flash points where hoodlums would always want to strike. And I must tell you that the area is calm and our men are up to their responsibilities. Nassarawa, however, denied that the crisis had anything to do with the controversy over which of the states owned the oil and gas deposit being exploited by Orient Petroleum Resources, saying that he had no knowledge of that. The closure of the firm, according to its Managing Director, Emeka Nwawka was to protect the lives of workers, adding “what we did was to protect our workers and for them to remain indoors while awaiting the two state governments to sort out the situation for us to go back to full operations.”

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

4 NEWS

Lagos, Jigawa lead in reforms, says SPARC

Kaduna invasion throws up over 10,000 refugees

By Abraham Oladipupo UNITED Kingdom (UK) orA ganisation, State Partnership for Accountability, Responsiveness and Capability (SPAC), which encourages good governance through accountability, responsiveness and capability, has commended the commitment of Lagos and Jigawa states to aspects of reforms aimed at improving the standard of living of their citizens. Speaking yesterday at the opening ceremony of the Lagos/SPARC Joint Yearly Review of Lagos’ Change Plans held at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce, Alausa, the Deputy National Programme Manager of SPARC, Mark Walker, said the governments of Lagos and Jigawa states were doing well in the area of reform than other states in Nigeria. “Good governance is intertwined with proper use of public finances (public finance management) by a fitfor-purpose civil service (public service management), delivery of quality services (policies and strategies, monitoring and evaluation),” he said.

Kwara ACN refutes chairman’s removal From Abiodun Fagbemi, Ilorin HE embattled Chairman of Kwara State Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Kayode Olawepo, may not have been removed as reported yesterday in some national dailies. In a joint statement yesterday by Alhaji Raimi Idera and Chief Ayanda Fajenyo, representing the party’s caretaker committee and the local council chapter respectively, the removal was said to have existed only in the imagination of the movers of the motion, and allegedly, a former governorship candidate of the party “who is their sole sponsor.” “For the avoidance of doubt, the same feckless people announced the dissolution of the party structure at a ramshackle rally on March 28, 2013 only to use the same structure to remove a legally-appointed official of the party. “There was no meeting of the state or joint meeting of the local council executive committee where it was decided to remove the chairman. Therefore, we remain loyal to the leadership of Mr. Kayode Olawepo (JP), and stand firmly by his leadership.

ACN has strategy to defeat PDP, says Oshiomhole OVERNOR Adams OshiomG hole of Edo State says the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) has the strategy to defeat the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state’s April 20 local council election, and the strategy is service to the people. “Our weapon against the PDP is service to the people. We work for the people because PDP has a history of working against the people; we elevate the people because PDP’s philosophy is to bring the people down,” a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Peter Okhiria, quoted him saying to a crowd of ACN supporters at Ehor and Igueben during his campaign tour. “We would invest in education because PDP believes in privatising education, invest in the building of roads because PDP believes in under-developing the people. Everything that they are opposed to that is good, we will do.”

From Saxone Akhaine, Northern Bureau Chief O thanks to the Easter raid N on Ataka community in southern Kaduna State by

Chairman, Abeokuta North Local Council, Taofeek Olabode (left); Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) chieftain, Mrs. Iyabode Anisulowo; Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun and the ACN State Chairman, Tajudeen Bello, during the party’s membership revalidation exercise in Abeokuta… yesterday.

JAMB sticks to UTME, insists on April 27 date From Mohammed Abubakar, Abuja VEN against the backdrop E of the reported recommendations that it be stripped of the powers to conduct entrance examinations into the universities, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) yesterday restated its commitment to conducting a hitch-free 2013 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). The assurance, which came from the JAMB Registrar/Chief Executive Officer, Prof. Adedibu Ojerinde, said that irrespective of the publications, the board remained committed to conducting the examinations on April 27, 2013 as

outlined by the original timetable. Ojerinde, in Abuja, insisted that while JAMB, “as a responsible and responsive organisation, was not averse to innovation, changes and government policies skewed to improve the lot of the sector, it has not changed the date of 2013 UTME.” He added through the JAMB Spokesman, Fabian Benjamin: “Consequently, candidates are informed that the board’s 2013 UTME slated for April 27 will take place as scheduled. And the dates for the Computer-Based Test (CBT) will also be communicated to candidates soon. “Arrangements have been completed as relevant stake-

holders have been sensitised and briefed about the examination while the board has deployed all necessary logistics and materials to all designated centres preparatory to the examinations.” The JAMB boss noted that the clarification became necessary in view of newspaper publications to the effect that the Federal Government might have cancelled UTME examination. This followed the recommendations of the Steven Oronsaye Presidential Committee on Rationalisation and Restructuring of Federal Government Parastatals and Commissions. The committee’s recommendations to scrap the National Examinations Council

(NECO), the National Poverty Eradication Programme (NAPEP) and streamline the activities of JAMB were meant to decentralise the conduct of examinations into the universities and other tertiary institutions through the planned re-organisation of JAMB, which is responsible for conducting UTME in the country. By implication, JAMB would no longer conduct UTME, as tertiary institutions would be given free hand to conduct tests and/or admit students. With this development, JAMB would be reduced to a supervisory body that serves as both clearing-house and administrative body monitoring admissions in order to check multiple offers and entries.

Soyinka, Ishola lament erosion of Yoruba culture From Kehinde Olatunji, Ibadan ERIOUS concerns are being Sidentity raised about the future of the Yoruba race, with Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, and foremost writer, Prof. Akinwunmi Ishola, yesterday lamenting the erosion of her culture and language by its people. Speaking as Special Guest of Honour at the inauguration of Odu’a Hall of Fame and Museum at Cocoa House, Ibadan, by Odu’a Investment Company Limited, Soyinka noted that things went wrong at some point for the Yoruba as well as the entire country with the neglect of the people’s heritage and monuments. The literary icon, while de-

scribing Oduduwa as the generic father of Yoruba nation, said: “There is need to right the wrongs. With this initiative (hall and museum), I see the beginning of Yoruba technology. I am happy that appeal had been made earlier on the need to develop our culture. “However, there is one negative aspect, not just Ibadan, not just the South-West, but the country and its institutions just went into downward spin, including the Premier University (University of Ibadan).” According to him, “this cooperative building (Cocoa House) was a victim of deterioration simply because the normal facilities that were in place at inception had decayed. Cocoa House could not

save itself. But what I have seen today shows that things are being brought into proper shape. “We can say that Cocoa House is the contemporary Opa Oranyan of the Yorubas. I, therefore, congratulate Odu’a Investment for resuscitating and re-invigorating what is so essential to us as a people.” On his part, Ishola said there should be attempt at promoting the culture of omoluabi, which shows that “a child must differentiate between right and wrong.” According to him, “the idea behind setting up the hall of fame and museum is good, but what will help is the preservation and promotion of Yoruba language so that the younger generation can imbibe the culture of omolu-

abi. “Odu’a must find a way of teaching the younger generation the Yoruba language. Let writers write folk tales and short stories that could be developed into cartoons.” Earlier in his welcome address, the Chairman of Odu’a Investment Company, Chief Sarafadeen Alli, had explained: “The idea of putting a museum and Hall of Fame within the Cocoa House was borne out of our belief that the history of the past should not be lost. “The museum showcases objects of historical or artistic values that relate to the Yoruba. It will be a good place for researchers, school children, tourists and whoever wants to learn more about Yoruba indigenous culture.”

gunmen, no fewer than 10,000 refugees are now being housed at various refugee camps while death toll has risen to 28. The Chief of Ataka Chiefdom in Kaura Local Council, Tobias Nkom Wada, yesterday gave members of the House of Representatives from southern Kaduna a detailed account of the unfortunate invasion. Speaking at Tachire Village, where he was taking refuge, he disclosed the suspected Fulani herdsmen, who carried out the killings and sacked four villages on the eve of Easter Sunday, have now fully occupied the villages on top of Ataka Mountain. Wada told the five House of Representatives members led by Mr. Godfrey Gaya (Jaba/Zangon-Kataf Federal Constituency) that he was shocked at the violence because no Fulani was provoked before the invasion. He narrated: “On March 20, one of our sons was found with deep cuts and his throat slit in the bush in one of the villages up the hill. “The Fulani were the suspect because prior to now, there had been minor problems over grazing issues. And in May last year, rustlers who came to steal cows from Ataka villages up the hill were pursued and one of them caught after they had attacked and killed one of us. Even that was not hurt, as he was handed over to the authorities. We have never hurt any Fulani here before. “This time, the Fulani were the suspect again. So, my people lost patience and the best way they thought of venting their anger was to attack my palace - mostly women and children. They vandalised my palace, that is why I am taking refuge in this my family compound in Tachire, instead of receiving you in my palace at Fadan Ataka.” “While my palace was being vandalised, the Fulani left for Ganawuri, where we have villages bordering Plateau State. There, they attacked the Ataka people, and the fight lasted for three days until the Joint Task Force stationed nearby came and stopped the fight. That led to Ataka refugees coming back to my chiefdom.” According to him, the Ataka people thought the attack had ended, but the suspected Fulani again invaded four villages around 2.00 p.m. He continued: “They went on killing and injuring people. Last Tuesday, with the help of the JTF, we found corpses of 28 people and buried them.

WHO rates Africa highest in adult hypertension prevalence By Chukwuma Muanya EOPLE will be able to reP duce the risk of developing complications associated with high blood pressure (or hypertension), such as heart attack, stroke and kidney failure by regularly measuring their blood pressure, the World Health Organisation (WHO) said yesterday. And as the world marks the World Health Day on April 7, the United Nations (UN) apex health body has called for in-

• Associates higher risk with low income • Says regular blood pressure checks reduce risks tensified efforts to prevent and control hypertension. In a statement, it disclosed that detecting high blood pressure is the first step in its prevention and control, noting: “When people know their blood pressure level, they can take steps to control it.” According to the WHO, worldwide, high blood pres-

sure is estimated to affect more than one in three adults aged 25 and over, or about one billion people, and Africa has the highest prevalence of hypertension (46 per cent of adults) while the lowest is the Americas (35 per cent of adults). Interestingly for Africa and other poor economies, the re-

port further showed a direct relationship between income level and hypertension. Overall, high-income countries have lower hypertension prevalence (35 per cent of adults) compared to low and middle-income groups (40 per cent of adults), thanks to successful multi-sectoral public policies and better access

health care. Meanwhile, hypertension has been credited as the most important contributor to heart disease and stroke, which together make up the world’s number one cause of premature death and disability. Researchers estimate that high blood pressure contributes to nearly 9.4 million deaths from cardiovascular disease each year. It also increases the risk of conditions such as kidney failure and blindness.

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

News 5

No PDP gov is defecting, says Wamakko • Niger CPC, ACN, ANPP debunk defection report From Eric Meya (Sokoto) and John Ogiji (Minna) OKOTO State Governor SWamakko Aliyu Magatakarda has described as

Sokoto State Deputy Governor, Muktari Shagari (left); Speaker, House of Representatives, Aminu Tambuwal; Dr. Bello Haliru; Governor Aliyu Wamakko; Chief Tony Anenih and Senator Barnabas Gemade addressing Peoples Democratic Party supporters in Sokoto…yesterday

AGIS director pledges to increase IGR in FCT From Terhemba Daka, Abuja

She assured that the IGR accruing to the FCT Administration through the Abuja Geographic Information System would be redoubled in order to justify government’s investment in the agency. EWLY appointed Director N of the Abuja Geographic Information System (AGIS) in

the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Hajiya Jamila Tangaza, has pledged to work towards an appreciable growth in the internally generated revenue (IGR) profile of the agency to justify government’s investment in the organisation. Speaking after officially taking over in Abuja yesterday, Tangaza, a British Broadcasting Corporation, BBC-trained broadcaster, pledged to collaborate with the existing professionals in the agency to achieve optimum service delivery for FCT customers and Nigerians in general as defined by the original master-plan. “We would ensure that leakages, as well as other specific challenges that we still have in the system are minimised. We would deploy IT tools and the human resources and standards to ensure that we deliver to all Nigerians in FCT those services, which AGIS was originally set up to achieve in the first place”, Tangaza assured. She assured that the IGR accruing to the FCT Administration through the Abuja Geographic Information System would be redoubled in order to justify government’s investment in the agency. Tangaza said that her tenure would witness a new partnership and collaboration that will further increase revenue coming into the coffers of the FCT Administration for the provision of more infrastructure and services to the residents. Earlier, the former Director of the Abuja Geographic Information Systems, who has been redeployed to head the FCT Archives and History Bureau, Dr. Isa Jalo, had lamented the challenges, including the activities of touts and obsolete IT infrastructure, among others, which he said, had stalled service delivery by the agency established in 2004.

untrue media reports that some Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governors were planning to decamp to another political party, just as its Board of Trustees (BOT) Chairman, Chief Tony Anenih, stated that “no PDP governor wants to decamp to another political party”. In a similar development, the Chairman of the Congress for Progressives Change (CPC) in Niger State, Mallam Umar Shuaibu, has described as untrue and malicious an advertorial in some national dailies that about 2,000 decampees from the three

How military can earn trust of Nigerians, by Obaigbena By Gbenga Salau HAIRMAN of ThisDay NewsC paper, Mr. Nduka Obaigbena, said yesterday in Lagos that if the Nigerian military hopes to develop an improved relationship with the media, apart from enhancing open communication system that ensures easy access to information, it must earn the trust of the Nigerian people. Speaking on the topic: “Enhancing effective relationship between the military and the media in a democracy” at the on-going three-day interactive session on militarymedia relations in Nigeria, Obaigbena suggested regular military-media engagements across levels of strata with the military proactively disseminating information. The Thisday boss gave historical account of how the Nigerian Army was established, its role in keeping the nation united and the sacrifices it has made over the years in its peacekeeping roles across

• Army must be ready for shocks, Izeze • Ihejirika pledges improved Army, media relations Africa. He maintained that with the changing environment and dynamics, there is need for a new vision and paradigm shift by the military formations and the citizenry. Observing that the greatest challenge facing the Nigerian military now is being able to tackle and perform its role among the civil populace without harming innocent members of the community, Obaigbena suggested that in dealing with residents, the military must not only understand the culture and religion of the communities, it must also understand and speak the language of the civilians. He, however, stated that the military must put its house in order so that there would not be enemy within while it is proactively engaging the external public. Obaigbena also advised that

the members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme would go through military training for one or two years so that the country can have a reservoir of people who could be easily called to provide military service when the need arises. Moderator of the interactive session, the Managing Director of Guardian Newspapers Limited, Mr. Emeka Izeze, after doing a recap, told the military to be ready for shocks as a result of stories that may not paint the military in good light. He, however, craved for a smooth working relationship so that the media, before going to press, could always and easily confirm stories from the military authorities and even help it put the information in a better perspective to the society. Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. O.

Kukah blames Boko Haram insurgency on poverty, Akunyili urges dialogue From Saxone Akhaine (Northern Bureau chief) and Charles Coffie-Gyamfi (Abeokuta) ISHOP of Sokoto Diocese, B Matthew Hassan Kukah, has blamed the insurgency in the North on the pervasive poverty in the country, saying that hardship facing Nigerians such as power outage and other social amenities were among the factors that promoted the sect’s insurgency in the country. He spoke to the Voice of America (VOA) Hausa Service monitored in Kaduna yesterday. According to Kukah: “In Sokoto and all over the country, it is the same thing; we heard that on Sunday during a church service in Lagos, when the President was speaking, there was power outage. A shameful thing, it is this shameful situation everywhere. It is supposed to be a shameful thing because for the past 50 years that Nigeria gained its independence, with all the wealth and resources, those in the position of leader-

ship think of themselves alone, abandoning the poor. We are not supposed to be talking about electricity by now”. Speaking in a similar vein, former Minister of Information, Prof. Dora Akunyili, said yesterday that Nigeria urgently needs transformation in virtually every aspect of the national life to avoid a looming disaster. Akunyili, who spoke at a lecture she delivered at the Bells University, Ota, Ogun State, however, warned that without attitudinal change, any transformation agenda would come to naught and urged Nigerians to have attitudinal change. Kukah said: “Corruption and dishonesty are so widespread in Nigeria. There is no way people with this kind of attitude will progress. If it were in other countries, Nigeria would have been facing a revolution by now …these are the kind of things that created Boko Haram. Even if the Boko Haram problem ends tomor-

row and Nigerians continue with this kind of attitude, we may find ourselves in another problem again”. To tackle the frightening security situation in the country, the former minister suggested, among other things, that the government should dialogue with all “aggrieved parties”, including the Boko Haram sect and even kidnappers. According to Akunyili, who spoke on “National Transformation: The Challenge of Our Time”, corruption is thriving in the Nigerian society because punishment for indicted persons are too soft, adding that this has, therefore, encouraged corruption instead of reducing it. Her words: “Consequently, the need for transformation in our country cannot be overemphasised. The signs are all too vivid for anyone to ignore. We do not need to look far to see evidence of the crises facing our dear nation. The signals are ominous. To avoid disaster, our nation needs transformation”.

A. Ihejirika, pledged that the military is ready to proactively engage with the media. He expressed optimism that after the present crisis facing the nation, Nigeria will become a better and more united country. He disclosed that from the intelligence report, the military was able to gather that the explosives discovered in Ijora were brought into Lagos hidden under the belly of petrol tankers. Probably in response to the Tuesday comment of the Governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Fashola, on the need for military to obey traffic laws, Ihejirika assured that no officer will be tolerated for breaking traffic rules.

main opposition parties in the state are set to decamp to the PDP in the state. The party, in a statement signed by Shuaibu and made available to newsmen in Minna yesterday, said that all keen observers of political happenings not only in the state but nationwide in the last few weeks know that the advertorial is nothing but a propaganda and the antics of a drowning party. It stressed that this is a party that its leadership is currently on a nationwide reconciliation tour to prevent its imminent collapse, as a result of the on-going merger arrangement by the opposition parties. Wamakko and Anenih spoke with journalists yesterday after a meeting with stakeholders at the Sokoto State Government House. The governor said the party in the state was intact and was not among the states where there are divisions. “We cannot abandon the PDP which we have helped to build in the state. I know that you press people are good at imagining things but you cannot imagine Aliyu leaving the PDP”. He said that the meeting afforded stakeholders in the state the opportunity to advise the BOT chairman’s team on what to do to reposition the party for a brighter future. He explained that the team was made to understand that “as a party, the PDP has to take all the necessary measures to ensure fairness and justice in all its dealings when it comes to relating with the states and local chapters and in the fielding of candidates for elections”. Shuaibu’s statement reads: “Our attention has been drawn to a malicious advertorial by the Niger State chapter of the PDP that it shall receive more than 2,000 decampees from the opposition parties of the merging CAN, ANPP and CPC from Suleja Local Council Area alone. ”

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

6 | NEWS

Suswam sends list of new commissioners to Assembly

Jonathan, others greets Oshiomhole at 60

By Joseph Wantu, Makurdi

RESIDENT Goodluck P Jonathan has congratulated Governor Adams Osh-

OVERNOR Gabriel Suswam of Benue State yesterday forwarded to the House of Assembly a list of 12 commissioners for confirmation. The list which is dominated by the old commissioners recently sacked by the governor, consists of former Commissioners for Culture and Tourism, Mrs. Comfort Ajene; Mr. John Tondu, Land and Survey; Mrs. Elizabeth Allagh – Women Affairs; Dr. Elizabeth Ugo, Education; Dr. Eugene Aliegba, Agriculture and Natural Resources; Mr. John Ngbede, Water Resources and Dr. Orduen Abunku, Health and Human Services. The new ones that made the list are: Mr. Justine Amase, Anthony Onuh, Egbiri Idah, Donald Amokaha Ugboho and Alexander Atime. Announcing the list in a statement, Suswam said the new appointments were necessitated by the desire to consolidate the development of infrastructural by his administration in order to improve the lives and wellbeing of the people.

Governor Isa Yuguda of Bauchi State (right); presenting a car key to Aishatu Adam, the winner of first category 60 Hizb with Tafsir during 2013 National Qur’anic Recitation Competition in Gusau in Bauchi …yesterday

Falana alleges tenure elongation plot for Lagos council chiefs By Abiodun Fanoro HE Lagos State House of AsT sembly has been accused of planning to illegally elongate the tenure of council chairmen and councillors from three to six years. Former President, West African Bar Association (WABA) and civil rights defender, Femi Falana (SAN), who in a statement yesterday raised the alarm, revealed that already, a bill towards this, titled “Local Government Amendment Bill 2013”, is before the House of Assembly and is being debated. Falana noted that the move is illegal, unconstitutional and an affront on the electoral right of people of the state who in October, 2013 are supposed to perform their right to elect another set of

political officers at the councils, as the present occupiers are slated to benefit from the elongation. “Our attention has been drawn to the Local Government Amendment Bill 2013 which is being debated by the members of the Lagos State House of Assembly. In the main, the Bill seeks to elongate the tenure of the current chairmen and councillors from three to six years. With respect, the proposal is illegal in every material particular. It has to be withdrawn or struck down in the overall interests of the people of Lagos State who are due to participate in a fresh local government election in October 2013,” he said. The senior advocate who acknowledged that the lawmakers have powers to make laws for the administration of

councils in the state, however, made it abundantly clear that the exercise of such powers could not take away the constitutional rights of the people to elect those that would govern them at a particular time. “No doubt, the House of Assembly of each state is vested with the powers to make laws for the local governments in

HOUGH 2015 is still way off T and intentions for offices remain masked from common eyes, the Delta State guber race is already showing glimmers of things to be expected, with no fewer than 15 opposition parties expressing confidence in Mr. Festus Keyamo, who recently declared his governorship intention. Representatives of the parties, under the aegis of the Association of Registered Political Parties (ARPP) in the state, visited him last weekend in his Effurun home, led by the ARPP Chairman, Comrade Monday Emuariah. The parties included the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Labour Party (LP) and Accord Party (AP), among others.

Their leaders, who were received by the coordinators of Delta Forces United (DFU) from the various council areas, said they came to align their position with the aspiration of Keyamo, “whose entry into the governorship race was considered a good omen for Delta State politics.” Voicing dissatisfaction with the current developments in the state and decrying the “regime of a cabal whose grip on power has done more harm than good to the interest of Deltans,” they said they were “interested” in his candidacy and pledged to work with him, if possible, towards realising his aspiration to govern the state. Keyamo, in his response, told the representatives that DFU was working hard to come up with a blueprint for the development of the

elect chairmen and councillors cannot be extinguished by the House of Assembly,” Falana argued. Advising the legislators to learn from history, the civil rights defender referred them to the alleged ignoble Third Term plot of former President Olusegun Obasanjo which, he said, was bluntly rejected by the people.

Court declares MCSN’s collection of copyright royalties lawful By Bertram Nwannekanma USTICE Muhammad Nasir Yunusa of a Federal High Court, Lagos has declared as lawful and constitutional the collection of copyright royalties by the Musical Copyright Society Nigeria (MCSN). The judge also declared as un-

Delta opposition parties back Keyamo, as DFU fine-tunes blueprint By Anthony Chidubem Nwachukwu and Tunde Akiola

the state by virtue of Section 7 of the constitution. But in exercise of such legislative powers, the Assembly cannot enact laws with retrospective effect in a way that accrued rights of the people are abrogated. In this regard, the constitutional rights of the people of Lagos State to take part in periodic elections of not more than three years to

state. He described DFU as an organisation for Deltans, residents and friends of Delta, who believe in positive change across the state. He urged Deltans to emulate their neighbours in Edo State, who have freed themselves from the grip of godfathers, stating: “Our aim is to dismantle the cabal which has held Deltans hostage with its regime of corruption, cronyism, intimidation and underdevelopment.” According to the human rights lawyer, his aspiration is to create an enabling environment for all Deltans to participate in an electoral process without fear of intimidation, brigandage and rigging, and he would be ready to go to prison, if necessary, in his struggle to free the state from a cabal that primes in primitive accumulation of wealth.

lawful and breach of constitutional rights, the raid on the office of MCSN as well as the arrest and detention of its officials by police over collection of copyrights. Before the court’s verdict, MCSN and the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) had been at loggerheads over collection of royalties resulting to several litigations. The situation degenerated with the raiding of MCSN’s office by the police as well as arrest and detention of some officials of the Collective Management Organisations (CMOs). But in his decision on the suit brought by officials of MCSN against the NCC, its Director General, Mr. Afam Ezekude, a director in NCC, Mr. Amodu Augustine Alewu, one Mr. Mathew Ojo and the Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar, the judge reaffirmed as lawful and constitutional the operations of MCSN and ordered the police to desist from disturbing its operations. MSCN’s officials, who filed the suit, are Mr. Halim Muhammed, Miss Njoku Gladys, Mr. Olukayode Ajayi, Miss Omolara Banjo, Mr. Yusuf Benson, Mr. Louis Bassey Udoh and Mr. Mayo Ayilaran. In his judgment delivered on March 18, 2013, a copy of which was made available to The Guardian yesterday, Justice Yunusa reaffirmed the earlier judgment of the court delivered on July 25, 2011 by Justice

Charles Archibong in which it declared Section 39, which the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) relied upon to carry out the raids, arrests and detention unconstitutional, null and void. The court also declared that MCSN and its staff are entitled to their rights to dignity of their persons, personal liberty and rights to move freely as guaranteed by Section 34, 35 and 41 of the Constitution of Nigeria 1999 and Articles 2,3,4,5,6,10,11 and 12 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights (Ratification and Enforcement) Act, Cap A9, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004. The court further declared that the existence and activities of the 1st Applicant (MCSN) is guaranteed under Section 40 and 44 of the Constitution and that the 1st Applicants operations are legal and constitutional based on subsisting Order of the Court in Suit No. FHC/L/CS/35/08 delivered by Justice Archibong reinforcing the Applicant’s rights as guaranteed by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and a declaration that MCSN has the constitutional right under Section 44 of the Constitution to own and enjoy the copyrights and/or proprietary rights as guaranteed by the Constitution based on several deeds of assignments, contracts, powers of attorney flowing from the original copyright owners to the Applicant (MCSN).

iomhole of Edo State on his 60th birthday, today. In a letter to Oshiomhole, Jonathan said the governor had ‘lived a remarkable and eventful life in trade unionism, politics and governance at the highest levels, ‘with the common thread of the ideals of unyielding rectitude, selfless service and unwavering commitment to the welfare and wellbeing of the common man.’ Like Jonathan, the National Head of the Neo-Black Movement (NBM) of Africa, Mr. Bemigho Eyeoyibo, said the country needs patriots like the former Nigeria Labour Congress president in its quest for transformation, peace and stability.” Meanwhile, the 60th birthday anniversary symposium takes place in Benin City today. The theme of the symposium which will be chaired by Alhaji Aliko Mohammed, Chairman, Arewa Consultative Forum is “Deepening Democracy and Enhancing Public Welfare.” House of Representatives Speaker Aminu Tambuwal, Niger State Governor Babangida Aliyu, Action Congress of Nigeria’s National Leader Bola Tinubu, Bishop Matthew Kukah and a former Minister of Education Dr Obiageli Ezekwesili, will bare some of the speakers on the occasion. A statement by Comrade Issa Aremu and Kayode Komolafe for the Planning Sub-Committee, Friends of Adams Oshiomhole, said the symposium will hold at the Imaguero College Hall at 11:00am.

CPC raises panel on convention, merger By Adamu Abu, Abuja

N a bid to actualise the forof the All ProgresIsivemation Congress (APC), the National Chairman of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) yesterday commissioned a 33-member committee. The panel has been saddled with the responsibility to plan the party’s convention that would endorse the merger with the other progressive parties in the polity. A statement by the National Publicity Secretary of the CPC, Rotimi Fashakin, disclosed that the Committee is headed by Dr. Hassan Muhammadu Lawal. Other members include Senators Sani Saleh, Abubakar Sadiq Yar’adua, Hadi Sirika, Solomon Ewuga, Saleh Damboyio, Ibrahim Musa and Abu Ibrahim, Abdullahi Idris Garba, Garba Datti, Gen. India Garba (rtd), Chief Alex Hart, Mr. Eddy Ogunbor, Sharon Ikeazor. Also in the panel are Chief Jerry Johnson, Otunba Basirat Noibi, Mr. Chris Hassan, Dr Louis Ogbuefi, Alhaji Munir Yakubu, Alhaji Suleiman Hassan, Owelle Oscar Udoji, Dr Idika Ochaa and Dr Marliyya Zayyan. The committee has one week to specify the date the national convention would hold as well as implement the project for the party.

News 7

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

JTF kills three terror suspects, NUPENG laments insecurity By Yetunde Ebosele (Lagos) and Njadvara Musa (Maiduguri) HE Joint Task Force (JTF) in T Maiduguri, Borno State capital, has killed three sus-

Director General, Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), Frank Nweke (left); Chairman, Communications Sub-Committee of NESG 18, Eshiet Essien; Chairman, Board of NESG, Foluso Phillips and Private Sector Chair of Agriculture and Food Security Commission, NESG, Emmanuel Ijewere during an award to Essien for significant contribution to the success of 18th Nigerian Economic Summit

Plateau orders school heads back to work

Lawyers reject death penalty for oil thieves

From Isa Abdulsalami, Jos

By Joseph Onyekwere

HE Plateau State government has directed all heads of stateowned tertiary institutions to return to work with immediate effect. The Commissioner for Information and Communication, Mr. Yiljap Abraham, gave the directive yesterday at the Government Lodge, Jos. It was learnt that the tertiary institutions have been on strike for the past three months over their three months’ unpaid allowances, arrears and other related issues. According to the commissioner, “the state government has directed heads of the state government’s tertiary institutions to open registers for all staff to return, register and continue with their assigned duties. We assure that we are providing security cover for the safety of teachers, students and administrators. “The government is determined to continue to work towards the goal of leaving behind an enduring legacy in the education sector. Governor Jang has the responsibility to the future of the teeming young people in the state whose educational aspirations are right now at stake as a result of the three months’ strike.”

Two die, others injured in road mishap From Ali Garba, Bauchi WO people were being feared T killed and seven others injured in an accident that occurred at Military Check Point in Narabi Village in Toro Local Council Area of Bauchi State, along Bauchi-Jos Federal Highway. The Bauchi State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps, Mr. Henry Sunday Olatunji, disclosed this yesterday while answering questions from journalists in Bauchi. He said: “The accident occurred yesterday at night, it involved 13 people who occupied a truck belonging to Dangote. The driver lost control at the military road block and the vehicle somersaulted, two people died, seven sustained various degrees of injury while the remaining four escaped unhurt.” Sunday said the FRSC men stationed at Toro evacuated the bodies and the injured victims to Toro General Hospital. He appealed to vehicle owners to obey traffic regulations in order to minimise the number of accidents on the roads.

EATH sentence as a penalty for illegal oil bunkering will be too harsh and unrealistic, say lawyers. Some lawyers, who spoke with The Guardian yesterday on the recent suggestion by the Senate President, David Mark, that oil thieves and pipeline vandals be liable to death penalty, said such vices are the least of Nigeria’s challenges. Mark, while inaugurating the Senate Joint Committee on the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) on March 27, suggested that the death penalty would serve as deterrent to other oil thieves. A Lagos-based lawyer and social critic, Mr. Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, said death penalty in any part of the world can never be a deterrence to criminal activities. He noted that in Nigeria, offences like murder, armed robbery, coup, or mutiny carry death penalty, but till date, armed robbery is on the increase. “Abating oil theft is not a mat-

ter for sentences and convictions. Those involved in illegal oil bunkering are mostly beyond the law in Nigeria because they are highly placed”, Adegboruwa said. According to him, empty legislations will not curb incidence of illegal oil bunkering, unless there is the will power by the government to clamp down on the powerful oil thieves. He said the remedy to a crime of such nature would be to strengthen existing institutions, such as the Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the Nigerian Navy, to monitor and regulate bunkering. “It is common knowledge that most of these big oil thieves utilise the proceeds of their illegal acts to even fund campaigns and elections of some political big-wigs. So, the fight should begin from empowering the requisite institutions, which will in turn put up resistance to the activities of these dubious Nigerians. Their duties must, however, be carried out with-

out interference,” he declared. Also, a constitutional lawyer, Mr. Mike Agbamuche, expressed belief that spelling out death penalty for oil theft is akin to making mountain out of a molehill. He said that at present, the country is faced with serious and bizzare challenges that require urgent attention. He expressed regret that no realistic move has been made to tackle such situations. “Death penalty should not be freely dispensed in a country where error, leading to miscarriage of justice, is so common placed. What moral justification can there be for executing oil thieves, when none of the terrorists, corrupt bank and public officials has even been incarcerated in custody for a reasonable time? “These are people who constitute more havoc to the country’s economy, and yet they walk on the streets free men. To my mind, the suggestion of a death penalty for oil theft is most annoying and unreasonable”, Agbamuche said.

Police quiz Ekiti ACN chairman over murder of PDP member From Muyiwa Adeyemi, Ado-Ekiti HERE are indications that T Ekiti State Chairman of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Jide Awe, has been invited to the Force Headquarters, Abuja, in respect of the murder of Ayodele Jeje, a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) member, in Erinjiyan at the weekend. A source yesterday disclosed that the Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar, was said to have ordered that the case be transferred to Abuja. Awe was on Tuesday quizzed by the state police command and was said to have been released after interrogation. It was gathered that the ACN chairman was moved to Abuja around 5am. Awe, a high chief in the community, was alleged to have led some ACN members to disrupt a PDP meeting where the party was said to be strategising on how to receive some decampees to the party following day. But the ACN had immediate-

ly denied involvement of Awe in the murder, blaming the incident on alleged factional crisis within the PDP. The Publicity Secretary of the ACN in the state, Tunde Adeleke, yesterday confirmed that Awe was invited to Abuja by the police for fact-finding. According to him, “Awe is not a criminal and no case has been established against him, so why must he be detained by the police? There is no iota of truth in the rumour that Awe was detained before being taken to Abuja. “It was true that our chairman was invited to Abuja and the invitation was just for factfinding over the Erinjiyan issue. He was neither arrested nor harassed as being peddled around by the PDP. The invitation is normal under this circumstance,” ACN said. Public Relations Officer of the Police Command, Mr. Victor Babayemi, said Awe was invited on Tuesday and was allowed to go after interrogation. Babayemi said he could not confirm whether the ACN chairman

has been invited by the Force Headquarters in Abuja. “Awe is a Nigerian and I think if Abuja has something to confirm from him, he can be invited”, the PPRO said. Meanwhile, the former governor of the state, Mr. Ayo Fayose, has accused the state government of trying to obstruct the course of justice by protecting members of its party, who were allegedly fingered in the murder of the 37year-old Jeje. Fayose, at a press conference in his Afao Ekiti countryhome, warned the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Sotonye Wakama, not to succumb to the alleged state government’s pressure in the matter and other issues bordering on murder in the state. But the Commissioner for Information, Mr. Tayo Ekundayo, said there is no iota of truth in the allegation that the government was putting pressure on the Police to cover up the Erinjiyan murder, saying Fayemi is not aiding or abetting criminality under any guise.

pected Boko Haram terrorists after the hoodlums robbed a Bureau De-Change centre of an undisclosed amount of foreign exchange and snatched a vehicle of the managing director of the centre on Tuesday. Meanwhile, the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has condemned what it described as “the brazen and senseless killings of innocent Nigerians by suspected gunmen” in some parts of the North. The gunmen in Borno, according to an eyewitness, were shot dead by soldiers immediately after they robbed the Bureau De-Change centre in Hausari ward of the metropolis, before the Baban Layin and Hausari wards were condoned off by the JTF to prevent further attacks and killings. “We were terrified and shocked when four gunmen started firing sporadically into the air to scare us on Tuesday. Many people started to run for safety, as the gunmen sped off in an unmarked vehicle towards Dandal Way. But the soldiers intercepted them on Baban Layi and killed three of the gunmen, while the other was arrested and whisked away in one of the JTF patrol vehicles to an undisclosed destination in the metropolis.” Spokesman of Borno State Police Command, Gideon Jibrin, confirmed the incident. NUPENG said the nation cannot continue to lament the incessant killings everyday, without taking adequate proactive measures to curtail them. President of the union, Igwe Achese, in a statement yesterday, called on the Federal Government to safeguard the

lives and property of its citizens by putting a halt to these killings, “that have dented the image of the country abroad and is scaring foreign investors, at a time we need a reinvigoration of our national economy”. Achese also advised the Federal Government to concentrate more on scientific intelligence gathering to fish out perpetrators of “the dastardly acts”. The union also called for concerted efforts of all and sundry, “especially the Elders of the North, to appeal to their children to sheathe the sword and embrace dialogue, which the Federal Government is ready to enter into with them”. NUPENG called on patriotic Nigerians to volunteer information on the activities of “these dreaded people to security agencies so that such violence can be nipped in the bud before escalation”. The statement noted that the recent killings of 20 people during Easter celebration in Kaura Local Council of Kaduna State by Fulani herdsmen have added another dimension to the senseless killings, adding that it is “as if we are in a jungle where no law exists”. NUPENG warned that these killings, if left unchecked, may continue to have negative consequences on the future and development of this country. It, therefore, called on the Federal Government to change tactics and approach towards addressing the challenges of insecurity in the country “before it gets out of hand”. NUPENG observed that the economy of the North is “completely crippled because of the frequent attacks on innocent people and places, which have in turn raised the prices of foods and commodities like onions, tomatoes, pepper and cattle brought from the North to the South for sale”.

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

WorldReport 25 killed in record Argentina’s downpour O fewer than 25 people died in flooding in the Argentine city of La Plata as torrential rains fell, the regional governor said yesterday. The deaths raised to 33 the number of people killed this week following record heavy rain in Argentina. A powerful storm that earlier pummeled Buenos Aires slammed La Plata, located 63 kilometres (40 miles) south of the Argentine capital, overnight Tuesday to yesterday. “The bodies began to appear as the water subsided,” said Governor Daniel Scioli, who announced the death toll. A record 40 centimeters (16 inches) of rain fell on La Plata in a two hour period, officials said, knocking out phone lines and leaving people in the dark. Some 2,200 people fled the city because of heavy rain, and many of those who remained were forced to scramble to rooftops for safety. The heavy rain turned many city streets into rivers. In parts of the downtown area water was reported to be 1.6 meters (five feet) deep. “This has never happened in La Plata,” said Argentine Security Minister Sergio Berni. “There are people on rooftops, in trees waiting for us to rescue them,” he said, adding that firefighters, civil defense workers, police and soldiers have been deployed to the area to help in rescue operations. A senior city official in La Plata, Santiago Martorelli, told local television that the flooding was a “catastrophe.” He added that schools and local government were closed for yesterday.

11 charged after deadly Tanzania building collapse TANZANIAN court will A now decide the fate of 11 people who were charged yesterday with manslaughter following the collapse of a tower block last week in which 36 people died. The 11, who include the owner of the Dar es Salaam building, Raza Hussein Ladha, as well as those involved in its construction, including an architect, engineers and surveyors, have yet to enter a plea, Agence France Presse (AFP) wrote yesterday. Prosecuting lawyer, Bernard Kongola, said the accused had “unlawfully killed 24 people”. Although 36 people died in the disaster in the Tanzanian economic capital, only 24 have formally been identified. The accused were remanded in custody until April 16, when magistrates will rule on an application for bail. Dar es Salaam, a major port for East Africa and home to some four million people, is rapidly expanding, and is one of the world’s fastest growing cities, according to UN figures. Construction projects crowd the city, including several high-rise developments, although the majority of people live in simple, informal housing.

Nigeria, the world and the arms trade treaty By Oghogho Obayuwana Foreign Affairs Editor OMETIME in September 2012, at the United Nations (UN) Headquarters, in New York, Nigeria was once again at the centre-stage of multilateral diplomacy. There were drumbeats at the Second UN Conference to Review Progress made in the Implementation of the Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat, and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALWs). The conference ended on a cheerful note when 193 countries agreed to the adoption of a new UN Programme of Action on illicit small arms. Undoubtedly, the successful outcome of the Small Arms and Light Weapons Conference can be adjudged as one of the major events of 2012 in the field of disarmament for one simple reason. It has implication for the common quest to reduce violence, for a more peaceful world and security at national and personal levels. The document is a pointer to the fact that illicit trade in small arms and light weapons in all its aspects continues to sustain conflicts, exacerbate armed violence undermine respect for international humanitarian law, aid terrorism and illegal armed group and facilitate increasing levels of transnational organised crime, as well as trafficking in human, drugs. There is, therefore, need for a bold initiative to confront the problem through gun control. At national and international level, the programme of action called for adequate laws, regulations and administrative procedures to prevent circulation of illegal arms and tighten access to guns. There are recommendations for improved intelli-

Ban Ki-moon gence work and appropriate national institutions. International arms transfers are expected to come under tighter control. Customs, International Police (INTERPOL), security agencies, NGOs and ordinary people are also expected to report suspicious characters and activities. Implicitly we all have roles to play to combat illicit trafficking of arms. States are of course expected to lead the crusade. They have the primary responsibility for preventing, combating and eradicating small arms trafficking. This is a crucial aspect of the gathering in New York in the concerted effort to wrest guns from the hand of criminals and terrorists. During the second review

conference, Nigeria had paraded a disarmament expert who is also its Permanent Representative to the UN professor Joy Ogwu. In the process leading up to the conference and its final days, Ogwu, was at the helms of affairs as the President of the Review Conference. Stripped of those occasionally bewildering diplomatic language, after several failed attempts spanning 10 years, the international community took concrete steps to confront the crisis of over 850 million illegal firearms in circulation around the world. It was a day the world once again said Yes to “Gun Control”; and “No” to illicit arms in the hand of robbers, warlords, terrorists and deranged people who

Ogwu wreak havoc across the world. But curiously, the epoch making event in New York did not attract much media attention. The event also did not attract much attention due perhaps to the fact that beyond disarmament experts, few people can connect a UN disarmament programme to a good night sleep and their personal safety on a daily basis. So Tuesday’s decision, coming when the world gathered again to try its hand again at ridding our world of illegal firearms deserves close attention of all. It should also be of interest to every man and woman on the street in all corners of the world, which has become unacceptably violent and certainly need re-invent-

The Programme of Action on Small Arms surely is enough evidence that the UN remains the common home of humanity. Now that we have a road map in our hands, to prevent guns from falling into the hands of robbers and terrorists, we must all rise to the challenge.

ing. Today, most people in Nigeria and the rest of Africa and of course elsewhere, sleep with only one eye closed due to the activities of robbers, kidnappers, marauders and terrorists. Before our very eyes, Mali, with an enviable history and a hitherto shining example of democracy in West Africa, became balkanised by a terrorist group armed to the teeth with lethal weapons; a development now threatening to roll-back the democratic gains of immediate past decade in the west African subregion. The Programme of Action on Small Arms surely is enough evidence that the UN remains the common home of humanity. Now that we have a road map in our hands, to prevent guns from falling into the hands of robbers and terrorists, we must all rise to the challenge. That is the “heart of the matter”, which must also be a matter of the heart even for Iran, Syria and North Korea.

Taliban insurgents kill 44 in attack on Afghan court N a bid to free insurgents Itants standing trial, Taliban miliyesterday stormed an Afghan court, killing no fewer than 44 people, in the deadliest attack for more than a year. According to a report by Agence France Presse (AFP), it was not immediately clear whether the accused men had escaped the court complex in the western town of Farah, although a hospital doctor said one prisoner was among those being treated for injuries. All nine attackers were killed in the assault, which started with a huge car bomb at the entrance to the court and continued for at least seven hours as security forces hunted down one final surviving assailant. The brazen and sophisticated attack will raise further questions about the Afghans’ ability to secure the country as NATO winds down its combat mission in the war-torn country by the end of next year.

I can confirm that 34 civilians, six army and four policemen have been killed and 91 people, the majority of them civilians, have been injured “I can confirm that 34 civilians, six army and four policemen have been killed and 91 people, the majority of them civilians, have been injured,” Najib Danish, interior ministry deputy spokesman, told AFP. “Nine attackers have also been killed.” The death toll was the highest in Afghanistan from a single attack since a Shiite Muslim shrine was bombed in Kabul in December 2011, killing 80 people. “The attack is over, but the casualties have unfortunately risen,” Farah provincial governor, Mohammad Akram Khpalwak, told AFP, putting the final death toll as high as 46. Two women were among the dead, he said. The governor confirmed that a group of Taliban had been brought for trial at the court

in Fatah yesterday morning, but gave no further details. Taliban militants fighting the U.S.-backed central government claimed responsibility for the attack, describing it as a carefully-planned operation that used a vehicle belonging to the Afghan security forces. “The attack started when it was known through intelligence that the puppet provincial officials were bringing some prisoners including some Taliban for an unjust trial,” spokesman Yusuf Ahmadi said in a statement on their website. He said a jeep packed with explosives was detonated first, followed by a multiple assault using grenades, suicide vests and guns. The Taliban claimed that 13 prisoners who had been brought for trial escaped, adding that the death toll

included 35 judges, prosecutors, soldiers and police. At least two attackers died when they detonated the car bomb, while others who entered the court premises were shot by security forces and one man was killed after a firefight that continued for much of the day, police said. Abdul Rahman Zhawandon, spokesman for the governor of Farah, said the area was sealed off into yesterday evening and added that some attackers had also entered a Kabul Bank office attached to the court building. Wakil Ahmad, a doctor at Farah hospital, said medics were treating scores of wounded including two judges and one court prisoner. The governor’s compound was around 200 metres away from the scene of attack, an AFP reporter said. Taliban fighters in Afghanistan have frequently targeted government compounds equipped with sui-

cide vests, rockets and machine-guns. The Taliban insurgency has raged since a 2001 U.S.-led invasion ousted their fiveyear regime from Kabul. The militia has increasingly widened its attacks outside its main powerbases in the east and south, where NATO forces have focused their attention, to other areas such as Farah, which borders Iran. NATO combat troops are due to pull out of Afghanistan by the end of 2014, leaving responsibility for security to Afghan security forces, but there are fears that the violence will increase with their departure. Last May, gunmen dressed in Afghan police uniforms and wearing suicide vests stormed the offices of Governor Khpalwak in Farah and killed seven people. In November, a roadside bomb planted by Taliban insurgents killed 17 civilians — mostly women and children — on their way to a wedding party in the province.

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

WORLDREPORT 9

Hollande’s trip to Morocco clouded by tax scandal RENCH President Francois FMorocco Hollande arrived in yesterday fresh

Morocco’s King Mohammed VI (second left) and French President Francois Hollande upon his arrival at Mohammed V International Airport in Casablanca on a two-day visit to the former French colony…yesterday. PHOTO: AFP

Israel issues warning over attacks from Gaza, Golan Heights SRAELI Defence Minister Ithat Moshe Yaalon has warned his country would respond to any attacks on its territory and not allow its people to come under fire “in any form.” The warning, agency reports indicated, was issued after militants in Gaza fired a rocket at southern Israel, and as a Syrian mortar round and small arms fire hit the Israelioccupied sector of the Golan Heights. However, the Israeli military was quick to respond in both cases, with a tank firing back across the Syrian armistice line towards the source of fire and the air force mounting three air strikes on Gaza, in the first such raids in more than four months. “We shall not allow in any form the establishment of a routine of sporadic firing at our civilians or our forces,” Yaalon said in a statement communicated from his office. But thousands of Palestinians lined the streets of Abu Dis yesterday in a silent show of respect as the body of the prisoner who died in an Israeli jail was brought in for a Palestinian autopsy. Maisara Abu Hamdiyeh,

who had served 10 years of a life sentence for attempted murder, died in an Israeli hospital on Tuesday morning two months after being diagnosed with throat cancer. The Palestinian leadership has accused Israel of medical negligence, despite moves by the prison service to secure his early release on compassionate grounds, with news of his death sparking angry clashes with the army, notably in Hebron. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has also issued a stern warning.

“If calm is disrupted, we will respond forcefully. The security of the citizens of Israel is my top priority and we know how to defend” them, he said on meeting Norway’s Foreign Minister Espen Barthe Eide in Jerusalem. Yaalon said Gaza’s Hamas rulers were responsible for any fire directed at Israel from the coastal enclave, and in the same way, President Bashar alAssad’s regime was to blame for whatever fire emanated from Syria. After the overnight Israeli

strikes which hit open fields near Gaza City and in the north, causing no damage or injuries, militants fired two more rockets at Israel, police said. Both landed in an open area near the border town of Sderot, causing no casualties. The rocket fire on both days was claimed by radical Salafist Islamist group the Mujahedeen Shura Council, which said it was a response to the death of a Palestinian prisoner who died of cancer while serving life in an Israeli jail.

N’Korea blocks workers from South at joint industrial complex ORTH Korea yesterday N stirred up fresh unease in Northeast Asia, blocking hundreds of South Koreans from entering a joint industrial complex that serves as an important symbol of cooperation between the two countries, the Cable News Network (CNN) stated. The move came a day after Pyongyang announced plans to restart a nuclear reactor it shut down five years ago and followed weeks of threats against the United States (U.S.)

and South Korea from the North’s young leader, Kim Jong Un, and his government. The fiery North Korean rhetoric, fueled by recent UN sanctions over its latest nuclear test, has created a tense atmosphere on the Korean Peninsula just as the United States and South Korea are engaged in joint military exercises in South Korean territory. Pyongyang’s threat last month of a possible pre-emptive nuclear strike on the

United States and South Korea caused particular alarm, despite heavy skepticism from analysts and U.S. officials that the North Korean military is anywhere near capable of carrying out such an attack. The United States has in turn made a show of its military strength in the yearly drills, flying B-2 stealth bombers capable of carrying conventional or nuclear weapons, Cold War-era B-52s and F-22 Raptor stealth fighters over South Korea.

Spanish judge summons princess in corruption case RINCESS Cristina – the P daughter of King Juan Carlos of Spain – was yesterday named by a judge as a suspect in a corruption case, dealing a spectacular blow to the prestige of the royal family. Agency reports claimed that it was first time a member of the Spanish royal family has been called to appear in a court of law on suspicion of wrongdoing. The 47-year-old princess must testify as a suspect on April 27 at the court in Palma on the Mediterranean island of Mallorca, said a written ruling by the judge, Jose Castro. “The royal household does not comment in any way on judicial decisions,” a

spokesman for the royal family told Agence France Presse (AFP). The case, which was opened at the end of 2011, is centred on allegations of embezzlement and influence peddling against her husband, former Olympic handball player, Inaki Urdangarin, and his former business partner, Diego Torres. The pair are suspected of syphoning off money paid by regional governments to stage sports and tourism events to the non-profit Noos Institute, which Urdangarin chaired from 2004 to 2006. The princess – the seventh in line to the Spanish throne – had initially avoided being

The case, which was opened at the end of 2011, is centred on allegations of embezzlement and influence peddling against her husband, former Olympic handball player, Inaki Urdangarin, and his former business partner, Diego Torres. snared by the case. But the judge said evidence, including emails provided to the court by her husband’s former business partner, raised doubts that she really was unaware of the business operations of Noos. Closing the case without hearing the princess, who was a member of the Noos board, would “discredit the maxim

that justice is equal for all”, he said. The princess is accused of allowing the lustre of her royal connections to be used by the Noos institute. Urdangarin, who has not been charged with any crime and maintains his innocence, had sought to distance his wife and the rest of the royals from his business dealings.

from battling an explosive tax fraud scandal that risks overshadowing his landmark twoday visit to the European nation’s colony. Hollande, who was welcomed by King Mohammed VI in Casablanca, has sought to limit the fallout from the scandal and insisted before leaving Paris that ex-budget minister Jerome Cahuzac who was charged in a tax fraud probe “did not benefit from any protection.” Agence France Presse (AFP) reported that the president has been quick to condemn Cahuzac’s actions, saying he had committed an “unforgivable moral error” and denying any knowledge of a secret foreign account belonging to the ex-former minister once responsible for cracking down on tax evasion. Xinhua also quoted Hollande as saying that Cahuzac committed an unpardonable fault as he “deceived the highest authorities,” including the head of state and the government. “It is an insult to the

Republic,” said Hollande in television. But critics have pounced on the scandal. On the eve of Hollande’s visit, Cahuzac was charged with “laundering the proceeds of tax fraud” after finally admitting having had a foreign bank account for around 20 years. After greeting Moroccan crowds in Casablanca, the country’s economic capital, the president will hold talks with the king and then speak to the city’s French community, an occasion when he will be hard pushed to ignore the tax scandal. As the embattled president began his trip, the French opposition grilled the government in the National Assembly, demanding accountability. For the moment there have been no changes announced to the visit, which aims to consolidate “a high-level relationship” with France’s top trade partner in the Maghreb, according to the office of Hollande, who is being followed by a large French press corps.

Nelson Mandela much better, says S’African govt Africa’s former Sis OUTH President Nelson Mandela making steady improvement and “is much better” than he was when doctors admitted him in hospital for a recurring lung infection last week, the country’s presidential office said yesterday. Xinhua quoted Presidential spokesman, Mac Maharaj, as saying doctors are happy with Mandela’s progress, “His doctors say he continues to respond satisfactorily to treatment and is much better now than he was when he was admitted to hospital on March 27, 2013,” Maharaj said. “He has been visited by family and continues to make steady progress.” The 94-year-old Mandela, South Africa’s first black president, received treatment for pneumonia over the weekend after being admitted to a hospital on March 27, a govern-

ment spokesman has said. It’s the second time in the past month that Mandela has been hospitalised. In February, he was taken to a hospital for what officials described as a routine checkup. He underwent treatment for a lung infection and had surgery to remove gallstones over the Christmas holiday – one of his longest hospital stays since his release from prison in 1990. The Nobel Peace Prize winner has become increasingly frail over the years and has not appeared in public since South Africa hosted the World Cup in 2010. His history of lung problems dates back to when he was a political prisoner on Robben Island during apartheid. He contracted tuberculosis during the 27 years he was imprisoned.

Uganda suspends hunt for warlord, Kony, after coup GANDAN government has U reportedly suspended the hunt for fugitive warlord, Joseph Kony and his Lord’s Resistance Army fighters, blaming hostility towards foreign troops by Central African Republic rebels who seized power last month. About 100 U.S. special forces helping with intelligence and logistical support also called off operations temporarily, Reuters cited a U.S. embassy official as saying. But it was not immediately clear if troops from other countries in the regional force were also giving up the search. Kony is wanted by the International Criminal Court for war crimes. He and his commanders are accused of abducting thousands of children to use as fighters in a rebel army that earned a reputation for chopping off limbs as a form of discipline. Uganda provides more than 3,000 troops of a 5,000-strong African Union force hunting Kony and his fighters, thought to be hiding in jungles straddling the borders of Central African Republic, South Sudan and Democratic Republic of Congo. A separate coalition of rebels in Central African Republic,

known as Seleka, toppled President Francois Bozize last month. They swept into the capital Bangui in a lightning offensive which triggered days of looting and drew international condemnation. The Seleka rebels also killed 13 South African soldiers during their attack on Bangui. “These rebels have been openly hostile to us and following that, the president (of Uganda, Yoweri Museveni) has ordered us only to be in defensive positions,” said Dick Olum, head of Ugandan troops in the force hunting Kony and also the overall force commander. “So we’ve temporarily suspended offensive operations against the LRA for now until we receive further orders,” he told Reuters yesterday. Crane Elise, U.S. embassy information officer in Kampala, said U.S. special forces had “temporarily paused the operations against LRA to give us time to consult with our partners.” Uganda’s Daily Monitor newspaper had quoted her saying the consultations would be with the State Department, but Elise amended those comments, telling Reuters she had been misquoted.

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

Politics Imo and 2015 governorship hopeful

Okorocha

Anyanwu

Iheanacho

Ihedioha

From Charles Ogugbuaja, Owerri

(Chief Achike Udenwa and Ohakim) could not provide for the citizenry from 1999 to 2011. Currently, Okorocha has pitched tent, even at the forefront, in the merger issue with other political parties (Action Congress of Nigeria, All Nigeria Peoples Party, Congress of Progressive Change and All Progressives Grand Alliance) to form a mega party named All Progressives Congress (APC) to fight the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The governor has since assumed the position of coordinating the APC in the Southeast, to win more members to the fledgling movement. In a recent press briefing, Okorocha boasted that the people of the Southeast geopolitical zone (Imo, Abia, Anambra, Enugu and Ebonyi) would be dragged away totally from the dominant PDP, adding that they were dissatisfied by the standard of performance of the ruling party in the country. As it sands, the governor, though it has not been said clearly, is rooting to emerge as a vice presidential candidate, all things being equal, to run along a northerner in 2015. But in the event of not achieving that desire, he would re-contest the governorship seat in Imo, a Government House source has told The Guardian. However, Okorocha may not get that seat easily as he did during the last election, in the sense that most Imo indigenes, who gave him support, are complaining of cash squeeze in the state. They say they hardly eat well due to certain economic policies put in place by Okorocha, even when there are structures and beautification works in the three zones of the state. As one respondent queried in Owerri: “Do we live in the Government House renovated to taste or how do the building of massive Heroes Square or Ojukwu Research Centre, among others, translate into our stomachs?” Yet, the issue with those angling to take over Okorocha’s seat is whether they can outwit what the governor is saying anywhere he goes: that the “bar of leadership in the state has been raised by him for anyone wishing to rule to be up to something upstairs.”

• Rep Emeka Ihedioha, in his 40s, represents Aboh Mbaise and Ngor Okpala Federal Constituency (Imo East). This is his third term on the House of Representatives. He has been busy, flagging off some Federal Government projects in the area, such as roads and skills acquisition training programmes for the youths. This is going on in collaboration with the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) and the Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA). He has consistently told his people that he is the one that attracted these projects by virtue of his position (as Number Six person) in Nigeria. But some people believe him with a pinch of salt. And the ruling government of Okorocha is contesting why federal projects, which should be enjoyed by all irrespective of political party, are allegedly benefitting largely members of the PDP, Ihedioha’s party. This could determine Ihedioha’s chances of becoming the next governor. His critics also argue that he is not showing “a hand of financial fellowship” to them, given the quantum of benefits he has received for three terms in office. • Senator Chris Anyanwu, chairman, Senate Committee on Navy, in her 50s, was allegedly denied her victory at primary level by the PDP leadership because she was said to be at loggerheads with Ohakim in 2011. Thus, Ambassador Kema Chikwe was given the Senate ticket seat for Imo East. Anyanwu rushed to the APGA, secured the ticket, and defeated Chikwe at the poll. Now enjoying her second term in the Senate, Anyanwu recently had a brush with Okorocha’s convoy at Ozaraegbelu, Owerri North, on the Owerri-Umuahia road. Her driver was beaten silly by the security agents attached to Okorocha, but Anyanwu, a trained broadcast journalist, muscled her professional strength and shouted to the world and got its sympathy while Okorocha cried foul. Feelers are that Anyanwu is seeking secretly to take over from Okorocha in 2015. But the problem is likely to have, as sources told The Guardian, is that she takes no damn. She is allegedly easily annoyed, an attribute that gives worry to the electorate when elec-

tion to such an exhausted seat comes up. She is, however, considered to speak well, connected and consummate, having suffered in the hands of the military by incarceration. • Captain Emma Iheanacho (from Imo East), a former Minister of Interior, is a maritime expert into oil business. He was suspended from office, later recalled and at last could not survive a cabinet reshuffle by President Jonathan recently. Though Iheanacho is yet to make his ambition known by declaration, his recent formation of political structures and gifts distribution to various organisations, persons and bodies indicate the same way those who had made their ambition known did. Many people like him, by reason of his ascent in public speech, charismatic looks and experience in life, among others. His followership is an advantage. He was at a time accused of having support for the APGA whereas he is a PDP card-carrying member. He had dismissed the allegation as untrue. • Bethel Amadi, a lawyer, represents Ikeduru/Mbaitoli Federal Constituency in his third term. He is said to be nursing the ambition to rule Imo State. He has started touching bases and reaching out. A member of the PDP, Amadi is likely to have problems of acceptance, as many people believe that he needs to show comradeship and philanthropy more in the state. He is again, yet to let the public know about his ambition. • Chief Emma Ojinere (a member of the PDP from Imo East) hails from Mbaise and is rooted in oil and gas business, among others. He had made unsuccessful governorship trials in 2007 and 2011 He is said to be making in roads to come back, but his impact requires adequate spread. The likes of Senator Ifeanyi Araraume and Chief Achike Udenwa are yet to disclose their political minds. Indeed, Araraume is still contesting the 2011 governorship polls in the state in the courts. So, in all, many aspirants are still in the shadows, giving the impression that they are afraid of coming out to make their stands clear in the 2015 governorship contest.

S the race for the governorship race in 2015 draws nearer in Imo State, the list of speculated contenders to the seat, currently held by Chief Rochas Okorocha, is lengthening by the day. It includes the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Chief Emeka Ihedioha; Representative Bethel Amadi; Senator Chris Anyanwu; Capt. Emma Iheanacho; Chief Emma Ojinere, and Senator Ifeanyi Araraume. With the emergence of Prince Eze Madumere as the new deputy governor, political watchers in the state are of the view that Governor Okorocha is positioning his closest and trusted confidant to take over from him either in 2015 or 2019 (if he fails to make the presidency in 2015), and apparently give him protection when he is out of the Government House in Owerri. There are three senatorial districts in Imo State (Imo East (or Owerri), Imo West (Orlu) and Imo North (Okigwe). The 50-year-old Okorocha hails from Ogboko, Ideato South, Imo West of the state. According the governor, he holds a Masters degree in Law, an astute politician and successful businessman, all combined to give him an edge over others. • Rochas Okorocha came on board in 2011 after a spirited fight ousting Chief Ikedi Ohakim, who had served a single term (May 29, 2007-May 29, 2011). For the first time in the state, a supplementary governorship election was held for the titans to determine the actual winner. Okorocha won. The Owelle, as Okorocha is fondly called by reason of his traditional title, used the instrumentality of his foundation, Rochas Foundation of 10 years of existence, assisting in training and/or on the verge of offering scholarships to about 6,000 indigent pupils and students, to win the hearts of the Imo electorate. Okorocha was refused ticket in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to run in 2011, before he took over the structure and governorship ticket of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), thus displacing Chief Martin Agbaso. To pacify Agbaso, a truce of selecting his younger brother, Jude Agbaso, to serve as Okorocha’s running mate, paid off. The essence of the senior Agbaso relinquishing his ticket to Okorocha, sources said, was apparently to enable Okorocha give a big fight to Ohakim, then called “Ikiri”. It has not been easy for Okorocha since assumption of duty. As a result, he embarked on massive infrastructural development, including building houses, and roads, among others. His reasoning was that the issue, which led to the removal of Ohakim from office by ballot, could be justified only if he provided those things that his predecessors, majorly

As it sands, Okorocha, though it has not been said clearly, is rooting to emerge as a vice presidential candidate, all things being equal, to run along a northerner in 2015. But in the event of not achieving that desire, he would re-contest the governorship seat in Imo, a Government House source has told The Guardian. However, the governor may not get that seat easily as he did during the last election, in the sense that most Imo indigenes, who gave him support, are complaining of cash squeeze in the state.

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

POLITICS

At Tinubu Colloquium, participants disagree to agree By Seye Olumide HAT Nigeria is at the brink of another civil war T is one of the major points of discussion at the fifth Bola Tinubu Colloquium, which held on Thursday in Lagos. Tagged: ‘Beyond Merger, A National Movement for Change, A New Generation Speaks,’ it was meant for deep and detailed analyses of the challenges Nigeria faces, and a way out of the national morass. The event was like a political movement with a determination that, “Nigeria must change for good.” Groups from different ethnic backgrounds graced the event to honour Tinubu. There was unprecedented number of politicians across the six geopolitical zones and party divide, both serving and past lawmakers, governors and other public officials; business moguls, friends, traditional rulers and well-wishers present and/or represented. Beyond the normal social and political gathering, the colloquium was a moment for sober reflections, where the situation in the country was presented to the gathering and millions, who watched on live television programme. Without mincing of words, facts, figures and details of how Nigeria has fared and failed were presented by the speakers. Apart from the few moments when the audience hailed and praised a presenter, the remaining periods were dedicated to serious political discussions. The colloquium created that long-awaited opportunity for youths to remind the old generations, politicians and others of the evil they had done to the nation. “You have shut us out for too long, you failed our generations, you have deprived us of participation in what belongs to everyone and others,” one of the young persons said. With little or nothing to say in defence of the allegations, some of the leaders agreed that, indeed, “Nigeria is not moving, it is no longer developing; there is the need for urgent solution; otherwise, Nigeria is fast drifting.” Taking the bull by the horns, the chairman of the occasion, and Nobel laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, said that Nigeria of today wasn’t what they fought for or the democracy they struggled to achieve. “Things are not going well. We shouldn’t be surprised when we all wake up one day and discover we are in another round of civil war,” he said. Soyinka believed the political leaders had failed to take Nigerians into confidence on the state of security. “President Goodluck Jonathan appears to be treating the threat posed by the Boko Haram insurgency to the corporate existence of the nation with levity,” he said. “Let’s face it. This nation is on the brink. There are those who don’t understand this, who won’t accept this. I feel very sorry that they will wake up and find out that we have fallen over the brink. “It is not what we envisaged during our struggle for independence. It is not what we envisaged when we struggled to overthrow dictatorship and install the rights and dignity of human beings and citizens in the society.” Specifically on the Boko Haram insurgency, Soyinka warned it should be seen as being confined to the northern region alone. “By now, we should be tightening our belts in many different directions,” he said. “By now, we should never have persuaded ourselves to see what is happening in the North as being confined in the North. It has been obvious all along that this is not a northern affair alone; no! “I read in the papers the other day that some cells have been found, trying to blow up Lagos. My reaction was what is new about that? We have said this ages before on various lecture podia, that wait a minute, it is happening there, but believe me, it is happening every where.” Soyinka said that by now, the President should be addressing the nation — and in great details — explaining why, if he agrees, that this nation is at war and that certain things have to be done to ensure that we pull back from this second round of what is moving towards a civil war. “That, of course, is if he and his government accept this,” he said, warning that, “Nigeria is on the brink.” The Managing-Director, Frontier Capital Ltd., Mr. Femi Edun, was concerned about the alarming rate of poverty in the country. He said despite the fact that Nigeria was considered as one of the developing nations as at 1960 when it obtained independence, the poverty rate has increased considerably since then, reaching the height of over 70 per cent of the population.

Fashola (left), Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Tinubu, Prof. Soyinka and National Chairman ACN, Chief Bisi Akande… at the event Edun blamed this on corruption, lack of political will and bad government policies directed towards consumption, warning that, in a society where the poor, the unemployed and breakdown of infrastructure like poor education, health and power are alarming, “anything could follow,” without specifying what. The Chief Executive Officer, Venia Consulting, Kolawole Oyeneyin, said that, “the development and solution we are all craving for will continue to remain elusive as long as over 68 million youths in Nigeria are shut out by the leaders in participating in the political affairs of the nation.” In his presentation, Beyond Merger Responsibility of Older Generation to the Younger Generation, Oyeneyin likened the and anger of the youths to a time bomb, stressing, “it is tickling and waiting to explode if nothing is done to address it.” He said Nigerian youths were a generation that had never witnessed a viable nation, with a youth population of 68 million cut off from governance. But he believes that the change would come if young people were brought on board, considering that they have the intellectual and human capacity. Oyeneyin described the ongoing merger of political parties, as a movement that “transcends mere fusion of opposition parties,” which must not fail. Other presenters took a cursory look at the state of the nation from different dimensions, but concluded that, “the country is sick, it is not progressing and it needs immediate diagnosis, healing.” Special Adviser to Ogun State Governor on Millennium Development Goals, Mrs. Hafsat Abiola-Costello, who spoke on, Millennium Development Goals - Where is Nigeria, observed that the country was lagging behind in the implementation of the eight goals, although she commended the Southwestern states for doing better compared to their counterparts from other regions. Musician, Olubankole Wellington, said the youths still have what it takes to change the country with their numerical strength if they could register for elections and vote for appropriate candidates. A very effective weapon, which he believes is at the disposal of the youths, is the social media, which could be used to mobilise and educate one another. “We should continue to protest peacefully against misrule; using social media becomes fully involved in the political process. Use whatever voice or platform you have constructively,” he counseled. Mr. Myani Bukar, a lawyer, praised the attempt by the opposition to form a formidable party, but warned that the promoters should be interested in the country’s growth, failing which “the youths will cease to collaborate with them.” The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Alhaji Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, who took over as chairman of the event after Prof. Soyinka took permission to leave, faulted the

current political arrangement, where people without known pedigrees find their way into public offices. Before he started his speech, Sanusi said he attended the event not in capacity of the apex bank governor but simply as Mr. Sanusi, stressing, “Asiwaju (Tinubu) is my friend and based on that, I honoured his invitation.” Although he commended Oyeneyin’s presentation skill, he faulted his anticipation that the old generation would invite the youths to “participate in what?” “They will not call you but you can use your numerical strength, 68 million, to form a political party or movement,” he said. On the issue of poverty presented by Edun, Sanusi noted it was wrong to assess a nation’s economy in isolation of the wellbeing of the people. He said one of the factors destroying Nigeria is that, “people are corrupt and nothing is done about it,” and “Nigerians are not really asking questions from public officers.” “We must task them on issue of accountability and what they achieve while holding public offices,” querying, “how can you be a governor or minister for four years and not be able to stand up and say this is what I have done.” Sanusi regretted that, “after the elections, the same ministers will go through a process that is supposed to be a screening process, and they will stand there on national television, and talk about what they did as ministers, and they will end up saying nothing. And they will be unanimously confirmed.” He said Nigeria is a nation, which has absolutely no regard for merit and competence, wondering the usefulness of federal character in the Constitution. “What is the connection or relationship between the number of states in the federation and the number of ministries we should have at the federal level? He said. “It is so unintelligent. So, you must have 36 ministers whether or not you need 30 ministries, plus another six from different geopolitical zones. “And the only qualification to be a minister is that you should come from a state and should have attempted the West African Examination Council (WAEC), not necessarily to have passed it.” Sanusi noted that in other countries, “it is assumed that before someone is even proposed for public office, he would have to show certain skills.” In his remarks, the host and former governor of Lagos State, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, acknowledged that the opportunity given to the youths to make contributions in the policy and politics of the country was the peak of the event. “It was, indeed, exciting to hear the youths speak,” he said. But Tinubu was quick to fault Sanusi over his call on the youths to form their party, saying if the merging party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) is finding it difficult to register, “what would you (youths) encounter? To form

a party requires more than numbers; there is need for money and I am sure Sanusi will not give you money.” Charging the youths to come and join the movement in the APC to change the nation, Tinubu noted that other parties might have been shutting out the youths, “but in our party, we have always acknowledged their role and importance.” “We give youths the chance to demonstrate their talent and prove their worth in politics,” he said, citing Governors Babatunde Fashola and Kayode Fayemi and many others, who are serving the nation at various levels. Tinubu faulted Federal Government’s handling of the Boko Haram insurgent crisis, suggesting a carrot and stick approach to the matter, and granting amnesty for the sect members. “We cannot throw away the question of amnesty. It’s a carrot-and-stick approach. And we used it before. ‘Surrender your guns; we give you money for them.’ Why can’t we do it again?” he said. Tinubu did not see the correlation between age and performance, arguing, “it’s not a question about age; we have seen an example of age.” “Mr. President is a young man, but he has been appointing an 83-year-old man to be chairman, not just of the Board of Trustees, but of Ports Authority where high decisions, articulated, modern, 21st century information technology are needed. How do you modernise? So, the youths belong here (APC),” he said. “We can see the live tweets of this event. So, it’s not about age. There are a lot of educated relics. I have not seen anything higher than Ph.D in the academic curriculum of universities. So, we have a Ph.D holder as president now but what is important is determination, perseverance, courage and boldness.” For Governor Fashola, who spoke on behalf the governors, the merger of political parties “is very key to the desired political change by Nigerians.” He faulted the electoral system in the country, which makes it difficult to displace the ruling party (Peoples Democratic Party). “To achieve this, the merger being planned by the opposition is the only means that could narrow down the gap between the ruling party and the opposition,” Fashola said. “For instance, in India, the difference between the ruling party and the opposition is so thin such that if the party in government disconnects with its people, it is at its own peril. It’s out at the next election. This is the capacity for change that the merger that is on the horizon brings.” To the regulators, Fashola charged them to ensure that the provisions for mergers have a real chance of being actualised, stressing, that would reduce the cost of election, and ballot papers would stop looking like a long sheet for pool betting. The governor hoped that the merger would also translate into a new national movement for change that would include a very strong positioning for this generation. Will Tinubu and the merger team succeed in the plan to form a movement that will eventually change the nation? Will they eventually achieve their goal of ousting the ruling party? Questions and more questions!

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

TheMetroSection ‘There is hope for autistic children’ • Experts visit Nigeria with modern technique to handle autism By Isaac Taiwo and Abdulwaheed usamah OLASHADE Okogwu’s plan was to give her 14-year-old daughter, Victoria, an autism spectrum disorder patient, home education, as she believes there is no room for the young girl to excel like every other children in a conventional school. She also believed that no school would accept her in her condition. The young woman, who resigned from her job so that she could have time to create a better life for her daughter, almost gave up on her, concluding that Victoria’s case was a hopeless situation that has no cure. But thanks to a group of visitors who came from America to give the teenage girl hope to live and how to survive in her environment, through a free autism consultation. Hitherto, she was unable to read, write or even speak whenever she found herself in a gathering. Her interactive skills, both facial and verbal, were not as sound like that of every normal children. But a year after she had free consultation at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Idi Araba, Victoria’s mother now has a testimony to tell on how her daughter’s communication skills have improved tremendously. She discovered that through the diagnosis given to her daughter by the consultant, the little girl has developed skill in mathematics, she could handle computers more than normal people and has also developed exceptional drawing skills. The distressed mother now has hope that with the little Victoria has accomplished, she could still do better in her communication ability. Victoria was a living testimony at this year’s free consultation on Autism Spectrum Disorder (ARD) organized by the LUTH in collaboration with the Guarantee Trust Bank (GTB) to mark the World Autism Day. The programme was aimed at letting parents know the status of their children and how to manage it. Parents and relatives of victims of autism can now heave a sigh of relief as succour has come their way to deal with an ailment which has been described as a faceless disorder that affects the brain

Osayande, 82, for burial ADAM Lucy Ikuero OsM ayande (nee Osarenkhoe) who died at the age of 82, will be buried tomorrow in Eguaholor-Isi, Benin City She is survived by children among whom is Chief Ede Osayande, the former Managing Director of Cooperative Development Bank and Equitorial Trust Bank.

Victoria’s mother, mrs. Folashade Okogwu ( left), Victoria and sheﬀy Jane PHOTOs: ABdulWAHEEd usAmAH

Victoria exhibiting her skill

development with manifestations of verbal and non-verbal communication, difficulties in social interaction, repetitive behaviour and sensory stimulatory disorders. Also speaking at a one-day seminar organized by The Learning Place (TLP) on Autism at Chris Maduike Drive, Lekki which featured members of Hope In Aaction 2013 from Chicago in America, Director and Founder, TLP Centre, Mrs. Bolanle Adewale described the event as the beginning of a new thing- the introduction to “Structured Teaching” by the visiting experts on Autism- who are going all over the world and have come to Nigeria to assist and improve upon the handling of the ailment. “As a beneficiary of this approach myself, this is a method whereby the system of handling autism is broken down in various components such that it becomes easier for the children to learn, assimilate and grasp.” She said: “This is the first time this group of volunteers known as Aaction from Chicago in United States of America are coming to Nigeria, whose re-

sponsibility is to go to the Third World countries to develop the technique of dealing with or handling Autism.” Adewale, who also is a qualified Applied Behaviour Analyst from Florida Institute of Technology, USA, said she went for the seminar last year and got acquainted with the modern technique, which had been enjoyed by her institution but is being spread worldwide, hence the reason for the seminar. “We have had children who were not talking but now talking by virtue of the technique. There was a child we thought was hearing impaired, but as we continued working on her, today she is hearing and talking. My own nine-year- old son has also benefited from the system and has been wonderfully and gradually improving,” she revealed. According to her: “This group had been to India and had affected about 15,000 souls as they went to different schools and that is why we have brought a lot of schools, from both private and public, to this seminar also but this is just the

Defrauded Lagos tenants appeal for govt’s intervention BOUT 120 prospective Lagos tenants, allegedly defrauded by a developer, took their pleas to the State House in Alausa on Tuesday, urging the government to intervene in their plight. For several hours, the aggrieved protesters displayed placards in front of the Lagos State House of Assembly, alleging that they had been defrauded of rent funds ranging from N250, 000 to N750, 000. They urged the government to impound the controversial 14-flat apartment on 12, Daniel Makinde Street, off Oluwalogbon, Ikosi-Ketu; arrest the culprits and assist in recovering the paid rent. The victims got the shock of their lives on Sunday, when they found that the apartments they had all paid for and awaited its completion for several weeks had suddenly been

HE final burial ceremony for T a prominent Okun community leader in Kogi State, Pa Emmanuel Buraimoh Obafemi, 94, who died on February 23, 2013, holds tomorrow and Saturday. According to one of his children, Prof. Olu Obafemi, a wake holds tomorrow at Odo Affin, Obaro Way, Kabba at 5.00 pm. He will be interred the following day in Akutupa-Bunu, near Kabba, after a commendation service at 9.00 a.m.

By Wole Oyebade

Briefs Final burial for Obafemi

occupied overnight. More confusion dawned on them as they discovered that about 10 prospective tenants had been allotted the same apartment. They later discovered that the alleged fraudsters, under Lanrak Construction Nigeria Limited had eloped and all efforts to reach them on phone proved abortive. One of the victims, Akinola Sobanjo, said they had turned to the Lagos State government for help because “the culprits have formed an alliance with the police over the matter.” According to him: “We reported the grand fraud to the police but soon found that the police were covering them. They arrested some of them but were almost immediately released. We cannot get any respite from the police.” They had earlier turned to the police to wade into their petition and apprehend the developer and his

cohorts for refund. “We want the developer, Alh. Garuba Olanrewaju and his Engineer, Bayo Balogun Timothy and two agents, Ayo and Azeez Balogun arrested. We want them to help us get our monies back. But so far, the police have not done that.” Sobanjo had on March 11, 2013 paid the sum N240, 000 as a year and a half rent for a self-contained apartment. “My apartment was allotted to 10 people. Some of these people here were also allocated the same flat. Everything is on their receipts. But someone else has occupied the same apartment. “We want the Lagos State government to go there and take over the building. The government should help us recover our money, even if they have to sell the building to get this done. We are appealing that the government should do something,” he pleaded.

introduction and they would be coming back in six months time. It has cost not less that $325,000 to bring the visitors here and it is worth it for the betterment of our children.” Adewale noted that, “the most important thing is to take children suffering from autism to appropriate schools where they would benefit because these children have a lot of uncommon potentials. As they are fully equipped through the aid of this modern method, they would do almost impossible things others cannot do like being expert in modern technology, ICT and becoming gurus in Computer.” In his keynote address, a Professor of Paediatrics at the College of Medicine, University of Lagos and an Honorary Consultant Paediatrician to the LUTH, Dr. Afolabi Lesi, said the kind of awareness being created through the seminar was beneficial since no particular symptom precedes the manifestation of autism. “To ensure there is no deficiency that will tamper with mind development, for those with slight symptom, those type of foods associated with sugar, milk and wheat products should be avoided,” he said.

Osayande

umejei, 106, for burial UNERAL rites for Pa AugusFwhotine Nkwo-Ubulu Umejei, died on October 28, 2012 at the age of 106 begin today with an all-night wake at his compound in Idumu Osume Quarters, Ubulu-Uku, Aniocha South Local Council of Delta State while interment is tomorrow. Thanksgiving Mass holds on Sunday at St. Michael’s Catholic Church, Ubulu-Uku.

The Guardian Abuja Bureau Chief loses mum RS. Lydia Akuchukwu Nyereugwu Onuorah of OzaraM Akukwa, Umuchu, Aguata Local Council of Anambra State has died at the age of 75.

According to a release by the family: “A service of songs holds at 6.00p.m on Thursday, April 18, 2013 at the Onuorah family compound, Ozara-Akukwa Village, Umuchu. There will be lying-in -state from 8.00a.m. on Friday, April 19, 2013 at the family compound; funeral service at 10.00am same day. Interment follows immediately after the funeral service at the Onuorah family compound, Ozara-Akukwa Village. Outing service holds on Sunday, April 21, 2013, at St Silas Anglican Church (New Jerusalem), Umuchu. She is survived by seven children, 26 grand children, four great grand children including the Abuja Bureau Chief of The Guardian, Mr. Onuorah Madu Onuorah.

umejei

Obomagha, 82, for burial A Joseph Ephurieta OgheP neaga Obomagha, who died at the age of 82, will be buried on Saturday, April 6. He was Chairman/Leader SuleAghogho Coral Group of God’s Kingdom Society, GKS, Warri. Memorial/ special thanksgiving holds on Sunday, April 7, at GKS service hall, Salem-City, Warri, Delta State. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth, children, grand children, relations among whom are Matthew Obomagha, Ejiro Ogheneaga, Blessing Akintunde and Akin Akintunde of GKS, Shogunle, Lagos State.

Obomagha

METRO 13

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

Photonews

Governor’s wife leads women in prayer for Godly leaders IFE of Lagos State GoverW nor, Dame Abimbola Fashola has called on Nigeri-

Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, his wife, Roli and the couple, Pastor and Mrs. Macson Oghenekoro Macaualy during their wedding at Winner’s Chapel, Asaba...

ans to pray for God-fearing leaders who will genuinely serve them and also respect their dignity. Leading the prayers at the National Women’s Prayer Summit 2013 last weekend at the Agip Hall of the MUSON Centre, Onikan, the Lagos State First Lady lamented that most of the leaders in the country were disconnected, adding that there is the need to pray for them to make the right decisions that will avert total disintegration of the country. Following the theme of the summit: Shalom- Peace, Progress & Prosperity she led several women to pray for the unity and peace of the country, as well as for Godly leaders to lead the country and make it a peaceful place to live. Organised by the Awesome Treasures Foundation, a faithbased non governmental organisation set up to create transformational leaders and

agents of development, the women’s prayer summit is a yearly event on the calender of the organisation. Mrs Fashola noted that the first foundation for the unity and security of this country is love, adding, “the country needs leaders who are selfless, who are compassionate and always think about the best ways to make their citizens happy.” In her prayer points, Fashola bemoaned the blood shedding in the country, especially in the northern parts of the nation, calling on all aggrieved people to sheath their swords and embrace peace. “Let us pray for peace, for God to help us arrest the minds of those who are benefitting from the bloodshed going on in the country because some people are gaining from shedding innocent blood”. While calling on God to show mercy on our leaders, Dame Fashola also requested for wise and bold leaders.

She implored: “God, give us leaders who are creators of wealth instead of those who steal the wealth of the land. Give us leaders who only rely on God. Give our leaders the spirit to take Godly decision, so that nobody will divide the country. Founder and President of ATF, Mrs. Jumoke Adenowo, reminded the audience of the efficacy of prayers, saying Nigerians needed it more than ever before. She said for the country to make meaningful progress, there was the urgent need to engage in nation building through youth empowerment, prayers, strengthening of institutions and enthronement of upstanding leaders. “The summit is one of the vehicles the foundation uses to reach out to women and youths . The women are the conscience of the nation and are better equipped to deal with problems if endowed with the proper guidance,” she added.

Head, Dragnet Face of Testing, Ademola Adeshina (right), Chief Executive Oﬃcer, Debonair Bookstore, Adebola Omololu and Chief Operating Oﬃcer, Career Solutions, Simi Lawoyin during the Business Day Job Fair 2013 in Lagos PHOTO: EMMANUEL AREWA

Producer/Nollywood actress,Omoni Oboli, Dame Fashola and Founder. Awesome Treasures Foundation, Mrs Olajumoke Adenowo at the Prayer Summit

Delta begins demolition of illegal structures to avert flooding From Hendrix Oliomogbe, Asaba N line with the old adage which says that to be forewarned is to be forearmed, the Delta State Government has mobilized logistics and manpower for the clearing of illegal structures as a result of prediction by the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NIMET) of heavy rains that could result in massive flooding this year. During the massive flooding, which took place late last year, about 40,000 persons across 230 communities in 14 local councils of

Owa-Ooye of Imesi-Ile, Oba Enoch Akinyemi( left), Osun State Deputy Governor, Otunba Titilayo Laoye-Tomori, Commissioner of Agriculture and Security, Wale Adedoyin and Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture and Food Security, Adeloye Agunbiade during a meeting with Ijesa North Traditional Council in Ibokun, Osun State...yesterday

the state were seriously affected and the vast majority of the internally -displaced persons were quartered in several camps set up by the government. Speaking with reporters yesterday in Asaba, the Delta State Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Frank Omare, disclosed that to avert a similar occurrence this year, there would be a massive demolition of all illegal structures blocking waterways in the state from next Monday, April 8. Omare, who reiterated the determination of the gov-

ernment to put an end to illegal mining, said that the demolition squad would be active in the seven local councils of Warri South, Sapele, Uvwie, Udu, Oshimili South, Ughelli North and Ika North East during the first phase of the exercise. The commissioner explained that most communities were devastated by flood last year because precautionary measures were not taken to avert the danger, adding that series of warnings had been issued to owners of illegal structures to remove them.

Lions celebrate Helen Keller Day with gift of free eye glasses, lecture on glaucoma By Isaac Taiwo BOUT 150 beneficiaries, mostly pupils, were given free eye-glasses at 2013 Helen

Keller Day celebration with the theme: Glaucoma: The Blinding Scourge by Lions Clubs Int’l, District 404B, Nigeria, which took

Pupils of Special School for the Blind, Ilaro, Yewa performing at the event

place in Ogun State. The event was attended by pupils from St. Michael’s Secondary School, Ota, Yewa Spe-

PHOTO: ISAAC TAIWO

cial School for the Blind, Ilaro and also an artiste, Olubunmi Agnes Dada, who became blind at the age of three. She entertained participants with one of her songs entitled “Alive”. The Guest Speaker, Consultant Ophthalmologist, LCI Eye Centre, Ota, Dr. Adedayo Sobanjo, delivering his incisive lecture on ‘Glaucoma,’ spoke extensively on the cause, prevention and treatment of the ailment. The one-week event, which was rounded off with the celebrations of the Helen Keller Day, featured a visit to AIT and Asnar Ud Deen (AUD) Comprehensive High School, Otta, where everybody including all secondary school students in Ota had free eye screening. The past Council Chairperson, Lions Club and Int’l Director for Africa in Nigeria, Mrs. Adetope Tycus described

Helen Keller Day as a special event that had always been associated with treatment of eyes coupled with lecture on ‘how to keep our eyes healthy’. “Today, we celebrate Helen Keller Day. She was a brave woman who was born like any other baby but along the line had infection on her eyes, which resulted in blindness. “But she rose above the challenges. She attended one of our activities in 1945 and later became a Lion and made a great impact in the Club. “Lions tackle every type of eye infection from preventable blindness to those that are blind as well as those that could still be assisted for them to be moving about. “For those that could be remedied, we send them for eye test and we have had cause to send beneficiaries to India. We are so passionate that one of our members, while she

was dying, asked that her eyes be removed after death for the beneficiary that needed it,” she said. The District Governor, Stella Agbogun also described Helen Keller as a great and intelligent woman who despite her challenges laid a solid foundation in the Club that she has to be remembered. “Glaucoma is a silent killer, which requires regular check up twice a year while any symptom should be treated immediately. “This is the reason we have brought schools, performed eye screening and gave out free glasses. We have also brought pupils from Special School of the Blind for them to have sense of belongings and as they too sang and danced, their spirits were lifted up. The other normal pupils were brought to learn how to be compassionate and listen to the lecture,” she said.

14 | THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

TheGuardian Conscience Nurtured by Truth

FOUNDER: ALEX U. IBRU (1945 – 2011)

Conscience is an open wound; only truth can heal it. Uthman dan Fodio 1754-1816

Editorial The crisis in aviation T is probably not an exaggeration to conclude that all is not well with Iflights, the aviation sector. With barely two airlines operating domestic the result has manifested in frequent cancellation, inflated fares, airport congestion and passenger frustration. Matters are not helped by the Federal Government’s decision to withdraw the licence of one of the operators, and restore same within days, without any explanation. The doubts that befuddle this sector appear not to abate. It is important that the problems of aviation be properly identified and a holistic solution proffered. This calls for a major overhaul of the sector. For a long time, indications were not only that the aviation sector was simmering with structural and commercial challenges; there were sufficient clues that the airlines were in danger of implosion. As industries and economic endeavours undergo cycles of growth with in-built and exogenous constraints, the peculiarity of the aviation industry is so well advertised that it is a one platform industry across the world. Standards of operation are basically of universal application: the machines, airplanes, and their stringent maintenance rules are specified to conform to the manufacturer’s directives and there are regulatory agencies to enforce rules over airplanes and the pilots who operate them worldwide. A predilection to craft a Nigerian pattern of doing business in this industry is misleading and fraught with danger, the manifestation of which the country sadly witnessed in recent time. Aviation is not a venture for fly-by-night operators where licenses are available as favour or on patronage calls. Therefore, in seeking out the structural defects of the sector, it should be of concern that the airline operating companies have used short term monies to shore up endemic capital deficiencies. This double disadvantage directly impinges on efficiency and perhaps on the honest application of rules and adherence to universal standards. Resort to shortcuts has brought trauma and misery to hundreds of families. The crisis in the sector stems from insufficient capital brazenly contested by several operators until Asset Management Company of Nigeria (AMCON) revealed the underbelly of the short term banking in the land. The generous restructure of aviation sector loans has not yielded optimal results because the quantum of money required is still not attained and the desirable tenor may surpass AMCON’s own lifetime. It is also noteworthy that the N370 billion Aviation Intervention Fund provided by the government was insufficient for spares or capital expenditure, and indiscreetly spent by the airline operators, many of whom are now near insolvent. With billions of naira on the line and the surviving two or three airlines struggling to be in operation, the ailment calls for a shakeout. The survivors may consolidate to compete. The issue is that the fundamentals of aircraft purchase and commercial viability in the Nigerian market has not been attained by subsisting airlines. Key success factors such as favourable terms for fleet acquisition and microeconomics of large scale operators suggest that only airlines, large enough in resources to bring efficiency to the country’s vast domestic air travel network, need be encouraged to operate. There is, however, need to worry about the recent experience of the Virgin Atlantic group in Nigeria, which could be described as a distraction to international investors. The welter of questions on the competence and professional integrity of both the operators and the regulators all point to the overwhelming importance that the current situation requires more than town hall meetings at the aviation ministry. The vision of the industry has to be canvassed, debated and accepted in the main by operators and users of air travel. In the euphoria of the on-going civil construction at the airports, let it not be assumed that this brick and mortar contracts are answers to the fundaments. Dubai’s transformation to an admirable international air hub in 20 years took collaboration in vision and dedication. The current crisis has persisted because the diagnostics of the aviation sector are still shrouded. Improving the airport environment is commendable. The concept of an aero polis, which is still un-debated for town planning and other considerations, are only the beginning. There is need to meet ICAO standards on a continuing basis and bring passengers to the airports to experience efficiency from ticketing, cargo load, timeliness and safe travel. This crisis is a call to desist from cavalier response to the fundamentals of an industry with basic prescriptions for effectiveness. With a traumatic seven commercial flight crashes and many near mishaps in as many years, government must now initiate enduring solutions to the problems of the sector.

LETTERS

Alamiyeseigha’s pardon IR: The Federal Government’s attitude towards high-profile Scorrupt leaders, particularly in recent time, has further confirmed that the fight against corruption is just a charade. Over the years, since the country’s independence in 1960, most administrations lacked commitment and seriousness in the fight against corruption. The pardon granted DSP Alamiyeseigha, the former governor of Bayelsa State by the Federal Government has further dented the image of Nigeria as a toothless bulldog to hunt and fight corruption. Alamiyeseigha was one of those leaders whose corrupt practices had gone international. He was caught and arrested for money laundering in London. He escaped justice in 2005. Since then, the world, particularly the West, had been watching with

keen interest to see what the Nigerian government would do about him. Expectedly, the government exhibited its ignorance again by granting someone who not only stole state money, but dented the country’s image abroad a full pardon. With this development, James Ibori, the former Delta State governor would have been a victor of all the charges against him in Nigeria, if he had stayed in the country and not travelled abroad. The world believes Nigeria is among countries with highest number of anti-corruption agencies, yet corruption thrives and remains the monster that hinders the country from being among the top 20 economies. I doubt it if Nigeria will ever receive again, the kind of favour she got in

the area of debt cancellation because it is obvious that government’s reaction and gesture towards corrupt leaders encourage corruption to fester. Countries like China are doing well because they genuinely have zero tolerance for corruption. In fact, penalties for corruption range from various prison terms to death sentence in China. What is worrisome is not only government’s illogical action but also the questionable judicial system, which has not helped matters. The same courts and judges that have sentenced commoners to five years in prison for stealing N5,000 have find it easier and ideal to sentence corrupt leaders who cornered the commonwealth to only two years in prison. • Waheed-Kaakaki, kaakaki2005@yahoo.com

Tribute to a literary general Reading through Prof. insecurity, and the debilitating heroes. The perfect response SonIR: Chinua Achebe’s biography condition of our economy while they would require of us is to Wikipedia, I can’t help but marvel at his high level of resistance to racial intimidation, social discrimination and preferential treatment back then when slavery, racism and barbarism was at its zenith. I also salute his sustained campaign against the aforementioned and many more, even now that the government embarrasses itself with unpopular and spurious enactments and postulations. What do I say about the lack of willpower to fight corruption, the rotten state of our educational sector, the high level of

our pot-bellied politicians loot the country dry. Prof. Achebe lived in far away America, yet he was alive to the many problems that bedevilled this country as Things Fell Apart. He never kept quiet, as he was the voice of the people, even in a foreign land. Oh! how he proved that There Was A Country! Foremost activists – Fela, Bola Ige, Gani Fawehinmi, Ojukwu and now Prof. Chinua Achebe, keep leaving the scene for vibrant youths to take over, but we are yet to pick up the gauntlet. It is not enough to cry our hearts out for these fallen

stand up to resist the things they vehemently resisted while alive and to join our hands in unity to require that our leaders do the right thing before Nigeria goes into extinction. Good night Prof. Chinua Achebe. You were a worthy Nigerian, an icon, an intellectual par excellence, a literary general, a shining light fit for royalty. The world heard about you because you proved that the pen was mightier than the sword and I promise to follow in your stead, so help me God. • Echezona Moneke, emoneke@belloil.com

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

BUSINESS 15

Business Appointments P27 Institute pledges to bridge gap in social work

IMF sees ‘big gains’ in global subsidies’ reform By Chijioke Nelson HE International T Monetary Fund (IMF) said that alternatives to various governments’ subsidies around the world can only be possible and effective, if they are undertaken through the right reform path, which in the process, will help to alleviate budgetary pressures too. But the global body also said that the experience of Nigeria’s subsidy reform showed that lapses in communication, implementation without agreement, wrong timing and lack of credibility for honour to promises, could mar a wellthought out policy. The Director of Fiscal Affairs Department, IMF, Carlo Cottarelli, said that there is no single recipe for successful subsidy reform, but noted that reform experiences in 19 countries showed that there was need for a comprehensive reform plan, which should involve establishing clear long-term objectives, such as achieving full price liberalization and improving the quality of service. He enlisted a far-reaching communications strategy

and consultation with stakeholders, appropriately phased and sequenced price increases, which allows time for households and governments to adjust their energy consumption. Others included to implement measures to protect the poor, improvements in the efficiency of state-owned enterprises to help reduce their fiscal burden and depoliticise the setting of energy prices, which is needed to make durable reforms. “Subsidies are a problem in practically every country in the world. Even where countries impose taxes on energy, they’re rarely high enough to account for all of the adverse effects of excessive energy consumption, including on the environment. “Based on a new database for 176 countries, we estimate that subsidies in 2011 amounted to $1.9 trillion, the equivalent of about 2½ percent of world GDP, or 8 percent of all government revenues. “Clearly, when a country embarks on subsidy reform, there is a need to be mindful of possible adverse effects on the poor, and mitigating measures to protect the poor have to be built into the

Lists lessons from Nigeria reform plan. This applies to all countries. “Governments, therefore, should make better use of the scarce ammunition in their fiscal arsenal for programs that more directly help the poor. Subsidies are a major impediment to growth. For example, subsidies crowd out public spend-

ing that can boost growth, including on infrastructure, education, and health care. Cheap energy can also lead to overconsumption of energy, which aggravates environmental problems, such as pollution and climate change,” he said. According to a research by IMF, titled “Case Studies On

Energy Subsidy Reform: Lessons And Implications,” Nigeria’s reform experience showed that a well-thought out public information and consultation campaign is crucial to the success of a reform. It noted that while the government campaigned vigorously for removal of the subsidies, the measure was still highly controversial when government kicked-off the implementa-

tion. The research pointed out that the public communication campaign, which lasted only six months, had no broad popular consultation, while Ministry of Finance’s short briefs to support the proposal were issued several months into the campaign, and there was no comprehensive report. Perhaps, the most impor-

Continued on Page 16

UN seeks accelerated action on MDGs HE UN and its partners T around the world will next week observe the 1,000 days to the end of 2015, the target date for achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) to inspire further action. “The MDGs are the most successful global anti-poverty push in history,’’ UN Secretary-General Ban Kimoon has said. “The Goals have helped set global and national priorities, mobilise action, and achieve remarkable results.’’ The eight time-bound MDGs address poverty and hunger, education, gender equality, child mortality, maternal health, combating AIDS, malaria and other diseases, environmental sustainability and a global partnership for development. Starting from April 5, the actual milestone date, and running through April 12, the UN will work with governments, civil society and international partners to mark ``MDG Momentum: 1,000 Days of Action’’ in a variety of ways, said a statement issued by the UN Resident Representative’s office. In Madrid, Spain, the Secretary-General and young people from the Spanish and European Youth Councils will observe the moment at a

special event on April 4, joined by a number of heads of UN agencies, funds and programmes who are visiting for a senior-level UN meeting. Since the MDGs were adopted by all UN Member States in 2000, governments, international organisations and civil society groups around the world have helped make tremendous progress to improve people’s lives. The world’s extreme poverty rate, according to the UN, has been halved since 1990. A record number of children are in primary school — with an equal number of girls and boys for the first time. Maternal and child mortality have dropped as the world continues to fight killer diseases, such as malaria, tuberculosis and AIDS. Since 1990, two billion more people have gained access to safe drinking water. To build on this success and accelerate action, the Secretary-General has called on the international community to: increase targeted investments in health, education, energy and sanitation; empower women and girls; focus on the most vulnerable people; keep up aid commitments; and re-energise efforts from governments to grassroots groups to make a difference.

Chairman of Borkir Energy Company Limited, Alhaji Sani Dangote (left); and the Managing Director of Nigeria Gas Company, Saidu Mohammed during the signing of agreement ceremony between the two companies in Lagos.

Despite govt’s deadline, contractors abandon five NIPP projects By Roseline Okere, with Agency report ORE than five National M Integrated Power Project (NIPP) power projects have been abandoned at different stages of completion in Lokoja, the Kogi capital. The management of Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) had recently issued a completion deadline of June and December to contractors of NIPP projects. Although, some of the contractors have delivered some projects, others are reportedly facing technical challenges, which may further delay the projects’ completion. Investigations revealed that a 330/132/33KVA electricity transmission station is among the abandoned projects in Kogi. Others are two 7.5 MVA and two 15 MVA power injection sub-stations at different lev-

els of construction at Gadumo and Felele areas of the city. The abandoned 330/132/33 KVA transmission station under construction at Zango Daji area is said to be one of the biggest in the country, which is being handled by an indigenous construction firm. The contract for the construction of the transmission station was awarded in 2007 with a completion date of 2011. Since then the project has suffered one setback or the other, the major being poor releases of funds. Checks also revealed that the power transmission project site at Zango Daji might have been abandoned for a long time as weeds have overgrown the fence. The padlock on the gate has also gone rusty. The same observation was made during a visit to the Gadumo and Felele project

sites of the four 7.5 MVA and 15 MVA injection sub-stations. The 330/132/33 KVA power transmission station at Zango Daji is meant to serve as catalyst for economic development, while the injection sub-stations are designed to improve power supply to Lokoja. The District Manager of PHCN in Lokoja, Ameen Shakur, said that all the projects belonged to the NIPP, a separate entity from PHCN. He, however, said that the completion of the projects would increase the injection capacity of the PHCN to consumers, as it will deliver additional 55 MVA to Lokoja. Shakur said that the distribution capacity of the unit had been on a steady increase, but its injection capacity had remained static at 35 MVA as a result of noncompletion of existing projects. “The total daily energy requirement of the business

unit is 40 mega watts, whereas average daily energy allocation stands at 18 mega watts- a glaring shortfall of 22 mega watts,’’ Shakur said. Meanwhile, the management of the NDPHC, has however warned that all distribution and transmission contractors who failed to complete the project by June 2013 and December 2013 may be prepared to face severe sanctions. Already, the Vice President and Chairman of NDPHC board of Directors Namadi Sambo, has set up a Special Project Evaluation Team to monitor the projects. Sambo, in a statement had notified all NIPP distribution and transmission contractors and their projects consultants that a special project evaluation team will from 30th March 2013 commence visitation to all sites with a view to assessing progress of works by the contractors and consultants.

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

16 BUSINESS

Cement manufacturers want review of industry’s codes, standard The Cement Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (CMAN) has called for a review of the nation’s building and construction codes and standards. The CMAN Chairman,

Joseph Makoju, made the call at a forum on concrete specifications, application and cement standards in Abuja, yesterday. The forum, which had key stakeholders from the

cement industry, was organised to ensure best practices in the application of concrete designs. Represented by CMAN’s Vice Chairman, JeanChristopher Barbant,

Makoju said the current codes, if reviewed would ensure uniformity in applications. He said that many engineering designers and consultants in Nigeria, based

their concrete designs and specifications on the British Code of Practice and other international standards. The chairman, therefore, stressed the need for the country to develop codes

Director General NAFDAC, Dr Paul Ohill (left); President, Association of Nigerias Traditional Medical Practitioners HRH Prof Thomas Omo Oleabhiele during the Stake Holders Meeting on Regulation of Herbal Medicines in Nigeria at NAFDAC House in lagos yesterday Photo, Gabriel Ikhahon.

Global shares, dollar, oil prices on U.S. data AJOR stock markets and M the dollar fell on yesterday after unexpectedly weak growth in U.S. private-sector jobs and services dented optimism about the world’s largest economy. Crude prices slumped more than 2 percent as oil stockpiles swelled in the United States, the top oil consumer, where a struggling economy is limiting demand for fuel. U.S. companies hired at the slowest pace in five months in March as recent strong demand for construction jobs evaporated, according to a private-sector report. Separate data showed the pace of growth in the vast U.S. services sector slowed last month. The data sparked concern that the recent pick-up in U.S. economic growth is losing momentum and injected caution among investors ahead of Friday’s all-important government report on employment for March. “The softer-than-expected figure adds further support to our long-held view that the U.S. economy would slow towards mid-year, seeing sub-2 percent GDP growth in the second quarter,” said Andrew Grantham, economist at CIBC World Markets in Toronto. “This is a negative for stocks and the U.S. dollar, but a positive for fixed income.” Analysts polled by Reuters forecast U.S. nonfarm payrolls grew by 200,000 in March, with the unemployment rate seen holding steady at 7.7 percent. The MSCI world stocks index .MIWD00000PUS slipped 0.5 percent to 358.26. Wall Street stocks fell, though the S&P 500 index remained close to its all-time

intraday high. “There are risks out there, but we’ve been creeping up quietly for a long time with an impressive cumulative gain, and that will continue so long as we don’t have a crisis in the offing,” said David Kelly, chief market strategist for JPMorgan Funds in New York. The Dow Jones industrial average .DJI dropped 60.82 points, or 0.41 percent, to 14,601.19. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index .SPX shed 10.27 points, or 0.65 percent, to 1,559.98. The Nasdaq Composite Index .IXIC fell 18.37 points, or 0.56 percent, to 3,236.49. European shares .FTEU3 lost 0.9 per cent to close at 1,193.30 points, a day after surging 1.3 percent, as the weak U.S. data stoked worries that global economic growth

would struggle to justify recent stock market gains. The dollar index .DXY, which measures the greenback versus a basket of currencies, dropped 0.2 percent to 82.724. The euro rose 0.2 percent to $1.2845, while against the yen the dollar fell 0.5 percent, to 92.95 yen. The European Central Bank and the Bank of Japan are both expected to make monetary policy announcements on Thursday. Analysts said a recent run of weak euro zone data, political turmoil in Italy, and concerns over Cyprus could lead ECB President Mario Draghi to strike a dovish tone in his comments after the meeting. The BOJ is widely expected to ramp up its bond buying and extend the maturities of the bonds it purchases,

although some traders have pared back bets against the yen given already hefty short positions. “There’s some event risk associated with the (BOJ) announcement. The concerns over Europe have also intensified as economic data continue to reflect recessionary conditions there,” said Michael Woolfolk, senior currency strategist at BNY Mellon in New York. Expectations of further easing drove Japan’s Nikkei stocks average up three per cent .N225 on Wednesday for its biggest one-day rise in almost two months. The benchmark 10-year U.S. Treasury note was up 9/32, with the yield at 1.8296 per cent. Brent shed $2.78 to trade at $107.91 a barrel, while U.S. crude slid $2.21 to $94.98.

IMF and global subsidies’ gains Continued from Page 15 tant lesson was that government would have established credibility for its promise that the proceeds from the removal of the subsidy will actually be used for the benefit of the broad population. The report further noted that notwithstanding the laudable objectives of the SURE programme, the new administration had yet to establish credibility that it would live up to commitments. It noted that there was a very negative image of government held by the general public, hence, the subsidy reform was viewed very suspiciously and the general

public simply did not believe that the government would live up to its commitments. There should be a thorough research on the costs and beneficiaries of subsidies, which is important to be able to bolster the case for subsidy reform, which the absence of good quantitative information on the state of Nigeria‘s refining industry and fuel subsidy mechanism ensued spurious arguments. The Director of the Middle East and Central Asia Department, IMF, Masood Ahmed, said: “The removal of energy subsidies needs to be accompanied by targeted measures that compensate those mostly in need from the resulting higher prices.

“A carefully chosen set of existing programs can be expanded, possibly with some improvements in targeting effectiveness. These could include an increase in public-transport buses, as in Ghana; food distribution programs to feed the most vulnerable, as in Namibia; or the creation of youth and women’s employment programs, as in Nigeria. “Alternatively, subsidies can be maintained for those items heavily used by the poor, for example, kerosene, or for consumption of electricity below a specified threshold. For example, Nigeria maintained its kerosene subsidy when it reduced its gasoline subsidy.

Crude oil stocks in the United States rose by 2.7 million barrels last week, according to the U.S. Energy Information Agency, versus expectations of a 2.2 million barrel build.

that would take adequate consideration of local factors “We need to have our own relevant concrete code of practices and standards revised taking local conditions into consideration. “It is also very important that our codes are robust and standards are robust, practical and uniformly and consistently applied in practice,” he said. He explained that regulatory authorities and practitioners in the industry all over the world develop standards and codes to guide professionals in effective specification of concrete grades and selection of cement types. Such specifications and codes he said, ``are then updated as required in the light of technological advancement and new realities”. This, according to him, ensure some degree of uniformity in their applications of concretes in their countries. Makoju said Nigeria should also embrace this general practice as regulatory bodies have also made efforts toward achieving these goals. He expressed optimism that given the number of ongoing projects in the industry as well as backward integration policy of the Federal Government, the industry’s installed capacity would increase. The Director-General, Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Dr Joseph Odumodu, said the issue of quality had been a major challenge facing the regulatory agencies. Odumodu said that the Federal Government would continue do all within its powers to protect the industry from sub-standard products.

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

19 BUSINESS

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

How Nigeria can derive benefits from new PIB, by report From Collins Olayinka and John Okeke, Abuja

HE envisaged gains of the new Petroleum T Industry Bill (PIB) may elude Nigeria unless the National Assembly moves swiftly to empower the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) to serve as central collection point for all oil revenues. However, a report prepared for a foreign nongovernmental organisation working to enthrone transparency in the oil and gas sector, which was obtained by The Guardian in Abuja yesterday, admitted that the system might be fraught with challenges in the short term since the different categories of petroleum-related income such as taxes, royalties, fees, levies and bonuses from lease sales and their assessment and collection,

as well as oversight on them, are the responsibility of multiple agencies. This is coming on the heels of the declaration by the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) that it would begin to clamp down on unlicensed petroleum products retailers. Speaking yesterday in Kuje, an Abuja suburb, during a sensitisation campaign on the dangers of hydrocarbon, the Acting Zonal Director of DPR, Yerima Kolomi, called on every Nigerian desirable of going into downstream oil retailing business to obtain proper license or risk the wrath of the law. He added: “Doing petroleum business without registration is illegal. The registration is not exorbitant, only N2, 600 and a registered business name with the CAC. They

should register with us before embarking on their business. It is an ongoing programme aimed at enlightening Nigerians in general on the implications of mishandling hydrocarbon substances and its spills.” The report entitled, An Analytical and Comparative Review of the PIB and Engagement with Civil Society on Dissemination, noted that all agencies that would be involved in the collection of rents and royalties on behalf of the Federal Government must have their roles clearly spelt out to prevent clashes and roles overlap. It noted: “To avoid leakages, robust control processes to monitor the receipt of the relevant components of petroleum income is required. The FIRS should be central to oil income collection,

Niger farmers worry over N630m BOI facility HE Niger State chapter of T the Nigeria Cassava Growers Association (NCGA) has expressed concern that its members may not benefit from the N630 million Bank of Industry soft loan to cassava farmers. The Chairman of the association, Dr Sule Garba said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Minna on Tuesday. The chairman said that his fears were hinged on the absence of the state Commissioner for Agriculture at several meetings called at the instance of his ministry. He, however, appealed to the government to assist cassava farmers as the gesture would boost the growing, processing and exporting of cassava in the state and the country at large. According to Garba, the state government is expected to provide N2 million, being

payment for 40 NYSC members who would be paid N50, 000 each and trained as agriculture extension officers to assist farmers in the villages. He said that the bank would also provide a Hilux Pick up van, 10 motorcycles for coordinating the programme and secondment of four extension personnel of the state Ministry of Agriculture, under whom the NYSC members would be grouped at the ratio of 10 to a supervisor. Garba said that the loan was targeted at 2, 000 cassava growers in each state, adding that each cassava farmer was expected to cultivate one hectare and deposit 10 per cent of the loan in his/her account in the bank. ``The NCGA has signed an MOU with the Bank of Agriculture to finance the cultivation of 60, 000 hectares of cassava farms across Nigeria. ``The MOU targets the low-

income peasant farmers to whom N205, 000 will be disbursed per farmer,’’ Garba explained. He said that the association’s national body had set a target of 22 tonnes per hectare of land, adding that the cassava farmers would be grouped at the ratio of 50 farmers to one extension officer. He said that the loan was for cassava growers nationwide and appealed to the state government to respond positively to issues affecting cassava growers in the state for the benefit of all. However, efforts by NAN correspondent to obtain comments from the state Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Alhaji Ahmed Matane, were unsuccessful as his media assistant, Mr Ibrahim Akawo, said that he was in a meeting with the governor.

Kwara to reposition firms for improved productivity, profits HE Kwara State Harmony Holdings Limited is expected to invest Government has reiteratT ed its resolve to harness in potentially profitable ventures such as bankand maximize the profit potentials of governmentowned entities through innovative management, in order to halt the scenario of government-owned companies being drain-pipe on the states resources. The State Governor, Dr Abdulfatah Ahmed gave this assurance yesterday in Ilorin during the official unveiling of corporate headquarters of Harmony Holdings Limited. The Governor added that Harmony Holdings Limited, managing 21 stateowned entities, is expected to provide strategic direction, supervision and coordination to the State-owned companies and generate revenue for the State in the face of inadequate Federal Revenue Allocation. “The whole essence of Harmony Holdings Limited is to drive the entities to profitability in order to generate revenue for the growth and development of Kwara State, the governor emphasized.

ing, housing, power generation and other lucrative sectors with an optimism that with articulated growth plan and present achievements, the future of Harmony Holdings Limited remained bright. Ahmed disclosed that Harmony Holdings Limited is expected to invest in potentially profitable ventures such as banking, housing, power generation and other lucrative sectors with an optimism that with articulated growth plan and present achievements, the future of Harmony Holdings Limited remained bright. Chairman, Board of Directors, Harmony Holdings Limited, Prof. Haliru Abubakar, in his speech, said the board and management would ensure that Harmony Holdings Limited becomes a major player to ensure robust economic growth and sustainable development in Kwara State.

According to Group Managing Director of the Company, Tope Daramola said the vision is to transform Harmony Holdings to one of the top three Government-owned Holding companies in Nigeria with a minimal annual turnover of N50billion by the year 2022. Daramola, who described the unveiling as water shed in the annals of the company with an assurance that its commitment to human capital development remained unwavering, added that all the 21 subsidiaries of the Holdings company are being turned around so that they could be major players in national economy.

instead of being rivaled by other agencies. “Revenue flow interface between FIRS and other agencies should state their roles to be subsidiary to FIRS and data should be transmitted to the tax body immediately.” The report further stressed the need to replace current paperbased information systems, integrate secure information technology platforms across various agencies to manage revenue flow information, improve controls and eliminate inconsistency in numbers declared by different agencies, including the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation, which does not have comprehensive information on upstream petroleum operations in Nigeria. It maintained that petroleum income for the purposes of the Act (PIB) should be specifically defined under the inter-

pretation section as any payment or obligation payable to Nigeria whether directly or indirectly relating to oil and gas resources - in order to clear any doubt as to what streams of petroleum income are accruable to the Federal Government. Accordingly, it observes that should government agencies be allowed to collect oil and gas income, such income should be remitted on the next working day less the specified and authorised deductions. It recommended the establishment of an Oil and Gas Public Register and Information Unit within the proposed Nigerian Petroleum Inspectorate or the Upstream Petroleum Inspectorate, as central repository of oil and gas contracts and revenue data. That unit must be statutorily obliged to make accessible cost print copies and online versions that dis-

close deposits, holdings and withdrawal information, and apart from headline figures, the information behind the computation should also be publicly accessible. However, the report faulted Section 191 of the bill, which gives the President discretionary power to grant licenses and leases, arguing: “The transformation of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) into a commercial entity National Oil Company (NOC) - means that the new company should enjoy no special privileges and therefore play on a level playing field with its competitors. Also, the FCT Commander, Nigeria Civil Defence Corps, Mr. Abdullahi Kofaroro, has reiterated the agency’s commitment to partnering government and other agencies to stop oil spillage in the country.

Banker wins car in Fidelity bank’s promo BANKER, Mrs. A Chinwetara Nwambu, of First City Monument Bank Plc Abuja,has emerged winner of a Fidelity Bank Plc’s savings promo- Cars and Cash Savings Splash-begun by the bank last year,as part of its activities marking 25 years of existence as a money deposit bank. The draw was the fourth in the series held in Lagos last week,where the banker was picked as a star winner of a brand new Hyundai Accent salon Car. 25 of the cars; N25 million cash prizes among

other prizes,have since last year when the promo began,been up for grabs by the Fidelity Bank Customers. Presenting the keys of the car to Mrs. Nwambu, the Executive Director, North of Fidelity Bank Plc, Alhaji M o h a m m e d Balarabe,explained that beside appreciating customers for their consistency in doing business with the bank, the promo was also the bank’s contribution to promoting savings culture in the country.

He said: “As part of our 25th Anniversary last year, we introduced this promo as a way of saying thank you to our customers by splashing them with these prizes and cash through a promo. But more importantly, the initiative was part of the Bank’s contribution to promote the culture of savings amongst Nigerians, because if everybody saves, we would have abundant funds with which we can equally borrow out cheaply and ultimately force down the high cost of interest in the country.

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

BUSINESS 21

Norton urges online safety in Nigeria, gives tips on child protection By Bankole Orimisan ORTON, by Symantec, is N encouraging individuals to manage their children’s

Managing Director, Qualcomm West Africa, Alex Dadson( left); Vice President, Infinix, Jean-Alexis, Guest, Jim Mathew; Senior Manager, MTN Nigeria, Emeka Anasiudu and Business Head, Iroking and Iroko TV, Adibeli Nduka-Agwu at the media unveiling of Infinix Smartphone in Lagos.

Global Internet slows down after ‘biggest attack in history’ claims to be a spokesman for for comment. HE internet around the wanted content. Chief Executive for T world has been slowed To do this, the group main- Cyberbunker, said, in a mesdown in what security experts tains a number of blocklists - sage, that Spamhaus was Spamhaus, Steve Linford, told are describing as the biggest cyber-attack of its kind in history. A row between a spam-fighting group and hosting firm has sparked retaliation attacks affecting the wider Internet. Experts worry that the row could escalate to affect banking and email systems. Five national cyber-policeforces are investigating the attacks. Spamhaus, a group based in both London and Geneva, is a non-profit organisation that aims to help email providers filter out spam and other un-

Infinix, Qualcomm unveil 3G android smartphone By Oluwakemi Ajani NFINIX Mobility Limited in Icomm conjunction with Qualhas launched a new range of 3G Android smart phones to further expand its business activities. Speaking recently at the unveiling of the product, the Vice President of Infinix, Jean Alexis, said that the company remained focused despite the intense competition in the business. Alexis said that Infinix strategy at remaining at the top remained smart, which included bringing in varieties of smart devices ranges from Tablet, Android, Buss, Joypad and Race which come in Icurve design is suitable for stylish young people. He noted that the market share of smart phones has over taken the normal phones in the market. “We design the phones to meet the international brand in order to be a sense of pride to the user.” He said that Infinix was a joint venture between Mobiwire (ex Sagem wireless) and Earning way, Infinix founded in January 2012 in Hong Kong. He added that the history of telecom and human design philosophy could be traced back to 1942 since Sagem entered telecom industry. He also stated that Infinix smart devices were designed specifically for young people and professionals who wanted to stand out and reach out with the world. Alexis, who said that smart phone changes were based on consumer perception, stressed that Infinix strategy was to have a broad range of device for different market segments.

a database of servers known to be being used for malicious purposes. Recently, Spamhaus blocked servers maintained by Cyberbunker, a Dutch web host that states it will host anything with the exception of child pornography or terrorism-related material. Sven Olaf Kamphuis, who

abusing its position, and should not be allowed to decide “what goes and does not go on the internet”. Spamhaus has alleged that Cyberbunker, in cooperation with “criminal gangs” from Eastern Europe and Russia, is behind the attack. Cyberbunker has not responded to the BBC’s request

the BBC the scale of the attack was unprecedented. “We’ve been under this cyberattack for well over a week. “But we’re up - they haven’t been able to knock us down. Our engineers are doing an immense job in keeping it up - this sort of attack would take down pretty much anything else.”

growing online independence by educating them on the many serious dangers of the Internet, and ensuring they can surf the web knowing they are protected from the threats out in cyberspace today. This call was made by Marian Merritt, Norton’s Internet Safety Advocate, during conversations at the Safer Internet Day, which held recently. She said: “The increasing accessibility of the internet on mobile devices, such as tablets and Smartphone’s, mostly amongst the younger generations across the world calls for safer and more responsible use of online technology,” According to Meritt, cyber bullying has been identified as one of the main issues of online safety, which is increasingly becoming a serious concern and happens online or on mobile phones. She stressed the importance for adults to educate their children on online etiquette, stating that, “this includes cautioning them to avoid talking to strangers or accepting friend requests from people they do not know,

limiting their time allowed online or by restricting the apps they download on their mobile phones.” In addition to this, she provided the following top tips for parents and care givers for ensuring young people remain protected online: She warned that personal details should not be given such as your home address, telephone numbers or parent’s work address online as cybercriminals can use this information to create a fake profile with your details. Use privacy settings to make sure only your friends and family can see photos you post. Avoid posting holiday plans as criminals have been known to track your movements She said; Checking your security and privacy settings – make sure your social network privacy settings are secured so only your friends can see your personal information and use your privacy settings to restrict who can see your posts, videos and photos.

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

Canada lagging in global recovery, as U.S., Japan pick up speed, OECD ANADA is expected to lag several other members of the Group of Seven industrial countries in the first quarter even as the global economy begins to rebound, the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development said Thursday. The international economic think-tank estimates that the Canadian economy will show growth of just 1.1 per cent in the first three months of this year, much slower than the United States or Japan and below the G7 average. However, it is expected to pick up steam and grow by 1.9 per cent in the second quarter, slightly above the average. The G7 countries — Canada, the United States, Japan, Germany, Britain, France and Italy — are expected to post an average growth rate of 2.4 per cent in the first quarter and 1.8 per cent in the second. The OECD believes the U.S. economy advanced 3.5 per cent in the first quarter, which ends this month, but that its growth will moderate in the second quarter to 2.0 per cent. Likewise, the OECD expects Japan’s growth will be a robust 3.2 per cent in the first quarter but slow in the second to 2.2 per cent. Among the European G7 countries, Germany will be the only one growing faster than Canada — 2.3 per cent in the first quarter and accelerating to 2.6 per cent in the second. The U.K. economy is expected to have only 0.5 per cent growth in the first quarter and 1.4 per cent in the second, while France’s economy is expected to contract by 0.6 per cent in the first quarter then expand by a modest 0.5 per cent in the second. Italy’s economy is expected to shrink in both quarters, dropping 1.6 per cent in the first and 1.0 per cent in the second. In an interim assessment that focused on the G7, the OECD, said that the European Central Bank needs to do more to encourage banks to lend and economies to grow. It notes that countries that use the euro are making progress in reducing their debts, but that some should be allowed to meet their targets more slowly to temper the impact on their economies.

The G7 countries — Canada, the United States, Japan, Germany, Britain, France and Italy — are expected to post an average growth rate of 2.4 per cent in the first quarter and 1.8 per cent in the second. The OECD believes the U.S. economy advanced 3.5 per cent in the first quarter, which ends this month, but that its growth will moderate in the second quarter to 2.0 per cent.

BUSINESS

Worldwide value of mergers and acquisitions down by 10.3 per cent in first quarter HE value of merger and acquisition deals worldwide fell by 10.3 per cent in the first T three months of the year to $405.9 billion (£268.5 billion), despite a series of megadeals including the $27.4bn takeover of Heinz. The total for the first quarter of 2013 compares with $452.3 billion in the same period in 2012, according to a survey by Mergermarket. It was, however, the fourth consecutive quarter to record an average deal size of more than $300m. Mergermarket said much of the decline was accounted for by the multi-billion dollar merger between the commodities trader Glencore and

the mining group Xstrata, which boosted first quarter figures in 2012. The largest deal was the acquisition of Heinz by Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway and the investment firm 3G Capital. Big UK names were in the frame too, with Liberty Global’s $21.9bn takeover of Virgin Media accounting for nearly a fifth of all merger and acquisition activity in Europe since the start of the year. The survey includes formal offers as well as completed deals, which means it takes in the attempted $21.8 billion buyout of Dell by the computer

maker’s founder, Michael Dell, and the private equity company Silver Lake Partners. As shown by the Heinz and Dell deals, private equity is making a sustained comeback in the US. Private equity buyouts in the first quarter of 2013 reached $84.8bn, their highest level since the fourth quarter of 2010. European buyout firms underperformed their US peers, with merger and acquisition activity falling by more than a third to $17bn. In contrast, the US saw its buyout value rise by 114 per cent on the same quarter last year.

Obama touts plan to fix U.S. infrastructure N a speech in Miami yesterday, United States of Bank capitalized with $10 billion that will issue Iadministration’s America’s President, Barack Obama promoted his loans or loan guarantees to projects of at least latest plan to upgrade America’s $100 million in size that have a clear public benaging bridges, roads, ports, railways and electricity grid. Dubbed the Partnership to Rebuild America, the $21 billion program has been crafted to encourage private capital to help build the nation’s infrastructure. Under the plan, the administration is asking Congress to approve a new National Infrastructure

efit nationally or regionally, Obama said. The administration also wants to create a new bond program that will fund infrastructure development, as well as introduce tax incentives to encourage foreign investors to get involved in US building projects. In addition, the plan would provide $4 billion

more for programs that provide states and localities with grants and loans for transportation projects. Speaking at the site of a tunnel project that will connect Port Miami to the interstate highway system, Obama said, “You ask any CEO where they’d rather locate their business and hire new workers. Are you going to set up shop in a country that’s got raggedy roads, runways that are potholed and backed-up supply chains?”

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

Appointments Institute pledges to bridge gap in social work From Emeka Anuforo, Abuja HE Institute of Social T Work of Nigeria (ISOW) has unfolded plans to provide a veritable platform to address social work issues across the country. According to the Institute, social workers are concerned with the interaction between people and their social environment and institutions, adding that “social workers are concerned with societal conditions in their efforts to improve the quality of life.” Executive Director (Professional Development) of the Institute of Social Work of Nigeria (ISOW), John Imaimo, explained in an interview with The Guardian that “a generalist social worker is one who uses basic knowledge, skills, values, and ethics to assist people in becoming self-actualised and to assist the environment to function to its potential for the benefit of people. “This is the difference between registered social workers and free will workers (by employment and various certificates) and of course the need to become a professional worker is inevitable.” According to the Institute, the difference between the advance world and the developing countries seems to lie holistically on the level of practice of social work as pointed out in the first paragraph above. “The constitutional rights of citizens can neither be guaranteed nor exercised, talk less of being maintained without ethical and professional social work practice, hence the incessant complains of citizens in developing countries of absence of a sense of feelings of government on their own part.” He explained that maintaining a stable polity and get-

ting citizens to willingly pay their tax can only be achieved through effective social work system, “this however call for an urgent need to charter the only existing professional social work body in Nigeria known as the Institute of Social Work of Nigeria registered under guarantee with due and necessary approval by the Federal Ministry of Education and Office of Attorney General of the Federation in 2010”. He said the institute has explored the situations, concepts and mode of practice the world over by communicating and making representations to various world social work bodies and institutions such as the Federation International of Social Work, Social Work Action Network, UK, departments of social work in Liverpool John Moore University and Liverpool Hope University and British Council for Social Work Education to explore, understudy, partner and chart reliable part to create an enabling law for the profession of social work in Nigeria. Besides, he explained that the Institute has accelerated the organisation of capacity development and a yearly mandatory continuous development programmes for professional practicing and registered social workers in Nigeria as well as convene yearly international conferences that assist to spur practitioners to report, deliberate and chart the course ahead on a yearly basis. “Practical social work cases are undertaken by the institute by visiting chosen social work institutions nationwide, examining some institutions where basic social work courses are taught and offer free professional advice, guidance and materials for improved service

Representative of Secretary of Health and Human Services Secretariat in the Federal Capital Territory, Niyi Oduneye (right); Representative of Minister of State for FCT, Uchenna Nwafor; Director of Biomedical Training & Technical Services, Medshare, Eben Armstrong, and Special Assistant (Legal) to the Minister of State for FCT, Richmond Akpalanta, during the training of biomedical technicians and engineers in Abuja. delivery as many of these institutions are not manned by professionally trained and registered social workers based on absence of enabling law”. He added: “A social worker should be interested in the larger picture, cares about the state of the nation and of the world, sees each human problem in its relationship to the whole community, and works for better housing, better health services, better schools, and better wages. Social work is a combination of career competency and a sense of moral and social responsibility; this cannot be left in the hands of common sense,

individual ability and personal direction. “This informed the reason why the institute commissioned a team of attorney, locally and internationally based Nigerian professional social workers to articulate a draft bill that is now interacting within the National Assembly for a path to a charter status for the institute to secure an enabling law to regulate and standardise practice of social work in Nigeria and in Diaspora so that Nigerians can actually reap the benefits of democracy and mostly, of being citizens of great Nigeria.

Delta alleges irregularities in council pensions disbursement From Hendrix Oliomogbe, Asaba LL may not be well with A the contributory welfare scheme in Delta State if recent allegation by the state Bureau of Local Government Pensions (BLGP), which accused some Pension Fund Administrators (PFA) of fraud, is anything to go by. Chairman of BLGP, Patience Ikomi, who spoke recently in Asaba during the presentation of payment advice to some 2011 and 2012 retirees in both Local Councils and Local Government Education Authorities across the state by Oak Pensions Limited under the contributory pension scheme allegedly accused

some of the pension administrators of unduly delaying payment to retirees. Ikomi said action of the PFAs was very worrisome considering the fact that the retirees have already been, cleared by the bureau. She threatened to drag them before the National Pension Commission in order to ensure that retirees’ benefits are released without unwarranted delays, saying it was capable of engendering the required confidence in the scheme. She said the bureau has succeeded in establishing a data base of council and primary school workers in the state which facilitated the deductions at source of the

10 per cent and seven and half per cent government and employees’ contributions respectively as well as the five per cent redemption fund with effect from 1st April 2011. He said: “So far, deductions of the above stated statutory percentages have been made to date by the office of the Accountant General and some remitted to the Retirement Savings Account of respective contributors who do not have problems with their records/documents. This system is structured in such a way that the bureau and other fund managers’ access to the fund became practically impossible. The essence was to ensure safety of the

funds, transparency and accountability.” Acting Managing Director, Oak Pensions, Sam Inyang, remarked that the state is the only one that makes 10 per cent employer counterpart contribution for its employees as against 7.5 per cent minimum payment as stipulated by the Pension Reform Act 2004, among the few states that have made payments to its retirees’ under the Contributory Pension Scheme. He said since the commencement of the scheme, Delta State has been consistent with Pension Contribution remittances, particularly at the Bureau of Local Government Pensions.

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

28 APPOINTMENTS

Winners emerge for Hideyo Noguchi Africa Prize By Chinedum Uwaegbulam INDFUL that the health M challenges facing Africa are among the most serious around the globe, the government of Japan has announced winners of the Second Hideyo Noguchi African Prize. The prize, which covers two categories: medical research and medical services, recognises individuals or organisations who have contributed to combating infectious and other diseases in Africa, thereby enhancing the health and welfare of African people and

of all humankind. The Second Hideyo Noguchi Africa Prize Laureate in the Medical Research Category is Dr. Peter Piot of Belgium, selected in recognition of “his pivotal research on diseases endemic to much of the African continent, including Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Ebola, chlamydia, tuberculosis and gonorrhea”. Dr. Piot is currently Director and Professor of the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (UK). The Second Hideyo Noguchi Africa Prize Laureate in the

ICPC to train journalists on investigative reporting From Abosede Musari, Abuja HE Independent Corrupt T Practices And Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) said it would soon commence training for journalists in the country on investigative reporting. Chairman ICPC, Ekpo Nta, explained in Abuja while receiving some officials of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) that the Commission would embark on massive specialised training on investigative reporting and followup on cases for media practitioners in the country. A statement from Head of Media, Folu Olamiti, explained that Nta assured the NUJ leadership that the commission would continue to partner with the media in the war against corruption in the country.

“Let me assure you that we will continue with the spirit of collaboration by providing specialised training for investigation and follow up for journalists in the country”, he said. He said journalists should not just cover the arraignment of suspects alone but must “follow-up on cases to the end. This is to alert the anti-graft agencies not to sell the case. The follow-up will also put the judiciary on notice and put others in the society who may want to commit infraction in the future that they might receive similar treatment in the media”. Nta explained that the commission would soon embark on massive publicity to show vivid examples of what corruption is doing to denigrate our people and also to celebrate the youths who are doing well right from the primary school.

medical services category is Dr. Alex Godwin Coutinho of Uganda, who is being recognised for “his pioneering efforts to expand access to lifesparing medicine for people infected with HIV”. Dr. Coutinho is currently Executive Director of the Infectious Disease Institute, Makerere University (Uganda). These prizes will be presented by Japanese Prime Minister Abe on June 1, 2013, on the first day of the 5th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD V). The prize laureate in each category will receive a cita-

tion, a medal and an honorarium of 100 million yen. On June 4, at the United Nations University in Tokyo, the Second Hideyo Noguchi Africa Prize Laureates will deliver commemorative addresses at an event organised by the Cabinet Office of Japan and the United Nations University. The time of this event, and the titles of the Prize Laureates’ lectures. The Hideyo Noguchi Africa Prize was established by the government of Japan to commemorate the work of Japanese microbiologist, Dr. Hideyo Noguchi (1876–1928), who conducted research in

Africa and around the world on yellow fever, leptospirosis, trachoma and other infectious diseases, and who in 1911 discovered the infectious agent of syphilis. In a statement, chairperson of the Hideyo Noguchi Africa Prize Committee, Dr. Kiyoshi Kurokawa, believes that by providing grants to those outstanding individuals in the medical and humanitarian fields, sustainable development for Africa and humanity can really be pioneered and achieved. “Here, the Hideyo Noguchi Africa Prize stands to complement Japan’s endeavours for Africa from the pure-

ly humanitarian perspective, whilst applying Japan’s desire to provide aid that is both effective and sustainable.” This prize is awarded every five years to coincide with TICAD. The recipients of the inaugural Hideyo Noguchi Africa Prize, awarded on May 28, 2008 on the occasion of TICAD IV, were Prof. Sir Brian Greenwood, Manson Professor of Clinical Tropical Medicine, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (medical research category), and Prof. Miriam K. Were, Chairperson of Kenya’s National AIDS Control Council (medical services category).

The Project Manager, Legal Blitz, Feyikemi Kusoro; Chief Executive Officer, Mr Lere Fashola; and Chief Operating Officer, Mrs Abimbola Onarinde during a press conference on the ESQ Energy Oil and Gas Summit 2013 in Lagos. PHOTO; SUNDAY AKINLOLU

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

APPOINTMENTS 29

Court to hear disengaged Sterling Bank workers’ suit June 4 By Joseph Onyekwere USTICE Agbadu Fisher of the National Industrial Court, J(NIC) Lagos has adjourned the suit filed by 9 disengaged staff of Sterling Bank over the nonpayment of their severance package to June 4 for adoption of motion for amendment of applications.

The embattled workers were inherited by Sterling bank during the bank consolidation exercise from Indo Nigerian Bank limited. Five banks – Nal Bank Plc, Magnum Bank, NBM Bank, Trust Bank of Africa and Indo merged to form Sterling Bank at that time. The workers are Adedeji Wale, jephter Amadi, Saka Kilani,

Idigbe gets International Insolvency Institute membership By Bertram Nwannekanma AGOS Lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Chief Anthony Idigbe SAN has been admitted as a member of the highly respected International Insolvency Institute (III). His nomination and admission was based on his prominence in the insolvency area, his reputation, and experience in Cross-Border Insolvency issues. Idigbe’s admission to the institute was communicated to him through a letter signed by one of the directors Bruce Leonard on behalf of the institute’s Board of Directors In the letter, the institute expressed pleasure with Idigbe’s admission, which it said was based on nomination by two members, Steven Kargman and Jose Garrido and enthusiastically supported by all the Directors. Chief Idigbe’s nomination and subsequent admission to the institute, which has few membership, because of the exceptional

quality of its membership was based on his prominence in the insolvency area. Idigbe is the current President of Business Recovery and Insolvency Practitioners Association of Nigeria (BRIPAN), and a member of INSOL International (International Association of Restructuring, Insolvency & Bankruptcy Professionals). But his membership of the 350- member body is expected to enlarge the scope of insolvency practice in Nigeria. The International Insolvency Institute is a nonprofit limited membership invitational organization in the international insolvency area which is making a significant contribution to improvements in the international system for crossborder and multinational reorganisations and restructurings and to the development of fair and effective insolvency and secured transactions legislation around the world.

Oderinde Usoro, Leonard Paul and Stephen Adegboye. Others are Mrs Eunice Popoola who is suing on behalf of herself and the estate of her late husband, Mr Abiodun Popoola, Dominic Isunuoya and Godwin Nwaokoro. According to their statement of facts, the claimants stated that they had understanding with Indo Bank before the consolidation that 18 months of service be assured the staff moving to the new mega bank, otherwise, upon the termination of appointment, redundancy benefits should be paid. They also said that Indo assured them that no staff would be laid off and that everyone will be carried along to the defendant bank without fear of losing jobs. The claimants said that based on the agreement that they would be guaranteed a minimum of 18 months period of service with the defendant Bank or alternatively, upon termination of appointment, their redundancy benefits and salary in lieu of notice, they transfer their services to Sterling Bank on January 1,

2006. They further stated that the defendants Bank’s Redundancy Policy is consistent with the Nigerian Labour Law as well as the central Bank of Nigeria’s Guidelines and incentives on consolidation in the Nigerian Banking industry which states that “to ameliorate the effect of possible job losses or redundancies, any staff exiting as a result of the consolidation, should be compensated by the consolidated entity in line with industry standards, but not below the terms of their sustaining employment”. The claimants averred: “the claimants were surprised and shocked when by letters dated 29th September, 2006, they were intimated that their services with the defendant bank were no longer required just barely 9 months after transferring their services to the defendant bank. The claimants state that the defendant bank has reused and or neglected to pay their redundancy benefits despite several demands made to that effect.”

Peacock College counsels professionals, job seekers on skill acquisition HE principal of United T Kingdom-based Peacock College, Zenon Adamek, has advised professional and job seekers to give priority to gaining new knowledge and skills. According to him, gaining new knowledge and skill is crucial in the current professional climate. Adamek, who gave the advice in a statement, said, “Jobs are hard to come by, businesses are struggling and we find ourselves to be more adaptable, and we require more and more skills and education.” He made this known shortly after his college received accreditation from ISA Education to deliver professional academic programmes at Level 4-7. Explaining further, he said: “ISA Education is a qualification provider and awarding body and a quasiautonomous sister organisation to the International Student Association, a nonprofit organisation that provides guidance and support for international students studying in the United Kingdom.

“ISA qualifications are accepted by the UK universities and give a pathway to progressions to Master degree programs at UK’s leading universities, which include The Anglia Ruskin University, University of Gloucestershire and The University of Chester. All qualifications are in accordance with a rule of UKBA Tier 4 Sponsor Guidance as par paragraph 227 (version 06/11) and paragraph 212 (version 10/10).” He said the college was accredited based on its diverse fields of delivery, which include, among others, Business Management, Health and Social Care, Hospitality, Travel and Tours and Information Technology. According to the statement, the programme is designed to help professionals add value to their jobs by demonstrating efficiency and effectiveness in their duties, be it at the operational or managerial levels. On those who cannot travel to the UK for the programme, Adamek says plans are being made to have centres opened in Nigeria and to start online delivery.

OAU urges striking institute workers to resume to work From Kehinde Olatunji, Ibadan HE management of the T Institute of Agricultural Research and Training (IAR&T) of the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) has appealed to the striking workers of the institute to sheathe their sword and resume duties in the interest of peace. Deputy Registrar and

Secretary of the institute, Mr. Deboye Popoola who made the plea while addressing reporters on the over nine months face-off between the management and it’s industrial unions cleared the air over the corruption allegation leveled against the Director, Prof Benjamin Popoola and assured the workers that their outstanding salaries would be paid

within one week of resumption. While the Non Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) has been on strike since June last year, three other unions, Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Senior Staff Association of Universities Teaching Hospitals, Research Institutes and Allied Institutions

(SSAUTHRAI) and National Association of Academic Technology (NAAT) joined the strike in January this year. The aggrieved workers accused the institute’s Director of corruption and misappropriation of about N177m allegedly meant for hazard allowance and called for his prosecution by the nation’s anti graft agencies.

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

30 APPOINTMENTS

Euro global foods and distilleries wins Elumelu Foundation’s award By Babatunde Oso URO Global Foods and E Distilleries Limited has been recognised as the number one ranked company on Nigeria’s 50 fastest growing companies at the Nigeria 50 Awards organised by the All World Network and the Elumelu Foundation. The award, which is the first of its kind in Africa, is aimed at beaming spotlight on extraordinary Nigerian businesses led by Nigerian entrepreneurs and business leaders. With a record growth rate of 2,781 per cent between 2009 and 2011 and revenue range of $1.5 million, Euro Global emerged tops out of the 50 companies that were shortlisted for the inaugural awards by the organisers and their partner audit firm, Ernst & Young. Speaking on the award, its Managing Director,

Dhamaranjan Eshwaran, said: “We are quite thrilled at being recognised by such institutions as the Elumelu Foundation and the All World Network for our contribution to the growth of the economy. This award will spur us to greater heights. At Euro Global, we work to make quality products available for consumers at affordable prices. We continually roll out products that give consumers value.” The awards also saw Euro Global sister companies, Food Agro and Allied Industries limited and Shongai Packaging Industry Limited emerging the ninth and 39th positions respectively on the list. Food Agro had a growth rate of 655 per cent while Shongai Packaging had a 52 per cent growth rate between 2009 and 2011. The Tony Elumelu

Foundation, which is the Nigerian partner for the All World Network, is an African funded philanthropic organisation focused on promoting entrepreneurship in Africa by enhancing the competitiveness of the private sector. The Foundation creates impact through business leadership and entrepreneurship development programmes, impacts investment and policy advocacy while the All World Network systematically identifies private growth companies and ranks the fastest growing for the Arabia 500, Africa 500, Asia 500, Eurasia 500, and Latin America 500. Being on an All World ranking puts companies on the world map, drawing the market to them, attracting new investors, customers, joint venture partners and talent so they continue to grow and get to scale.

AIAE rebrands, expands scope of operations O cater for its expansion scope of the institute to go environment survey in T needs, the African Institute beyond applied economics Nigeria christened Business for Applied Economics (AIAE) and accommodate politics, Environment and has commenced plans to rebrand and review its operations as it changes its name to African Heritage Institution and will go by the acronym, AfriHeritage. According to the institute, the name change commenced on April 1, 2013, while the rebranding process is expected to take about 12 months. In a statement made available to The Guardian, the institute noted that the change from AIAE to AfriHeritage was in line with expansion of the

good governance, foreign relations and other sectors to promote rapid and broadbased socio-political and economic development in Nigeria and particularly with focus on Africa. AIAE is an independent international research institute devoted to promoting evidence-based decisionmaking through research, sound economic analysis, policy dialogue and private sector development activities. The institute spearheads the only indigenous business

Competitiveness Across Nigerian States (BECANS), which is its flagship. With an expanded structure, the new AfriHeritage will champion renascent Africa that is democratic, prosperous and a major player in the global economy. The institution with the aim of becoming unarguably a leading pan African think tank is to provide intellectual leadership in helping Nigeria and African countries through the emerging economic renaissance.

Berger Paints confirms Nygard as CEO ERGER Paints Nigeria Plc B has confirmed the appointment of Tor Nygard as the Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the company with effect from January 2013. Prior to his confirmation, Nygard according to a press statement had been the acting MD of the company since July 2012. He was appointed executive director of the company on December 14, 2010. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering and MBA from University of South Dakota, USA. He has more than 30 years work experience in the manufacturing and oil and gas sectors, with considerable international exposure in United States, Europe and Africa.

Nygard In a bid to reposition the company for sustainable growth and profitability, Berger Paints has also put in place a new management team as well as strengthened its board with two new nonexecutive directors in the persons of Dr. Alo Olademiji Israel, a management expert and Nelson Chidozie Nweke, a seasoned financial guru.

Udobia becomes IIPELP business development manager Institute IandNTERNATIONAL for Petroleum, Energy Law Policy (IIPELP) has appointed Edima Udobia, Business Development Manager The energy lawyer also has a Masters Degree in Energy Law and Policy from the Center for Energy, Petroleum and Mineral Law and Policy (CEPMLP), University of Dundee, Scotland. She obtained an LLB from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana, a degree in Strategic Management from the I n s t i t u t e of Commercial Managemen t, Bournemouth, England and also a certificate for pro-

ficiency in Alternative Dispute Resolution. The energy lawyer also has a Masters Degree in Energy Law and Policy from the Center for Energy, Petroleum and Mineral Law and Policy (CEPMLP), University of Dundee, Scotland.

Udobia

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

ScienceGuardian New vaccine-design approach targets HIV, other fast-mutating viruses TEAM led by scientists A from The Scripps Research Institute (TSRI) and the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI) has unveiled a new technique for vaccine design that could be particularly useful against HIV and other fastchanging viruses. The report, which appears March 28, 2013, in Science Express, the early online edition of the journal Science, offers a step toward solving what has been one of the central problems of modern vaccine design: how to stimulate the immune system to produce the right kind of antibody response to protect against a wide range of viral strains. The researchers demonstrated their new technique by engineering an immunogen (substance that induces immunity) that has promise to reliably initiate an otherwise rare response effective against many types of Human Immuno-deficiency Virus (HIV)/Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). “We’re hoping to test this immunogen soon in mice engineered to produce human antibodies, and eventually in humans,” said team leader William R. Schief, who is an associate professor of immunology and member of the IAVI Neutralising Antibody Center at TSRI. For highly variable viruses such as HIV and influenza, vaccine researchers want to elicit antibodies that protect against most or all viral strains - not just a few strains, as seasonal flu vaccines currently on the market. Vaccine researchers have identified several of these broadly neutralizing antibodies from long-term HIV-positive survivors, harvesting antibody-producing B cells from blood samples and then sifting through them to identify those that produce antibodies capable of neutralizing multiple strains of HIV. Such broadly neutralizing antibodies typically work by blocking crucial functional sites on a virus that are conserved among different strains despite high mutation elsewhere. However, even with these powerful broadly neutralising antibodies in hand, scientists need to find a way to elicit their production in the body through a vaccine. CONTINUED ON PAGE 38

Tackling natural disasters, insecurity with space technology With the aid of the NigeriaSat-2 imageries, and other technologies involving live camera monitoring devices such as closed-circuit television (CCTV), Global Positioning System (GPS) tracking systems and innovative software solutions, real time monitoring of crimes such as terrorism, vandalism and bank robbery can be achieved by the Nigeria Police Force (NPF). By Chukwuma Muanya, Emeka Anuforo and Itunu Ajayi PACE technology experts Stions in Nigeria say the innovacan play important roles in the reduction of natural disasters such as flooding and desertification; and the rising insecurity to lives and properties caused by insurgents. They say the use of such technologies can be particularly useful in the risk assessment, mitigation and preparedness phases of disaster management and locating the hide out of criminals and insurgents. The stakeholders, last week, at the National Space Dialogue/Media Conference on space science and technology in Abuja with the theme “Space Technology and Disaster Management: Setting an Agenda on Partnership for National Development” said with the aid of the NigeriaSat-2 imageries, and other technologies involving live camera monitoring devices such as closed-circuit television (CCTV), Global Positioning System (GPS) tracking systems and innovative software solutions, real time monitoring of crimes such as terrorism, vandalism and bank robbery can be achieved by the Nigeria Police Force (NPF). NigeriaSat-2, launched into orbit in August 2011 by the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), is one of the most advanced Earth observation small satellites that provide high-resolution (2.5-metres) images. However, the experts at the conference organised by NASRDA said in order for the developing countries to be able to incorporate the routine use of space technology-based solutions there is a need to increase awareness, build national capacity and also develop solutions that are customised and appropriate to the needs of the developing world. Meanwhile, to enable NAS-

RDA perform its mandate optimally, the Senate and the House of Assembly Committees on Science and Technology have reiterated their support for the use of space technology to tackle the countries problems even as they kicked against the Bill before the Senate seeking the establishment of a parallel agency. Also, NASRDA in collaboration with the United States National Aeronautic Space Administration (NASA) has established the National Satellite Atlas and Global Navigation Satellite System even as NASRDA decries the 0.01 per cent yearly budgetary allocation to the agency against 17.5 per cent the U.S. government gives to NASA. Director General of NASRDA, Dr. Seidu Mohammed, said the role of space technology in disaster management, particularly the response phase remains strategic. “This is true since access to disaster location is often a challenge when a disaster strikes. As a result during the 2012 flood event, NigeriaSat-2 satellite was tasked for image acquisition covering the affected states,” he said. Mohammed explained: “There is need to implement an integrated, global system, especially through international cooperation, to manage natural disaster mitigation, relief and prevention efforts, especially of an international nature, through Earth observation, communications and other space-based services, making maximum use of existing capabilities and filling gaps in worldwide satellite coverage. Mohammed in a paper is titled: “Facilitating Safety and Security in Nigeria Using Space Technology by Nigerian Satellites and Security” said real time crime centres can be inaugurated to give field officers and detectives instant and comprehensive information to help identify patterns and stop emerging crimes as

NigeriaSat-2… was successfully launched into orbit on August 17, 2011, by Nigerian Space Research Development Agency (NASRDA) onboard a Dnepr rocket from Yasny in southern Russia. The highly advanced Earth observation satellite will significantly boost African capabilities for natural resource management, as well as aid disaster relief through the Disaster Monitoring Constellation; and tackle insecurity with the Global Positioning System (GPS). Credit: Surrey Satellite Technology Limited (SSTL) observed in developed and developing countries. Mohammed said NigeriaSat-2 would provide high-resolution images, which can be used to identify crime hotspots and different geographic patterns in criminal behaviours. “It will equally help in identifying specific crimes and their locations. This in turn can help in predictive policing to avoid and mitigate against many crimes which in the long run is considered to be a much more cost effective approach to policing,” he said. The NASRDA boss said space technology could also be used in road network mapping and analysis. He explained: “Criminal escape

routes can be monitored from the road mapping and analysis derived from NigeriaSat-2 images. Proximity of locations of checkpoints on Nigerian roads can also be observed. This can also aid in locating the fastest route to a crime location or scene for rapid response operations of the NPF.” Mohammed said the location of facilities such as police stations and police posts can be identified from NigeriaSat-2 imageries. “This will aid in inventory taking and the allocation of resources for crime prevention activities for human safety and properties especially in areas observed to be lacking or

more crime prone,” he said. Mohammed said space technology could also be used for effective crime control and management through geospatial intelligence. “Geospatial Intelligence is the exploitation and analysis of imagery and geospatial information to describe, assess, and visually depict physical features and geographically referenced activities on the earth. NigeriaSat-2 comes in handy with the provisions of imageries to aid geospatial intelligence on crimes,” he said. Meanwhile, researchers from Anambra State University, Uli, in a study CONTINUED ON PAGE 38

zero, the brightness scale reverses, so that higher numbers represent progressively brighter objects. Sirius (-1.47), the full Moon (-13) and the Sun (-26) are examples. In his “Comet Hunting Blog,” Rahul Zota ranks the 42 brightest comets in

recent history. The dimmest is Finsler at magnitude 3.9, while Ikeya-Seki’s -10 makes it the most luminous. At 0.0, comet Hyakutake is duller than Ikeya-Seki and brighter than Finsler. The upshot, is that a naked eye observer with 20-20

vision normally cannot perceive objects dimmer than “5”. The International Comet Quarterly says binoculars are needed for magnitudes “5” thru “10” and a reflector telescope for anything dimmer than “11”. • To be continued.

ASTRONOMY

The visual comets of 2013 (3) By J.K. Obatala OW bright a particular H comet becomes, depends on its physical, mechanical and chemical properties: On its size and structure, the nature and amount of volatile ices and

dust it contains as well as its trajectory and proximity to the Sun. In astronomy, brightness is expressed numerically as “magnitude”. There is an inverse relationship between a body’s magnitude number and its lumi-

nosity—with Larger numbers denoting dimmer objects and smaller figures brighter ones. Some very bright bodies have magnitude numbers smaller than zero—i.e., negative numbers, with a minus () sign in front. But beyond

32 SCIENCE & HEALTH

Spit test to predict cancer risk could be available in five years SIMPLE test that predicts A the risk of developing breast or prostate cancer could soon be available at General Practitioners (GPs’) surgeries. The £5 (N1,180) test, which will use saliva or blood, would help detect people who are genetically prone the diseases. The hope is that high-risk patients could then be monitored to catch any tumours in their early stages, slashing the number of people dying from the disease. Experts have hailed the breakthrough as the ‘single biggest leap forward’ in finding the genetic causes of prostate cancer. The results have been published in 13 scientific papers in five journals, including Nature Genetics. Dr. Harpal Kumar, of Cancer Research United Kingdom (UK), said: “We can look towards an era where we can pick up the disease at its earliest stages.” Within just five years, £5 saliva tests given at GPs’ surgeries could help pinpoint women at high risk of breast cancer and detect men genetically prone to prostate tumours The results of the study could also lead to new drugs for hard-to-treat cancers and a test to determine the risk of ovarian cancer. The same technique could be used to assess the risk of bowel and lung cancers. The first women could be screened using the test 18 months from now, but it is likely to be three to four years before the test is in widespread use. The exciting possibility of genetic testing has come about after four years of genetic analysis by more than 1,000 scientists. By comparing the DNA of cancer patients and healthy men and women, they more than doubled the number of genes linked to breast, ovarian and prostate cancers. With around 150 breast and prostate cancer genes now identified, scientists believe they can create simple blood or saliva tests that reliably predict the odds of breast and prostate cancers. At first, the samples would have to be sent off to a laboratory for analysis. However, it might one day be possible to get instant test results at your GP’s surgery. Dr. Harpal Kumar, of Cancer Research UK, which partfunded the DNA analysis of more than 200,000 people, said: “By understanding why some people seem to be at greater risk of developing cancer we can look towards an era where we can take steps to reduce their chances of getting cancer or pick up the disease at its earliest stages. The principle is broad and the potential gains are huge.” Almost 100,000 cases of breast, prostate and ovarian cancer are diagnosed each year and, together, the three diseases claim more than 25,000 lives yearly. Almost 100,000 cases of breast, prostate and ovarian cancer are diagnosed each year. At the moment, mammograms are unable to distinguish between women with a potentially fatal form of breast cancer and those who have the disease but are unlikely ever to experience symptoms.

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

30 per cent of Nigerians have sensitive teeth, say experts

Contraceptive pill kills 20 women yearly through blood clots, says French health watchdog HE use of contraceptive T pills causes around 2,500 blood clots and 20 deaths

Medical Director, Oral Health Scientific Excellence, Sensitivity and Acid Erosion, GSK, UK, Dr. Steven Mason (left); Managing Director, GSK Consumer Healthcare Nigeria, Mr. Chidi Okoro and Sales Director, GSK, Vaibhav Bhanchawat, at the unveiling of Sensodyne Rapid Action in Lagos...recently. By Joseph Okoghenun XPERTS from the Nigerian Dental Association (NDA) and GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) have said that upward of about 30 per cent adult Nigerian population has poor oral health condition called dentine hypersensitivity (sensitive teeth). The experts, who made the revelation in Lagos recently during the launch of Sensodyne Rapid Action by GSK, however, said that all hope was not lost as the condition was wholly treatable. Dentine hypersensitivity is defined as a short, sharp pain sufferers experience when they take cold or hot food (stimuli) as a result of exposed dentine, which cannot be ascribed to any other form of dental defect or pathology. According to researcher, one in three persons suffer from dentine hypersensitivity globally, oftentimes without adequate treatment either because the patient do not realise what he/she is suffering from or do not know what treatment option is available. GSK Director of Medical, Oral Health Scientific Excellence, Sensitivity and Acid Erosion Strategy, Dr. Steven Mason, a Ph.D. holder in Chemistry with over 30 years in oral health research, said though researches on dentine hypersensitivity was few in Nigeria, the available data in the country was not different from what obtains globally where about 30 to 40 per cent of the adult population is said to suffer from dentine hypersensitivity. Mason said Sensodyne Rapid Action has come to give additional relief mechanism on the stable of GSK to dentine hypersensitivity patients so as to give them wider choice to choose from when in need of treatment for the condition. GSK had earlier launch two variants of Sensodyne brand. GSK Managing Director, Chidi Okoro, said Sensodyne Rapid Action was in the market because GSK want to improve

quality of human life through science. Okoro added that GSK, aside pioneering quality oral healthcare in Nigeria, was “moving into dental therapeutical space with the aid of Sensodyne”. The GSK boss added that consumer wellbeing and comfort was uppermost in the heart of GSK, adding that the importance of Sensodyne Rapid Action could be overemphasized as 30 per cent of Nigerians are said to be suffering from dentine hypersensitivity in the midst of just 2,000 registered dentists, who are expected to carter for the oral health of over 170 million Nigerians. President, Nigerian Dental Association (NDA), Dr. Olurotimi Olojede, said many patients with minor dentine hypersensitivity do not always seek medical help, a situation, which he said, makes it difficult to have accurate data of number of sufferers in the country. Immediate past Dean of Faculty of Dental Sciences, Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Prof. Kofo Savage, said the discomfort that arises from dentine hypersensitivity could not be quantified. The dental researcher said patients with dentine hypersensitivity often eat food irregularly, avoid brushing sensitivite area of the teeth and oftentimes brush with warm water. Considering the seriousness of the condition to

patients’ wellbeing, Savage called on NDA to incorporate dentine hypersensitivity into national health policy. The dentist recommended appropriate nutrition meals to avoid tooth loss, proper teeth brushing, as against aggressive brushing, and use of Sensodyne toothpaste to avoid and treat dentine hypersensitivity. One of the causes of dentine sensitivity includes very aggressive brushing of teeth, especially in people who have slightly crowded teeth, or even a lack of brushing that results in lots of plaque developing, which cause gums to shrink around the tooth only to expose root dentine with sensitivity as end result. Sensodyne Rapid Action, GSK said, provides a physical seal against sensitivity triggers, and when used twice daily, provides long-lasting protection against dentine hypersensitivity. Mason said: “Sensodyne Rapid Action has a different mode action to help treat dentine hypersensitivity from the current Sensodyne we have in the market. Furthermore, it offers consumers more choice. It relieves the pain that accompany dentine hypersensitivity- a short sharp pain in teeth when one drinks either something cold or hot, sometimes due to sweetness or sour taste or otherwise. “Dentine is often exposed in the oral environment by

Visit dentist regularly at six months. They could then examine and provide guidance. Engage in good sensible habitual eating. Avoid sugary snacks in hourly intervals during the day. Eat your meals in a more consolidated package of breakfast, lunch and dinner. Furthermore, avoid sugary snacks and foods that get embedded in the teeth after mealtime. Brushing one’s teeth twice a day is a really powerful way to maintain oral health. Therefore, brush your teeth twice a day - morning and night - with quality toothpaste. If you have a special condition, use special toothpaste.

small amount of gum tissue receding from the hard white crown. It is a natural process that occurs when people clean their mouth and expose small amount of dentine, which allows transmission of stimuli, such as cold drink, through the nerves inside the tooth. Dentine needs to be protected and care for in a special way to prevent stimuli reaching the nerve to cause pain. “Major cause of dentine hypersensitivity is that dentine is exposed. Dentine has small channel called dentine tubules, which goes from the surface of the dentine to the nerve of inside of the tooth. The stimuli can be transmitted through various channels- cold, hot, sweet and sour-taste. It occurs when one does something to the nerve of the tooth. So, we use potassium based-toothpaste to block the opening of the channel at the surface where they meet the saliva so that the stimuli can’t progress. We use occluding toothpaste –Sensodyne Rapid Action- to do that so that the patient would have choice for treatment. On the different between Sensodyne Rapid Action and other variants of Sensodyne, Mason said: “The current variant we have contains ingredient called potassium, which is the active ingredient and potassium nitrate is the agent that delivers the potassium. The potassium flows through the tubules in a very small concentration ingredient to reach the nerves at the base of the tubule. And overtime, with regular twice daily brushing of teeth, the concentration reaches threshold potential. ‘When it reaches that threshold potential, it helps to prevent the nerves from firing in response to stimulus. It is well a known mechanism to control nerve action. The nitrate, in Sensodyne Extra Fresh provides potassium to do that so after about two weeks of use, Continued on Page 39

every year in France, according to the country’s health watchdog. The National Agency for the Safety of Drugs and Health Products (ANSM) undertook a study that found the pill was linked to thrombosis, or blood clots. Blood clots can be deadly, causing strokes or heart attacks if they get lodged in the brain or the heart. A total of 14 of 20 deaths were caused by third and fourth generation pills - launched in the last 20 years - while the remaining six were blamed on first and second generation pills, reports the Daily Telegraph. The third generation pill was introduced in the 1990s and the fourth generation pill was approved within the last 10 years. The third and fourth generation pills are currently under scrutiny because of the case of 25-year-old Marion Larat, who has filed a lawsuit claiming that a later generation pill left her seriously handicapped following a stroke. “The risk of venous thromboembolism applies to the population as a whole, but the risk is low,” ANSM said. “It increases with age for all women, regardless of whether they use oral contraceptives or not. “It is higher for users of third and fourth generation contraceptives than for users of first and second generation contraceptives.” The ANSM study was based on a statistical model. In France, the use of contraceptive pills is among the highest in the world. In 2011, nearly 4.27 million women were on the pill. However, after the health ministry decided to more strictly regulate the prescriptions of these pills, the sales of the third and fourth generation of pills fell sharply. After it was recently linked to four deaths, regulators in France suspended sales of the hormone treatment Dianette, which is also used as an oral contraceptive and is known to increase the risk of blood clots. In Canada, 11 deaths have been linked to the drug. The European Medicines Agency, which regulates medicines across Europe, announced last week it will now carry out a review into its safety. In the United Kingdom, concerns about the drug were raised following the recent deaths of several young women, among them Shannon Deakin in 2011. The 16-year-old from Hoyland, South Yorkshire, had been prescribed Dianette by her GP for acne and had been taking it for around four weeks before she died from an undiagnosed deep vein thrombosis, when a blood clot from her leg travelled to her lungs. Dianette - or Diane-35 as it’s known in France - is prescribed to more than 62,000 British women a year, usually for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal problem affecting young women which leads to multiple small ovarian cysts, irregular periods, acne and excess facial hair.

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2012

NaturalHealth Researchers identify natural ‘cures’ for hypertension

Garlic

Carrots

Hypertension and its complications such as strokes, heart attack and kidney failure are on the prowl! They have no conventional cures but are usually managed with a combination of lifestyle changes and orthodox drugs. However, Nigerian researchers have identified local herbs and spices that have been successfully used to treat hypertension without the side effects associated with conventional drugs. CHUKWUMA MUANYA writes.

in Bambara) are used to prepare soup which is eaten; leaves of Talinum triangulare (water leaf) or Basella alba (Indian spinach in English, Amunututu in Yoruba) may also be used; and kola nut’s mistletoe mixed with honey is also effective. Another study titled “Phytochemical Analysis of Medicinal Plants Used for the Management of Hypertension by Esan people of Edo State, Nigeria” and published in Ethnobotanical Leaflets by researchers from Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo State, identified 14 endemic plant species distributed in 12 taxonomic families commonly used to manage hypertension. They include: guava (Psidium guajava), West African black pepper/Ashanti pepper (Piper guineense, Uziza in Igbo and Ata iyere in Yoruba), mistletoe (Loranthus spectobulus), water leaf (Talinum triangulare),

T is blamed for the rising Iattacks, cases of strokes, heart heart failure, athero-

sclerosis (hardening of arteries), blindness, arterial aneurysm, and chronic kidney failure in the country. Several studies have shown that moderate elevation of arterial Blood Pressure (BP) or rather hypertension leads to shortened life expectancy. However, a recent review of natural herbs used in the treatment of hypertension has provided an introduction of the naturally occurring medicinal plants that have so far been scientifically studied and reported to have hypotensive or antihypertensive effects. The study published in Pharmacognosy Review is titled “Role of natural herbs in the treatment of hypertension.” According to the study, naturally occurring medicinal plants, herbs having hypotensive/antihypertensive potential include among others: garlic (Allium sativum), buchu (Agathosma betulina), soursop/graviola (Annona muricata), celery (Apium graveolens), breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis), green oat (Avena sativa), tea (Camellia sinensis), stinging weed/coffee weed (Cassia occidentalis), carrot (Daucus carota). Other herbs for treating hypertension according to the Pharmacognosy Review study are: soybean (Glycine max), zobo/roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa), stonebreaker (Lepidium latifolium), tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum), Moringa oleiferia, scent

leaf/basil (Ocimum basilicum), Phyllanthus amarus (ngwu in Ibo), ginger (Zingiber officinale), sesame (Sesamum indicum). Phyllanthus amarus belongs to the plant family Euphorbiaceae. To the Efik it is called oyomokeso amanke edem; geeron-tsuntsaayee (birds millet) in Hausa; Ibo (Asaba) buchi oro, Ibo (Umuahia) ngwu; iyeke in Urhobo; and ehin olobe or eyin olobe in Yoruba. In another published study featured in the Journal of Medicine, it was revealed that common spices can protect from heart disease and the deterioration brought about by aging. In the said study, researchers discovered a connection between the phenol content of certain herbs and spices and their capacity to prevent glycation and formation of AGE compounds that are responsible for premature aging and heart disease. Also, according to the study, “An Ethnobotanical Survey of Herbal Markets and Medicinal Plants in Lagos State of Nigeria” published in Ethnobotanical Leaflets by researchers from the Department of Botany and Microbiology, University of Lagos, herbal cures for hypertension include: leaves of Persea Americana (avocado) are made into shreds, dried and taken as infusion; leaves of Senecio biafrae (worowo in Yoruba or Sierra Leone bologna) added to fermented seeds of Parkia biglobosa (dawadawa in Hausa, African locust beans in English, Igba/Iyere in Yoruba, and Nere

Hibiscus sabdariffa Nigerian senna/negro coffee (Senna occidentalis), serpent wood or swizzler stick (Rauwolfia vomitoria), garlic (Allium sativum), onions (Allium cepa), pawpaw (Carica papaya), asthma herb (Euphorbia hirta), scent leaf/basil (Ocimum gratissimum), avocado (Persea americana), cow-foot (Peperomia pellucida), and bitter leaf (Vernonia amygdalina). Method of preparation The bulbs of garlic are blended with honey for the purpose of hypertension. The unripe rind of pawpaw is peeled and soaked in water and after three days, a cup is taken daily. The leaves are also used for treating hypertension. Leaves of avocado pear are cut into pieces, dried and made into tea, for the management of hypertension. The cotyledons of avocado pear seed are cut into pieces, dried and grinded into powder. A dessert spoonful in 200ml

hot water taken after meals gives relieve for the ailment. Guava leaves are soaked in salt water, washed and squeezed and product made up with fresh water to give a greenish liquid that is taken, one glass two times daily for one week to increase blood level and offer protection against heart attack. Also, the fresh leaves of bitter are chewed and swallowed or ground, or stirred in water, and the liquid taken, to manage hypertension. Garlic Garlic has long been used for a variety of cardiovascular conditions, especially hyperlipidemia. It has also been reported to have hypotensive action. It is thought to increase nitric oxide production, resulting in smooth muscle relaxation and vasodilatation. One of the primary active compounds that gives garlic its characteristic odor and many of its healing benefits is called allicin.

Meta-analysis of randomly chosen literary data has demonstrated that garlic is related to decrease of BP in patients with increased systolic pressure, but not in patients without increased systolic pressure. Garlic preparations have been found to be superior to placebo in reducing BP in individuals with hypertension. The antioxidative and antihypertensive effect of garlic has been observed in 20 patients with hypertension compared to 20 patients with normal pressure, who have been receiving garlic pearls preparation for a period of two months. The results have revealed decreased BP, significant reduction of 8-hydroxy-2deoxyguanosin, level of nitric oxide, and lipid peroxidation, and an increased level of antioxidative vitamins (C and E). This study points to the

Continued on Page 34

Pregnant women who sleep on their backs at greater risk of having stillbirth REGNANT women who P sleep on their backs are at greater risk of having a stillbirth, a new study suggests. A stillborn baby is a baby born dead after 24 weeks of pregnancy. If the baby dies before 24 completed weeks, it is known as a late miscarriage. Mothers-to-be in Ghana who slept in this position were found to be five times more likely to have a baby with a low birth weight, and for some women this resulted in a stillbirth, the researchers said. The researchers also claimed that more than a quarter of cases of stillbirth might be avoided simply by ensuring that women change their sleeping position. The study was conducted in Ghana where between 20 and 50 of every 1,000 babies are stillborn, compared with just 3.5 per 1,000 in the

United Kingdom (UK). But a recent study in New Zealand suggests that supine sleep - the technical term for sleeping on your back - is linked to higher stillbirth rates in highincome countries, too. The study’s senior author, Louise O’Brien, from the University of Michigan, said: “If maternal sleep position does play a role in stillbirth, encouraging pregnant women everywhere not to sleep on their back is a simple approach that may improve pregnancy outcomes. “In Ghana, inexpensive interventions are urgently needed to improve pregnancy outcomes. “This is a behaviour that can be modified - encouraging women to avoid sleeping on their back would be a low-cost method to reduce stillbirths in Ghana and other low-income countries.

“The data in this study suggests that more than one-quarter of stillbirths might be avoided by altering maternal sleep position.” Experts suggest that pregnant women try to sleep on their side, ideally on their left side because this can improve the blood flow to the placenta. In the new study the researchers interviewed women shortly after they had given birth at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra, Ghana. Scientists found that those who had slept on their backs during pregnancy risked compression on the vein that carries deoxygenated blood from the lower part of the body to the heart. This means the heart is not pumping as blood as effectively as it should, which may lead to stillbirth.

Researchers said the study shows that giving pregnant women simple advice on how to sleep could radically reduce the number of stillbirths. This research supports a recent Australian study which suggested that pregnant women who sleep on their backs are six times more likely to have a stillborn baby. The study, known as the Sydney Stillbirth Study, looked at the pregnancies of 295 women from eight hospitals around Australia. The five-year study found that women who sleep on their backs are six times more likely to have a stillborn baby. Lead researcher Dr Adrienne Gordon, from Sydney’s Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, said previous research had suggested prolonged periods in this position restricted blood flow to the baby.

34 SCIENCE & HEALTH

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

How pasta with tomato sauce, salad cut stroke risk ATING a bowl of wholeE grain pasta with a mixed salad could cut your risk of a stroke, say researchers. They found people who regularly eat more dietary fibre were less likely to suffer a stroke, with the risk falling by about seven per cent for each high-fibre meal. Good sources of fibre include whole grains, fruit and vegetables, and nuts, which contain parts of the plant the body doesn’t absorb during digestion. Previous research suggests dietary fibre can reduce risk factors for stroke, including high blood pressure and high levels of ‘bad’ cholesterol. In the new study, researchers found that each seven gram increase in total daily fibre intake was linked to a seven per cent drop in first-time stroke risk. One serving of whole wheat pasta, plus two servings of fruits or vegetables, provides about 7 grams of fibre, said United Kingdom (UK) researchers in the American Heart Association journal Stroke. Lead author, Diane Threapleton, from the University of Leeds’ School of Food Science and Nutrition, said: ‘Greater intake of fibre-rich foods such as whole-grains, fruits, vegetables and nuts - are

important for everyone, and especially for those with stroke risk factors like being overweight, smoking and having high blood pressure. “Most people do not get the recommended level of fibre, and increasing fibre may contribute to lower risk for strokes. We must educate consumers on the continued importance of increasing fibre intake and help them learn how to increase fibre in their diet.” Researchers analysed eight studies published between 1990 and 2012. The studies reported on all types of stroke with four specifically examining the risk of ischemic stroke, the most common type which occurs when a clot blocks a blood vessel to the brain. Three assessed haemorrhagic stroke, which occurs when a blood vessel bleeds into the brain or on its surface. Other stroke risk factors like age and smoking were taken into account. The results showed total dietary fibre consumed was linked with stroke risk, with the risk falling in line with increasing amounts eaten. Researchers did not find an association with soluble fibre and stroke risk, and lacked enough data on insoluble fibre to make any conclusions about the best kind of dietary fibre.

Men who regularly use saunas have lower sperm counts EN who visit saunas M may be damaging their sperm, Italian researchers have warned. They found that healthy men who regularly used them had a lower sperm count - and the damage could last several months. In the study, Finnish men in their 30s who had normal sperm counts were monitored. They all spent 15 minutes in a sauna twice a week for three months, after which their sperm counts were tested. The researchers discovered that the men’s sperm counts were lower at the end of the study than at the beginning - and only six months later did they return to normal. Dr Andrew Kramer, a urologist at the University of Maryland Medical Centre,

United States, told the website LiveScience that heat was to blame, as it affects sperm production. The researchers found that during the sauna sessions, the temperature of the men’s scrotums increased by three degrees Celsius (5.4 F). “The testicles hang down from the body in men to cool them,’ added Dr Kramer. He added this may be why ‘men with undescended testicles can have impaired sperm product and fertility.” Men who used the saunas also had differences in their sperm’s DNA, the researchers noted. Previous research has shown that heat from laptops can damage sperm, affecting fertility as it struggles to swim to the egg.

Bleeding gums double erectile dysfunction risk in men

eN who suffer from bleedM ing gums could be more likely to suffer from erectile

dysfunction, experts are warning. A study has found that men with severe gum disease have more than double the chance of suffering from the condition. The research, published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, explained that when people suffer from gum disease, bacteria from their mouth can enter their blood. Once in the bloodstream, the bacteria can affect the blood vessels and arteries, causing them to harden and narrow - as they do with heart disease. This effect upon the blood vessels increases the risk of erectile dysfunction. Indeed, more and more research is showing that erectile dysfunction is an early warning sign of heart disease. This is because the body needs a good blood supply for an erection and the blood vessels in that region are smaller

than those, say, near the heart, so become furred up faster.’ However, the nature of the association between bacteria and heart disease is not fully understood. It has been suggested that the bacteria may trigger a harmful immune system response, causing blood vessels to become inflamed, or contribute to the fatty deposits in arteries. The researchers, from the Inonu University, Turkey, studied a group of men with erectile dysfunction and a group of men without it. They found that 53 per cent of those with erectile dysfunction had severe gum disease, while only 23 per cent of those without it had the disease. Commenting on the research, Dr Nigel Carter, chief executive of the British Dental Health Foundation, said: “The link may seem frivolous, but the research clearly points to severe gum disease as a possible cause of erectile dysfunction.

Natural ‘cures’ for hypertension

Tomatoes Continued on from 33 beneficial cardioprotective action of garlic in essential hypertension. In a pilot study made at Clinical Research Center of New Orleans, United States, on whether garlic could lower blood pressure, nine patients with severe hypertension were given a garlic preparation containing 1.3 per cent allicin. Sitting blood pressure fell with a significant decrease in diastolic blood pressure only five to 14 hours after the dose. Moreover, it was proven in a 2009 study that fresh garlic has more potent cardioprotective properties than processed garlic. Soursop Annona muricata is a member of the family of custard apple trees called Annonaceae and a species of the genus Annona, known mostly for its edible fruits Annona. The tree grows natively in the Caribbean and Central America. The leaf extract of the plant has been reported to lower an elevated BP by decreasing the peripheral vascular resistance. Breadfruit The plant is native to the Malay Peninsula and western Pacific islands. A study has shown that the leaf extract of the plant decreased the tension of phenylephrine-stimulated isolated guinea pig aorta rings by 15 to 35 per cent. Carrot It has been used in traditional medicine to treat hypertension. Activity-directed fractionation of aerial parts of D. carota resulted in the isolation of two coumarin glycosides coded as DC-2 and DC-3. Intravenous administration of these compounds caused a dose-dependent (1–10 mg/kg) fall in arterial BP in NMT anesthetized rats. In the in vitro studies, both compounds caused a dose-dependent (10–200 µg/ml) inhibitory effect on spontaneously beating guinea pig atria as well as on the K+ -induced contractions of rabbit aorta at similar concentrations. These results indicate that DC-2 and DC-3 may be acting through blockade of calcium channels, and this effect may be responsible for the BP-lowering effect of the compounds observed in the in vivo studies. Two new guaiane-type sesquiterpene terpenoids containing an interesting epoxy unit, daucuside and daucusol, have been isolated from fruits of D. carota.

Ginger

In a pilot study made at Clinical Research Center of New Orleans, United States, on whether garlic could lower blood pressure, nine patients with severe hypertension were given a garlic preparation containing 1.3 per cent allicin. Sitting blood pressure fell with a significant decrease in diastolic blood pressure only five to 14 hours after the dose. Moreover, it was proven in a 2009 study that fresh garlic has more potent cardio-protective properties than processed garlic. Zobo/Roselle This happens to be one of the most extensively studied plants for antihypertensive properties. The leaves, calyx, and corolla of this plant are used traditionally in many West African countries for various medicinal purposes and as edibles. The antihypertensive effect of this plant extract has been variously studied. One study reported the antihypertensive effect of calyx of HS. A similar result was independently produced in Lagos, Nigeria by Adegunloye et al. An intravenous administration of 20 mg/kg of a water extract of dry HS calyx produced a fall in the BP of experimentally induced hypertensive rats. The antihypertensive effects of the crude extract of the HS have been attributed to mediation through acetylcholine and histamine like dependent mechanism through direct vasorelaxant effects. Earlier report showed that the petal crude extract of same plant had a direct relaxant effect on the aortic smooth muscle of rats. The chronic administration of aqueous extract of HS has been reported to reverse cardiac hypertrophy in renovascular hypertensive rats. Clinical trials of the plant extract in human being have shown reliable evidence of antihypertensive effects. A standardized dose of HS (9.6 mg per day) given to 39 patients and captopril, 50 mg per day, given to the same number of patients did not show significant difference relative to hypotensive effects, antihypertensive effectiveness and tolerability. Tomato Tomato extract contains carotenoids, such as lycopene, beta carotene, and vitamin E, which are known as effective antioxidants, to inactivate free radicals and to slow the

progress of atherosclerosis. A study showed that extract of tomato (Lyc-O-Mato) modestly reduces BP in patients with mild, untreated hypertension. A significant correlation has been observed between systolic BP and lycopene levels. Tomato extract when added to patients treated with low doses of ACE inhibition, calcium channel blockers, or their combination with low-dose diuretics had a clinically significant effect-reduction of BP by more than 10 mmHg systolic and more than 5 mmHg diastolic pressure. No side effects to treatment were recorded and the compliance with treatment was high. Scent leaf/Basil It has been reported that a crude extract of O. basilicum causes a fall in systolic, diastolic, and mean BP in a dosedependent manner with median effective dose of 30 mg/kg. The antihypertensive effect is brief and returns to normal within two minutes. This cardiovascular effect of the extract has been attributed to eugenol, which exerts its effect by blocking the calcium channels. Ginger Ginger root is commonly used in Asian cooking. It acts to improve blood circulation and relaxes muscles surrounding blood vessels. The crude extract of ginger (Zo.Cr) induced a dose-dependent (0.3-3 mg/kg) fall in the arterial BP of anesthetized rats. In guinea pig paired atria, Zo.Cr exhibited a cardiodepressant activity on the rate and force of spontaneous contractions. In rabbit thoracic aorta preparation, Zo.Cr relaxed the phenyl ephrine-induced vascular contraction at a dose ten times higher than that required against K+ (80 mM)induced contraction. Ca2+ channel-blocking activity was confirmed when Zo.Cr shifted the Ca2+ dose-response

curves to the right, similar to the effect of verapamil. These data indicate that the BP-lowering effect of ginger is mediated through blockade of voltage-dependent calcium channels. Chronic administration of Pet ether extract (PE) (50 mg/kg/day; po), toluene fraction (10 mg/kg/day; po) of ginger rhizome, and Korean ginseng extract (KGE) (30 mg/kg/day; po) significantly reduced the BP in deoxycorticosterone acetate saltinduced hypertensive rats, whereas PE (50 mg/kg/day; po) and KGE (30 mg/kg/day; po) reduced the BP in fructose-induced hypertensive rats. The mechanism of action may partly involve the serotonergic antagonistic property. Human trials for hypotensive effect of ginger have been few and generally used a low dose with inconclusive results. Onions Onions contain quercetin, an antioxidant flavonol found to prevent heart disease and stroke. In a research study published in the Journal of Nutrition, subjects with hypertension experienced a decrease in their blood pressure by 7mmHg systolic and 5 mmHg diastolic as opposed to those who were taking placebo. Olives This herb is a significant part of the Mediterranean diet, recognized to be one of the healthiest in the world. Oil made from olives has been found to reduce blood pressure. In a study conducted on the importance of olive oil, Dr. L. Aldo Ferrara, Associate Professor at the Frederico II University of Naples in Italy discovered that the daily use of 40 grams of olive oil reduced the dosage of blood pressure medication in hypertensive patients by about 50 percent. Polyphenols in extra-virgin olive oil was credited for the significant reduction of blood pressure. Fish oil Preliminary studies suggest that fish oil may have a modest effect on high blood pressure. Although fish oil supplements often contain both DHA (docohexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), there is some evidence that DHA is the ingredient that lowers high blood pressure.

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

SCIENCE & HEALTH 35

Fresh concern over TB, diabetes co-morbidity link By Wole Oyebade ARRING a quick policy change in the treatment of Tuberculosis (TB) and Diabetes Mellitus (DM) comorbidity, Nigerians may be facing a fresh public health danger. Reason: Researchers have found increasing link between TB and DM co-morbidity among Nigerians. A recent finding conducted in some parts of the country showed that no fewer than 12 per cent TB patients have also developed diabetes; 67 per cent of which has recently been diagnosed. The specialists’ are more worried citing that people living with diabetes have two-tothree times higher risk of developing TB diseases compared to people without diabetes. More so, undiagnosed or poorly controlled diabetes worsens the outcome of TB treatment. Consultant Endocrinologist/Diabetologis t with the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Dr Anthonia Ogbera, observed that people with TB infection and coexisting diabetes are more likely to be sputum positive and take longer to become sputum negative. TB is associated with worsening glycemic control in people with diabetes. Yet, TB is infectious disease; every poorly managed active case would infect an average of 10 new cases in year. Besides, the financial burden of managing this co-morbidity is huge and often unaffordable. Tuberculosis infection is bad enough and lifelong diabetes disorder is worst. “Where both combines without adequate care in any patient, it is like a marriage made in hell!” Ogbera said. In recognition of the importance of policy change in addressing the twin-trauma, the World Diabetes Foundation (WDF) and Structured Healthcare Initiative (STRUHI) have advocated for new guideline that is in tune with the World Health Organisation (WHO) collaborative framework for care and control of TB and DM. The bodies called for similar

• As WDF, STRUHI seek new guideline for treatment integrated policy in the treatment of HIV/TB, to be replicated in DM/TB, by at least making all TB Directly Observed Therapy (DOT) centres screen for DM, adding that government must support with capacity development. Programme Coordinator WDF, Ulugbek Bekmukhamedov told The Guardian in Lagos that the new guideline was important because facts have it that people with TB and coexisting diabetes have four times higher risk of death during TB treatment and higher risk of TB relapse after treatment. The association between TB and DM and their synergetic role in causing human disease and suffering has been recognized for centuries. Bekmukhamedov, however, said recent evidence has shown that there is a more significance link between diabetes and TB than previously thought. He said the focus of the WDF in partnership with STRUHI is on the link between DM and TB, and WDF projects, about 300 in 100 developing countries including Nigeria, are contributing to the field. “Solid data are emerging from China (13 to 25 per cent), India (12.4 per cent) and Nigeria (12 per cent) as countries under the TB/DM prevalence. The focus is very important because patients with TB have two-to-three times more likelihood to develop DM and vice versa than in normal population. “Diabetes in TB patients is clear, but TB in DM is what we are exploring. The data so far also support that the link is strong,” he said. Tuberculosis Supervisor at Ajeromi Ifelodun Local Government Area (LGA), Bashiru Ajose, 60, observed that DM incidence in TB patients is about 10:167 in the local government. Ajose, who works at Tolu DOT centre, one of the 16 DOT centres in the LGA noted that there were more cases of TB infection that had refused to improve within the six months of care.

According to him: “We had a particular patient that kept getting worst with TB treatment. So, on one of the visits, we checked his blood pressure and found it to the dangerously high, such that the patient had to be referred immediately,” he said. The patient is one of several TB patients with undetected diabetes. Giving the way TB presents, according to Ogbera, DM also presents in similar way especially when undetected and poorly controlled. “The patient would not get better and people would think there is a relapse or he/she is not responding. Meanwhile, there is an underline problem that is still undetected. We’ve had such real case scenario of patients that have undergone treatment for so long and not gaining weight, only to later discover that they have diabetes.” Ajose said the DOT centres (with TB patients as high as 150 in a week) had made it a duty to check for DM/TB like they do for HIV/TB. But the concern for many of their patients is the financial burden of coping with the comorbidity, especially diabetes. A mother of four, Basirat Quadri, was detected TB positive in December 2011 and barely a month later, also diagnosed with diabetes. Though her TB has been cured, and DM under control, the widow felt she was spending too much of her meagre earnings on diabetes drugs, besides coping with lifestyle modifications. 2010 TB fact sheet shows that 8.8 million people around the world fell ill with TB, 1.4 million of which died in the same year. Over 95 per cent of the deaths occurred in low and middle-income countries. One-third of the world’s population is infected with latent TB. People infected with latent TB have a lifelong risk of developing and falling sick with active TB. Bekmukhamedov said while TB prevalence was reducing globally, the increasing prevalence of DM might pose fresh risk to TB burden in the world.

There are about 366 million people estimated to have diabetes in 2011, with 80 per cent in developing countries. Global prevalence is expected to rise to 552 million by 2030. Courtesy of an old data, Nigeria has 2.2 per cent DM prevalence rate. But recent findings in Lagos State pegged the burden at six per cent. Much more cases are feared undetected. Bekmukhamedov added that it was important for Nigeria to domesticate the policy guideline designed by the International Union Against TB and lung Disease (IUATLD) and WHO; to at least ensure all TB patients are screened of diabetes. “Efforts by the IUATLD has persuaded the Indian government to implement this policy of screening Dm in TB patients. It is worth the effort if we detect a case in every 10 that we screen. “It is more challenging in Nigeria, which is why it is important to screen using the DOTs centre because they are already established, and the result quicker. The support by Nigerian government is crucial, to ensure that the test strips are covered by the health budget. Also ensure that the workers in the DOT centres are well motivated and instructed on how to do the test well,” he said. Ogbera, who is also the Chief Executive Officer of STRUHI, an NGO and project partner of WDF in Lagos, added that there is need for a paradigm shift from the way TB is currently managed. “Like they are doing with HIV/TB associated diagnosis, the same should be done for DM/TB. If it were coming from the government, other healthcare facilities would follow suit. “We have very strong data to back up what we are advocating for Nigeria. So, if we are detecting 12 in 100, then we are saving 12 lives and I think that is a big deal. If that can influences the current policy, then it something worth doing by the government,” she said.

Special Adviser to Lagos State Governor on Public Health, Dr. Yewande Adesina (left); Member Lagos State House of Assembly, Mrs. Funmilayo Tejuosho; Commissioner for Health, Dr. Jide Idirs; and Wife of Lagos State Governor, Mrs. Abimbola Fashola, during a town hall meeting on the maternal and child mortality reduction programme in Lagos. PHOTO; SUNDAY AKINLOLU

Nigeria is set to begin vaccine production, says NAFDAC boss By Tony Nwanne S part of efforts to safe guard public health in Nigeria, the DirectorGeneral of National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, Dr. Paul Orhii, said the country is set to begin local production of routine immunisation vaccines for tuberculosis, hepatitis B, diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis/whooping cough (DPT), polio, among others. The DG disclosed this during the opening of the Health Canada-NAFDAC Mentorship Launch, which aimed at building the Agency’s capacity in the area of vaccine regulation, and to kick off plans to set the vaccine production in motion. According to Orhii, the desire to bring international standards to bear on our activities is captured by this mentorship program with Health Canada, which we believe the program will benefit the country in the area of regulation of biologics, vaccines and other regulated products. At present, Nigeria depends 100 per cent on United Nation Children’s Fund, UNICEF, for vaccine supplies, which according to the Federal Ministry of Health, stands at over N648 billion ($4 billion) annually. Health Canada has come to mentor NAFDAC, especially in the area of vaccines and biological regulations. “We want to start manufacturing vaccines. We are starting on a right footing of vaccine production in Nigeria by beginning with capacity building of NAFDAC officers.” Orhii noted that vaccines are very important in a country such as Nigeria, with a heavy disease burden, especially considering the fact that many of the diseases could be prevented by effective vaccination “Health Canada has a lot of

ands to gain, he noted that “the country wants to start manufacturing vaccines, they are very expensive and delicate products that are supposed to be make right. What we want to do now is to manufacture it, which will eliminate all these diseases. So Nigeria stands to gain a lot if we can develop a good capacities to monitor and produce save vaccines that are safe. That will indeed save us a lot of money and efforts”. experience in medicine regulations, they have come to mentor NAFDAC in the areas of vaccines and biological, it is important because vaccines is very important in our country with so many diseases around, they can be prevented by proper vaccination, so this is the new step the agency is taking to safe guard public health in Nigeria. Meanwhile, on the issue of what Nigeria stands to gain, he noted that “the country wants to start manufacturing vaccines, they are very expensive and delicate products that are supposed to be make right. What we want to do now is to manufacture it, which will eliminate all these diseases. So Nigeria stands to gain a lot if we can develop a good capacities to monitor and produce save vaccines that are safe. That will indeed save us a lot of money and efforts”. The NAFDAC chief noted that the partnership will indeed foster the relationship between the two countries in terms of mentoring by training and re-training staffs, at the same time building capacities to monitor vaccine productions in the country.

Ogun decries high HIV/AIDS prevalence among youths HE Ogun State governT ment says it’s completely dissatisfied with the level of Human Immuno-deficiency Virus (HIV)/Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) prevalence amongst youths in the state noting that all hands were on desk to ensure that the situation was brought under control. Director of the state Agency for the Control of AIDS (OGSACA), Dr. Kehinde Fatungase, who said this at the sensitization programme for the National Youths Service Corps (NYSC) members at their ongoing orientation programme in Sagamu urged them to undergo HIV counseling and testing to ascertain their status. He said that 13 per cent of youths out of the total 60 per cent youths that make up the population in the state are currently living positively adding that government would not fold its arms and allow the disease destroy the future of the upcoming generation. Fatungase said the sensitization was necessary so as to clear a lot of misconception surrounding HIV/AIDS mak-

ing them realize that the orientation camp is not a place where the corps members should get engaged in indiscriminate and casual sex but rather live responsibly; he said there are other activities on the camp ground that can impact positively in their lives. Counselling them further, OGSACA boss said such risky behaviour, which include indiscriminate and casual sex, none usage or improper use of condoms, usage and sharing of unsterilized sharp objects are ways of transmitting the virus. Also speaking at the event, Coordinator of NYSC in the State, Barrister Theresa Anosike affirmed that the sensitization programme was put together to enhance the knowledge and skills of corps members in reproductive health, HIV/AIDS prevention and peer monitoring. Charging them to make good use of the exercise and live responsibly, the NYSC boss enthused that with the programme, efforts to reduce new infections among youths and adolescents in the State had been given a lift.

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

36 SCIENCE HEALTH

Fertility expert harps on IVF awareness By Wole Oyebade expert, Dr. FforERTILITY Abayomi Ajayi, has called improved awareness on In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) method of conceiving, to maximise the benefit of assisted reproductive technology in the country. He said the proliferation of fertility centres notwithstanding, the poor understanding of the science behind IVF among the people was a major setback to IVF growth in this environment. Ajayi who spoke with reporters in Lagos, at an event to herald the 10-year anniversary of Nordica Fertility Centre, said while over five million babies had been born by IVF in the world, less than five per cent of the national need in Nigeria had been met by the fertility clinics. He said this was so not because the clinics were unwilling, but because many religiously inclined Nigerians were still blinded to sciences and IVF technology. “The fact that I am a Christian does not stop me from being a scientists. Both actually complement one another. Some petitions in religion have actually been answered in sciences, one of them being IVF for those having conception challenges. That is why we need to educate the public on this option,” Ajayi said. IVF is a process by which an egg is fertilised by sperm outside the body. It is a major treatment for infertility when other methods of assisted reproductive technology have failed. This technique has since 1978 been successfully applied to human reproduction. If the eggs have been fertilised and developed normally, the embryos are transferred to the woman’s (or a surrogate’s) uterus. The probability of viable pregnancy is approximately 20 per cent with one IVF cycle. Ajayi, who is also the Managing Director of Nordica Fertility Centre, said the clinic in the last 10 years had assisted in the conception of several hundreds of

babies, with the first Nordica baby delivered on September 14, 2004. He added that the goal was not to feel impressed with the success rate, rather, to keep improving and inch closer to catching up with the rest of the world. “I want to get to at least 60 per cent success rate, not just 20 or 25 per cent industry standard. With improved awareness than we have been doing, we can inundate the people with a lot of facts for attitudinal change to science and IVF.” Reacting to questions on affordability of IVF, Ajayi said assisted reproductive technology is not cheap anywhere in the world, coupled with the fact that every material used in the procedure are all imported into Nigeria. He, however, added, “anyone that can afford a Tokunbo car can afford IVF, if made a priority.” “We are not unaware of some that can still not afford it, which is why we need government to partner with us and make public fertility centres work through the Public Private Partnership support. “We have in our own little way set-up not-for-profit foundation to give free IVF to those that cannot afford the cost. It is a drop in the ocean and we need more publicspirited Nigerians to join hands with us.” As part of its corporate social responsibility, Nordica in partnership with Fertility Treatment Support Foundation (FTSF) has provided free fertility treatment to 25 couples with diverse fertility challenges. And in celebration of 10th years anniversary, three couples from different geo-political zones will have free IVF treatment. Nordica Clinic Manager, Tola Ajayi said among activities that had been scheduled for the anniversary are: fertility walk on April 5 at their Asaba office; anniversary party on April 6 also at Asaba office; Novelty football match at the National Stadium in Lagos on April 13; anniversary party at the Civic Centre on April 14 and open day at all centres on April 20.

Some of the pupils participating in a Healthy Hydration game ‘Go with the Flow’ as part of the Water Education Programme organised by Nestlé Waters, Nigeria in conjunction with Star Bright Consulting on the 2013 World Water Day at the Nestlé factory, Agbara, Ogun State… recently.

Nestle forum charts path to proper infant nutriBy Tony Nwanne

• Task mothers on exclusive breast-feeding

EALTH care professionals H have stressed the need for proper nutrition in the

exclusively breast fed for the first six months of a child’s life and for as long as possible in combination with nourishing complementary foods. According to him, “when breast feeding is not possible, infant formula is a healthier alternative to choices such as cows’ milk or rice water. That is why we have implemented extensive management systems across all our operations to assure compliance with the WHO code.” Qureshi noted that the nutrition a baby gets in the first 1,000 days of life sets the foundation for later life, adding that it starts from the moment of conception, through pregnancy and breastfeeding which is the ideal nutrition for infants. “Focusing on the nutrition in the first one thousand days can help give poor children a good start, ensuring better health outcomes later in life”. As the leading nutrition, health and wellness firm, he was of the view that, committing the resources to help address infant malnutrition in Nigeria has been the major aim, which prompted the continued constructive dialogue with stakeholders on

development of young ones, as this will help in averting further infant mortality rate in the country. The professionals, who spoke at a symposium organised by Nestle Nigeria in Lagos to draw a blueprint for proper infant nutrition envisaged that a multifaceted challenge needs a numerous approach to make malnutrition a thing of the past. With the theme: Inappropriate Infant feeding: Implications and way forward, the symposium centered it fulcrum on achieving the Millennium Development Goals, (MDG) 4 with appropriate infant feeding practices. The Business Development Manager, Nutrition, Mazhar Qureshi, said the symposium was a clear demonstration of Nestlé’s commitment to the promotion and protection of breastfeeding. He said with Nestlé’s pedigree in nutrition, spanning over 140 years, and in line with the World Health Organisation (WHO), it is imperative for an infant to be

the need for breastfeeding and other infant nutritional issues. Meanwhile, the Head of Department, Nutrition, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, (LUTH), Dr. Opeyemi Oluwaniyi, stressed the need for good nutrition as a critical factor for ensuring structural growth and sound cognition. She said appropriate nutrition is critical for infants to guarantee optimal structural growth and mental development during their developmental stages. Oluwaniyi offered some guidelines on infant nutrition based on physiological and biochemical and neurosocial developmental factors. For her, the first year of the life of a baby, exclusive breast-feeding is the best. On infant formula, she said there is a legitimate market for breast milk substitute when breast milk is not chosen or is inadequate and when breast-feeding is discontinued before the baby’s first birthday. While laying emphasis on the key roles played by good nutrition in the economic survival of an infant, she said, “children under one year old

do not have fully mature organ systems and they need nutrition that is easy to digest and contains enough calories, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients to grow and develop normally. “Infants also need the proper amount of fluids for their immature kidney to process. Infant nutrition involves avoiding exposing infants to substances that are harmful to their growth and development”. She also maintained that inappropriate infants feeding would impair nutritional factor“, saying, “Infants under the ages of a year and two must be given adequate nutrients because they are vulnerable to infection”. While calling for partnership of all stakeholders to address infant mortality, she listed the outcome of importance of proper nutrition to include normal growth, resistance to infection, long term health and optimal neurological and cognitive development. Likewise, children with lack of access to good nutrition, she noted would be subjected to poor growth, poor development, reduced immunity, risk of infections and risk of diarrheal diseases.

Eating protein-rich breakfast aids weight loss high protein breakfast of A eggs and steak could help you stay slim and stop dieters snacking at night, scientists say. Experts at the University of Missouri, United States, have found that a breakfast rich in protein significantly improves appetite control and reduces unhealthy snacking on high-fat or high-sugar foods in the evening. But according to research some 60 per cent of American young people consistently skip ‘the most important meal of the day.’ The article, ‘Beneficial effects of a higher-protein breakfast on the appetitive, hormonal, and neural signals controlling energy

intake regulation in overweight/obese, ‘breakfast skipping,’ late-adolescent girls,’ was published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Now, Heather Leidy, an assistant professor in the Department of Nutrition and Exercise Physiology says a proper breakfast could hold the key to solving the American obesity crises, which currently sees more than 25 million overweight or obese young adults in the U.S. Leidy is the first to examine the impact of breakfast consumption on daily appetite and evening snacking in young people who habitually skip breakfast. In her study, 20 over-

weight or obese adolescent females ages 18-20 either skipped breakfast, consumed a high-protein breakfast consisting of eggs and lean beef, or ate a normalprotein breakfast of readyto-eat cereal. Every breakfast consisted of 350 calories and was matched for dietary fat, fiber, sugar and energy density. The high-protein breakfast contained 35 grams of protein. Participants completed questionnaires and provided blood samples throughout the day. Prior to dinner, a brain scan using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was performed to track brain signals that control food motivation and

reward-driven eating behavior. The consumption of the high-protein breakfast led to increased fullness or ‘satiety’ along with reductions in brain activity that is responsible for controlling food cravings. The high-protein breakfast also reduced evening snacking on high-fat and high-sugar foods compared to when breakfast was skipped or when a normal protein, ready-to-eat cereal breakfast was consumed, Leidy said. “Eating a protein-rich breakfast impacts the drive to eat later in the day, when people are more likely to consume high-fat or highsugar snacks,” Leidy said.

Protein-rich foods tend to make people feel fuller than foods rich in carbohydrates or fat, causing a knock-on effect on appetite. Experts say this minimising effect on hunger, helps to reduce overall energy intake. Diets rich in protein at the expense of carbohydrates have been associated with slightly greater losses of weight in the short term compared with the recommended high-carbohydrate, low-fat eating plans. “These data suggest that eating a protein-rich breakfast is one potential strategy to prevent overeating and improve diet quality by replacing unhealthy snacks with high quality breakfast foods.”

People who normally skip breakfast might be skeptical about consuming food in the morning, but Leidy says it only takes about three days for the body to adjust to eating early in the day. Study participants ate egg and beef-based foods such as burritos or egg-based waffles with applesauce and a beef sausage patty as part of a high-protein breakfast; Leidy also suggests eating plain Greek yogurt, cottage cheese or ground pork loin as alternatives to reach the 35 grams of protein. Future research will examine whether regularly consuming high-protein breakfasts improves body weight management in young people.

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4 , 2013

38 SCIENCEGUARDIAN

Space technologies employed to beat natural disasters CONTINUED FROM PAGE 31 published recently in Journal of Environmental Management and Safety concluded: “Application of space technology integrated into Geographic Information System (GIS) provided a very good combination in terms of efficiency in time, convenience and reliability in mapping desert-disaster encroachment, for aiding disaster management. “The application of space technology (remote sensing, example Landsat Multi Spectral Scanner (MSS) in combination of aerial photography and geographic information system (ILWISGIS) in this study has provided a very good combination in terms of efficiency in time, convenience and reliability in mapping desert-disaster encroachment, for aiding the disaster management.” The study is titled “Space technology application for disaster management in Nigeria.” Also, researchers at the Computer Science

Federal Department, Polytechnic Ilaro, Ogun State, in a paper titled “Improving national security using GPS tracking system technology” noted: “The spate of insecurity in Nigeria has received global attention lately and thus a need for an improved GPS based tracking system is required to meet quickly evolving security issues in Nigeria. “GPS tracking technology is one of the most rapidly technologies growing around the world. This paper is an attempt to explore the security benefits embedded in the GPS tracking system in respect to the National Security dilemma and its deployment into Nigeria Security System… Hence, a full implementation of Satellite Tracking Technology is capable of averting some of the security problem in the nation.” The paper was published in the Proceedings of the 1st International Technology, and Education Environment Conference of the African Society for

NASRDA, Dr. Seidu Mohammed Scientific Research (ASSR). Meanwhile, Chairman Senate Committee on Science and Technology and pioneer DG of NASRDA, Prof. Robert Ajayi Boroffice, said the Bill before the Senate seeking the establishment of a parallel agency, Nigeria

Communications Satellite, is a threat to the country’s space development. Boroffice said: “I think there was a threat to our space programme when a Bill was presented to the Senate seeking the establishment of an independent

institution that is supposed to be an arm under NASRDA. We at the National Assembly are looking at the Bill and we hope that the Minister will play its role to make sure the Bill is not passed because if the Bill has been passed it means NASRDA packing its bags.” Minister of Science and Technology, Prof. Ita Okon Bassey Ewa, in a keynote address at the Conference said space technology is key to achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) in Africa and Vision 2020 20 will be a mirage if not driven by science and technology. Ewa said: “Space technology reflects the comprehensive power of a nation and is a driving force behind the economies and security of countries like U.S., Russia, China, Britain and India. These developments could present the yardstick for Nigeria to embrace space science and technology as a tool for defense and security, and socio-economic development.” Mohammed said the Agency has completed the

National Satellite Atlas. “It from developed was NigeriaSat-1 satellite and it reveals the state of vegetation and relief in the country; this product is first of its kind in Sub-Saharan Africa and the product will be 2013.. in revised “... NASRDA is currently working with NASA for the implementation of the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS). As a result, a core station has been established by NASA in Toro, Bauchi State. The station provides the most reliable data in Africa and one of b the top 100 worldwide.” He said with only 0.01 per cent of the countries annual budget allocate to space development compared to 17.5 per cent in U.S. and two per cent in Kenya, NASRDA’s budget is about the least in the world. Mohammed funding inadequate remains a major challenge for space technology development in Nigeria and unless the budgetary allocation is increased to at least two per cent, the country will be at the mercy of the world.

New vaccine-design raises hope for HIV cure CONTINUED FROM PAGE 31 “For example, to elicit broadly neutralising antibodies called VRC01-class antibodies that neutralize 90 percent of known HIV strains, you could try using the HIV envelope protein as your immunogen,” said Schief, “but you run into the problem that the envelope protein doesn’t bind with any detectable affinity to the B cells needed to launch a broadly neutralising antibody response.” To reliably initiate that VRC01-class antibody response, Schief and his colleagues therefore sought to develop a new method for designing vaccine immunogens. Joseph Jardine, a TSRI graduate student in the Schief laboratory, evaluated the genes of VRC01-producing B cells in order to deduce the identities of the less mature B cells- known as germline B cells-from which they originate. Germline B cells are major targets of modern viral vaccines, because it is the initial stimulation of these B cells and their antibodies that leads to a longterm antibody response. In response to vaccination, germline B cells could, in principle, mature into the desired VRC01-producing B cells- but natural HIV proteins fail to bind or stimulate these germline B cells so they cannot get the process started. The team thus set out to design an artificial immunogen that would be successful at achieving this. Jardine used a protein modeling software suite called Rosetta to improve the binding of VRC01 germline B cell antibodies to HIV’s envelope protein. “We asked Rosetta to look for mutations on the side of the HIV envelope protein that would help it bind tightly to our germline antibodies,” he said. Rosetta identified dozens of mutations that could help improve binding to germline antibodies. Jardine then generated

libraries that contained all possible combinations of beneficial mutations, resulting in millions of mutants, and screened them using techniques called yeast surface display and FACS. This combination of computational prediction and directed evolution successfully produced a few mutant envelope proteins with high affinity for germline VRC01-class antibodies. Jardine then focused on making a minimal immunogen - much smaller than HIV envelope - and so continued development using the “engineered outer domain (eOD)” previously developed by Po-Ssu Huang in the Schief lab while Schief was at the University of Washington. Several iterative rounds of design and selection using a panel of germline antibodies produced a final, optimised immunogen - a construct they called eOD-GT6. To get a better look at eODGT6 and its interaction with germline antibodies, the team turned to the laboratory of Ian A. Wilson, chair of the Department of Integrative Structural and Computational Biology and a member of the IAVI Neutralising Antibody Center at TSRI. Jean-Philippe Julien, a senior research associate in the Wilson laboratory, determined the 3D atomic structure of the designed immunogen using X-ray crystallography - and, in an unusual feat, also determined the crystal structure of a germline VRC01 antibody, plus the structure of the immunogen and antibody bound together. “We wanted to know whether eOD-GT6 looked the way we anticipated and whether it bound to the antibody in the way that we predicted - and in both cases the answer was ‘yes’,” said Julien. “We also were able to identify the key mutations that conferred its reactivity with germline VRC01 antibodies.” Vaccine researchers know

that such an immunogen typically does better at stimulating an antibody response when it is presented not as a single copy but in a closely spaced cluster of multiple copies, and with only its antibody-binding end exposed. “We wanted it to look like a virus,” said Sergey Menis, a visiting graduate student in the Schief laboratory. Menis therefore devised a tiny virus-mimicking particle made from 60 copies of an obscure bacterial enzyme and coated it with 60 copies of eOD-GT6. The particle worked well at activating VRC01 germline B cells and even mature B cells in the lab dish, whereas single-copy eOD-GT6 did not. “Essentially it’s a selfassembling nanoparticle that presents the immunogen in a properly oriented way,” Menis said. “We’re hoping that this approach can be used not just for an HIV vaccine but for many other vaccines, too.” The next step for the eODGT6 immunogen project, said Schief, is to test its ability to stimulate an antibody response in lab animals that are themselves engineered to produce human germline antibodies. The difficulty with testing immunogens that target human germline antibodies is that animals typically used for vaccine testing cannot make those same antibodies. So the team is collaborating with other researchers who are engineering mice to produce human germline antibodies. After that, he hopes to learn how to drive the response, from the activation of the germline B cells all the way to the production of mature, broadly neutralizing VRC01-class antibodies, using a series of designed immunogens. Schief also hopes they will be able to test their germ line - targeting approach in humans sooner rather than later, noting “it will be really important to find out if this works in a human being.”

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

SCIENCE & HEALTH 39

Road traffic pollution, passive smoke linked to childhood asthma development EW research conducted in N 10 European cities has estimated that 14 per cent of chronic childhood asthma is due to exposure to traffic pollution near busy roads. The results are comparable to the burden associated with passive smoking: the World

Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that between four per cent and 18 per cent of asthma cases in children are linked to passive smoking. The findings, published online last week ahead of print in the European Respiratory Journal, come as

the European Commission has declared 2013 the ‘Year of Air’, which highlights the importance of clean air for all and focuses on actions to improve air quality across the European Union. Until now, traffic pollution was assumed to only trigger

asthma symptoms and burden estimations did not account for chronic asthma caused by the specific range of toxicants that are found near heavily used roads along which many Europeans live. The researchers used a method known as popula-

30 per cent of Nigerians have sensitive teeth, say experts Continued from Page 32 the patient would already started to notice difference in dentine hypersensitivity as the concentration build up in the nerves to prevent the nerves from firing. But Sensodyne Rapid Action does not work that way. It works by putting exclusive barrier on the surface of the dentine to help stop the movement of fluid within the tubules; it puts a plug into the tubules. “That plug is constantly being challenged by dietary acid and brushing among other stimuli that occurs in normal person’s life. Again with twice daily usage, one is constantly forming that plug to help prevent fluid from moving so as to prevent dentine hypersensitivity from occurring. It does the same job; it provides relief from dentine hypersensitivity (rapidly). “The other thing with this product is that the patient can put a small amount on his/her finger and rub it directly on the tooth for 60 seconds. That is enough to stop plaque forming so that when he/she takes a glass of water, he/she would notice rapid relief from Sensodyne. That is what we called rapid action or relief. If one rubs it within 60 seconds, one would help to form that plug quickly to get relief from dentine sensitivity. The patient still needs to use the product twice daily to keep the equilibrium of dentine hypersensitivity being excluded and the tubules being closed.” On the safety for pregnant women and children, Mason said: “All GSK products go through rigorous safety evaluation; our products are sold to anybody above the age of 12 and who has dentine hypersensitivity. We are confident that when used as directed, it will cause no harm. Children should not be suffering from dentine hypersensitivity. This product is not recommended for children because if a child has dentine hypersensitivity, he/ she should consult a dentist for examination to know what is the cause of the pain. It would be unusual for children to have dentine hypersensitivity.” On how common is dentine hypersensitivity in Nigeria, Mason said: “There is a relatively small scientific research that has been done to date on dentine hypersensitivity in Nigeria. Those that have been carried out tend to indicate that it is exactly the same elsewhere in the world. What that means is that as many as 30 to 40 per cent of the adult population will receive short sharp pain from cold or hot drink, sugary snacks at some point in their lives. Its peaks around the age of 30 and drop off towards the end of people’s lives as they get older. It builds up from the age of 20; as many as 30 to 40 per cent of the adult population may suffer from den-

tine hypersensitivity in Nigeria as some points.” On relationship between non-communicable disease (NCDs) and poor oral health and how to take care of oral health, the dentist said: “It (the relationship) is area that dental researchers are studying. I think there is no causative relationship proven yet. I was in international den-

tal research congress last week in U.S. More research needs to be done. “Visit dentist regularly at six months. They could then examine and provide guidance. Engage in good sensible habitual eating. Avoid sugary snacks in hourly intervals during the day. Eat your meals in a more consolidated package of breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Furthermore, avoid sugary snacks and foods that get embedded in the teeth after mealtime. Brushing one’s teeth twice a day is a really powerful way to maintain oral health. Therefore, brush your teeth twice a day - morning and night - with quality toothpaste. If you have a special condition, use special toothpaste.”

tion-attributable fractions to assess the impact of near-road traffic pollution. This calculates the proportional reduction in disease or death that would occur if exposure to a risk factor were reduced to a lower level. The new research used data from existing epidemiological studies which found that children exposed to higher levels of near-road traffic-related pollution also had higher rates of asthma, even when taking into account a range of other relevant factors such as passive smoking or socioeconomic factors. The researchers aimed to take these findings further and estimate how many asthma cases could be avoided if exposure was removed. The results found that 14 per cent of asthma cases across

the 10 cities could be attributed to near-road traffic pollution. The findings also take into account differences in the health of the overall population in different cities. Lead author, Dr. Laura Perez, at the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, said: “Air pollution has previously been seen to trigger symptoms but this is the first time we have estimated the percentage of cases that might not have occurred if Europeans had not been exposed to road traffic pollution. In light of all the existing epidemiological studies showing that road-traffic contributes to the onset of the disease in children, we must consider these results to improve policy making and urban planning.”

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

SCIENCE & HEALTH 43

Smoking immediately upon waking may increase lung, oral cancer risk HE sooner a person smokes a cigarette upon waking in T the morning, the more likely he or she is to acquire lung or oral cancer, according to Pennsylvania State, United States, researchers. “We found that smokers who consume cigarettes immediately after waking have higher levels of NNAL — a metabolite of the tobacco-specific carcinogen NNK — in their blood than smokers who refrain from smoking a half hour or more after waking, regardless of how many cigarettes they smoke per day,” said Steven Branstetter, assistant professor of biobehavioral health. According to Branstetter, other research has shown that NNK (4-(methylnitrosamino)1-[3-pyridyl]-1-butanone) induces lung tumors in several rodent species. Levels of NNAL (4-(methylnitrosamnino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanol) in the blood can therefore predict lung cancer risk in rodents as well as in humans. In addition, NNAL levels are stable in smokers over time, and a single measurement can accurately reflect an individual’s exposure. Branstetter and his colleague Joshua Muscat, professor of public health sciences, examined data on 1,945 smoking adult participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey who had provided urine samples for analysis of NNAL. These participants also had

provided information about their smoking behavior, including how soon they typically smoked after waking. The researchers found that around 32 percent of the participants they examined smoked their first cigarette of the day within 5 minutes of waking; 31 percent smoked within 6 to 30 minutes of waking; 18 percent smoked within 31 to 60 minutes of waking; and 19 percent smoked more than one hour after waking. In addition, the researchers found that the NNAL level in the participants’ blood was correlated with the participants’ age, the age they started smoking, their gender and whether or not another smoker lived in their home, among other factors. The team published its results in the March 29 issue of the journal Cancer, Epidemiology, Biomarkers and Prevention. “Most importantly, we found that NNAL level was highest among people who smoked the soonest upon waking, regardless of the frequency of smoking and other factors that predict NNAL concentrations,” Branstetter said. “We believe these people who smoke sooner after waking inhale more deeply and more thoroughly, which could explain the higher levels of NNAL in their blood, as well as their higher risk of developing oral or lung cancer. As a result, time to first cigarette might be an important factor in the

Regular tea drinkers 37 per cent less likely to develop prostate cancer • But no benefit from coffee EN who drink at least two M cups of tea a day could slash their risk of prostate cancer by more than a third, according to new research. Regular tea drinkers were 37 per cent less likely to develop a tumour than those who drank it less than once a week. But there was no benefit from coffee, according to scientists at Maastricht University in the Netherlands, where the latest study was carried out. Nearly 40,000 cases of prostate cancer are diagnosed every year in the UK and 10,000 men die from it - the equivalent of more than one an hour. The risks increase with age, with men over 50 more likely to develop a tumour, and there is a strong genetic element to it. But there has been conflicting evidence on the role of popular beverages. Last year, for example, a study at Glasgow University found heavy tea drinkers were more at risk of the disease.

The study showed that drinking coffee had no benefits in preventing prostate cancer It tracked the health of more than 6,000 male volunteers over a period of 37 years and found those consuming over seven cups a day had a 50 per cent higher risk of prostate cancer than moderate and non tea drinkers. But the researchers stressed they could not be sure if tea really was a risk factor, or if drinkers lived to ages where cancer was more common. In the latest study, the Maastricht University team compared 892 men diagnosed with prostate cancer with a similar number who were in good health, studying their dietary and drinking habits. The study was carried out on a population of men in the US, where coffee is much more popular. Only one in five volunteers drank at least one tea a day, compared with nearly 60 per cent when it came to coffee.

How chewing gum aids weight gain T may well give you mintyIgum fresh breath, but chewing could also cause weight gain, new research suggests. Scientists have discovered that people who chew gum eat more high calorie sweet foods. This is because the chemical responsible for the minty flavour of gum makes savoury foods, especially fruit and vegetables, taste unpleasant. Co-author of the study, Christine Swoboda, a doctoral candidate in nutrition at Ohio State University, told LiveScience: ‘The chemical change is the same reason why when you brush your teeth and then drink orange juice, it tastes bad. To carry out the study, Ms Swoboda and her colleague Jennifer Temple of the University of Buffalo, enrolled

44 volunteers. Each candidate was asked to play a game in exchange for food. Some played for pieces of fruit, while others played for crisps and sweets. Before taking part in the experiment, half of the volunteers had chewed either fruit gum or mint gum. It was discovered that those who had chewed mint flavoured gum were significantly less likely to play for as long to win fruit as they were to win the junk food. Those who had been eating fruit flavoured gum were also found to be less interested in the fruit but the results were not as conclusive. The researchers also discovered that people who chew gum tend to eat fewer meals but that this does not translate to fewer calories.

identification of high-risk smokers and in the development of interventions targeted toward early-morning smokers.” The sooner a person smokes a cigarette upon waking in the morning, the more likely he or

she is to acquire lung or oral cancer, according to Penn State researchers. “We found that smokers who consume cigarettes immediately after waking have higher levels of NNAL — a metabolite of the tobacco-spe-

cific carcinogen NNK — in their blood than smokers who refrain from smoking a half hour or more after waking, regardless of how many cigarettes they smoke per day,” said Steven Branstetter, assistant professor of bio-behavioral health. According to Branstetter, other research has shown that NNK (4-(methylnitrosamino)1-[3-pyridyl]-1-butanone) induces lung tumors in several rodent species. Levels of NNAL (4-(methylnitrosamnino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanol) in the blood can therefore predict lung cancer risk in rodents as well as in humans. In addition, NNAL levels are stable in smokers over time, and a single measurement can accurately reflect an individual’s exposure. Branstetter and his colleague Joshua Muscat, professor of public health sciences, examined data on 1,945 smoking adult participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

who had provided urine samples for analysis of NNAL. These participants also had provided information about their smoking behavior, including how soon they typically smoked after waking. The researchers found that around 32 percent of the participants they examined smoked their first cigarette of the day within five minutes of waking; 31 percent smoked within 6 to 30 minutes of waking; 18 percent smoked within 31 to 60 minutes of waking; and 19 percent smoked more than one hour after waking. In addition, the researchers found that the NNAL level in the participants’ blood was correlated with the participants’ age, the age they started smoking, their gender and whether or not another smoker lived in their home, among other factors. The team published its results in the March 29 issue of the journal Cancer, Epidemiology, Biomarkers and Prevention.

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

SCIENCE & HEALTH 45

Kelina hospital partners foundation on surgeries From: Emeka Anuforo Aid Foundation SN oURGICAL (SAF), an international n-Governmental Organization, is partnering Abuja based Kelina Hospital to assist patients who are in need of endoscopic (hightech) surgeries but are unable to afford them due to financial constraints. Officials of Kelina Hospital and Surgical Aid Foundation told newsmen in Abuja that the programme, expected to commence early April, is about high-tech surgical operations that are not usually done in Nigeria. The surgical interventions, according to information made available, include laser lithotripsy for kidney stones, laser prostate surgeries, laparoscopic surgery, among others. “Most patients cannot afford these surgeries on their own. Some of them wait for one year for this programme just because they would be paying only half of our usual fees during the programme,”Consultant Urologist at Kelina Hospital,

Dr. Celsus Ukelina Undie said. According to him, “every year, Surgical Aid Foundation supports hospitals like Kelina Hospital to carry out surgical aid mission with various themes for each year. In 2009, the Solomon GiwaAmu Foundation and five American Surgeons, led by Dr. Francis Ogbolu, a Kenturky-based Urological Surgeon were hosted. Twenty two surgical operations were done in Kelina Hospital in 5 days. In 2011, Prof. Ahmed Shoma, a world-class Professor of Endourology and Laparoscopic Surgery from the Urology and Nephrology Centre, Mansoura, Egypt, led the sessions. “Many of the surgeries were sponsored by Surgical Aid Foundation. Other surgeries performed at this time included Dental Surgery, Flexible Colonoscopy (for patients passing blood in stool or having indigestion), Oesophago-GastroDuodenoscopy (for patients with stomach pain) etc. In 2012, between March 15 and

21, Kelina Hospital with the support of Surgical Aid Foundation chose Professor Mahesh Desai, the then International President of Société Internationale d’Urologie (SIU)-the world body of Urological Surgeons, to lead the surgical mission for the year. Kelina Hospital was privileged to host Dr. Desai to surgical procedures never before done in Nigeria and hands-on training for Urological Surgeons was conducted by carrying out twenty seven Endourological and minimal access surgeries.” He said during these programmes, the hospital brings in surgeons from around the world. According to him, “our own surgeons in Kelina do most of the surgeries, actually. The external surgeon usually gives a guest lecture at the end of the programme. The surgeries are supported by Surgical Aid Foundation, which also takes care of half of the bills. These are expensive surgeries that could cost up to N1.5m or more. “Last year, the foundation

Nutricima takes healthy nutrition message to Lagos primary schools Tunwase School and Future EADING dairy and bever- each through an essay com- Kids. L age makers, Nutricima petition among the schools. During the visits, officials Officials of Nutricima Limited, is offering students in Lagos State the opportunity to taste the nourishing values of two of its products, Nunu and Bliss in a schoolwide campaign featuring about 6,000 children in 10 nursery and primary schools. According to a press statement by the company, ten pupils will win N10, 000

Limited kicked off the initiative Monday, March 25 with visits to schools in the Ikeja Local Government area. Schools visited include Chrisland International at Opebi, St. Leo’s Catholic School, Gophawood Schoo, Omoleye Children’s School and Salvation International School. Others include Hallmark School, Agidingbi,

share information on nutrition as well as hand product samples of Bliss Choco and Nunu Choca Malt to the pupils. The school sampling initiative is one in a series of events the company has embarked on in the last couple of years as it strives to promote an all-round healthy populace.

sponsored 28 such surgeries in Kelina Hospital in just one week. We want more people to benefit this year. We had more than 40 applications but unfortunately, we could not take all. Some of those patients are still waiting. We would want them to be aware that the programme is coming up again.” Speaking further, he noted that Kelina Hospital had been supporting charity and NGO work since 2009 when it offered our its operating rooms to Solomon GiwaAmu Foundation. He stressed that the patients who participated in the surgeries were alive and well, and added that Kelina Hospital was awarded a Pioneer Status in Minimal Access Surgery by the Nigerian Investment Promotion Council last yesr. “To the best of our knowledge, we are the first hospital in Nigeria to be awarded Pioneer Status because of our efforts in Minimal Access Surgery,”3 observed. He went on: “In 2013, Kelina Hospital will again partner with Surgical Aid Foundation between April 2 and 14, 2013. Dr Mohan will join us from Fortis Hospital, India. Dr Mohan once worked in Apollo Hospital and a Senior Urologist. He is a Fellow of the American Transplantation Society. Several other Surgeons are expected to participate. Our focus this year will be Kidney Stones and Prostate. Again, no open surgical operation will be performed. “All the surgeries will be endoscopic or Minimal Access. We plan to set the 3rd record that Kelina Hospital has performed the first laser Vaporization of the prostate in Nigeria this April 2013. “

Pupils with Nutricima Limited manager, Funsho Jacob (left), Assistant Head Teacher, Hall Mark School, Mr. Ayoola Solomon, Nutricima MD, Suneel Vasudevan, and Sales Director, Bola Arotiowa, during the Nutricima Limited school-wide sampling campaign of its products, Nunu and Bliss featuring about 6,000 children in 10 nursery and primary schools… recently

Ten strategies to boost your immune system

HE immune system is a T complex network of cells, tissues and organs in the body that together defend the body against foreign attackers. These foreign attackers are bacteria, parasites, fungi and viruses. Also included in the list are infected, dead cells and mutated cells, which have become cancerous. Everything being equal, with the immune system performing at its optimal level, no attacking foreigner should survive in the body. A lot of factors including diet, state of nourishment, dehydration, stress, sleeplessness, consumption of alcohol and tobacco etc affect the immune system either positively or negatively. There must therefore be a balance of all the factors that affect the system so that it can carry out its function properly; to protect the body against trillions of bacteria and other microorganisms. The immune system comprises of cells and proteins. The cells are produced in the bone marrow from where they are transferred to the Thymus gland situated under the sternum or to the lymphatic system. Also known as immune cells, they are the white blood cells found in circulation. These cells seek out, devour and destroy attacking organisms and mutating cancer cells. They also produce special proteins called antibodies, which mark out foreign cells for other destroyers to work on. Without the immune system, these invading organisms will destroy the human being within minutes and so everything must be done to assist such a wonderful system as this. Like I have always said in my articles, we should be sure of the reason why we eat and one such reason should be to enhance the immune system. I am going to be presenting 10 strategies to boost the immune system here but there are certainly some other things that you can do to boost your immune system. 1. Drink plenty of water. Lack of water in the body, otherwise called dehydration is known to suppress the immune system. It follows therefore that sufficient water in the body will boost the system. To effectively support the immune system, alkaline water is the best choice. Note that when you are thirsty, you are already dehydrated at the cellular level and so you should drink water not because you are thirsty but to ensure that the body is properly hydrated.

2. Eat lots of raw vegetables and fruits. These contain vitamins, minerals, trace elements that are essential for the manufacture of the immune cells and for the function of the system. This kind of diet which is mainly alkaline forming help to neutralize the acidity in the body and make the body environment alkaline. An alkaline environment is hostile to the invading organisms, while an acidic one encourages multiplication and growth of the organisms. 3. Take vitamin and mineral supplements regularly. I have said in the past that the vegetables and fruits of nowadays are no longer as rich in nutrients as they were some 50 years ago. To ensure that we supply adequate amount of nutrients to the body we have to begin to take supplements, especially if you are above 50 years. Your supplements should include Vitamins A, C, D, E, K, B1-6, B12, Selenium and minerals such as calcium, magnesium, zinc, sodium, potassium and so on. 4. Exercise regularly. Exercising enhances the immune system in various ways. Firstly, it improves the circulation, making sure that nutrients, vitamins, minerals and oxygen get to the cells quickly and all the waste products are eliminated fast. Secondly, exercise enhances the immune system as it improves the pumping of the fluids in the lymphatic vessels when the muscles contract and relax. Thirdly, blood sugar regulation and consumption are made perfect so that there is no excess sugar left in the circulation to cause insulin resistance, which is a forerunner to diabetes. Fourthly, exercise increases the speed by which the immune cells get to the sites where they are needed to combat invading organisms. 5. Consume probiotics. Probiotics are live microorganisms that help to maintain natural balance of beneficial organisms in the intestines. With these organisms in the intestines certain amount of positive health benefits are conferred to the body. These are known as the normal bacterial flora and they boost the immunity by destroying invading and harmful bacteria. They also help in the digestive processes that go on in the intestine, making sure that digestion is complete and acid liberation brought down to the barest minimum. The concluding part of this article will be brought to you next week Thursday. GOD bless.

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

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THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

Education Why education is important to Rivers State, by Lawrence-Nemi Dame Alice Lawrence-Nemi is the Rivers State Commissioner for Education. Restless, focused, a gogetter and girlish, she spent some time with ROTIMI LAWRENCE OYEKANMI during the recently concluded Rivers State Education Summit and spoke on diverse issues. Excerpts: HAT is this education summit all about? WIWhat did you set out to achieve? was given a marching order by my boss (Governor Rotimi Amaechi). This summit would have been held since last year, but I took my time, because I believe that what is worth doing at all, is worth doing well. Education is on the front burner in Rivers state, and having to get people to attend such an event needed to be planned well. And my boss did not only contribute, most of the people at this summit came because of him. I also had to fix a time when my colleagues would be less busy in their respective cabinets; when everybody would have the time to really sit down and listen to what we have done. So, we chose a date in March. We got our policy document recently. We had to get the stakeholders involved because we were trying to amend some of the new things the governor brought in, such as the free education initiative, the Quality Assurance Agency, the School Based Management Board and others. We had to put all that in the policy. We also needed to have a stakeholders’ meeting on that policy and launch the School Based Management Board. We wanted the model secondary school to start functioning, to enable us appraise what we have done, both in the primary and secondary schools. Once we picked a date, we got some funds from the state government and we started planning the summit, which was done behind my rear garden. Every 5.30pm in the evening, I sat in the rear garden, with my Permanent Secretary and a few other people, Lawrence-Nemi and that was how we arranged the summit. From observations at the summit, we realized We have domesticated our curriculum and that shortage of teachers is a major problem. that is why we have Prof Orubite, who is the Rivers state needs 91,000 teachers, but you are Executive Secretary of the Quality Assurance recruiting just 13,000. How do you intend to fill Agency. Now, when we had a retreat, we felt the remaining gap? the need to domesticate our curriculum to I don’t doubt the fact that the state needs suit our own environment, which we have 91,000 teachers. But 13,000 is also huge number now done. Since the curriculum issue came of teachers to inject into the system at a time. up, Rivers state has been following up on all The wage bill of those new teachers will run into the issues and that was why the Executive about one billion naira. Secretary of the Nigerian Educational, I think the ideal thing would be for us to do it Research and Development Council (NERDC), bit by bit. Recruiting 13,000 teachers is quite Prof (Godswill) Obioma was invited here for challenging. In fact, if we recruit more than that, the summit. it would be like closing down the whole system You supply books free as part of your free eduin Nigeria. So, we are taking the 13,000 teachers cation policy. How do you get the books in the and we are sending them for six months’ train- required quantity? ing; after which we would deploy them in the We buy from Chams Nigeria Limited. We classrooms. work with them and they get the books for us. Where is the venue of the training? But on our part, we check to ensure that the They will be trained at the University of Port books are in compliance with the national curHarcourt and the Ignatius Aju College of riculum. Education. After the training, we would get peo- When you mentioned that 23 per cent of ple to talk to them, because some of them are Rivers’ budget is spent on education, how not really teachers per se. much does that come to? Some of them have first degrees in courses Last year, our budget for education was N67 like Physics and Chemistry; so, you have to take billion, and this year, it’s N47.5 billion. them through the methodology of teaching What major challenges do you encounter in and all that, which we will do with the British implementing the reform process Council and other specialists in the education When the governor wanted to set up this sector. We have to bring people in to get them Quality Assurance Agency, the (State Universal started, so that by the time we put them in the Basic Education) board felt the agency would classrooms, they would have grasped what they away their jobs, but that is not the position. We are going in for. were supposed to take people from the Senior Quality assurance, as you rightly observed, is a Secondary School Board, the Universal Basic very big issue. What to teach, how to teach to Education Board and train them. But we had make the desired impact and the curriculum some issues such that, at the end of the day, we are all part of it. How are you putting all these had to look elsewhere and get other people together?

from the classrooms that could join this Quality Assurance Agency. So, there is so much political obstacle surrounding, ‘oh, you are taking my job or you are not taking my job,’ rather than people coming together to find a solution. Now, if a board that is saddled with the responsibility of managing a part of the school system now constitutes a bottleneck, then the education sector may not move forward. And I am not saying this as the Rivers State Commissioner for Education. I have been talking to the 36 other state commissioners. When people complain that we are taking over their jobs, they are only looking at the contrast; they are not looking at the main idea, which is the school or quality assurance. Look at the issue of the School-Based Management Board (SBMB). One individual said that because he went to a particular school, he wants to be a member of the (school’s) board. Now, I am not saying he doesn’t have the right, but they (such people) are only looking at the lucrative bit of it, rather than how to contribute and move that particular school forward. Those are the biggest challenges we face. If the boards were working effectively, I would speak so well (of them), but at the summit, the governor is pulling out the Quality Assurance Agency and the School-Based Management Board. By the time you do that, you would have carcasses in the boards, because they are not up and doing. Even to monitor the schools; when you call the chairman and tell him that the governor said this or that teacher was not in school…..

the governor drives himself, first thing in the morning there (schools). But the question is, why does he (governor) have to do that, when we have directors who are in charge of such matters? How many teachers do we have in the state? So, how can you be the only one going round? I think what the governor is doing, (institutionalizing the Quality Assurance Agency and the SBMB) is commendable and I think other state governors should emulate this. Kaduna state, for example, has its own Quality Assurance Agency and they also have their School Based Management Board. And I hope that when they have their peer review meeting, the governors would decide on which direction the education system in Nigeria should follow. Some of your public primary school pupils played musical instruments to the delight of the audience. Is music being taught in your schools? Currently, we have about 25 primary schools offering music, so any activity we organize, they are always there to perform. In fact, they are always telling us that they want to sing for the governor, and that is another area where the governor is investing, because music is very important. We also have art exhibitions where children make cards. So music, art and craft are things that the state government is infusing in the children and the system. Some of our public school children were at the United Nations recently, and through the British Council, our children are also going for a competition in London. We thank God for the investment, and as we said earlier, educational benefits are not what you reap immediately. It’s a long-term investment and we are glad our efforts are yielding fruits. Are you taking the private schools in Rivers state along too? Some school proprietors told us at this summit that they are being left out. That is not true! There has been so much rot in the system, especially in our public school system, so we needed to concentrate on it. But now that so much is being done, we are balancing it up. They (private schools) believe that they would be out of business with what we are doing, but that is not the case. The children in private schools are also the responsibility of the state government and one of the functions of the governor is to protect the rights of its citizenry. Every child is a child of the state. If something happens to a child in this state, the governor has to do something about it. We don’t discriminate; rather, we work in tandem (with all stakeholders). Looking at where we are coming from, and now that we are balancing things up, everything would begin to take shape. When we started the Quality Assurance Agency, the private schools fought against it. They went to the (state) House of Assembly to complain. They were asking, what about the public schools that are not up to standard? The governor said we would start with our public schools. Any of the schools that is not up to standard would be closed down and the same applies to any private school that is not up to standard, because at the end of the day, it is the same children that would come out to work. In the workplace, when you say you went to school in Port Harcourt, nobody will ask if it was public or private. It is your education and skills that would matter. Five to 10 years from now, what do you foresee in the Rivers state education sector? I foresee well-educated Rivers’ people. In the past for instance, when there is a recruitment exercise in places like the Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), Shell or Total, and they tell us they need engineers; when we go there, they would say oooh, we can’t take you because you don’t have the qualification. And I think that was part of what gingered the governor to send many Rivers’ indigenes on scholarship. A lot of them are back and are now working in Shell, Total, Mobil and the others. With what is going on in the state now, I think we should be able to fill up key position. If there is an oil company in Port Harcourt, we should be able to pride ourselves that we have qualified people to occupy its key positions.

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

Education

Federal polytechnic, Bauchi matriculates 6000 From Ali Garba, Bauchi UT of the 11, 500 students O that applied to the Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi, for the current academic session, only 6, 103 were eventually admitted. The lucky students swore to the matriculation oath, at a ceremony held recently. In his address, the Rector, Dr Shuaibu Mohammed Musa, warned the students to avoid the culture of unnecessary protests and petitions. Musa said the polytechnic would not tolerate vices such as drug abuse, indecent dressing, prostitution, examinations misconduct, cultism, sexual harassment and rumour mongering. Speaking shortly after the new students took their oaths, the rector also warned them against threatening lives and the culture of soliciting for undue favours from lecturers and other staff of the institution. He admonished them to be cautious about joining any association, club or society

You must have it at the back of your mind that your primary objective here is to study, acquire skills and a certificate. On the part of the staff and the Polytechnic management, our objective is to train you in both character and learning, to enable you become useful to yourself, your family as well as the nation in the school, warning that the management has dossiers of all accredited clubs, association and societies on campus. He also advised the students to contact the Students’ Affairs office or the Security Unit for guidance when in doubt. His words: “You must have it at the back of your mind that your primary objective here is to study, acquire skills and a certificate. On the part of the staff and the Polytechnic management, our objective is to train you in both character and learning, to enable you become

OAU inaugurates board to harness endowments By Mary Ogar ITH inadequate fundW ing by the Federal Government constituting a huge challenge for the management of the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) Ile-Ife, Osun State, in its bid to reposition the institution, a new board for the 10-member advancement centre was recently inaugurated. Headed by an alumnus and business mogul, Mr. Victor Osibodu, the new board will create a synergy between the university, the alumni and friends of the institution, who wish to offer support. The board has been given the task of fostering philanthropic work, ensuring a substantial and steady inflow of resources, as well as to cultivate and groom the alumni and future supporters of the institution. Speaking at the formal inauguration of the board in Lagos, the institution’s Vice Chancellor, Prof Bamitale Omole disclosed that 80 per cent of all the university’s funds come from the federal government. But the limited cash, he noted, has become “grossly inadequate to meet the needs of the university, which have over the years, continued to skyrocket.” For OAU to survive, he reasoned, it has to adopt the practices of other top ranking universities in the world in terms of attracting awareness in the areas of research and funding. Giving a statistics on the magnitude of endowment funds in some Ivy League universities, he said: “ University of Oxford had £3.9 billion as endowment in 2011. University of Cambridge had £4.3 billion in 2011; Harvard, $30.435 billion in 2012; Yale University had $19.3 billion in 2012; Stanford University, $17.036 billion, and Princeton University $16.954 billion.” Omole said the OAU would adopt the modalities and methodologies of “these great universities.”

Omole, who assumed duty as the 10th Vice Chancellor of the university in 2011, said the advancement office would also celebrate and report on the impact of donations, support academic priorities and harness research outputs for national development. With the selection of eminent citizens noted for their philanthropy, dynamism and commitment to the highest ideals of the university and the nation, the Vice Chancellor expressed hope that their involvement and support would assist in maintaining and enhancing the development of the university. Ranked as number one in Nigeria and 14th in Africa, according to the February 6th 2013 Webometric ranking of world universities, Omole said the advancement office would serve as a platform to join the top 10 universities in Africa within the shortest time. In his address, Osibodu recommended other strategies such as building network of alumni and friends; maintaining current data base of all OAU alumni; strengthening the relationship between the alumni and the university; recognition and encouragement of prominent alumni to contribute to developmental project. He said: “The board will have a renowned and recognized reward system. Individuals and corporate donors would be recognized and rewarded. There would also be recommendations for awards and landmark edifices such as a Hall of Fame for distinguished alumni.” Other prominent alumni such as Mr. Kola Awodehin, Mr Isaac Orolugbagbe, Mr. Gboyega Fatimilehin, Mrs. Gloria Essien-Danner, Mr. Adeola Sokunmi and Omole among others, are also members of the newly constituted board.

useful to yourself, your family as well as the nation.” The rector disclosed that the Polytechnic has enjoyed an unprecedented industrial harmony over the last three academic sessions, during which there was no strike. He said: “This is not unconnected with our policy of wide consultations, effective use of community system, strict reinforcement of the polytechnic rules and regulations, working hand in hand with the staff unions, the public security agencies and other stakeholders of the polytechnic.” He averred that infrastructural development has been carried out by the polytechnic’s management, to ensure a conducive atmosphere for teaching and learning, and to enable the students achieve their objectives. He also assured that all the institution’s academic programmes have been accredited by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), adding that new academic programmes at the Higher National Diploma (HND) level have also been introduced.

President, Association of International School Educators of Nigeria, Mrs. Ekua Abudu (left); Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Education, Mrs. Omolara Erogbogbo and Conference Chairman, Dr. George Hickman, at the just concluded Assocation of International School Educators of Nigeria Conference 2013 held in Lagos… recently.

Nuhu Bamalli poly matriculates 7,000, rector warns against vices From Bashir Bello, Kaduna OT less than 7,000 students have been matriculated by the Nuhu Bamalli Polytechnic, Zaria with the Rector, Alhaji Adamu Aliyu Shika, urging the students to show zero tolerance for examination malpractice, cultism, indecent dressing among other social vices, capable of distracting them from their studies. The Rector’s advice is in tandem with the polytechnic’s policy of zero tolerance for

vices. Speaking at the elaborate ceremony held in Zaria recently, Shika also called for collective efforts of the staff and students of the institution to attain greater heights. He said: “Since its inception in 1989, the Nuhu Bamali Polytechnic (formerly Kaduna State Polytechnic), has been progressively developing; running academic programmes leading to the award of certificates, professional, National and Higher National diplomas, from 25

different departments, with the students’ enrolment of about 12,000.” Earlier, the chairman of the ceremony and former Kaduna State Commissioner for Education, Alhaji Suleiman Lawal Kauru appealed to the state government for improved funding for the institution, to compliment what the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) is doing in the provision of infrastructural facilities.

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

Education 53

Stop sending underage children to secondary schools, Ojo advises parents By Mary Ogar HE Chairman of Tesjok T Group of Schools, Mr. Funsho Ojo has implored parents to stop the habit of enrolling their underage children in secondary schools because “it is counter-productive.” Ojo told The Guardian in Lagos recently, that it was improper to enroll children between the ages of 8 and 9 in secondary schools, insisting that such children would not have been intellectually and emotionally ready for the rigours of secondary education. Traditionally, the 6-3-3-4 system is designed to take a 6year old child into primary 1, who would have been 12 years old by the time he or she completes primary education. The child then goes ahead to

spend another six uninterrupted years in secondary school – divided into three years of Junior Secondary (JSS) and another three years of Senior Secondary (SSS) – at the end of which he or she would have been 18 years old. The minimum age at entry level in the University is 16 years. However, parents scramble to enroll their children in the pre-school (Nursery 1 and 2) at between 2 and 3 years, before pushing them to primary 1 at between 4 and 5 years old. Again, parents have been observed to make their children skip Primary 6, which means that a four-year-old child in Primary 1 would have been only 9 years old in JSS 1, if he or she is ferried to a secondary school without attending primary 6. Ojo observed that parents who think they are doing

themselves or the child a favour are missing the point. He insisted that the child would suffer emotionally because his or her brain would not have been ready for secondary education at that age. On the abuse of social media, he was of the opinion that the responsibility to regulate children’s access to social media channels falls more on the parents but equally on the schools too. “The worst thing a parent can do is to give children a television set in their room,” he asserted. “From home, children should be controlled. They should have regulated time for watching television. In our school, we have blocked some sites outright on the internet.” On students’ mass failure in the West African Senior

School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), Ojo advised the federal and state governments to put a round peg in a round hole, by appointing the right people in strategic positions. “Employ qualified teachers and let them go for regular trainings because new ideas and new challenges unfold all the time,” he said. “There are some people who have been teaching for years, but have never gone for any training. Teachers should be trained, especially in public schools and not selectively. It should go round.” Ojo also appealed to the Lagos State government to be mild and considerate in dealing with private schools. He called for a review of the various annual taxes and levies imposed on private schools, “to help private schools raise

their heads above the waters.” His words: “The taxes are killing. We are supposed to be partners in progress, but the taxes are not encouraging at all. We set up this place (Tesjok School) in September 2012 and so far, the Lagos Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) has been here; Local Government officials have been here; the Land Use charge officials have been here and I have paid through my nose. The sad truth is that I just have to pay, if I don’t them to disrupt school activities. The annual dues are outrageous; the Land charges are out of place. Even a vacant plot has to be paid for, once they know it’s owned by a school.” Located at Abaranje, Ikotun on the outskirts of Lagos, Ojo said that Tesjok School was established not to exploit parents, but to offer affordable

Next Scholar Reality TV show to encourage reading culture By Mary Ogar ORTy-FIVE final year students and other graduates from higher institutions in Nigeria, will have the opportunity to win cash prizes and scholarships tenable in some prestigious universities abroad, as the Next Scholar Reality TV Show debuts. It is intended to revive the reading culture among students. Addressing journalists recently on the activities lined up for the show, the project Manager, Mr. Nedum Ogboruche explained that the decision to host the reality TV show was informed by the dearth of reading culture amongst Nigerian youths, which, he noted, has become a major source of worry to parents, guardians, educational institutions and even the Federal Government. With efforts made by the Federal Government through the “Bring Back The Book” campaign in 2010 to restore the reading culture, he acknowledged that Nigerians, especially the youths, are no longer reading. He stated that most people have been brought up to see reading as

necessary only for the purpose of passing examinations. He said: “We are happy to present to you a television programme called - ‘The Next Scholar,’ aimed at reviving the ailing reading culture in Nigeria. The reality TV show is created and designed for general family viewing and will involve participants living together in a house and displaying scholarly skills to avoid being evicted.” He continued: “Having realized that in Nigeria and Africa at large, reading seems to be designated a boring activity, relegated to the four walls of traditional educational institutions; this show is designed to creatively incorporate a habit of reading into the everyday lives of the participants. We also hope to develop a highly entertaining reality TV show that revives a reading culture amongst not just the participants, but the home viewers as well”. Despite the negative perception surrounding the concept of some reality TV shows in Nigeria, he assured parents

that the show has been specially planned for the family, and would be suitable for all ages. He hinted that merit would be rewarded, and “luck plays a second fiddle.” He disclosed that the show would have 20 episodes, involving a group of 45 readers living in a controlled environment in competition for the first prize, as they demonstrate their literacy skills and strength of character. The contestants would be tested on books and journals read in the Academic House and would be expelled one after another, based on character votes by the public. However, he explained that the contestants would have the power to keep themselves in the house through their excellent performances in weekly tests from recommended textbooks of different disciplines. He said: “Top performers for every week will be immune against public votes, as the public decides who leaves the house. Five scholars will be left to battle for the 1st prize, which will be determined in a game show, featuring ques-

New educational journal unveiled new educational journal, A targeted at secondary school students and youths, has been unveiled in Lagos. Published by Digital Torch Limited, the magazine, according to its Managing Editor, Mr. Mikhail Olarinde, is being recommended for reading at home. Having observed poor reading nature among students and the resulting negative effects, Olarinde said one of the strategic plans of the publication is to re-inculcate reading habits into the lifestyle of every youth. He said: “The company put resources together and came out with the journal amidst other instructional tools, to reverse the ugly trend. The vision of the Magazine is that of inculcating leadership skills, good character, discipline and academic excellence in our youths, for the overall development of our nation.”

The magazine covers tutorials where basic subjects are simplified and treated by experienced professionals; general interest

section such as feature articles; motivational stories and career guide, including health tips, jokes, cartoons and puzzles.

tions from all the books read in the house.” Currently partnering with Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen and Phones And Gadgets Ltd, the organisers maintained that the overall objective of the programme is to sensitize viewers to embrace the reading culture and to help build individuals who are not just knowledgeable in their core profession and discipline, but also versatile in other fields of human

endeavour, First place winner will be rewarded with US$30,000 and a brand new car, including a scholarship to study overseas in one of the participating universities. The second place winner will receive US$20, 000 and scholarship to study overseas while the third place winner will get $US10,000 and an all expense paid family weekend to one of Africa’s best resorts .

education of good quality. He said: “Just within six months of existence, we had 90 students. If the fees are so exorbitant, we won’t have such population in this area. In setting up a school like this, profit shouldn’t be the number one concern. I am more concerned about a good name. I want to maintain a good educational standard, so our fees are still minimal and will be for a long time to come.” Displaying a well-stocked library, ICT room and laboratories, Ojo pledged that children who attend the school would not be short-changed, but would have the opportunity to enjoy all the facilities available in other A-list schools. He said: “When we started the school, we ran a free summer coaching for students from public schools in the whole of Alimosho and we had over 900 students. We hosted them for five weeks. Our facilities were overstretched and some were even destroyed and we had to repair them. My joy is that at the end of the day, we were able to inculcate a lot of values in their lives.” He added: “We all are aware of the failure rate in national examinations, especially in mathematics and English language, including the high rate of youthful exuberance. But Tesjok is an all-encompassing school. We want to face education squarely. We want to inculcate values, good behavior and we want to train leaders of tomorrow.”

54 Education

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

ABUAD splashes N28.5m on students to promote excellence From Muyiwa Adeyemi, Ado Ekiti N order to promote scholarImanagement ship and excellence, the of Afe Babalola

University (ABUAD), Ado Ekiti at the weekend doled out N28.5 million to some brilliant students and hardworking members of staff in its third Founder’s merit award celebration held in its campus. The colourful and well attended programme did not only see students with cumulative grade point (GP) of 5.0 (first class) presented with cheques of N500,000; indigent students that have scholarship traits also got N400,000 each while those that have excelled in sporting activities went home with trophies and cash awards. The founder of the institution, Chief Afe Babalola, who was supported at the event by the former Minister of Information and Communication Prof. Dora Akunyili, said the awards were to motivate the students to pursue excellence and encourage them to reach the zenith. He said he was happy to note that since the university has started the presentation of the award, the school has recorded tremendous improvement on the academic achievements of the students. He noted that in the first year the school spent about N5.5m on scholarship, it rose to N17.5m in the second year and now N28.5m because students had been motivated to see reasons why they must thoroughly study and eschew indolence. He said he was particularly happy that within three years, the students have been winning laurels in international external examinations which justified his dream for the university which is to change the quality of education in Nigeria by example. Afe, the former Pro Chancellor of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) said though the three and half year old institution was adjudged second best private university by Webmetrics by its ranking that was released last month, but his target was to make it one of the best ten universities in the world by the time ABUAD will be celebrating its 10th year anniversary. The legal luminary told the gathering which included all the principal staff of the school and parents of the

awardees that he specifically invited Prof Akunyili to be the special guest at the event because he saw her as a role model for the students. While charging the students to seize the world class scholarship the school is providing for them, Akunyili disclosed that she was supposed to be the first vice Chancellor of the school immediately she left NAFDAC as its Director General. she said it was at point of resuming the duty that the late President Umaru Yar’Adua appointed her as the Minister of Information and Communication, a national assignment she had to take up at that time. But she expressed joy that the founder appointed another capable woman of integrity and excellence, Prof sidi osho as the pioneer vice Chancellor of the school. Akunyili who was surprised with the level of physical and academic improvement in the school said the last time she saw such a beautiful campus with complete package including farming was in 2003 in south Korea. According to her, “I never thought we could have such institution in Nigeria in my life time, but coming here today, I thank God that what I considered a dream happened during my life time in my country.” she told the students that nothing in this world prepared youths for better future than hard work, honesty and humility and encouraged the students to think on how they can impact positively on the society. Giving the breakdown of other students that got the cash award, Prof osho said, “Academic Award for students having CGPA of 4.5 to 4.9 got between N75,000 and N100,000; students with satisfactory proof of inability to continue their university education in ABUAD got N 400,000 each, Merit award for students who have distinguished themselves as , Most disciplined student, neatest student, best dressed student, most outstanding student leader, Most outstanding student of integrity, Most industrious student, most outstanding student of integrity, most industrious student, most preserving indigent student, sportsman of the year, all got between N50,000 and N100,000

Honeywell’s bakery school graduates 14 s part of its corporate social investment programmes, A Honeywell Flour Mills Plc has

continued to empower bakers with modern techniques, aimed at ensuring improved production and maximum profitability. Fourteen of such bakers randomly picked nationwide were recently trained and certified as master bakers by the company’s bakery school. The school has, so far, trained and graduated about 300 master bakers from across the country in its 20 regular courses and 1 executives’ course. Presenting certificates to the graduands, the company’s Executive vice Chairman, Mr. Babatunde odunayo, said: “At Honeywell Flour Mills Plc, we do not only produce superior quality flour which meets with international standards, we provide total baking solution to bakers.” According to him, during the three-week training, the students were taught the science of baking ingredients, common bread faults and how to solve them; how to maximize bakers’ output through the production of different bread varieties; basic

selling, marketing, finance and people management tips. The graduands, according to him, were well trained with superior quality baking products and equipped to produce quality products including Croissant, Wheat Bread, Brown Bread, Coconut bread, Honey Bread, German Twist/Braiding, White pan Bread, Cinnamon, Rollspring, Rollsweet, Dough (Doughnut, swiss Roll), Hamburger, BunsYeast, Raised Donnut, samosa, Clustered Bread, Meat Pie, French &Italian Baguette, Chelsea buns, Cookies, semolina pudding and Cakes. He charged the graduands (12 men and two women) to show that the certificate they received “is an announcement to the baking world that you are ready to go ahead to the next step in your lives and businesses.” The best graduating student, Mr. Abiola Ala expressed appreciation to the company for the unique platform provided for them to sharpen their skills, saying it would have multiplier effects on their productivity and the general society.

Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan (middle) in a group photograph shortly after presentation of an Ipad each to 15 students from different schools in Delta State, for coming tops at the literary session held in Government House Asaba, recently.

Japan expends N1.6b on primary education From Bridget Chiedu Onochie, Abuja s part of its grassroot A human security projects, the Japanese Government last week awarded four contracts totaling about N7million towards the improvement of primary education in Nigeria. The contracts, which were awarded to four non-governmental organizations, including Afri Foundation, Change Managers International network, Tabitha Cumi Foundation and Church of the Brethren in Nigeria, brought to an end, the N1.6bilion naira ($1,002955) aid budgeted for the Japanese Grant Assistance for Grassroot Human security Projects, for the 2012 financial year. Japanese Ambassador to Nigeria, Ryuichi shoji, at the contract signing ceremony, noted that between 1998 and 2012, a total sum of $8,293,166 had been expended on various projects under primary education, sanitation and pro-

vision of portable water within and around Abuja metropolis. He added that the government of Japan is primarily motivated on humanitarian ground and by extension, the understanding that human beings live in a global community and that what happens to one part of the world may have ripple effect on others if not addressed. He said. “We are living in an inter-dependent and global world. What happens to one part of the world affects the other. In the world today, we have problems of immigrants, climate change, peace and security. In that sense, peace and security of Nigeria is the peace and security of Japan. There are also human considerations, Japan and Nigeria are friends”. The Ambassador added that Nigeria and Japan share common features as the biggest and most influential countries in their respective continents.

“As Nigeria is the biggest and most influential African nation, Japan is also the biggest in Asia. “Also, when we cooperate, we can make a lot of difference in the international community. Again, when one friend is in need, it is only natural that the other friend assists”, he said. on the prospect for the 2013, which begins in April, the Ambassador said nothing less than last year’s allocation would be earmarked judging from past records. The expected increase would also be informed by the outcome of the fifth Tokyo International Conference on Africa Development (TICAD v) holding in Yokohama between June 1 and 3. He informed that the conference, which was initiated in 1993 and co-organized by Japan, the United Nations (UN), African Union Commission (AUC), the World Bank as well as United

Nations Development Programme (UNDP) would deliberate on African development agendas outside Africa. Recipients of the grant in their respective responses commended the government of Japan for their assistance. They said the assistant will go a long way in addressing the problem of child illiteracy in the country. Executive Director, Tabitha Cumi Foundation, Mrs. Tayo Erinle, who has benefited from the grant several times in the past said it was a big relief to children in those communities who were denied education as a result of the remoteness of their environment. she said Japanese government was committed to quality and effective completion of projects in line with their specifications. Her ability to receive grants, she informed was therefore based was in recognition of her timely and timely completion of projects.

Rivers envisages education master plan backed by law By Mary Ogar IvERs state may soon come up with a distinct education master plan to be backed by law through the state House of Assembly. Quality assurance will also be given the expected impetus through the newly constituted Quality Assurance Agency, to consolidate the gains already recorded in the state’s education sector. According to the communiqué issued at the end of the state’s education summit held in Port Harcourt between March 25 and 26, the implementation of the revised Basic Education

Curriculum (BEC) in the state will now be done in phases, as recommended by the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC). Textbooks are to be restructured in line with the BEC, while science and technology is to receive a boost. Teachers are also to be re-certified within a period to be determined by the appropriate organ. Efforts will be made to redress all forms of disparities in karning outcomes due to gender location and socio-economic background, while more programmes and facilities will be put in place to ensure

maximum benefits for persons with special needs. It was also resolved that communities should be encouraged to take responsibility for developing the curriculum and teaching their local languages in schools within their territories. All the new teachers soon to be injected into the state’s school system are to be inducted to enable them grapple with the demands of their profession, while capacity building programmes The communiqué also stated that faith-based organisations would be involved in reorientation

and inculcation of good values in the students, while health clubs are to be established in schools, with Red Cross volunteers taking up the responsibility of taching simple First Aid techniques. The participants agreed that since the inception of Governor Rotimi Amaechi’s administration, new model primary and secondary schools have been built, the free education policy, entailing the provision of free books, bags, sportswear and uniforms have been put in place in all public schools; while 13,000 new teachers have also been recruited.

Bornu pledges N9m for families of teachers killed by Boko Haram From Njadvara Musa, Maiduguri ovERNoR Kashim G shettima of Borno state has pledged a donation of N9 million to the families of nine teachers killed recently during Boko Haram’s attacks on secondary and primary schools in Maiduguri, the state capital. The governor made the pledge while inspecting the affected While con-

demning the attacks on schools and killings of teachers, shettima said: “the monetary pledge I made today is not to compensate the already killed secondary and primary school teachers and survivors of the gunmen, but to enable the family members of the deceased and survivors cushion their financial needs, following the demise of their loved ones.”

The governor also condoled with the family members of the deceased, praying God to assist the survivors bear the irreparable loss of lives and property in the state. He said out of the pledged N9 million, N2 million each would be paid to the family members of the killed teachers, while the injured students receiving treatment at the hospital would be paid N200, 000 each.

At the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH), where the five students were admitted for treatment, the governor said: “the state government would offset the medical bills of the wounded.” Besides, he noted that the state government would equally cater for those who were critically injured and required to be flown abroad for treatment.

THE GuARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

Education 55

Visually impaired Miss Olubunmi Olamijulo, a University of Lagos Mass Communication student and beneficiary of the MTN Foundation’s scholarship for the Blind (second left), receiving her award from a Director of the Foundation, Mr Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi (third left), while another Director, Mr Dennis Okoro (left) and the Executive Secretary, Ms Nonny Ugboma (right) look on with interest.

Visually impaired students get MTN foundation’s scholarships By Mary Ogar OME 670 undergraduates Stutions from public tertiary instiin the Southwest region have benefitted from the MTN Foundation’s (MTNF) Science and Technology Scholarship Scheme, designed to empower youths financially to achieve their educational pursuits. Comprising 80 blind and 590 science and technology students, cheques were formally presented to the beneficiaries at a ceremony held in Lagos recently. The scheme awards the sum of N200, 000 each to the students to cover tuition, book allowance and stipend for one academic year. under its education portfolio, the foundation awards scholarships to only the students, whose Cummulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) score is above 3.5. It also renewed the scholarships of those who maintained a 2.1 aggregate. According to the foundation’s chairman, Ambassador Hamzat Ahmadu, the scheme, now in its 4th phase, also recognizes the exemplary effort

of a special group of students, who have to overcome daily challenges in their quest for a brighter future. He said: “Scholarship awards have been presented to 238 successful candidates in Abuja, representing the northern part of the country, and 350 successful candidates in Owerri representing the Eastern region.” The foundation, under the Economic Empowerment Portfolio, also gave out scholarships to visually impaired students, just as it renewed existing scholarships. With 171 blind and 1,087 science students benefitting from the scheme, Ahmadu said: “the Corporate Social Responsibility (CRS) initiative vehicle of MTN Nigeria has continued to positively impact on the lives of thousands of Nigerian undergraduate students since 2009, via award of scholarships to Science & Technology Students and the visually impaired students”. The foundation’s director, Mr. Dennis Okoro, explained that the award scheme “is a way to reward

hard work and excellence Nigerian youths, especially the physically challenged, who have demonstrated great ability in disability.” Miss. Olabunmi Olamijulo, a visually impaired 200 level student, from the department of Mass Communication, university of Lagos said she was selected because of her Cummulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 3.91. She affirmed that the money would enable her purchase a laptop for her research work and a voice recorder to record her lectures. She said: “It’s been quite difficult coping in school. I use the typewriter, which is very tedious. And using the cybercafé costs a lot of money. I want to appeal to the school management to consider our case, as we don’t have materials to read. Someone has to read the questions and shade for us during examinations. This is a huge setback for us.” He continued: “I feel great and I don’t feel less than those who can see. I want to major in broadcasting and this money would help me further my educa-

Samsung deploys smart school learning solution By Mary Ogar AMSuNG Electronics Sengaged West Africa, recently students and teachers of Greensprings School, Lagos with its “Smart School” learning solution, which enables teachers to deliver an interactive learning environment to students. The fully integrated learning platform is designed to improve students’ learning experiences through the “Samsung Smart Classrooms.” It utilizes Samsung e-boards and devices such as tablets, personal computers and other new age technological tools to facilitate learning. Speaking during a presentation at the school, the company’s West Africa’s Managing Director, Mr. Bravo Kim described the initiative as an important part of Samsung’s drive to aid schools’ transition

towards a purposeful smart learning environment in Nigeria and the entire African continent. According to him, Greensprings School is the first school to adopt the revolutionary solution in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa. Besides, he acknowledged that as a leader in digital media and digital convergence technologies, the solution is being deployed in Nigeria to provide teachers with the ability to lead interactive lessons and real-time group activities, through its convenient screen and content sharing features. The solution also delivers learning management tools enabling students to access course materials and information. Commending the school for its foresight, he said: “The deployment of Samsung’s Smart School solution in Greensprings School represents an

important part of our continued effort to deliver the classroom of the future today. This innovative solution frees educators from the confines of standing at a chalkboard or projector and allows them to move about the classroom, conducting interactive lessons and activities through their touch screen tablet or notebook computer.” Director of school, Mrs. Olayiwola Koiki said: “The students of today are digital natives, and to some extent, inhabit a world different from that in which their parents, who are digital immigrants, live in. The conventional styles of learning no longer match their everyday experiences. We are indeed very happy that we are the first school in Nigeria and indeed subSaharan Africa to adopt this smart learning solution.”

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

NigeriaCapitalMarket NSE Daily Summary (Equities) PRICE LIST OF SYMBOLS TRADED FOR 3/04/2013

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

CAPITAL MARKET 65

NSE Daily Summary (Equities) as at 3/04/2013

PRICE GAINERS

LOSERS

Forte oil returns to profitability Stories by Helen Oji ORTE Oil Plc has recorded a profit before tax of N1.15billion in 2012 compared to a loss of N19.95bn in 2011. This, according to the company represents an increase of 106 per cent. Its profit after tax also rose to N1.007billion, from a loss after tax of N19.54billion in 2011, representing an increase of 105per cent. Although revenue reduced by 22.22per cent during the year, the Group’s gross profit increased by 16.25per cent from N8.73billion to N10.15billion while operating expenses also dropped from 19.23per cent to 5per cent. The company’s net cashflow from operating activities also recovered from a huge negative balance of (N10billion) in 2011 to a positive net operating cashflow of N3.5billion which, according to the company is clearly a testimony of the company’s improved operational efficiency and cashflow management. Reacting on the perform-

ance, the Group Chief Executive Officer of Forte Oil Plc, Akin Akinfemiwa said that 2012 marked the beginning of the company’s threeyear transformation plan to a lean, talent-based and technology-driven organisation. “As we move into 2013 and

beyond, we are positive that we shall consolidate on the gains of 2012 to achieve exceptional performance as we move towards our vision of becoming Africa’s No 1 energy solutions provider. “You may recall that forte oil Plc in 2011 carried out a com-

plete restructure of her business with the objective of transforming it into a lean, talent- based and technologydriven organisation that will be more responsive to the needs of its customers. “As part of its now improved operational efficiency; con-

trols have improved across business lines, stronger corporate governance and compliance are being ensured at all levels as well as the introduction of the foremost business enterprise solution-SAP. “The results released today, is an indication that the com-

pany has finally turned the corner towards full recovery. Forte Oil plc believes its efforts will in no time; translate to strong market dominance and thereon strong and sustainable profitability and robust returns to our shareholders.

NAHCO’s revenue rises to N7.4b, proposes 25k dividend per share HE Nigerian Aviation T Handing Company (nahco aviance) has announced a dividend payout of 25kobo for every 50kobo share held by its shareholders in its 2012 financial year result. The dividend, contained in the company’s performance released to the Nigerian Stock Exchange yesterday reflects a dividend yield of 4.6 per cent which compares favorably and is above market average for publicly listed companies which released their results recently under the new International Finance Reporting Standard (IFRS)

framework. The company, despite unfavorable operating environment, also raised its revenue base to N7.4billion, up from N7.1billion in 2011, reflecting a 4.2 per cent increase. A statement from the company said its growth prospect and forecast envisaged doubling of its earnings per share and dividend payout within the next two years; as it expects increased earnings from its cargo business and expansion initiatives. The statement from nahco aviance’s Chief Finance Officer, Mrs. Chinwe Chiji-

Nnorom, said the period under review was a difficult year occasioned by fuel subsidy strike in January 2012 and other strikes specific to its operations, reduction in the number of flights as well as security challenges in some of its locations. This accounted for the dip in the Group’s Profit Before Tax from N1.2b in 2011 to N736m in 2012. Despite the challenges, the company’s expansion drive, enhanced cargo operations, increased investment in ground handling assets, interest in the power sector and the plan to make Lagos a

hub for a Free Trade Zone are expected to pay off in 2013 and succeeding years. nahco aviance has invested about N3.9 billion in an ultramodern warehouse which was commissioned in May 2012 as well as in refleeting its ground support equipment. About N1b of this amount was invested in 2012. The Lagos warehouse is the largest warehouse facility in the West-African sub-region, and is capable of conferring regional cargo hub status on Nigeria. The company has also embarked on renovation of the Kano warehouse as part

of its support for the Federal Government’s airport modernisation and expansion programme. In addition, the company instituted an IATAapproved Learning and Development Centre to enhance better training for staff and ensure collaboration with international training bodies. Although the combined effect of these investment activities has impacted on profitability in the short term, based on forecasts for the future it is projected to show a positive impact on earnings and dividend payout in the next two years.

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

Opinion The Hugo Chavez revolution (2) By Edwin Madunagu AST Thursday, in the opening segment of this Land negative, series, I surveyed the tributes, positive that followed the death of President Hugo Chavez of Venezuela on March 5, 2013. I intend to stay close to these tributes. In 2005, the Monthly Review Press, New York, released a book: Understanding the Venezuelan revolution: Hugo Chavez talks to Marta Harnecker. The interview was recorded in June 2002, two months after the failed military coup against President Chavez. Marta Harnecker is a respected and well-known researcher and author in Latin American Leftist politics. The 200-page, well-annotated and smooth-flowing book was the first comprehensive account of Venezuela’s revolutionary process to come my way. Before then most of what I knew about what was going on in the country were accounts by the Euroamerican press. The hostility of this press, as we all know, is categorical. The presidential election that brought Hugo Chavez to power took place in December 1998, and the inauguration was held early in 1999. So, the interview I referred to took place three years and a half into the regime. Areas covered by Hugo Chavez included the background to the revolutionary process, the transition to ‘Chavezism’ (a transition that was unbelievably peaceful, constitutional, democratic and “institutional”); the role of the military in the revolution (and counterrevolution); revolutionary socioeconomic intervention (by the state); foreign policy; and the April 11, 2002 failed coup d’état. Commenting on the book, Saul Landau, an author said: “Marta Harnecker’s penetrating questions bring out the profundity of Hugo Chavez’s intelligence and his sense of commitment – as well as sense of humour. This book is indispensable for understanding the revolutionary process in Venezuela”. I agree. Get the book and hear the man himself talk – in different situations. Michael Parenti, another author, said: “The calumny heaped upon Venezuela’s courageous president by U.S. officialdom and major media has misled a lot of people, including many who claim to be on the left (emphasis mine). This wellcrafted, well-edited, and engaging book is a bracing antidote and a pleasure to read. Here you will discover the real Hugo Chavez: a highly educated, brilliant, democratic revolutionary leader, and a man of deep and thoroughly admirable

humanity”. Samir Amin does not require an introduction. He commented: “Marta Harnecker’s important book helps clarify the challenges facing Venezuela’s ongoing revolutionary process. The decisive role played by Hugo Chavez in initiating the revolutionary process and the immense support he continues to receive from the popular classes make this book necessary reading for understanding the forces at work in what may well become a stage in the long-run transformation of the global system”. Samir Amin’s tribute and that of Tatalo Alamu of The Nation on Sunday point in the same direction: Whereas Samir Amin says “...in what may well become a stage in the long-run transformation of the global system”, Tatalo Alamu talks of “providing us with a way out of the six hundred years of epistemological cul de sac of western modernity...” (The Nation on Sunday, March 17, 2013). The optimism expressed in these two tributes leads us back to history. The United States of America exported the executive presidential system of government to the countries of Latin America. The various types of monstrosities this export then developed in each recipient country depended on that country’s historical peculiarities and specificities. But, generally, America’s “protectorates”, colonies and dependencies to the south were not prosperous enough to refine the rough faces and edges of the absolute monarchy which executive presidency so resembled. America did not introduce democracy to Latin America. The new colonialists taking over from Spain and Portugal did not consider democracy necessary to guarantee their exploitation and domination. Having domesticated and consolidated the executive presidential system, the rulers of the nominally independent countries of Latin America then made their own contributions to modern politics: highly politicized military, coups d’état, military dictatorship, armed struggle and guerrilla warfare. For a period covering a greater part of the 19th and 20th centuries, there was no country in Latin America where a guerrilla warfare was not going on at each point in time. In other words, at each point in time, whoever was in power – a military junta or a civilian government, elected or selected – there were serious armed insurrections challenging the state. Serving military officers spent their time plan-

ning coups d’état and insurrections; retired officers did the same: waiting for recall or self-recall to active duty, in politics or in the military. I read somewhere that a standard joke in Colombia at a time was this dialogue between a serving army officer and a retiring one: Serving officer: “What will you be doing now that you are retiring?” Retiring officer: “What do you mean? Planning insurrections, of course.” Military officers moved from the barracks to presidential palaces and government houses, and back; public servants, priests, teachers and students moved easily into the jungle and back again. To wish to contest for power was understood to mean going either through the barrel of the gun or the ballot box, or both. Politics and political power had direct, unmediated definition in Latin America. So, when Hugo Chavez said, in the 2002 interview that the process that brought him to power via presidential election in December 1998 was “peaceful, but not disarmed” I understood him both literally and metaphorically. Whether a particular coup d’état was good or bad depended on whether it was Left or Right, not whether it was armed or unarmed, peaceful or violent. The Latin American political culture described here was not chosen by the people. To go to its roots is to examine how brutal and utterly enslaving the forms of colonialism and neocolonialism that those people passed through. To put the matter directly, the experiences of the Latin American people under Spanish and Portuguese colonialism, American neocolonialism and “native” dictatorship made peaceful change almost impossible. Unlike in America and Canada, democratic change was completely ruled out under successive phases of Latin America’s modern history. Regis Debray is a prominent French-born historician of armed struggles in Latin America. In 1965, he put out the book: Latin America: Some problems of revolutionary strategy. He said somewhere in the book: “The Venezuelans were the first to experience in the country most directly colonized by the United States because of its oil and iron, what the ‘people’s war’ has become in post–Cuban conditions. They paid dearly for their pioneering role”. The emphasis, for me, is not

only on “paying dearly”, for the masses throughout Latin America paid ‘dearly’ under colonial, semicolonial and neocolonial regimes. The emphasis is also on “the country most directly colonized because of its oil and iron”. Hugo Chavez knew and encountered the two phenomena as a boy. He was conscious of these in 1970 when, at the age of 16, he entered the Academy of Military Sciences. Today, 48 years after Regis Debray made his analysis, and 13 years into the Hugo Chavez revolutionary process, and several American presidents (Democrats and Republicans) later, the people of Venezuela are still “paying dearly” in defence of their “oil and iron”. It is, therefore, not surprising that under this historical condition Hugo Chavez found himself in a conspiratorial political group within the Military Academy. He, of course, had a choice of going left or right, but he chose left or, perhaps, the left chose him. On December 17, 1982, four captains in the Venezuelan army, including Hugo Chavez, (aged 28) formed the Bolivarian Revolutionary Movement (MBR 200) and swore an oath of commitment to liberating the nation. The organisation was named after Simon Bolivar (1783 – 1830), popularly regarded, and named, the Liberator of South America. Bolivar was born in Caracas, now capital of Venezuela; but he led and fought a liberation war almost across the entire continent. The Bolivarian Revolutionary Movement (MBR 200) was named to commemorate the second centenary of Bolivar’s birth. It is also not surprising, given the background I had earlier sketched, that MBR 200 immediately linked up with leftist groups outside the military. In late February 1989, eight years after the formation of MBR 200, a massacre took place in Venezuela. An increase in fuel prices had been decreed by the government and this sparked spontaneous, popular, but unarmed, insurrection throughout the country. Human rights groups reported that over 5,000 people were killed by the military in the course of restoring “law and order”. Hugo Chavez and his military comrades were, of course, sent out to restore “law and order”. You may imagine how they felt. But they did what they must do to strike a balance between their consciousness, their conscience on the one hand and their recognition of the need not to be stupidly voluntaristic on the other: The 1989 “explosion”, as you would expect, greatly sharpened MBR’s consciousness, strengthened its organisation in the military and expanded its “contacts” in the civil society. Exactly three years later, in February 1992, they struck. • To be continued next Thursday.

Achebe, from a copyright perspective By Oluwaseyi Leigh HE exit of the giant literary icon – Chinua Achebe – has natuT rally attracted a battery of posthumous tributes from all and sundry, traversing the literati brotherhood, close friends and mere acquaintances; friends and foes alike. Devoid of the usual hyperbolic rendition of dirges befitting the gigantic status of the departed – characteristic of the time tested African “never speak ill of the dead” disposition – the statement jointly authored by the surviving duo of the “pioneer quartet” holds particular attraction for this writer. Appearing on the front page of The Guardian newspaper publication of Saturday, March 23, 2013, after the announcement of the transition of Achebe, the statement jointly released by John Pepper Clark-Bekederemo and Akinwande Oluwole “Wole” Soyinka is a classic study in literary erudition from the two world acclaimed writers. Profound, both for its conveyance of the mood of “deep loss of the mourners for whom the loss of their Chinua is, above all else, intensely personal” and rich, for its sufficient verbal expression of the substance of the deceased, “…what Chinua and his pen represented, not merely for the African continent, but for humanity”, the 216-word offering – the usual size of a journal article abstract – is instructive for students and jurists of copyright law. The release captures in its essence, a synoptic description on the nation, warts and all. Hear the duo, “we need to stress at a critical time of Nigerian history, where the forces of darkness appear to overshadow the illumination of existence that literature represents. These are forces that arrogantly pride themselves implacable and brutal enemies…” Recall the fatalistic roles foisted on the “pioneer quartet” during an inglorious past in the annals of the nation. The first of the “intimate circle” to depart this earth, the poet, Christopher Ifekandu Okigbo, was consumed in 1967 at the age of 35 in the internal strife between brothers, the Nigerian civil war. It was during the period that another member of the quartet, Wole Soyinka, suffered imprisonment while the civil war lasted, but lived to tell the tale. For the rest three after Okigbo

had left the scene, the lot fell on them to visit Babangida to plead for the cessation of cycles of bloodletting through execution of unsuccessful coup plotters, which was becoming a recurring decimal in the nation’s entire. As usual but not unexpectedly, the plea of the trio fell on ‘deaf’ ears when the gleeful announcement was made of ‘the execution of the ‘dissidents’ a few hours ago’. Yet the nation continues its run-away tales told by “the forces of repression, bigotry and retrogression” – difficult milestones straddling the pathway of a beleaguered nation – until the death of one of the trio, some 43 years after the “end” of the civil war, leaving the bewildered surviving duo to wonder “…if the recent insensate massacre of Chinua’s people in Kano, only a few days ago, hastened the fatal undermining of that resilient will that had sustained him (Chinua) so many years after his crippling accident”. A continuation of an unending war, several years after the officially pronounced ceasefire and a magnanimous declaration of ‘no victor, no vanquished’. The statement by the surviving duo closed with a re-affirmation of their continued allegiance to the initial fidelity borne by the pioneer quartet to the unity of the nation when they write; “No matter the reality, after the initial shock and a sense of abandonment, we confidently assert that Chinua lives”. What enduring proof that the surviving duo are not in the least “battle” wearied! These ‘words on marble’ solemnly etched on the conscience of the nation and carried by a purveyor whose slogan is ‘conscience nurtured by truth’ has arrested the attention of this writer and thus inspired in him, the desire to apply the learning presented by copyright law to its appraisal. This writer wish to admit this much from the outset, that the appraisal proposed to be done is not a “critical appraisal” usually embarked upon in the academia, but one informed solely by the ‘awe of positive coincidences’ exemplified in the quartet’s circumstances of birth, (Achebe, born in 1930; Okigbo, 1932; Soyinka, 1934 and Clark-Bekederemo, 1935), the quartet’s dogged struggle against the forces of repression; and their tenacious fidelity to their avowed preference to confront the ‘monster’ of impunity, headlong, even to the end. When the statement was

jointly adopted by J. P. Clark and Wole Soyinka as their work, it became a (literary) work of joint authorship in copyright law. According to Cornish, a learned and respected writer in the field of copyright law, a work of joint authorship is a work produced by two or more authors, wherein the contribution of each author is inseparable from that of every other author. Co-authorship occurs when collaborators have worked to produce copyright work of a single kind in prosecution of a pre-concerted joint design. Recall the opening phrase “For us (the co-authors), the loss of Chinua Achebe is, above all else, intensely personal”. A book is not necessarily a work of co-authorship because two or more authors are named on the cover. (Shyllon, Folarin, 2003: 51). Likewise, a literary work (essays, articles, letters, addresses etc.), is not necessarily a (literary) work of co-authorship because two or more authors are named as the writers of such work. Each author may have separately contributed particular chapters or sections, which will be distinct copyright works of different individual authors. However, if the contribution of each author is not distinct, that is, they have worked together on the whole book (or press release), then it is a work of co-authorship. (Dworking and Taylor, 1988: 48). The surviving duo belongs to the literati brotherhood, with a bent for sojourning in the academia, where, for them, the principles of co-authorship and its attendant religious application have become an article of faith. The wonder still is, the vehicle with which the ad idem non separable, seamlessly crafted expression of their mood, their feeling, for a departed kindred spirit was achieved. This writer salutes the rare industry and tenacity with which the departed duo attended their earthly “work” before transiting to the other side of divide and makes a prayerful wish for the surviving duo on this divide; may you live long enough to witness the beginning of descent into oblivion of “the forces of repression, bigotry and retrogression” that have continued to plague this nation. • Leigh teaches Copyright Law in Olabisi Onabanjo University, AgoIwoye, Ogun State.

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

Opinion Asiwaju and challenge of postmodernism (1) By Olumuyiwa Jimoh T every moment in the history of a people, A nation or in fact the world, men and women of outstanding or rare qualities emerge to lead the people either to the land of promise or to their doom. Every situation or circumstances therefore throws up appropriately men and women of courage to articulate, project and defend their causes. They become rallying points upon which the society builds its core and strength with which it launches itself on the path of revival and self-renewal. It is when societies are in disarray, lack direction and are floundering that men of valour are created. They emerge to give direction and impetus to the people’s hunger for change from despondency, hopelessness and squalor to socio-political wellbeing devoid of manifest inequities and deprivation. Each generation thus throws up its heroes who in turn impacts and dictates the path, colour and character of development in that society. Ideas and philosophical thoughts are products of social and historical conditions of the people. It is the prevailing social life, conditions and contests for power that determine and shape political thought of great personalities. The thought and ideas of great African heroes and martyrs like Patrice Lumumba, Kwame Nkrumah, Leopard Senghor, Nnamdi Azikwe, Obafemi Awolowo, Malam Aminu Kano, Nelson Mandela are all rooted in the social milieu in which they lived. That explains the role of Pa Awolowo, the great Zik of Africa and Ahmadu Bello who were all leaders of the nationalistic struggles that laid the foundation for modern day Nigeria. The history of Nigeria, especially that of the South West is replete with the emergence of great leaders who have defined and shaped the Ideology and the developmental trajectory of its people. Although Asiwaju himself called it Progressive Capitalism while our generalissimo sees it as Socialism or postmodernism.

Today history has thrown up another illustrious son of Africa as one of the great minds in the democratic liberation struggle of the people in Nigeria and the Diaspora. Hence to understand the political thought of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu it will be important to critically x-ray the prevailing social conditions in the Nigerian-state and the role of Jagaban in its reconstruction. The incursion of military into Nigerian politics led to the subjugation of democracy and the rule of law. The military coup that led to the collapse of the second republic leading to the emergence of Buhari-Idagbon regime; created in its wake, the obnoxious Decree 2, which severely abrogated the rights of the Nigerian people. With the Buhari regime toppled by Babangida, a regime of Machiavellian political manipulation ensued entrenching systemic corruption, which has become the norm today in Nigeria. With his political reconstruction and gerrymandering coming to an end and having come to the end of his tethers, IBB’s endless transition programme conducted an election that was then adjudged to have been the best in Nigeria. Nigerian people voted massively for Chief MKO Abiola across ethnic, religious and class divide. The June 12 election marked a turning point in the political consciousness of Nigerians to live above primordial sentiments in their choice of leadership. Surprisingly IBB annulled the mandate of over 14million Nigerians without any genuine reason. This led to massive and protracted revolt by the people in Nigeria and the Diaspora for the re-validation of the mandate and the declaration of Chief MKO Abiola who was subsequently arrested and incarcerated in prison, as the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The historical task to coordinate the liberation struggle fell on Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and others in a popular front known as National Democratic Coalition (NADECO). This daring and courageous move led to the sinister

agenda to terminate the life of most of their members including Bola Tinubu. He was then forced to move outside the country to mobilise Nigerians in Diaspora and the international community to isolate the fascistic military regime that annulled the elections. It is on record that the June 12 struggle coordinated by the likes of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, Frank Kokori, Beko Ransom Kuti, Late Chief Gani Fawehimi, Late Alfred Rewane, Ndubuisi Kanu, Pa Enahoro, Mokwugo Okoye, Femi Falana, Ismail Olawale, Shina Loremikan and the civil society groups led to the exit of the military from Nigerian politics thus becoming the crucible for the birth of our current democratic experiment. The second face of the periodisation of history that shaped Bola Tinubu political thought was the period of civil rule without democracy that started in 1999 under the former President Olusegun Obasanjo. The ascendance of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu as the Governor of Lagos State in 1999 became the launching pad for the democratisation and consolidation of democratic dividend in Nigeria. The unprecedented radical political and socio-economic reforms evolved in Lagos State under Bola Tinubu laid strategic framework for the rapid development of Lagos. The provision of modern infrastructural facilities such as roads, qualitative and affordable health care with provision of medical equipment and qualified personnel revolutionalised medicare in the state, forcing patients from other states to come for advanced treatment in Lagos State teaching hospitals. Education was given deep and strategic attention while pro-active structural security was maintained in Lagos State and the crime rate became reduced to the barest minimum. He also strengthened judiciary through appointment of jurors on the basis of merit and culture of respect for the rule of law and due process, the establishment of additional local councils with subsequent vindication of the correctness of that decision by the Supreme Court of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The

victorious battle of the creation of additional local councils marked Tinubu out as an advocate of praxeology of true and genuine federalism in Nigeria and one of the cardinal solutions to the problems of the Nigerian state. He has sustained the advocacy for fiscal federalism till today. The critical appraisal of Jagaban world view reveals that Tinubu is not just a nationalist of high repute but equally a democrat to the core. The liberation perspective of Tinubu is fast taking after Kwame Nkrumah of Ghana, Chief Obafemi Awolwo of the blessed memory and the living hero Nelson Mandela. Tinubu has come to represent and encapsulate the synthesis of philosophical “consciencism” of Kwame Nkrumah; Social Democracy of Chief Obafemi Awolowo and the fighting spirit and sacrifice of Nelson Mandela in shaping the new Nigeria. Tinubu is undoubtedly the living legend of national liberation struggle for the popular restructuring of Nigerian state. In the process he has become the voice of the voiceless, the hope of the oppressed and the disadvantaged Nigerian people. He has come to occupy the enviable position thrust upon him by history, his passion for great mental latitude as propounded by late Chief Obafemi Awolowo where knowledge, intellect and scientific thought will provide the framework for governance has been demonstrated through arrays of credible intellectuals around him, his detribalised world view is rooted in Pan Africanism of Kwame Nkrumah while his ability to accommodate the social reality of Islam and Christianity as part of African experience and reality is predicated on philosophical consciencism of Nkrumah. The exemplification of skilful management of a complex and diverse society like Nigeria is marvellous. His love for the poor students, workers and underprivileged is unparalleled among his contemporaries. • To be continued. • Jimoh is a member of Lagos State House of Assembly representing Apapa Constituency 2.

Compliance with Nigeria Trade Hub Portal By Suleiman Uba NYONE who is familiar with the import and export busiA ness in Nigeria can testify to how tedious the process used to be. It could take days or even weeks to complete the process due to the various documentations importers, exporters and their agents have to do with the various regulatory agencies. The trading community had been faced with the frustrations of going from one agency to the other repeating the submission of relevant import/export documents, thereby taking longer than necessary to complete importation or exportation process in Nigeria and at higher cost. This very challenge has often been cited as a major factor encouraging smuggling in the country. Overtime, Nigerian bound cargoes have been diverted to neighbouring ports from where they are smuggled into the country. But this has now ceased to be the case as the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has developed a web-based application known as the Nigeria Trade Hub Portal, simplifying the entire process and providing information and guidance for international trade business processors in the areas of import, export and transit trade. This is part of the Services’ continuous efforts to consolidate on its modernisation process preparatory for eventual takeover from the service providers come June, 2013. Recall that the service providers’ contract was extended by the Federal Government in December, 2012, by six months, which will end by June this year. The new portal, www.nigeriatradehub.gov.ng, a non-restrictive online medium, is an intuitive and interactive platform for classifying goods. Through this portal, trade processors are enabled to find exact Harmonised System Codes (HS Codes) required for related tariffs and duties. This latest technology by the Nigeria Customs industry, analysts have said, will enhance compliance by traders and avail them the required information on tariff in areas like the prohibited items and taxes/levies due for payment upon importation. The application is also designed to touch on the aspect of trade facilitation such that trade processors can access information from all related government agencies. Guidelines and procedures for obtaining permits, licences and certificates of

specified commodity and country of origin that a trade will require for business processing are also available on the portal. The Nigeria Trade Hub portal further allows traders to convert currencies to exchange rates set by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on a monthly basis, make payments, simulate tax and access the CPC Code. The development of the portal was achieved through dedication of the Nigeria Customs Service technical partners, nominated officers of the Service as well as contributions from its other stakeholders and partners. Although led by Nigeria Customs Service to provide efficient services to the trading community, the Nigeria Trade Hub is a collaboration of agencies such as National Agency for Food, Drug Administration Control (NAFDAC), National Environmental Standards and Regulation Enforcement Agency (NESREA), Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) and the NAQS. The most interesting feature of the portal is that from the comfort of their homes or offices would be, or existing importers and exporters, both within and outside of Nigeria can access relevant information from a central point – the Nigeria Trade Hub. Items on the portal include news about the Service and industry in general, regulating agencies, guidelines and procedures, currency conversion, Customs Procedure Codes (CPC) and HS Codes amongst others. Another interesting feature is that this easy to use online application can be accessed via smart phones, PCs tablets etc., whilst on the move. Furthermore, information entered on the portal by importers or exporters can be simultaneously accessed by other regulatory agencies such as NAFDAC, NESREA, SON, Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Services (NAQS), as the platform is shared by all relevant regulatory agencies. The application will no doubt ease the frustrations of traders by intuitively guiding them via the classification tool, which presents a series of questions to the user until the right HS code for the product is found, thereby aiding compliance. This helps to eliminate the era of going from one agency to another to submit the same document, which is usually time consuming, frustrating and tedious. The user-friendly portal is designed in such a way that once

an HS Code is selected, the application automatically presents the user with the control measures of that product. For instance, if the product is regulated by NAFDAC, the application will inform the user that the particular item is a “Red Lane” item, which will be subject to inspection by the particular agency. It goes further to also highlight if the product is on the prohibition list or not. With the debut of this application, importers are now well informed about what and what are allowed or not allowed into the country. Instances where some of them feign ignorance of items on prohibition list when caught with such items and their goods seized would no longer occur. Going forward, any importer who still engages in importation of prohibited items into the country does so in outright violation of the law and would face the full weight of the law. There would be no more excuses. Apart from these significant uses, the application goes further to provide the tax and duties payable on any particular item, whilst presenting the user with the documents, that is, the named permits or certificates required for the product, the issuing agency, the processing cost as well as the duration (no of days) for processing. This empowers the trader and provides them with sound information to assist them in competing on the international market. The benefits inherent in this portal are numerous; they include non-stop online access even as it simplifies processes whilst reducing the cost and time required for compliance. Within hours, import/export documentation process, which usually took traders days or even weeks to complete, can be completed on the portal. No doubt the simplification of the process is expected to result in improved compliance level by the trading community, and with improved compliance level comes improved revenue collection for the country. Conclusively, the Nigeria Trade Hub Portal goes a long way in serving Nigeria’s international trading community who are key to the nation’s economic growth. Transparent and predictable information are readily made available to them through the portal. The application further eliminates direct human contact in the import/export chain, thereby leaving no room for engagement in corrupt practices. • Uba wrote from Abuja.

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

For The Record Environmental degradation and economic impact of oil exploration in Isokoland Being text of a piece by Matthew A. Efole, Hempstead, New York City, USA. INTRODUCTION EFORE now, any effort at opening a new vista of qualitative debates, focused on the several socio-economic and political problems and prospects in the Niger Delta region as a whole. No attempt appears to have been made to focus such debate on Isokoland with the objective of highlighting the great potential of Isokoland and the urgent developmental needs of this vital geopolitical ethnic nationality. It is conceded however, that the environmental and economic impact of oil exploration in Isokoland cannot be discussed in isolation from what obtains in the larger sphere of the Niger Delta region – one of the most richly endowed and yet one of the least developed regions in Nigeria. In its present composition, the Niger Delta covers the six states of the South-South namely; Akwa-Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross-River, Delta (in which Isokoland is situated), Edo and Rivers. This is so even though the definition given the Niger Delta by the Sir Henry Wilkins Commission Report of 1957 (three years before Nigeria’s sovereignty) is much narrower. However, the legislation on the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, in year 2000 has further extended frontiers of the Niger Delta to include Abia, Imo and Ondo States, thus making the political map of the Niger Delta to comprise nine states. The rich flora and fauna of the area have supplied the immediate source of livelihood for the people of the region for many generations. For so long, the people there lived in harmony, and there was evident balance in the ecosystem. Like the rest of the Niger Delta, wetlands and water bodies with creeks and rivers criss-crossing the entire region characterize Isokoland. The Petroleum Minister, Alison-Madueke higher-lying plains experience 5-7 months of flooding in the year, resulting from the overflow- Nigeria, it remains increasingly under threat ing waters of the lower Niger River in which from rapidly deteriorating economic and enwhole communities and farmlands are invari- vironmental conditions as well as social tenably submerged. Flooding and riverbank or sion. coastal erosion is the bane of the people. Brief history of oil exploration in Isokoland The story of oil exploration in Isokoland Isokoland, though located a little to the upland of the Niger Delta, is, no doubt, a difficult, if not started in Uzere in the 1960’s. Today, an out rightly inclement terrain. However, the re- Isokoland has about 15 flow stations and an esgion is endowed with enormous natural re- timated average daily production of 150,000 sources, as it is with the rest of the delta which has barrels of crude oil per day. Shell Petroleum the world’s third largest mangrove forest with Development Company (SDPC) is the multithe most extensive freshwater swamp forest and national oil company actively involved in the tropical rainforest characterized by great biolog- exploration and production of oil and gas in ical diversity. Alongside the immense potential Isokoland. Of course, SPDC is the largest of the for agricultural revolution, Isokoland also has multi-national oil companies in Nigeria, and vast reserves of non-renewable natural resources operates a join venture (owning 30%) with the including clay pits for burnt bricks making for Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation the construction industry, and silica sand for the (NNPC) holding 55% Elf (French) holding 10% glass manufacturing industry which have how- and Agip (Italian) holding 5%. SPDC discovered the first commercial oil field in the Niger ever, remained largely untapped. Part of a World Bank report following a visit to Delta in 1956. The first exportation of oil began the Niger Delta in 1952 and 1953, which included in 1958. The Federal government acquired 35% Isokoland, declared that the region has great of the company in 1973 and formed the basis prospects to feed the entire population of the of the joint venture operation. SPDC produces West Africa sub-region and have sufficient com- almost half of the country’s oil from over 90 modities for export. Some of the produce high- oil fields in the Niger Delta. It supplies 95% of lighted by the report includes palm oil and the country’s commercial gas. The oil-mining cassava, which are in abundance throughout lease covers 31,000 square kilometres and contains more than half of the country’s oil Isokoland. Yet, Isokoland remains pervasively poor and un- and gas reserves. There are more than 1,000 derdeveloped, lacking virtually all forms of social wells, 87 production stations, 7 gas plants, and amenities and infrastructure, including electric- two large oil terminals at Forcados and ity, potable water, medical facilities, roads, shel- Bonny. The company has two divisions based ter, etc. The area suffers a regrettable legacy of in Warri, Delta State, and Port Harcourt, Rivers hunger, high and rising rates of unemployment, State, plus an ultra-modern corporate headcommunal conflict, youth restiveness and all quarters in Lagos - a city outside of its operaforms of social insecurity; of course, a fate which tional base. Indeed, due to the perennial crisis befalls all of the Niger Delta. Like the withering in the Warri area, SPDC is moving its Western plants in autumn, the swamps and mangrove operational Headquarters from Warri to Port forests in the Niger Delta have lost their essence. Harcourt. They are dying before their time. The people of the area have continued to complain bitterly about mass poverty, hunger and disease, environmental degradation and loss of their means of livelihood. No one seems to be listening! The fact that these issues are still staring us in the face indicate general neglect of the Niger Delta, which now challenges our sense of justice and precipitates the quest for fairness. Given Isokoland’s sensitive and fragile ecosystem and, in spite of the vast resource endowment, its immense potential for socio-economic growth and its contribution to the overall development of

Isokoland is a constituent part of the largest delta in Africa and home of Nigeria’s oil industry, which contains an abundant supply of natural resources, inclusive of one of the finest oil in the world. Nigerian crude is a light blend, which makes it a popular crude throughout the world (USA especially). It is ideally suited for manufacturing into many refined products as well as for mixing in refineries with heavier crude from other countries. Nigeria’s production of oil in 2003 was in the region of 2.5 million barrels per day. The Nigeria nation-state is reputed to have earned $20trillion from oil production in the Niger Delta, since 1958. Of this amount, it is estimated that Isokoland contributed between $700billion and $900billion. In spite of this, Isokoland like the rest of Niger Delta area continues to be in an under-developed state, with the average village ‘family’ living on less than the equivalent of U$ 300 per year. Nigeria like most other less developed countries in the early part of the 70’s was engaged in intensive natural resource exploitation as a way of stimulating economic growth. It was projected by several multilateral funding organisations, such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank that export drive of primary resource materials will eventually lead to economic growth and subsequently a significant reduction in the level of poverty. The projection was that the long-term gain of such a process would set the stage for a sustained economic development. As at 1976, about 20 years after the start of oil exploration, figures available from the Federal Office of Statistics stated that oil has come to account for about 84% of the national gross domestic product (GNP) of Nigeria, 95% of the total export, and over 80% of government annual revenue. Total export peaked at two million barrels of crude oil per day with price range of $18-$22 per

There is no doubt that the Nigerian oil industry has affected the country in a variety of ways at the same time. On one hand, it has fashioned a remarkable economic landscape for the country, however on the negative side, petroleum exploration and production also have adverse effects on the environment of the host communities and the subsistence fishing and farming, which are the traditional means of livelihood of the people.

barrel. This created more opportunity for the development of new oil fields; increased granting of mining licenses and the intensive exploitation of oil mineral resources in Isokoland. The multinational oil companies made huge investments in the oil sector, which was quite technological and capital intensive. New laws were made which included the Petroleum Act of 1969 and the Land Use Act of 1978. These two legislations by the all-too-powerful central government, were primarily aimed at depriving ethnic minorities of the Niger Delta the right to control their God given resources and, also, to regulate community or open access to communal land, besides being promulgated to restrict access to such land; while at the same time making it possible for the multinational investors to have unrestricted access to explore for oil unchallenged, even on sacred land. These short-changing of the peoples rights, without basic considerations of natural justice and the fact that no nation whose laws are founded on injustice ever thrives, have led to a series of social conflicts between the communities and the State/Oil companies. Impact of oil exploration on the environment Oil ‘exploration and exploitation’ has over the last four decades had a disastrous impact on the physical environment of the oil-bearing communities in Isokoland, massively threatening the subsistence peasant economy, the environment and hence the entire livelihood and basic survival of the people. Suffice it to note that, while oil extraction has caused negative socio-economic and environmental problems in Isokoland, the Nigerian State has benefited immensely from petroleum since it was discovered in commercial quantities in 1956. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) 1981 annual report stated as follows, “Oil which was first discovered in 1956 and first exported in 1958 accounted for more than 90% of Nigerian exports by value and about 80% of government revenue as at December 31, 1981.... The overall contribution of the oil sector to the national economy also grew from an insignificant 0.1% in 1959 to 95% in 1976.” There has been no margin of difference since then in the nation’s economic index. There is no doubt that the Nigerian oil industry has affected the country in a variety of ways at the same time. On one hand, it has fashioned a remarkable economic landscape for the country, however on the negative side, petroleum exploration and production also have adverse effects on the environment of the host communities and the subsistence fishing and farming, which are the traditional means of livelihood of the people. If the oil industry in Nigeria is considered in view of its enormous contribution to foreign exchange earnings, it has achieved a remarkable success. On the other scale, when considered in respect of it’s negative impact on the socioeconomic life and the environment of the immediate oil bearing local communities and its inhabitants, it has left a balance sheet of ecological and socio-physical disaster. In Isokoland, the evil impact of the Petroleum Act of 1969 and the Land Use Act of 1978 is visible in the life of the people. Agriculture forms the most dominant economic activity of Isoko communities. As in the wider Niger Delta area, the Federal Office of Statistics (F.O.S) in 1985 stated that Crop farming and fishing activities account for about 90% of all forms of activities in the area. They also estimated that about 50%-68% of the active labour force are engaged in one form of agricultural activity or the other including fishing and farming. Agricultural technology has remained relatively unchanged over the years and over 90% of the farmers are subsistent farmers operating on traditional methods using basic tools. Farming techniques, in the various Isoko communities, still remained the use of land rotation or bush fallow system characterised by land and labour being the principal inputs of production. The organic farming technique widely used is highly susceptible to environ-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 70

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

For The Record Environmental degradation and economic impact of oil exploration in Isokoland CONTINUED FROM PAGE 69 mental changes affecting the soil, water and or deforestation because it is not technologically inspired, but rather land and labour intensive. Oil extraction and production has led to adverse environmental impact on the soil, forest and water of Isoko communities. Various harmful and toxic organic compounds when introduced into the natural environment during oil extraction such as during seismic work, oil spill, gas flares and several other forms of pollution, changes the geo-chemical composition of the soil, river and other components of the environment. This in turn affects agriculture and leads to a drastic decline in output in both fishing and farming activities. This has ultimately affected peasant agriculture in a variety of ways, which ultimately have caused problems of environmental refugees. The peasants are very reactive to these changes because of the unavailability of modern farming and fishing techniques to meet the challenges of a declining soil and marine resources. The drastic fall in output of agricultural production leads to intensive exploitation of other fertile land. The long run effect of this is land degradation and migration of peasant farmers to other rural and urban areas, where pressure is exerted on the often inadequate and dilapidated infrastructure, leading to increased poverty. Apart from degradation and of loss of farms, oil spills have led to extensive deforestation with no adequate replanting practices; this in effect has shortened fallow periods, compounded land use degradation and led to a loss of soil fertility and consequently erosion of the topsoil. The slash and burn agriculture traditionally practised by shifting cultivators in Isokoland is based on ecologically sound principles and minimises threats to the forest by leaving land fallow over periods of time long enough for regeneration. But landless peasants who have been forced from their own lands, increase the number of people pursuing such a subsistence life style, this contributes to deforestation through further encroachment on forestland and reductions in fallow times. The out-migration of displaced rural farmers in Isokoland as a result of environmental degradation caused by oil extraction in the region has led to a significant percentage of the local inhabitants to remain in cyclical poverty and penury. This has meant greater environmental degradation as a result of the intensive exploitation of the few remaining fertile land in the region by the residents. It has also led to increasing urban blight in the urban areas in Delta State as more and more displaced rural inhabitants flood the urban areas in search of non-existing jobs. Thus, some of the environmental problems associated with oil exploration and production in Isokoland could be summarised as: Contamination of streams and rivers In the course of oil exploration and production in Isokoland, various materials are released into the environment. For example during exploration, drill cuttings, drill mud and fluids are used for stimulating production. The problem of oil spill Transportation and marketing, damage to oil pipelines and accidents involving road trucks and tankers generate oil spills and hydrocarbon emissions, which have a far more reaching effect, because the toxic nature of the oil adversely affects the soil, plant, animal and water resources. Forest destruction and bio-diversity loss The major constituents of drill cuttings such as barites and bentonite clays when dumped on the ground prevent plant growth until natural processes develop new topsoil. In water, these materials disperse and sink, killing marine life. The Environmental Effect of Gas Flaring As a by-product of oil production, Nigeria flares more gas than any other country in the world. Gas flaring in Olomoro and Uzere flow stations has recorded its environmental impact on the natives and surrounding communities. It is worth putting on record that the havoc done by gas flaring to Isoko communities and its environs is unprintable. We have suffered the destruction of our vegetation, including vital

medical plants, destruction of wildlife and destruction of farm crops. Air pollution and acid rain from oil exploitation activities have inflicted on our people respiratory diseases, leading to loss of lives. Some of the environmental impact indicators of acid rain that have resulted from gas flaring are summarised below. • Plant growth is generally suppressed with reduction in agricultural productivity near flare sites thus creating localised deserts. The constant heat being emitted from the flare sites make the soil of the adjacent farmland hot. The high intensity flame at flare sites usually scares wildlife and game animals. • Deposits of Nitrogen Oxides and carbon monoxide have been identified as key pollutants stimulating extensive algal growth, which creates biodiversity loss, by killing fish and shellfish. • Long-lingering foul odour of the ponds due to low oxygen level. This type of water may be incapable of supporting marine life. • Corrosion of corrugated iron sheets used for roofing leading to short life span, destruction of foundations, etc. • Added to the huge loss of revenue is the growing environmental concern resulting from the impact of flaring and carbon dioxide emission on the global warming phenomenon and ozone depletion. Effluent Discharge and Disposal Refinery waste also contains very toxic chemicals, which constitutes potential land, water and air pollutants. Atmospheric contaminants from refinery operations in nearby Warri include oxides of nitrogen, carbon and sulphur. Liquid refinery effluents usually contain oil and grease. These compounds contain organic chemicals such as phenol cyanide, sulphidesuspended solids, chromium and biological oxygen demanding organic matter, which on getting in contact with land and water pollute them. Economic impact of oil exploration in Isokoland Arising from oil exploration also, is the gross socio-economic impact. Isoko communities have remained grossly socio-economically underdeveloped and pauperised amidst the immense oil wealth owing to systematic dis-equilibrium in the production exchange relationship between the Nigeria nation-state, the trans-national companies and the people. Enormous money had been derived from oil export but the area has been subjected to severe land degradation, socio-economic disorganisation, increasing poverty, misery, military occupation and bloody violence. Oil extraction has impacted most disastrously on the socio-physical environment of Isoko oil bearing communities, massively threatening the fragile subsistent peasant economy and bio-diversity and hence their entire social livelihood and very survival. The oil producing communities have basically remained dependent and underdeveloped, economically marginalized and psychologically alienated. The wealth derived from oil resource exploitation and exports benefit directly only the operators of the oil industry and the bureaucrats in government. Conflict between oil companies and host communities Of the two most appropriating external systems, that is, the government and the multi-national oil companies, the oil companies are in more direct and physical contact with the communities and their expropriated inhabitants. The deprived peasants currently make demand for social services from the oil companies, than they can make from the often-inaccessible Nigerian State. This has often led to conflict as the oil companies are engaged in the process of collaborating with the Nigerian regime to use violence as a means of placating the protesting communities. Persistent intra and inter-communal conflict Oil exploration and exploitation over the last four decades have also instigated and intensified bitter and bloody conflicts between emerging interest groups within and between communities. This conflict now rages between elite groups and between youth organisations on one hand, between the urban resident elite and the village community resident on the

Alison-Madueke

I am not an authority on the oil industry. Indeed no one needs to be before the full impact of the activities of oil companies on the economy and environment of the host communities are noticed. other scale. All said the conflict that has emerged in Isokoland as a result of the extraction of oil has its roots in the violation of the rights of the local community people as a result of the promulgation of obnoxious legislation and the cumulative effect of poverty among the people. The way forward The need for adequate compensation to meet the environmental challenge of developing Isokoland is indeed a great one. By no means will anybody envisage easy solutions to one single enclave like Isoko - a land that defines wealth and poverty simultaneously. However, while it is exceedingly late in many respects for certain measures to work, a lot can still be achieved if deliberate and determined steps are taken to halt the time bomb from ticking. It is therefore my opinion that the following suggestions be considered. The Federal and State Governments should cultivate the necessary political will to develop this long neglected area of the Niger Delta. This can be done in collaboration with the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). To this end I itemise hereunder, key developmental projects which should be considered: 1. Economic enablers upon which all other sectors are dependent - Road network, railways, waterways - Electricity and power - Water supply 2. Income generators for economic well being - Agriculture - Industry - Infrastructures 3. Intellectual capital (socio-political-cultural advancement) - Health - Education The draconian laws concerning oil and gas and land use should either be abrogated outright or amended to foster accelerated development. The 1999 Constitution; the Land Use Act; the Oil Mineral Acts among others exist to prevent dialogue among the various peoples of Nigeria.

For equity to reign in Nigeria, the centre should give up some of its powers to the federating units. At the moment, the centre represents injustice to millions of minorities in Nigeria especially the Isoko people. The 1999 Constitution should be amended to remove oil and gas matters from the exclusive legislative list and placed on the concurrent legislative list. This will enhance improved relations between oil and gas companies and their oil bearing host communities, which are largely manipulated and short-changed. The oil and gas companies should either alone or in partnership with the oil-producing communities in Isokoland embark upon small and medium scale industries. This will provide employment opportunities to the restive youths in Isokoland. It should be a deliberate policy of Government to offer employment to qualified indigenes of host communities, not only as operatives, but also in decision-making positions. The policy of 45% local content proposed for the industry should be faithfully implemented. The oil and gas companies should ensure the integrity of their pipelines and, in times of spillage, the best industry technology should be employed to effect remediation. Oil production is pivotal to the Nigerian economy and it will be illogical to promote and implement environmental standards that will negate the survival of the industry. However, all industrialised societies must find ways to achieve a reasonable balance between the cost of attaining zero discharge, the impact of environmental rules on economic growth, and making essential trade-offs between environmental protection, economic growth and energy resources. These three elements contain the key to the level and quality of life in Isokoland. The Federal and State governments and private investors (foreign and local) should set up industries around the commodities and raw materials obtainable in Isokoland; such as rice, palm oil, cassava, fish, sharp sand industries, etc. In addressing the environmental challenges facing Isokoland adequately, it would be advisable to start from the rural communities, which constitute over 70 % of the region’s total population, and harbours most of the oil wells. All the problems associated with oil and gas exploration ranging from environmental degradation, loss of farmland and marine life are solely borne by the rural dwellers. It is therefore necessary that basic amenities be provided for them with some degree of urgency. Conclusion Environmental degradation and the economic backwardness in Isokoland, in my candid opinion can only be addressed by a caring government whose citizens’ welfare is uppermost in its agenda. One of the biggest challenges facing Isoko people and its leaders lies in designing an appropriate political and economic framework that will ensure the protection of local communities. Isoko sons and daughters must come together and pull resources for regional development. The 13% derivation fund is considered to be a veritable source of funds for the development of Isokoland. I am convinced that a judicious utilisation of the fund, backed by unfaltering political will by all stakeholders will certainly lead to the actualisation of our developmental goals. Above all, governments of the region and special Government intervention agencies such as NDDC must rise to the challenge of providing the needed infrastructure to meet the yearnings of our people for a better life. The region’s inability to meet the real needs of the people, the frustrations arising from the insensitivity of the central government and to some extent the international community and donor institutions, as to their real predicament may be following a familiar pattern that urgently needs to be reversed. I invite all Isoko sons and daughters to deliberate on the challenges facing us as a people and help to construct a Blue Print for the development of Isokoland.

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

Sports Glo Soccer Academy ‘Dream Team’ leaves for Old Trafford

FG concessions Abuja, Lagos stadia to private managers By Christian Okpara, and Abubakar Mohammed, Abuja HE Federal Government T yesterday disclosed that plans have reached advanced stage to begin the concession of Nigeria’s two important stadiums in Lagos and Abuja. The government’s belief is that if concessioned, the stadia would become efficiently managed, as it would be put to better use, making them more functional and effective. Sports Minister, Bolaji Abdullahi, while briefing State House reporters after yesterday’s weekly Federal Executive Council (FEC) said the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) was already working out the process of the concession. He hinted the maintenance of other national stadia located in Enugu, Bauchi, Kaduna and Ibadan were to be taken over by the state governments in order to ensure that they become functional. Abdullahi disclosed that President Goodluck Jonathan has approved the request by Enugu State Government to take over the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in the city, while Bauchi’s request to take over the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium was being considered. According to him, the Federal Government would encourage Kaduna and Oyo states to also make similar requests to take over maintenance of the stadia located in the two states. The minister recently lamented the state of the federal stadia, saying e was playing on getting them to be managed by private organisations. He told The Guardian that, “it is a shame and I am embarrassed that these huge monuments of our sports

could be left to decay over the years. The question is, when the National Stadium in Abuja was constructed nine years ago, what was the maintenance plan for the facility? Is there any maintenance plan? If there was, what happened to it? “You can’t put in place this kind of infrastructure and hope that it would take care of itself. “At the time of building the stadium in the name of Nigeria 1999, what plan did we have? There wasn’t any plan on ground, that’s why we’re where we are today. Routine maintenance cannot help hence we’re talking about giving the stadiums out on concession. “We are trying to get organisations that can manage the stadiums, especially in Abuja and Lagos. “The president has set up a small committee headed by the Co-ordinating Minister for the Economy, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, to look at what we can do with some of the infrastructures.” Abdullahi explained that the Federal Government has decided to limit its funding of sports to only six critical ones. Currently, there are about 42 Sports Federation in the country. Out of the 42 Sports Federation, he said the Federal Government has decided to concentrate on the funding of six federations in the country, which included football, boxing, wrestling, athletics, shooting, and weightlifting. “Other Sports Federations would continue to work but we are not going to fund all the federations since it is not feasible. But we are still going to give support and give them equal opportunities to compete for government attention and recognition,” Abdullahi said.

S part of the mouth-waterA ing prizes for the winners in the Glo Soccer Academy, 16 successful boys of the academy, tagged: “Dream Team,” left Lagos last night for Manchester, United Kingdom. In England, the team will undergo another set of training at the prestigious Manchester United training schools in Carrington as part of the benefits attached to emerging as finalists in the maiden edition of the West African Television reality show. Officials of Manchester United, who witnessed the talent hunt in Ghana, Benin Republic and Nigeria, said they were impressed with the quality of talents discovered during the reality show. The first season of Glo Soccer Academy ended in Lagos in February, 2013. A statement from Globacom yesterday stated that the team will return to Abuja by second week in April where they will be treated to a rousing reception. They will be presented formally to the Minister of Sports, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi. Thirty-three players were selected from over 7,000 youths screened in Nigeria, Ghana and the Republic of Benin for the Glo Soccer Academy finals. 16 of them, including 10 Nigerians, four Ghanaians and two Beninoise eventually emerged at the end of the academy in February 2013. Super Eagles’ striker, Emmanuel Emenike, has returned to training after two months of injury-induced absence from the game.

begins football Emenike returns to training, as Reuben makes debut for Kilmarnock Ogun talent hunt tourney UPER Eagles’ African SEmmanuel Nations Cup hero, Emenike, who has been out injured since the semi-final of the AFCON in South Africa, has returned to training and hopes to reward his club, Spartak Moscow, with goals. Emenike told MTNFootball.com yesterday, “it is great for me to return to training after several weeks of absence. I am happy and I must thank everybody that has been supportive to see to my return. It is my pleasure to say I love them all and I will try my best to ensure I return with better form.” Emenike, who sustained a

thigh injury while representing Nigeria against Mali in the Nations Cup semifinal against Mali, said, “it has been tough for me being out of action for several weeks, while my mates were playing. I really missed the game, but I am grateful to God for the smooth progress so far.” He added, “I am getting to my best but my target is to return with better form. “The fans and mates have been waiting to see me in action and I can’t wait to start scoring for them because they have been the inspiration behind my return to full fitness so far and I will definitely pay them back with goals.”

Spartak Moscow travels to face Rostov in a Week 23 Russian league game on Saturday. It is seventh on the league table on 37 points from 22 matches with former Karabucspor of Turkey goal machine, Emenike notching five goals in 15 league games thus far this season. Meanwhile, Gabriel Reuben, who just signed for Kilmarnock was in the team’s squad for the league game against St. Mirren yesterday. The 22-year-old was most recently with Kano Pillars and was part of the Super Eagles’ squad that won the Africa Cup of Nations this year.

Obuh submits AYC report, wants early camping for U-20 World Cup From Ezeocha Nzeh, Abuja Eagles’ Chief Coach, FtedLYING John Sam Obuh has submithis report of the national

Ogun State First Lady, Olufunso Amosun (third left), with English Premiership scout, Jim Colston and some players at the ongoing UPLIFTing Under-15 Grassroots Football Talenthunt at MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta...yesterday.

Under-20 team’s performance at the African Youth Championship (AYC) to the Technical Department of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). In the report submitted by Obuh to the NFF on the team’s return from Algeria, where it finished third at the just concluded AYC, was also his programmes for the June 2013 FIFA U20 World Cup, scheduled for Turkey. Sources close to the NFF

Technical Department told The Guardian yesterday that Coach Obuh requested for early camping to give the technical crew enough time to try the new players he wants to invite to the team. The Guardian gathered that the coach has in his programme proposed that the team should resume camping on April 15 with the homebased players, while he continues to monitor the performance of some of the foreignbased players he has marked to beef up the team. The source also revealed that the NFF Technical Committee

would deliberate on the programmes and meet with the U20 technical crew on measures that would help strengthen the team for the World Cup. “We received the report on Tuesday, as soon as the team arrived from the AYC. He has also proposed April 15 as the date for the commencement of the team’s camping for the FIFA U20 championship. “Also having seen the team’s performance in the just concluded AYC, where we failed to defend the trophy we won in 2011 in South Africa, there should be new legs in some departments of the team before they depart to Turkey.

GRASSROOTS talent hunt A competition for students between the ages of 13 and 15, organised by the wife of Ogun State Governor, Olufunso Amosun, has kicked off with about 300 male players from the 20 local councils of the state. The competition, which is taking place at the MKO Abiola International Stadium, Kuto, Abeokuta, has in attendance Jim Colston, a renowned scout for the English Premiership League. Nigeria’s ex-international, Segun Odegbami and Football Ambassador, John Fashanu also witnessed the matches played yesterday by the students. The programme, tagged: UPLIFTing Under-15 Grassroots Football is designed to identify young people with flair and passion for football and to help them build their skills and expose the best among them to international soccer. According to the organisers, “for ease of selection and identification, all the 236 wards and four educational divisions in Ogun State were asked to come forward with their best players under the ages of 13 and 15. “All the players are currently training with Colston and his team and undertaking a premier league standard scouting assessment exercise at the stadium.” Colston has worked with coaches like the late Sir Bobby Robson (Newcastle United and England), Neil Lennon (Celtic FC) and Kevin Blackwell (Leeds United, Luton and Sheffield United).

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2013 ITTF Africa Junior Championship

Nigerian teams qualify for World Championships By Olalekan Okusan IDE Omotayo and Tosin JNigeria Oribamise ensured that qualified for the World Junior Championships by inspiring the boys and girls teams to the third positions at the 2013 International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF)-sanctioned African Junior Championship holding in Tunisia. Despite losing the semi-final matches to Tunisia and Algeria respectively, Omotayo and Oribamise were the saviours of the teams in the third place matches against Congo Brazzaville and Tunisia. The home team, Tunisia, was too much for the Nigerian boys in the semifinal with the team losing to the North Africans, the same thing that happened to the girls, who could not match the Algerians in their event. But the Nigerians knew that losing the third place matches would prevent them from playing at the world stage this year. So fired by this reality,

Singles events serve off today they went all out to redeem themselves in the bronze medals’ games. In the boys’ third place match against Congo Brazzaville, the quartet of Omotayo, Kehinde Awobajo, Sunday Ayodele and Babatunde Babafemi bashed the East Africans 3-1 to berth at the global championship holding in Rabat, Morocco later in the year. Like what she did during the ITTF Junior and Cadet Open, Oribamise, who is making her debut at international competition, was also on hand to salvage a victory for the country. Oribamise started the onslaught against Tunisia in the junior girls’ third place match but her efforts threatened to come to naught when Bose Odusanya lost the second game. But Ayo Udoh restored the lead with another win, only for Odusanya once again to become the Achilles heels as the game to be 2-2. In the deciding match, the

Akwa United picks six players from Eket Senator’s Cup By Tony Nwanne IGERIA Professional N Football League (NPFL) club, Akwa United has recruited six players, who participated in the just concluded 8th Senators Cup competition organised by the Eket Senatorial District Youths Sport Organisation. Senators from Eket Senatorial District, Akwa Ibom State, sponsor the competition. The six players include, Akan Imoh, Friday Mfon Uko, Edidion Uyoata, and Iniobong Jeremiah. Others are Akam Papilo and Sam Edoho, who emerged the most outstanding player of the competition.

They have been listed to join Akwa United and Akwa Starlet FC for the 2013-2014 Season. This year’s competition was sponsored by Senator Helen Esuene, who is the incumbent senator representing the zone. Briefing The Guardian, the Technical Director of the competition, Victor Udofa said the competition involved the 12 local councils that make up the Eket Senatorial District, adding that it has become an outlet for youths to showcase their talents. According to the former Bendel Insurance striker, arrangements are on to put the logistics in place to seal the deal with Akwa United.

onus fell on Oribamise to save the team and she did just that by beating the home girls to give Nigeria a 3-2 win, which automatically qualified the team for the World Junior Championship. An elated Oribamise told The Guardian yesterday that it was not an easy win for her, as she played her heart out to cement the victory. “I want to say it was not easy at all because these North Africans are no pushovers. But the grace of God was there for the team to ensure our total victory. I thank God and I am looking forward to another good outing in the singles and doubles events.”

Maritime Cup, model for other grassroots competitions, says Lagos FA chief ICE Chairman of the Lagos V State Football Association, Tade Azeez has described the ongoing Fifth Ships & Ports Maritime Cup Competition as a model other grassroots competitions should emulate. Speaking when he met with the Local Organising Committee of the competition at the association’s secretariat in Lagos, Azeez commended Ships & Ports Communications Company for the high standards of this year’s tournament. He described the competition as national in outlook, while restating the association’s commitment to partnering Ships & Ports to ensure that the competition gets the recognition it deserves from the Nigerian football community. Meanwhile, Group B of the competition appears to be the group of death as teams in the pool still have equal chances of qualifying for the quarterfinals.

Oshiomhole reaffirms construction of asphalt track for motocross bike race HE Edo State government T has reaffirmed its commitment to the construction of asphalt track for motorbike race in Evbobanosa community as a way of deepening the sport in the state. Speaking at the “Easter Motor Bike Race” organised by Motocross Naija, at the race circuit in Evbobanosa, Deputy Governor, Dr. Pius Odubu said, “I want to assure the organisers of this bike race that the Governor Adams Oshiomhole has maintained that the construction of asphalt track he promised will be fulfilled. “You know the governor is an action man, who keeps to his words and thank God the asphalt track construction is already in the budget. So when we start implementing the budget the construction will definitely commence in earnest,” Odubu told journalists. He has also called for individuals and corporate firms to partner with the state government in its bid to deepen the sport and expand the tourism frontiers of the state. He, however, used the oppor-

tunity to call on individuals and corporate organisations to take advantage of the tourism potentials that abound to invest in the state to key into the dream with a view to developing sports. This development the governor said will also help to appreciate the efforts of the initiator of the motor bike sports, Comrade Oduagbon Okao, who is also the president of Motocross Naija. At the end of the event, Jerry Omigie of D-Brown Racing Club snatched the first position in a time of 0:25:08m as John Obasogie, of Sniper Racing Club, came second in a time of 0:25:18m. Omoruyi Onyeka of Metallic Horse Racing Club could not maintain the first position he won in the December race as he settled for the third spot with a time of 0:25:44m. A total of 15 riders from five racing clubs–D-Brown, Sniper, Metallic Horse, Core and Pathways racing contested for the 10 laps race, which now comes up on quarterly bases as against the monthly race. Dignitaries at the occasion include the Enogie of

Evbobanosa Dukedom, Prince G. Iduorobo Akenzua, former Nigeria Premier League (NPL) Board Chairman, Chief Oyuki Jackson Obaseki among others.

Super Eagles’ defender, Juwon Oshaniwa, is one of the Sharks’ players alleged to have been wrongfully transferred.

Why I am worried by events in Sharks, says Wite By Christian Okpara HARKS Football Club’s forSWite, mer Secretary, Cyril Dum who has been accused of fighting the management of the team because he wants to remain relevant in its scheme of things, has denied the allegations. Rather, he says he is disturbed by the latest events in the club, which he served in various capacities for over nine years. On Monday, the club through its Media Officer, Peter Agbaje, described Wite as one of the people against the changes in the club because they want to maintain the status quo, which never bode well for the side. It also alleged that Wite did

nothing to correct the anomalies in the club, including the situation, where more than 90 per cent of the players were loaned from other clubs even when the team paid them sign-on fees. Yesterday, Wite said he was only perturbed because the Rivers State Sports Commissioner, Fred Igwe was toeing a path that would retard the growth of the club. According to Wite, “following a copious identification of problems that had prevented Sharks from winning any trophy of note in over three decades, the then Rivers State Ministry of Sports headed by Boma Iyaye accepted and enforced the recommendation that the task of running the team be vested in the head

Edo State Deputy Governor, Dr. Pius Odubu (left); congratulates winner of the Easter Race Day, Jerry Omigie, who is flanked by first runner up, John Obasogie (right), and second runner up, Omoruyi Onyeka.

coach. This led to the title, technical manager, who was assisted by a crack management team. “This decision, quickly (in two years) almost yielded the FA Cup but for football politics. However, the team won the West African Football Union (WAFU) Cup a year later in 2010. “Rather than build on that success, the present Sports Commissioner, Barrister Fred Igwe, in the name of “restructuring” dismantled the proven management team that had been successful.” He alleged that from 2011 till date, the club has sacked three technical advisers, John Obuh, Imama Amapakabo and Austin Eguavoen for reasons other than professional competence, adding that the commissioner has introduced ethnic sentiments into the administration of the club with his kinsmen brought in to occupy sensitive positions without cognate experience. On the allegation that the former managers wrongfully transferred Juwon Oshaniwa to an Israeli club, Wite alleged, “the sports commissioner has refused to heed to repeated professional advice that Juwon, who played for Sharks FC on loan, cannot yield mega dollars to Sharks beyond training compensation fees.” He also alleged that instead of using the proceeds from the transfer of Aaron Samuel to a Norwegian club to sort out some of Sharks’ problems, “the club’s General Manager, Okey Kpalukwu prefers to hire buses on every away trip of the team (for about three seasons now).”

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

SPORTS 73

Serena in winning start at Family Circle Cup EFENDING champion, D Serena Williams got her Family Circle Cup campaign off to a winning start as she saw off Italian Camila Giorgi without any fuss. The world number one was a 6-2 6-3 victor in round two, having received a first-round bye at the clay-court tournament in Charleston. Williams is seeking her third title of the year this week, having claimed the second in Miami on Saturday when she beat Maria Sharapova in the final. Last year Williams had 17 straight wins on clay, taking into account Fed Cup action, before losing in the Rome semi-finals to Li Na and following that with a flummoxing first-round defeat to Virginie Razzano at Roland Garros. She has only one French Open singles title, from 2002, but is determined to play herself into unbeatable form on clay before heading to Paris next month. Her opener in Charleston was a fair start, but Williams said, “it definitely wasn’t great for me - I played well, but I wasn’t great, footing-wise.” According to the WTA website, Williams added, “I was just trying to get my stability. I only had one or two days of practice. But I felt good - I’m glad I came here and hope I can get ready for what can hopefully be another good clay court season.” The surprise of the day came in the all-American clash between Bethanie MattekSands and Sloane Stephens.

Stephens, the fourth seed, beat Williams in the Australian Open earlier this year but has struggled for consistent form since and was comprehensively beaten, 6-2 6-0, by world number 113 Mattek-Sands. Eleventh seed Sorana Cirstea of Romania was handed a free place in the third round when her Spanish opponent Anabel Medina Garrigues pulled out of their scheduled match with a knee injury. Number 12 Varvara Lepchenko was a 6-1 4-6 6-1 winner, the American dominant at each end of her tussle against French player Mathilde Johansson. Spanish seventh seed Carla Suarez Navarro bowed out 6-2 6-4 at the hands of Swiss Stefanie Voegele, and German eighth seed Mona Barthel also saw her hopes ended early, slumping to a 7-6 (7/4) 6-1 setback against 19-year-old American Jessica Pegula. While the second round began, there were still firstround matches to play on day two. Jelena Jankovic was pushed by American Melanie Oudin in their match but the Serbian ninth seed eventually edged it 6-4 5-7 6-4, while German Sabine Lisicki won in an entirely different manner, racing to a 6-0 6-0 victory over Georgian Anna Tatishvili. Other first-round winners included New Zealand’s Marina Erakovic, who ousted Daniela Hantuchova, and German 10th seed Julia Georges, who saw off Kazakhstan’s Yulia Putintseva.

Serena Williams plays a backhand against Agnieszka Radwanska of Poland, during their semi final match at the Sony Open at Crandon Park Tennis Center in Key Biscayne, Florida last week. PHOTO: AFP

Fired-up Bresnan eyes return to action

Pacquiao may face Marquez again NGLAND bowling all-round“We will talk about the oppo- Eer Tim Bresnan has conORMER Seven-weight World he will make a return to FChampion, Manny Pacquiao nent and the place after May13 firmed action in a fortnight’s time folplans to fight again in elections,” said Rose Tamayo. September, but not in the United States because of tax reasons. A spokesperson for the boxer said negotiations are ongoing for a rematch with Juan Manuel Marquez, who knocked out Pacquiao in December. Singapore, Macau and Dubai are possible venues for Pacquiao’s next outing. Pacquiao, 34, is running for re-election as a congressman in next month’s Philippines midterm elections.

Last June, Pacquiao lost his WBO welterweight crown to American Timothy Bradley on a controversial decision before being knocked out in spectacular fashion by Marquez. The defeats prompted calls for him to retire, but Pacquiao has consistently signalled his intention to keep on fighting. Marquez would be the obvious opponent for his September comeback, with Pacquiao leading their fourfight series 2-1, with one fight drawn.

lowing an injury-enforced layoff. The 28-year-old, yesterday named in a 30-man England Performance Squad for the 2013 summer international season, underwent an operation on his troublesome right elbow in February and subsequently missed the tour of New Zealand. However, despite facing a race against time to be fit for the new domestic campaign, the Yorkshireman’s rehabilitation has been a success and he is

penciled in to play in the threeday friendly against Roses rivals Lancashire at Headingley, which starts on April 16. Speaking at the club’s media day, Bresnan said, “that’s what we are targeting, myself and the England physio and medical team. It would be wise to go into a friendly first up, just in case. “I’m hoping to be fully fit and take a full part in that game and all the other games after

painkillers to get you off to sleep with it. You are kind of sat down for two weeks really. “I’ve done quite a bit (of bowling), starting off just into a crash mat at Bisham Abbey and ever since I got back from there I have been bowling pretty much three times a week at the boys in the nets. “There has been no reaction whatsoever. We are building it up. It’s probably 80 per cent now off a three-quarter run. It feels good, it feels better than it did before I had the operation.”

Airtel, Samsung partner to support grassroots soccer tournament HARTI Airtel, a leading B telecommunications services provider with operations

Manny Pacquiao (left); fights with Juan Manuel Marquez during their last bout in June 2012

that until hopefully England come calling.” Bresnan, whose last appearance was in a one-day international victory over India in January, is delighted to be back bowling after a tough rehabilitation period. “I had 10 days, 10 hours a day and then all night on a machine called Continuous Passive Motion,” he explained. “It’s not a lot of fun. You can sleep with it, just about. “They give you some decent

in 20 countries across Asia and Africa and Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd, a global leader in technology today announced a partnership to support the largest under 17 grassroots tournament on the African continent. Under the multi-million dollar agreement, Samsung will also become the Official Device Partner of the Airtel Rising Stars (ARS) tournament. Working with various educational institutions in 17 English and French speaking countries, the youth soccer initiative involves over 18,000 teams and more than 400,000 young boys and girls across the continent.

The initiative recorded 65 per cent growth in participation in 2012 and looks set to grow even larger. It is also supported by two of the biggest soccer clubs in the world, Arsenal FC and Manchester United and aims to identify and nurture future talent in Africa. Airtel has sponsorship agreements in place with Manchester United and Arsenal to develop emerging soccer talent in Africa and utilise their globally recognisable brand assets to enhance youth related commercial activity. ARS has established itself as a strong feeder programme for National teams’ coaches on the continent and a good number of the ARS alumni have been absorbed into Africa Premier League Clubs, as well as, into their

country’s national teams. George Ferreira, vice president and COO of Samsung Electronics, Africa says, “Africa is the world’s youngest continent. The proportion of youth in the region is higher than on any other continent. According to World Bank estimates, 60 per cent of Africa’s population of more than 1 billion people are youth. “And it keeps growing rapidly. The number of young people in Africa is forecast to double by 2045. Our youth have the potential to be a great impetus for Africa’s development, provided that an appropriate investment in human capital is made. This investment will help spotlight Africa’s potential, and we are proud to be associated with such development.”

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European Round-Off

Draw still a good result for Barcelona, says Alves • Messi doubtful for second leg against PSG ANI Alves has voiced his D satisfaction with Barcelona’s 2-2 Champions League draw against Paris Saint-Germain, even though he has admitted they were hoping for a victory after going 2-1 up late in the second half. The Blaugrana had to settle for a draw in the first-leg of the quarter-final tie following Blaise Matuidi’s stoppagetime equaliser, but the Brazilian full-back remained upbeat after the game. “The way the game unfolded, we could have hoped for a better result. This is still a good result for us, though, especially, as we were playing away from home,” Alves told Uefa.com. “At this stage of the competition, all the teams are very strong, so we were expecting a tough game. PSG have top quality players and they showed that.” The Brazil international then went on to discuss the injuries Lionel Messi and Javier Mascherano picked up against PSG, and stated the Argentine duo will be sorely missed. “That’s the one negative,” he said. Both Leo and Javier are playing very good football at the moment and they’re very important to us. “I hope that Messi’s injury isn’t too serious and he can play in the second leg at Camp Nou. But if that’s not possible we have to count on other players and try to get through to the next stage.” Mascherano will be out of action for up to six weeks with a knee problem, while Messi’s length of absence with a hamstring problem is yet to be determined. Messi has since undergone tests on the problem, and the club have confirmed he has a problem with his right femoral bicep, ruling him out of Saturday’s Liga match with Mallorca and leaving his participation against PSG in doubt. “Tests have confirmed that Leo Messi has a muscle injury in the femoral bicep of his

right leg,” a club statement read. “He is out for the Liga match on Saturday, and his rate of recovery will determine his availability for subsequent commitments.” The player himself moved to assure fans that the injury was not serious, and wished team-

mate Javier Mascherano a speedy recovery from his own knee problem. “I will return soon, thankfully it was not so serious,” he said on his Facebook page. “We feel very sorry for Masche (Mascherano) and wish him strength so that he can return quickly.”

Kroos’ injury, a blessing to me, says Robben AYERN Munich winger, B Arjen Robben hopes that the injury suffered by teammate, Tony Kroos in his side’s 2-0 win over Juventus will allow him more first-team football. Robben replaced Kroos in the first half of the clash at the Allianz Arena after the Germany international suffered a hip injury, and the Netherlands winger admits he now hopes to feature more prominently in the starting line-up after the frustration of being left on the bench. “It does not look so good for Kroos, but then that is better for me. It happens in football,” Robben told NOS. “I was sick that I had to start on the bench. On Saturday I played a great game (in the 92 victory over Hamburg) and I wanted to continue that form, but the coach decided otherwise. I ended up playing tonight so I have to be happy.” Despite Bayern’s dominant victory over the Old Lady, Robben insists the tie remains far from over, and

pointed to a number of missed chances that could possibly come back to haunt the Bavarians. “Of course it is far from over, but we have made a great step towards the semi-finals,” he

added. “We have had opportunities to expand the score, but the important thing is that we have given our all and kept a clean sheet.”

Neuer claims early goal shocked Juventus AYERN Munich goalkeeper, B Manuel Neuer believes David Alaba’s early opening goal in Tuesday’s 2-0 win over Juventus left the Bianconeri shocked. Alaba beat Gianluigi Buffon early on with a deflected longrange strike, before Thomas Muller made it two after the break to help Bayern to a crucial win in the first-leg of the Champions League quarterfinal tie. “I wasn’t expecting us to score such an early goal and I doubt Juve did either. It was a bit of a shock for them but obviously good for us,” Neuer was quoted as saying on the official UEFA website.

“Buffon is a superb goalkeeper and if you look at the flight of the ball, it was a really difficult one for him. I know how David shoots – they’re dangerous balls to deal with. “You can’t afford to make any mistakes in the Champions League. You could see from the start that we were trying to keep hold of the ball in our build-up play, making sure every pass arrived at its destination. “We didn’t want to risk opening ourselves up to any counterattacks, or to allow them any chances, and I think we managed to do that very well.” The return leg in Turin takes

Alves

Beckenbauer jests about Buffon’s ‘pensioner’ looks RANZ Beckenbauer has Fkeeper, joked that Juventus goalGianluigi Buffon “looked like a pensioner” during Bayern Munich’s 2-0 Champions League success over the Italian champions on Tuesday. The Bianconeri skipper was at fault for both goals, failing to change direction in time to keep out a slightly deflected strike from David Alaba, before spilling a tame Luiz Gustavo shot at the feet of Mario Mandzukic, who immediately teed Thomas Muller up for a tap-in.

Beckenbauer was particularly shocked by the way in which the 35-year-old Buffon was beaten all ends up by Bayern’s opener. “Buffon looked like a pensioner,” the Bavarians’ honorary president told reporters after the game, according to the Gazzetta dello Sport. “I don’t want to upset you, but he should have saved that shot. Maybe, he was not expecting Alaba to strike it from there, Alaba shot from 120 metres!” Buffon and his colleagues will now desperately be hoping to make amends in next week’s return leg in Turin.

Drogba

Drogba could return to Chelsea if Mourinho is appointed manager IDIER Drogba has D revealed he may be tempted by a return to

Buffon

Chelsea if Jose Mourinho was to make the move back to Stamford Bridge. The 35-year-old feels that both he and Mourinho have unfinished business in west London. Mourinho has been linked with a return to his former club in the past months, and Drogba believes the 50-yearold could help turn the club’s fortunes around. “I think for the club it is the best solution to bring Jose back,” Drogba told The Guardian of London. “The fans want him back. He loves Chelsea. “Because you want to rebuild a team and to give them the strength we had a few years ago, he could be the right person. “He is a winner and is close

to the players. He went to Inter and is at Real Madrid but (he) is still talking about Chelsea, so he loves this club. “I don’t think he has got over Chelsea and they haven’t got over him. When he came he brought success, we won league titles back to back with

some great football and the only thing he didn’t win was the Champions League. “Maybe that is one of the reasons why he might want to come back. It is unfinished business. “(A return to Chelsea) would be nice, not just coaching but

to help the club. For this club I gave everything and of course they gave it back to me. I feel at home when I go to London. When I go to Chelsea’s training ground I feel like I can walk around with my eyes closed and know where I am going.”

…I think Mourinho will stay with Real Madrid, says Alonso ABI Alonso is hopeful that X Head Coach, Jose Mourinho will not leave Real Madrid in the summer. The former Inter boss is continually being linked with a move away from the Santiago Bernabeu, with the Portuguese stating more than once that he has set his sights on a return to the

Premier League at some point in the future. Nevertheless, Alonso thinks that the 50-year-old will stay put for the foreseeable future. “I know he loves the Premier League and its atmosphere, and the way the game is played in England. He will go back to England

one day, he said so himself. But I believe and hope that he is with us next season,” the Spain international told The Times of India. “He is a very good manager. The way he transmits his ideas, communicates with players is different. He understands his players and you want to win for him.”

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THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

English Premiership

Drogba tips Mourinho for Chelsea’s job IDIER Drogba believes Jose D Mourinho’s passion for Chelsea could mean he returns for a second spell in charge at Stamford Bridge this summer. Former Chelsea striker, Didier Drogba, who is set to line up for Galatasaray against Mourinho’s Real Madrid tonight in the Champions League, suspects the Portuguese manager has “unfinished business” with the Blues. And the Ivory Coast frontman, who converted the clinching spot-kick in last sea-

son’s Champions League final penalty shoot-out, claims Mourinho returning to west London would be an arrangement that suits everyone. Drogba, quoted in several newspapers, said, “I think for the club it is the best solution to bring Jose back. “The fans want him back. He loves Chelsea. Because you want to rebuild a team and to give them the strength we had a few years ago, he could be the right person. “He is a winner and is close to the players. He went to Inter and is at Real Madrid but is

still talking about Chelsea, so he loves this club.” Mourinho had three years in charge at Chelsea in his first spell and has been strongly linked with a second stint in charge once interim boss Rafael Benitez departs in the summer. Mourinho had success with Inter Milan and Real Madrid since leaving the Premier League, but Drogba said, “I don’t think he has got over Chelsea and they haven’t got over him. “When he came he brought success, we won league titles

back to back with some great football and the only thing he didn’t win was the Champions League. Maybe that is one of the reasons why he might want to come back. It is unfinished business.” Drogba, 35, may also be interested in joining Mourinho at Chelsea in some capacity, should club owner, Roman Abramovich pursue a deal for the manager. Drogba, who was among Mourinho’s first signings at Chelsea in 2004, said, “let me finish at Galatasaray first and then we will talk about that.” He signed an 18-month deal with the Turkish side in January.

Lambert confident Villa can escape relegation battle STON Villa Coach, Paul A Lambert remains confident that his young side can

Mourinho

I do not support facism, says Di Canio AOLO Di Canio responded P to fresh criticism over his appointment as Sunderland manager by insisting he is not a racist and “does not support the ideology of fascism.” The dean of Durham has become the latest public figure to voice disquiet over Di Canio’s appointment. The club responded by issuing a statement from Di Canio, which stated, “I have clearly stated that I do not wish to

speak about matters other than football, however, I have been deeply hurt by the attacks on the football club. “This is a historic, proud and ethical club and to read and hear some of the vicious and personal accusations is painful. I am an honest man, my values and principles come from my family and my upbringing. “I feel that I should not have to continually justify myself

to people who do not understand this, however I will say one thing only - I am not the man that some people like to portray. “I am not political, I do not affiliate myself to any organisation, I am not a racist and I do not support the ideology of fascism. I respect everyone. “I am a football man and this and my family are my focus. Now I will speak only of football.”

stave off relegation and remain in the Premier League. The Villans currently sit in 18th place, level on points with Wigan, but are in the drop zone due to their inferior goal difference, which is the worst in the league. But the Birmingham-based club’s chances of survival have been boosted by the poor form of the clubs around them, leaving Villa a mere four points off 12th place. Having battled for most of the season, Lambert now believes his side, are well equipped for the scrap, while those teams, who have recently been sucked into the battle are less prepared. “Every team in the bottom half of the table is in a battle now,” Lambert told reporters. “We are four points off twelfth and for much of the season we have been accustomed to this situation. We’ve been living through it and we’ve dealt with the pressures it brings.” He added, “suddenly, there are other teams that have been pulled into it, teams, who haven’t had to get their heads around it and we’ll see now what happens. The important thing for us is that we don’t get caught up in it all, that we continue to focus on our games, on our jobs and that’s what we’ll do.”

Benitez targets move to big club HELSEA interim Manager, C Rafael Benitez hopes to be employed by a leading club next season but first plans to satisfy his thirst for silverware at Stamford Bridge. The Blues on Monday beat Manchester United to advance to the FA Cup semifinals and play Rubin Kazan in the first leg of their Europa League quarter-final in their third of six games in 16 days. Benitez’s appointment in November until the end of the season was prompted by the Champions League winners’ group-stage elimination from the same tournament and a top-four Premier League place is imperative to return to the competition next term. The Spaniard, an unpopular appointment due to his prior association with Liverpool, declined to look too far beyond winning the next game, but felt compelled to comment on his own future. Benitez, who revealed in February he will be leaving at the end of his spell in May, said, “if we can achieve trophies and finish in the top three, fantastic. Everybody will be happy. That is my aim at the moment.” As for his own future, he added, “I like to win, to challenge for trophies. I would like to stay in a top-side. A top

side, why not in England?” There has been constant speculation on a permanent Chelsea boss since Roberto Di Matteo’s departure and Benitez’s temporary appointment, with former boss, Jose Mourinho, now at Real Madrid, continually linked. Benitez’s designs on the permanent position could be shaped by the fans’ views, although their stance evident in vitriolic chanting from the stands is apparently softening following his plea to back the team after the win at Middlesbrough. But he remains the subject for repeated criticism, with Ray Wilkins the latest to comment on Benitez’s team selection. Ashley Cole suffered a hamstring injury against Manchester United on Monday and former Chelsea captain, assistant boss and caretaker Coach, Wilkins believes the left-back would not have done so had he played against Southampton two days earlier. Benitez dismissed the ‘April Fools’ Day’ comments from Wilkins. He said, “April 1. You cannot take the comment seriously. It was April 1. “I have a degree in sports science from Spain. It’s the first time ever I’ve heard something like this. April 1.”

Tevez to serve 250 hours community service ANCHESTER City striker, M Carlos Tevez was ordered to do 250 hours of community service, banned from driving for six months, and told to pay £1,145 in court costs and fines after admitting motoring offences. Tevez, 29, was told he is a role model to millions but nobody is above the law after the footballer admitted driving while disqualified and without insurance when he appeared at Macclesfield Magistrates’ Court in Cheshire on Wednesday. The £200,000-a-week Argentina international was caught by Police, after an anonymous tip-off, leaving a Cheshire golf club behind the wheel of a Porsche Cayenne while serving a road ban on March 7. Passing sentence, Chair of the bench, Elizabeth Depares told the defendant, “Mr. Tevez, you must realise you are a role model to thousands, if not

millions, of fans but nobody is above the law. You should not have been driving. “We have heard that you are sorry and it is now up to you to ensure you will not be brought back to court again.” Tevez listened to proceedings from the dock with the aid of an interpreter, translating into his native Spanish. Ms Depares said that for driving whilst disqualified Tevez must do 250 hours community service within the next 12 months and he would be banned from the road for six months, starting from today. For having no insurance, he was fined £1,000 and ordered to pay £85 court costs and a victim surcharge of £60. The court heard Tevez had suffered a “frightening” experience and a “salutary lesson” after being taken into custody and arrested by police. Earlier JPs had adjourned

the case while Tevez spoke to a probation officer about his offence and sentencing options. After the discussion, Mike Boliver, the Probation Service

Tevez

officer, told the bench Tevez had no previous convictions so rehabilitation was not appropriate and neither was a curfew order because of the travel involved with his job.

Benitez

Table Table Team Man Utd Man City Tottenham Chelsea Arsenal Everton Liverpool31 West Brom Swansea Fulham West Ham Southampton Stoke Norwich Newcastle Sunderland Wigan Aston Villa QPR Reading

P 30 30 31 30 30 30 19 31 31 30 30 31 31 31 31 31 30 31 31 31

GD 39 29 15 27 26 12 48 0 1 -3 -9 -9 -9 -19 -15 -10 -20 -26 -23 -25

Pts 77 62 57 55 53 51 44 40 39 36 34 34 34 33 31 30 30 23 23

76 SPORTS

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

African junior champion, Edoki, aims for world crown Fabian Edoki of Air Force Secondary School, Calabar, outshone his peers to win the triple jump gold medal for Nigeria at the just concluded Warri 2013 African Youth Athletics Championship (AYAC). The 15-year-old lad, who dreams of becoming one of Nigeria’s greatest athletes, spoke to GOWON AKPODONOR at the Warri Township Stadium on the closing day of the competition about his sojourn in athletics and his expectations in the sport. Excerpts: OU won the triple jump event of the competition, how does it Y at the First African Youths make you feel? Athletics Championship, how I am grateful for what God, He do you feel? I am very excited. Before I came for this competition, I had issues with my state because I went for an under-18 championship, which they did not approve. So, they tried to stop me from coming to the national camp, but the people in camp told me to go and apologise to them. I went back to Calabar to apologise and they allowed me to come back to the camp. Because of the hassles, I really didn’t have the time to train, but I prayed to God to help me and make me a success and that He did for me. Now, I have done what I never did before in my life. So am happy and excited for my feat. What was your jump? My personal best for the competition was 15.8 metres and my personal best before the competition was 14.6 metres. What gave you the extra motivation to jump that far? The extra motivation was the way my state treated me, so I made up my mind that I have to be the best in my jump to let them know I am capable of doing well in my career. You have the inaugural record

has done for me What was the impact of your coach in your jump? What was it that he did to make you come out better than others? The two weeks I spent with him training really helped me to improve in my techniques. The training programme was different from what I was doing in my state and during the competition he was there for me telling me I could do well and that I could be better. A night before the event, he was with me showing me how I could surpass my previous efforts. He said I could hit 15 metres if I remained focused and I am glad I did not disappoint him. Now, let us look at your career, how did you come into athletics? I was jumping in my secondary school when my dad saw I was doing well in high jump, and he took me to the state coach in Calabar for advanced training. But I was not comfortable with high jump and I was doing well in triple jump. So, I decided to leave high jump and concentrate on the triple jump. My big major competition was the National Sports Festival in Lagos

and I came fifth. It was the biggest event for me and I achieved my personal best there. Where you disappointed that you came fifth? I was happy. I was at the sports festival in Lagos and it gave me great joy that I participated because I was just 14 years old then. It was a wonderful experience for me, and I know that when I attend the next festival I will be among the top three even with the foreign-based athletes now eligible to participate in it. You have talked about Tosin Oke, the current African champion, who is also the Commonwealth champion. What do you see in him that motivates you? He is a very good jumper. I like the way he jumps, but there is someone I look up to. He is the world record holder from America, Taylor. He is everything I look for in a triple jumper. I always watch his video clips every night before I go to bed. As for Tosin Oke, I am not his big fan, I don’t like his way but for Taylor I see myself in the shape of Taylor. So I want to be like him and will like to end up as the best in the world. Who are the pillars behind you rise in the sport? First is my father, who gives me money to go out for competitions. He is responsible for my career, he gave me money to attend the last sports festival in Lagos because my state never wanted me to go for it. The second person is my coach in the U.S.A, Coach Charlton Ehizuelem, whose advice and financial support has helped me a lot. Is he aware that you have won gold for you’re the country?

Edoki Fabian Ime won the triple jump gold medal at the just concluded Warri 2013 African Youths Athletics Championship. Before I went for the games he champion, how would you cope informed you to do that? On the last day of last year, called me and encouraged me with your new status back in December 31, my pastor said because he knew I could do well. school? Managing my success will not 2013 would be the year of overI am not sure he knows what I have achieved here, but I am be a problem for me because I flow and I have held on to that aware he would be glad when am not new to it. When I finish prophecy. When I went home I he knows what I have achieved with my WAEC, it would be easi- wrote my name boldly on a er for me to concentrate on my paper that this year I would be in this competition. How have you been able to com- career. And once I am in the uni- the African Champion. I bine education and sport in the versity I will have more time for placed the paper in front of my television so that every time I my training, so I will be fine. Calabar academy? It has been very difficult for How do you rate this competi- watch my television I saw it. When I was in camp for the me, but it is something I just tion? have to do. My school is Air Force I think the competition is good school sports festival, I saw on Secondary School. The school because it has given us the the Internet about this compeauthority has its own pro- opportunity to showcase our tal- tition and I remembered my grammes, which sometimes are ent. It has also exposed more tal- dream of the African champidifferent from mine. So, if any ents to the coaches so the coun- onship, so I started training for time I came back very late, I try try is also the winner. I know that it. Now, having conquered this to adjust to the school’s system. when I go to Burkina Faso I I usually go for light training in would be the best because then I competition, my next step is to be the African junior champischool, except for Saturday and would be on top of my game. You said you wrote something on and one of the best jumpers holidays. Now that you are an African in front of your television, what in the world.

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, April 4, 2013

TheGuardian

Thursday, April 4, 2013

Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

By Emmanuel Onwubiko URING the last Christmas period, most of us staying in the urban areas such as Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt and foreign territories did make the annual ritual of mass return to the South Eastern region to spend time with loved ones and also attend to the multidimensional development-focused village meetings convoked by the elders-incouncil. As far as I am concerned, I make it a religious, cultural and traditional obligation to always travel to Arondizuogu in Imo State to touch base with my people and join other progressive-minded citizens to brainstorm on how to move our home town forward from the perpetual poverty infested terrain dominated by absolute lack of social infrastructure to a 21st century human habitation. After embarking on this yearly pilgrimage to Arondizuogu for over 20 years, I have come to accept the fact that unless the entire suffering populace in Nigeria team up to say no to the evil status quo of gross underdevelopment and monumental heist of the nation’s Commonwealth by the few elite that are less than a percentage, then we will continue to dwell in poverty, mass unemployment, unprecedented corruption and what corruption breeds such as terrorism, political instability and violence/insecurity. Over the years we have carefully followed developments regarding the nationally shared allocations that go to the different federating units. Often the rural dwellers who are basically peasant farmers are neglected to a point that basic social amenities such as roads, electricity, good and workable health care infrastructure and even markets to display and sell their farm produce are not available. Because of the poor state of infrastructure, the rural farmers are left at the mercy of middlemen who buy off their produce at give-away prices thereby perpetuating the poverty cycle in which these farmers are trapped. Again, the rural poor have no access to medicare and the high cost of transportation and health care services in nearby urban cities are way out of their reach and many die before any help can reach them. Like most people who took time to travel to their village homes for the 2012 Christmas season, I witnessed firsthand, the stark reality of the majority of my rural people living in squalor and I also witnessed the absence of any kind of local or state government presence. The local bridges constructed by the people through communal efforts are collapsing for lack of maintenance. Therefore, a rational reflection of the situation of massive poverty under which most Nigerians live even with the statistical evidence that Nigeria is resource rich, will only take the thinker to one logical conclusion - corruption is same as terrorism. Transparency International best defines corruption as the abuse of entrusted power for private gains. Terrorism is generally seen as the use of violence and intimidation in the pursuit of political aims. Wikipedia the online encyclopedia states that terrorism has been practised by a broad array of political organisations including the ruling elite to further their political objectives. Away from semantics, we must realise that it is because of large scale theft of public fund for decades which has intensified in recent years that has made poverty and lack of development to become the cancerous afflictions that have led to the untimely demise of scores of citizens. It is because of corruption by the ruling elite that security infrastructures have collapsed making it inevitable that armed non-state actors have being terrorising the civil populace without the properly and constitutionally constituted armed forces and security agents effectively rising to the occasion to defeat the unprecedented insecurity across the country. Corruption and the diversion of public funds is responsible for the institutional rot in the police which has changed this otherwise strategic public institution to the shameful position as one of the most undisciplined, and most professionally illprepared policing institutions in the world. It is because of corruption and economic crimes that made foreign security experts to dismiss the Nigeria Armed Forces as

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Corruption as terrorism

Mohammed Abubakar, Inspector-General of Police (IGP)

Ibrahim Larmode, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) chairman

institutions whereby the members are poorly trained, poorly equipped and grossly undisciplined. The Army too has not been spared in the searchlight. On Monday, November 5, 2012, The Guardian of United Kingdom published a story titled: “Nigerian army’s Mali Mission stalls amid doubt it can fight”. The doubts on the fighting capacity of the Nigerian army emerged amid the effort by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to deploy military operatives from member nations to confront the fighters of the Angor Dine, the largest of the Islamist groups that at that time controlled northern Mali. These doubts compelled the leadership of the sub-regional body to appeal to France to rout the terrorists that held sway in most parts of northern Mali making use of the firepower in their arsenal. The Guardian of United Kingdom had reported about the Nigerian army thus, “The shocking state of the Nigerian army has delayed plans for a military intervention in Mali, amid reports that it lacks the capability to fight on the frontline”. According to the report, which was roundly repudiated and condemned by the Nigeria’s military authority, The Guardian of United Kingdom also found out that operatives of the Nigeria army are bereft of training and are deficient in the modern fighting weapons. “The Nigerian Forces lack training and kit, so they simply don’t have the capacity to carry out even basic military maneuvers. They have poor discipline and support.

They are more likely to play a behind-thescenes role in logistics and providing security”, The Guardian of UK reported quoting competent sources. Now the question to be asked is what has happened to the huge budgetary releases to the Nigerian defence sector since 1999 when democracy returned? Why have the Nigerian Custom Service, the Nigerian Immigration and the armed forces unable to stop the incursions of armed bandits from the neighbouring countries to launch vicious terrorism attacks in parts of the North of Nigeria? Corruption and outright theft of the huge public fund must have been responsible, if you ask me. The British Prime Minister, Mr. David Cameron only recently at the World Economic Summit in Davos, Switzerland, lambasted the government for not accounting for the over $100 billion USD that Nigeria generated from export of crude oil in only 2012. About the same time, Nigeria’s former Education minister and immediate past Vice President of the World Bank, Mrs. Oby Ezekwesili accused the late Yar’Adua and the current Jonathan federal administration of misappropriation of over $64 billion USD that the President Obasanjo administration handed over on May 2007. Cameron had told the world: “A few years back a transparency initiative exposed a huge hole in Nigeria’s finances, an eight hundred million dollar discrepancy between what companies were paying and what government was receiving for oil—a

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massive, massive gap. The discovery of this is leading to new regulation of Nigeria’s oil sector so the richness of the earth can actually help to enrich the people of that country”. The British Prime Minister then made a revelation of monumental proportion regarding how only in one year Nigeria made over $100 billion from export of crude oil but the gap between the tiny rich elite of less than a percentage and the poor majority has widened dangerously. Cameron said: “Last year (2012) Nigeria oil exports were worth almost a hundred billion dollars. That is more than the total net aid to the whole of sub-Saharan Africa. So put simply: Unleashing the natural resources in these countries dwarfs anything aid can achieve, and transparency is absolutely critical to that end….” Speaking of transparency, the revenue generated by the Nigerian government is not transparently accounted for thereby foisting widespread speculation, poverty and insecurity on Nigerians and Nigeria. The latest independent Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) audit report of oil and gas sector for 2009 to 2011 shows that the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) in one instance among many others, received $4.84 billion from the Nigerian liquefied National Gas (NLNG) on behalf of the Nigerian government, which was yet to be remitted into the CBN/NNPC JP Morgan account or the Federation Account by the NNPC. The same NNPC has reportedly approached foreign creditors to take $1.5 billion loan. The report published by NEITI on February 1, 2013 showed that the total financial flow to the federation account from the oil and gas sector from 2009 to 2001 was $143.5 trillion. The breakdown shows the amount is up from proceeds from the sales of equity crude, royalties and signatures bonus, concession rentals, gas flaring penalties, petroleum profit tax and companies income tax. Now, with such huge inflow, why is there so much poverty, unemployment and insecurity in the land, all this to the point of dehumanising a majority of the citizenry. Ezekwesili who was two times minister under President Obasanjo typically supported my affirmation that corruption is the same thing as terrorism when she reeled out the statistics to show that the population of the poor has grown in leaps and bounds even when the nation has received generous foreign exchange/revenue from crude oil exports. According to Ezekwesili, Nigeria is a paradox of the kind of wealth that breads penury because the trend of Nigeria’s population in poverty since 1980 to 2010 suggests that the more we earned from oil, the larger the population of the poor citizens. Some critics have, however, fired back at Ezekwesili questioning her moral high ground. Now if these humongous amount can be callously diverted by the political elite how else do we expect that the poverty and insecurity that besiege a majority of Nigerians and are terrorising our lives will just go away just like that without Nigerians waging a collective fight against the terrorism of official corruption? Our situation in Nigeria is captured by three erudite scholars in their book “The criminalization of the state in Africa”. The trio - JeanFrancois Bayart; Stephen Ellis; and Beatrice Hibou argue in the book that the growth of fraud and smuggling are interwoven with politics. The book examines the plundering of natural resources, the privatisation of state institutions, the development of an economy of plunder and the growth of private armies. The book suggests that the State itself is becoming a vehicle for organised criminal activity. The authors propose criteria for what they call gauging the criminalisation of African states and indeed move on to the realm of pragmatism by presenting what may be regarded as a novel prognosis, distinguishing between the corruption of previous decades and what they now prefer to identify as the criminalisation of some African states now taking place. For the authors, the term economy of plunder refers to the acquisition by representatives of public authority of economic resources for private purposes. For me it is a high manifestation of terrorism. • Emmanuel Onwubiko wrote from Port Harcourt.